Scouting Report for Chicago Bears (2-1) vs. Dallas Cowboys (2-1)
October 1, 2012- Cowboys Stadium, Arlington, TX
Bears: Chicago managed a 23-6 victory over the Rams last week. To say the least, the defense has done what it could. The offense, however, has been shaky at best.
Jay Cutler had a decent outing (17-31 183 YDS and 1 INT). He found Brandon Marshall 5 times for 71 yards. Despite 55 yards rushing from Michael Bush, Bush did score the only offensive touchdown. Defensively, the Rams Stephen Jackson only managed a paltry 29 yards. Sam Bradford was sacked 6 times and picked off twice. Including Major Wright's 45 yard return for a touchdown.
Cowboys: After splitting a pair of road games to start the season, the Boys got a 16-10 victory over the Buccaneers last Sunday. That game could've and should've been a loss. However, Dallas is a good enough to get away with those kind of performances.
Tony Romo (25-39 283 YDS) turned the ball over 3 times the whole game. He was picked off by Aqib Talib on the game's first drive. Then he had two fumbles (both were results of overturned calls). Luckily, the Buccaneers could only muster 7 points. DeMarco Murray scored the first rushing touchdown of the season in the first quarter. Sean Lee also gave the Cowboys their first interception in the second quarter. Anthony Spencer had 7 tackles and DeMarcus Ware both sacks on Josh Freeman.
What to watch for: This game has some history that could decide the outcome. Besides Cutler and Marshall being teammates in Denver (2006-08), there is another person involved during that same time period. DC Rob Ryan was with the Raiders and should bring some insight. The last time Cutler faced off against Ryan was in 2009 when Ryan was the DC in Cleveland (30-6 Bears). Cutler is 3-2 all-time. However, Cutler has only completed 56.4% of his passes for 1212 YDS, 5 TDS and 7 INTS.
Conclusion: This game looks like it is too close to call on paper. But, the offense that can score the first touchdown should be able to win the game. The Cowboys had 13 penalties enforced on them for a total of 105 yards. 9 of those penalties were either false starts (6) or offensive holding. If the Cowboys O-Line can stop shooting themselves in the foot and get the ball to Miles Austin, Dez Bryant, Kevin Ogletree and Jason Witten, the Boys should blow the Bears back to the Windy City.
The Bears should hope for Matt Forte to return. Forte is a game time decision, but if he is good to go, then him and Bush should help take the pressure off Cutler. Not only would a healthy dose of the run game be good for the inconsistent O-Line, it could keep Dallas' 19th ranked rush defense on the field.
Prediction: Cowboys by 16
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Sunday, September 30, 2012
Friday, September 28, 2012
TCU @ SMU
Scouting Report for TCU Horned Frogs(3-0) vs. SMU Mustangs (1-2)
September 29, 2012- Gerald Ford Stadium, University Park,TX
TCU: The Horned Frogs have had some quality wins to start against struggling offenses this season. There was Grambling State of the FCS. Then came Kansas and their chemistry issues. And then there's the QB situation with Virginia last week. They'll have a shot at another struggling quarterback when they head across the Metroplex.
Last week against the Cavaliers (27-7 win), the Frogs had a great game across the board. Casey Pachall was his usual self (21-32, 305 YDS, 3 TD and 1 INT) and Josh Boykin became TCU's all time receiving TD leader with 18 in the second quarter. Brandon Carter was also a factor when he caught 5 passes for 128 YDS and a touchdown. Kenny Cain had a great game on the defensive end with 2 INTs. The Cavalier offense didn't look confident all game long under QB Mike Rocco. The defense allowed their 1st touchddown of the season when Philip Sims spelled Rocco in the 4th quarter.
SMU: With the bye coming last week, the Mustangs should be prepared to face the high powered Horned Frogs. Especially since they've had time to digest their ugly 48-3 loss to Texas A&M back in week 3.
The good news was that the Ponies held the Aggies scoreless in the first quarter. Margus Hunt blocked an extra point and recorded his first sack of the season. But Garrett Gilbert (23-49, 203 YDS 1 INT) wasn't able to put together any scoring drives. Zach Line rushed for 104 yards on 16 carries. The SMU defense was nowhere to be found as Johnny Manziell had 418 all purpose yards and 6 TDS (4 passing).
What to watch for: The only way for SMU to keep this game close is for Gilbert to showcase his running ability. In the games against Baylor and Texas A&M, those defenses were able to get pressure on him when he was in the pocket. Especially with TCU's high power defense coming to town. The Horned Frogs allowed 169 yards on the ground last week and Line shouldn't be the only one handling the load.
Conclusion: Last year, the Ponies beat the Frogs 40-33 for the Iron Skillet. Two things to remember in that one. First, TCU came from behind to force overtime. And second, had Carter made that catch, then who knows. But this is a different season and both teams are going in different directions. This game has potential of being another thriller from last year, but that's all going to depend on Gilbert's decision making.
Prediction: TCU by 21.
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September 29, 2012- Gerald Ford Stadium, University Park,TX
TCU: The Horned Frogs have had some quality wins to start against struggling offenses this season. There was Grambling State of the FCS. Then came Kansas and their chemistry issues. And then there's the QB situation with Virginia last week. They'll have a shot at another struggling quarterback when they head across the Metroplex.
Last week against the Cavaliers (27-7 win), the Frogs had a great game across the board. Casey Pachall was his usual self (21-32, 305 YDS, 3 TD and 1 INT) and Josh Boykin became TCU's all time receiving TD leader with 18 in the second quarter. Brandon Carter was also a factor when he caught 5 passes for 128 YDS and a touchdown. Kenny Cain had a great game on the defensive end with 2 INTs. The Cavalier offense didn't look confident all game long under QB Mike Rocco. The defense allowed their 1st touchddown of the season when Philip Sims spelled Rocco in the 4th quarter.
SMU: With the bye coming last week, the Mustangs should be prepared to face the high powered Horned Frogs. Especially since they've had time to digest their ugly 48-3 loss to Texas A&M back in week 3.
The good news was that the Ponies held the Aggies scoreless in the first quarter. Margus Hunt blocked an extra point and recorded his first sack of the season. But Garrett Gilbert (23-49, 203 YDS 1 INT) wasn't able to put together any scoring drives. Zach Line rushed for 104 yards on 16 carries. The SMU defense was nowhere to be found as Johnny Manziell had 418 all purpose yards and 6 TDS (4 passing).
What to watch for: The only way for SMU to keep this game close is for Gilbert to showcase his running ability. In the games against Baylor and Texas A&M, those defenses were able to get pressure on him when he was in the pocket. Especially with TCU's high power defense coming to town. The Horned Frogs allowed 169 yards on the ground last week and Line shouldn't be the only one handling the load.
Conclusion: Last year, the Ponies beat the Frogs 40-33 for the Iron Skillet. Two things to remember in that one. First, TCU came from behind to force overtime. And second, had Carter made that catch, then who knows. But this is a different season and both teams are going in different directions. This game has potential of being another thriller from last year, but that's all going to depend on Gilbert's decision making.
Prediction: TCU by 21.
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North Texas @ Florida Atlantic
Scouting Report for North Texas Mean Green (1-3) vs. Florida Atlantic Owls(1-3)
September 29, 2012- FAU Stadium, Boca Raton, FL
North Texas: If there was anything that would drive coach Dan McCarney crazy about the game against Troy (14-7 defeat), it would be all the missed opportunities. Especially missed opportunities that could've won the game.
The Mean Green offense (422 total yards) out gained the Trojans by 40 yards. Ivan Delgado and Brelan Chancellor were accountable for Derek Thompson's 12 completions(16 incomplete) and 133 yards (236 total). Brandon Byrd and Antoinne Jimmerson had 131 combined yards on the ground (186 total). After Thompson's 50 YD TD pass to Chancellor in the first quarter, the offense couldn't capitalize after moving the ball well. Zach Olen missed 2 FG's from 40 and 47 (both wide left) and Zach Paul missed an easy 27 yarder (wide right) to give Troy their first conference win.
Florida Atlantic: Alabama may be beatable, but the Owls were definitely not going to be that team. While they did avoid a shutout at Bryant-Denny Stadium, giving up 40 points to the defending national champs is not something to be smiling about.
The game was over by the 3rd play of the game when Crimson Tide QB A.J. McCarron hit Kenny Bell on 85 YD touchdown reception. The Owls first touchdown came with 2:49 remaining when Alex DeLeon caught a TD pass from 6 yards out. The Owls did recover a Christion Jones fumble (Tim Raber recovered) to extend their second possesion, but that led to Vinny Zaccario's 48 yard FG attempt blocked. Despite Alabama having 4 FGs, the Tide offense scored on their 1st 8 possesions and limited the Owls to 110 total yards.
What to watch for: Marcus Trice and Zach Whitfield should make big impact on the Owls 114th ranked pass offense. But the player who needs to step it up will be Hilbert Jackson. If Jackson can manage to get his first interception of the season, then Graham Wilbert will have a long day. Especially if North Texas offense can put points on the board.
Conclusion: The Mean Green and the Owls have only one thing in common... their overall records. Florida Atlantic's defense have given up 1216 yards against Georgia and Alabama respectively, but that was on the road. The problem for coach Carl Pelini is that his team hasn't had much of a chance against an offense of UNT's caliber. North Texas has the attitude. Sadly, it hasn't translated in to wins against FBS competition this year. This game could go either way if the Mean Green can't cash in on long drives.
Prediction: North Texas by 10.
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September 29, 2012- FAU Stadium, Boca Raton, FL
North Texas: If there was anything that would drive coach Dan McCarney crazy about the game against Troy (14-7 defeat), it would be all the missed opportunities. Especially missed opportunities that could've won the game.
The Mean Green offense (422 total yards) out gained the Trojans by 40 yards. Ivan Delgado and Brelan Chancellor were accountable for Derek Thompson's 12 completions(16 incomplete) and 133 yards (236 total). Brandon Byrd and Antoinne Jimmerson had 131 combined yards on the ground (186 total). After Thompson's 50 YD TD pass to Chancellor in the first quarter, the offense couldn't capitalize after moving the ball well. Zach Olen missed 2 FG's from 40 and 47 (both wide left) and Zach Paul missed an easy 27 yarder (wide right) to give Troy their first conference win.
Florida Atlantic: Alabama may be beatable, but the Owls were definitely not going to be that team. While they did avoid a shutout at Bryant-Denny Stadium, giving up 40 points to the defending national champs is not something to be smiling about.
The game was over by the 3rd play of the game when Crimson Tide QB A.J. McCarron hit Kenny Bell on 85 YD touchdown reception. The Owls first touchdown came with 2:49 remaining when Alex DeLeon caught a TD pass from 6 yards out. The Owls did recover a Christion Jones fumble (Tim Raber recovered) to extend their second possesion, but that led to Vinny Zaccario's 48 yard FG attempt blocked. Despite Alabama having 4 FGs, the Tide offense scored on their 1st 8 possesions and limited the Owls to 110 total yards.
What to watch for: Marcus Trice and Zach Whitfield should make big impact on the Owls 114th ranked pass offense. But the player who needs to step it up will be Hilbert Jackson. If Jackson can manage to get his first interception of the season, then Graham Wilbert will have a long day. Especially if North Texas offense can put points on the board.
Conclusion: The Mean Green and the Owls have only one thing in common... their overall records. Florida Atlantic's defense have given up 1216 yards against Georgia and Alabama respectively, but that was on the road. The problem for coach Carl Pelini is that his team hasn't had much of a chance against an offense of UNT's caliber. North Texas has the attitude. Sadly, it hasn't translated in to wins against FBS competition this year. This game could go either way if the Mean Green can't cash in on long drives.
Prediction: North Texas by 10.
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Wednesday, September 26, 2012
Tampa Bay Buccaneers @ Dallas Cowboys
Scouting Report for Tampa Bay Buccaneers (1-1) vs. Dallas Cowboys (1-1)
September 23, 2012- Cowboys Stadium, Arlington, TX
Buccaneers: Whatever it is worth, the Bucs did their best to beat the Giants at MetLife Stadium last week (41-34). They had a 27-16 advantage after 3 quarters, but the G-Men had a miraculous 4th quarter.
One of the keys to that defeat were Josh Freeman's 2 interceptions. He got picked late in the 3rd and got picked again with :31 remaining. Freeman had a average day (15-28, 243YDS & 2 TD) The defense did well most of the game with efforts from Eric Wright (60 yard INT return for a score) and leading tackler Mason Foster (13 tackles).
Cowboys: When you turn the ball over in a hostile environment, it's pretty hard to win. When the 1st 3 possessions result in turnovers that lead to points, well, the Cowboys didn't have a prayer (27-7 loss).
Special teams were a disaster. Felix Jones fumbles a kickoff on the opening possession (led to a FG). Then Chris Jones' punt was blocked and recovered in the end zone. Dez Bryant did have a muffed punt, but that was the least of his problems. He was targeted 7 times but only made 4 catches. While the Cowboys made it close early in the 2nd quarter (22 YD Pass to Miles Austin). But the Seahawks used their home field advantage and kept their foot on the gas the rest of the game. The bright spots on defense were Sean Lee (14 tackles) and Anthony Spencer (2 sacks).
What to watch for: Both teams should bring some attitude in this game. The Bucs should've won that game and the Boys should've taken care of the ball better. Hopefully, the Cowboys will have better communication on both offense and special teams. While Tampa Bay needs to sustain their momentum when and if they have a lead at a loud place.
Conclusion: Whatever happens in this game...happens. Both teams will need to bring their A-Games. If they do, this could be an overtime thriller. But the Buccaneers are a young team and the Cowboys are a veteran team with something to prove. Let's see what happens.
Prediction: Cowboys by 7
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September 23, 2012- Cowboys Stadium, Arlington, TX
Buccaneers: Whatever it is worth, the Bucs did their best to beat the Giants at MetLife Stadium last week (41-34). They had a 27-16 advantage after 3 quarters, but the G-Men had a miraculous 4th quarter.
One of the keys to that defeat were Josh Freeman's 2 interceptions. He got picked late in the 3rd and got picked again with :31 remaining. Freeman had a average day (15-28, 243YDS & 2 TD) The defense did well most of the game with efforts from Eric Wright (60 yard INT return for a score) and leading tackler Mason Foster (13 tackles).
Cowboys: When you turn the ball over in a hostile environment, it's pretty hard to win. When the 1st 3 possessions result in turnovers that lead to points, well, the Cowboys didn't have a prayer (27-7 loss).
Special teams were a disaster. Felix Jones fumbles a kickoff on the opening possession (led to a FG). Then Chris Jones' punt was blocked and recovered in the end zone. Dez Bryant did have a muffed punt, but that was the least of his problems. He was targeted 7 times but only made 4 catches. While the Cowboys made it close early in the 2nd quarter (22 YD Pass to Miles Austin). But the Seahawks used their home field advantage and kept their foot on the gas the rest of the game. The bright spots on defense were Sean Lee (14 tackles) and Anthony Spencer (2 sacks).
What to watch for: Both teams should bring some attitude in this game. The Bucs should've won that game and the Boys should've taken care of the ball better. Hopefully, the Cowboys will have better communication on both offense and special teams. While Tampa Bay needs to sustain their momentum when and if they have a lead at a loud place.
Conclusion: Whatever happens in this game...happens. Both teams will need to bring their A-Games. If they do, this could be an overtime thriller. But the Buccaneers are a young team and the Cowboys are a veteran team with something to prove. Let's see what happens.
Prediction: Cowboys by 7
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Troy @ North Texas
Scouting Report for Troy Trojans (1-2) vs. North Texas Mean Green(1-2)
September 22, 2012- Apogee Stadium, Denton, TX
Troy: For the most part, the Tojans had a decent outing against the Bulldogs of Mississippi State. They outscored them 17-7 in the second half. Sadly, Mississippi State had a 23-7 advantage in the first half and Troy never led on the game.
Regardless of the outcome, Corey Robinson (32-45, 343 YDS) had a decent performance. Even with Robinson's 2 INTs, Shawn Southward and Justin Albert scored all 3 TDs (6.3 YPC combined on 30 carries). But the story of the night for the Trojans was their defense. The Bulldogs were able to score on big plays in the first half and the game out of reach in the second.
North Texas: No one in their right minds would've thought that the Mean Green (35-21 loss)would've had a chance to beat Kansas State on their home firled. But from the 3:15 in the 3rd quarter on, the Wildcat offense woke up and scored 21 straight points to avoid the upset.
Derek Thompson had a much improved game this time around. He went 25-28 for 208 YDS and a touchdown pss. Brelan Chancellor had a great game as well (144 All purpose yards and 2 TDS). But more importantly, the defensive unit kept the K-State offense off the field most of the game. Overall, the Mean Green held the ball 4:54 longer than the Wildcats.
What to watch for: One of the bright spots for North Texas wasn Antoinne Jimmerson. Despite carrying the ball only 8 times, he averaged 8.5 YPC and made the Wildcat defense miss tackles. If Troy fails to contain the rushing game and Thompson has aonther game like he did last week, it could be a long night for the Trojan defense. However, if Troy can establish their up tempo offense early, this game should be competitve.
Conclusion: The Sun Belt Conference race is looking like it's going to be anyone's for the taking. Unlike years past, the teams this year have been more competitive. Which mean that this game between the Mean Green and the Trojans should have a close game. Whether the game will be high scoring will be another issue. At any rate, don't let the 1-2 records fool you, these teams are ready to play.
Prediction: North Texas by 6.
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September 22, 2012- Apogee Stadium, Denton, TX
Troy: For the most part, the Tojans had a decent outing against the Bulldogs of Mississippi State. They outscored them 17-7 in the second half. Sadly, Mississippi State had a 23-7 advantage in the first half and Troy never led on the game.
Regardless of the outcome, Corey Robinson (32-45, 343 YDS) had a decent performance. Even with Robinson's 2 INTs, Shawn Southward and Justin Albert scored all 3 TDs (6.3 YPC combined on 30 carries). But the story of the night for the Trojans was their defense. The Bulldogs were able to score on big plays in the first half and the game out of reach in the second.
North Texas: No one in their right minds would've thought that the Mean Green (35-21 loss)would've had a chance to beat Kansas State on their home firled. But from the 3:15 in the 3rd quarter on, the Wildcat offense woke up and scored 21 straight points to avoid the upset.
Derek Thompson had a much improved game this time around. He went 25-28 for 208 YDS and a touchdown pss. Brelan Chancellor had a great game as well (144 All purpose yards and 2 TDS). But more importantly, the defensive unit kept the K-State offense off the field most of the game. Overall, the Mean Green held the ball 4:54 longer than the Wildcats.
What to watch for: One of the bright spots for North Texas wasn Antoinne Jimmerson. Despite carrying the ball only 8 times, he averaged 8.5 YPC and made the Wildcat defense miss tackles. If Troy fails to contain the rushing game and Thompson has aonther game like he did last week, it could be a long night for the Trojan defense. However, if Troy can establish their up tempo offense early, this game should be competitve.
Conclusion: The Sun Belt Conference race is looking like it's going to be anyone's for the taking. Unlike years past, the teams this year have been more competitive. Which mean that this game between the Mean Green and the Trojans should have a close game. Whether the game will be high scoring will be another issue. At any rate, don't let the 1-2 records fool you, these teams are ready to play.
Prediction: North Texas by 6.
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Friday, September 21, 2012
Virginia @ TCU
Scouting Report for Virginia Cavaliers (2-1) vs. TCU Horned Frogs (2-0)
September 22, 2012- Amon G. Carter Stadium, Fort Worth, TX
Virginia: The Cavs never had a chance against Georgia Tech (56-20 loss). It didn't seem to matter if the Yellow Jackets what kind of option play they ran, Virginia struggled to stop it. While Virginia did better in passing yards (199-133), allowing 461 yards on the ground isn't going to win many games.
QB Michael Rocco was having a hard time dealing with the defense. He may have been sacked only once, he threw 2 interceptions and 10 incompletions (15 completions for 145 yards and 1 TD). While the Cavs got 2 TD passes in the 4th quarter from backup Phillip Sims, it was too little, too late.
TCU: The Horned Frogs made their Big 12 debut against Kansas (20-6 win) in Lawrence. A win may be a win, but this game could've been easily a loss.
If it weren't for the fact that Jayhawk QB Dayne Crist was having some chemistry issues with his receiving, the game could've been closer. Had they committed to the run a lot more in that game, Kansas would've won. Especially since the Frogs fumbled and lost the ball inside the 20 3 times (4 fumbles total). However, Casey Pachall's (24-30, 335 YDS and 2 TD)effort was good enough for the win. Also, Skye Dawson got an interception and Elisha Olabode recovered a fumble after back to back fumbles to seal the game.
What to watch for: The Cavaliers will need to see if Rocco can shake off his horrible outing against Georgia Tech. It won't be easy against a Horned Frog defense that has made it's mark in the last couple of weeks.
Especially, if Joel Hasley has a game like he did against Kansas. He was named the Big 12 Defensive Player of the Week with 12 tackles and 2 sacks. More importantly, the Frogs will need to hold on to the football .
Conclusion: UVA head coach Mike London may be insisting there is no quarterback controversy between Rocco and Sims. But, that won't mean anything until next week. Sims has done well in his brief time (13-17,111 YDS and 2 TD). And with his performance (6-8, 56 YDS and 2 TD)against the Yellow Jackets on the road, it wouldn't be a surprise to see Rocco on a short leash.
Losing leading rusher Waymon James (168 YDS and 1 TD on 17 carries) to a knee injury for the season would be an issue, but the Horned Frogs should be just fine. Between Matthew Tucker and B.J Catalon (32 carries and 163 YDS combined), they will take advantage of more carries.
Prediction: TCU by 16.
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September 22, 2012- Amon G. Carter Stadium, Fort Worth, TX
Virginia: The Cavs never had a chance against Georgia Tech (56-20 loss). It didn't seem to matter if the Yellow Jackets what kind of option play they ran, Virginia struggled to stop it. While Virginia did better in passing yards (199-133), allowing 461 yards on the ground isn't going to win many games.
QB Michael Rocco was having a hard time dealing with the defense. He may have been sacked only once, he threw 2 interceptions and 10 incompletions (15 completions for 145 yards and 1 TD). While the Cavs got 2 TD passes in the 4th quarter from backup Phillip Sims, it was too little, too late.
TCU: The Horned Frogs made their Big 12 debut against Kansas (20-6 win) in Lawrence. A win may be a win, but this game could've been easily a loss.
If it weren't for the fact that Jayhawk QB Dayne Crist was having some chemistry issues with his receiving, the game could've been closer. Had they committed to the run a lot more in that game, Kansas would've won. Especially since the Frogs fumbled and lost the ball inside the 20 3 times (4 fumbles total). However, Casey Pachall's (24-30, 335 YDS and 2 TD)effort was good enough for the win. Also, Skye Dawson got an interception and Elisha Olabode recovered a fumble after back to back fumbles to seal the game.
What to watch for: The Cavaliers will need to see if Rocco can shake off his horrible outing against Georgia Tech. It won't be easy against a Horned Frog defense that has made it's mark in the last couple of weeks.
Especially, if Joel Hasley has a game like he did against Kansas. He was named the Big 12 Defensive Player of the Week with 12 tackles and 2 sacks. More importantly, the Frogs will need to hold on to the football .
Conclusion: UVA head coach Mike London may be insisting there is no quarterback controversy between Rocco and Sims. But, that won't mean anything until next week. Sims has done well in his brief time (13-17,111 YDS and 2 TD). And with his performance (6-8, 56 YDS and 2 TD)against the Yellow Jackets on the road, it wouldn't be a surprise to see Rocco on a short leash.
Losing leading rusher Waymon James (168 YDS and 1 TD on 17 carries) to a knee injury for the season would be an issue, but the Horned Frogs should be just fine. Between Matthew Tucker and B.J Catalon (32 carries and 163 YDS combined), they will take advantage of more carries.
Prediction: TCU by 16.
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Sunday, September 16, 2012
Dallas Cowboys @ Seattle Seahawks
Scouting Report for Dallas Cowboys(1-0) vs. Seattle Seahawks (0-1)
September 16, 2012-CenturyLink Field, Seattle, WA
Cowboys: The Boys had their chances to let the Giants in the game during their last game (24-17 victory), but they made those plays count and are off to a great start. Hopefully, Dallas will make the fans in the Metroplex happy. If and only if they win in one of the loudest NFL stadiums.
The Cowboys were only down once in the game when the G-Men opened the second quarter with a Lawrence Tynes 22 YD FG off a Tony Romo interception. After that, the Cowboys were rolling. Tony Romo (22-29, 307 YDS and 3 TD) found Kevin Ogletree (8 catches for 114 YDS) for a pair of touchdowns. DeMarco Murray (131 YDS on 20 carries) helped keep the defense in check. Dez Bryant and Miles Austin combined for 8 catches, 158 yards and 1 TD (Austin). The defense which featured DeMarcus Ware (2 sacks) and Sean Lee (12 tackles) stepped up to the task.
Seahawks: Just like their opponents, they opened their season on the road against a division rival. However, the Cardinals got the best of them with a 20-16 victory over Seattle. Maybe some home cooking will bring the Hawks back to .500.
Rookie QB Russell Wilson (18-34, 153 YDS, 1 TD and 1 INT) looked impressive in his debut. He spread the ball around to 9 different receivers (only 7 made catches). Braylon Edwards led all receiver with 5 catches and Sidney Rice gave Wilson his first TD pass in the 3rd quarter. Leon Washington had 184 all purpose yards on special teams.
What to watch for: Jason Witten still has an issue with his lacerated spleen that he suffered in the preseason (against the Raiders). While he only had two catches for 10 yards, he still had a game changing impact. That shouldn't be any difference if the Seattle secondary has their way with the receivers.
Wilson has made a believer out of the Seahawk faithful with his performance against the Cardinals last Sunday. While he came up short on the final drive of the game, there is no doubt that the future is now. The more important issue will be how the Seahawks tall CB's Richard Sherman and Brandon Browner (both 6'3) handle the Cowboys receivers. Sherman did have a pick against the Cardinals last week, but they are facing a much improved quarterback in Romo.
Conclusion: A lot has changed in Seattle since January 6, 2007 (21-20 Seahawks in the Wildcard). Romo is no longer a holder for a place kicker. And let's face it, the Seahawks are not the experienced team they used to be. The past is the past...let it go already.
The Cowboys may have had 13 penalties for 86 YDS, but that didn't stop their momentum. It wouldn't be a complete shock if the Cowboys have some penalties due to the 12th man at CenturyLink, but going over 10 penalties would be an utter failure (even if the Cowboys win). The Seahawks should stick to what they were doing against the Cardinals. But as long as fans remember that 2006 Wild Card game, the Cowboys will play even harder to prove that they are a title contender this season.
Prediction: Cowboys by 17.
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September 16, 2012-CenturyLink Field, Seattle, WA
Cowboys: The Boys had their chances to let the Giants in the game during their last game (24-17 victory), but they made those plays count and are off to a great start. Hopefully, Dallas will make the fans in the Metroplex happy. If and only if they win in one of the loudest NFL stadiums.
The Cowboys were only down once in the game when the G-Men opened the second quarter with a Lawrence Tynes 22 YD FG off a Tony Romo interception. After that, the Cowboys were rolling. Tony Romo (22-29, 307 YDS and 3 TD) found Kevin Ogletree (8 catches for 114 YDS) for a pair of touchdowns. DeMarco Murray (131 YDS on 20 carries) helped keep the defense in check. Dez Bryant and Miles Austin combined for 8 catches, 158 yards and 1 TD (Austin). The defense which featured DeMarcus Ware (2 sacks) and Sean Lee (12 tackles) stepped up to the task.
Seahawks: Just like their opponents, they opened their season on the road against a division rival. However, the Cardinals got the best of them with a 20-16 victory over Seattle. Maybe some home cooking will bring the Hawks back to .500.
Rookie QB Russell Wilson (18-34, 153 YDS, 1 TD and 1 INT) looked impressive in his debut. He spread the ball around to 9 different receivers (only 7 made catches). Braylon Edwards led all receiver with 5 catches and Sidney Rice gave Wilson his first TD pass in the 3rd quarter. Leon Washington had 184 all purpose yards on special teams.
What to watch for: Jason Witten still has an issue with his lacerated spleen that he suffered in the preseason (against the Raiders). While he only had two catches for 10 yards, he still had a game changing impact. That shouldn't be any difference if the Seattle secondary has their way with the receivers.
Wilson has made a believer out of the Seahawk faithful with his performance against the Cardinals last Sunday. While he came up short on the final drive of the game, there is no doubt that the future is now. The more important issue will be how the Seahawks tall CB's Richard Sherman and Brandon Browner (both 6'3) handle the Cowboys receivers. Sherman did have a pick against the Cardinals last week, but they are facing a much improved quarterback in Romo.
Conclusion: A lot has changed in Seattle since January 6, 2007 (21-20 Seahawks in the Wildcard). Romo is no longer a holder for a place kicker. And let's face it, the Seahawks are not the experienced team they used to be. The past is the past...let it go already.
The Cowboys may have had 13 penalties for 86 YDS, but that didn't stop their momentum. It wouldn't be a complete shock if the Cowboys have some penalties due to the 12th man at CenturyLink, but going over 10 penalties would be an utter failure (even if the Cowboys win). The Seahawks should stick to what they were doing against the Cardinals. But as long as fans remember that 2006 Wild Card game, the Cowboys will play even harder to prove that they are a title contender this season.
Prediction: Cowboys by 17.
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Saturday, September 15, 2012
North Texas @ Kansas State
Scouting Report for North Texas Mean Green (1-1) vs. Kansas State Wildcats(2-0)
September 15, 2012- Bill Snyder Family Stadium, Manhattan, KS
North Texas: The Mean Green could've done better against Texas Southern, but a win is a win (34-7). UNT did well on the defensive end. Their rushing attack was good as well. But the passing game will need to show up if there is an upset to be had.
QB Derek Thompson (11-24, 145 YDS and 1 INT) was not having one of his best games. The Tigers weren't getting much pressure on him, and yet his passes were having trouble with the north Texas winds. Luckily, Texas Southern was having the same problems. RB Brandon Byrd (136 yards and 2 TD on 24 carries) was having his way with the Tigers.
Kansas State: If anyone was expecting the Hurricanes to make it a ball game against the Wildcats in Manhattan, guess again. Head coach Bill Snyder could do no wrong and Miami was out of it in hurry (52-13).
The Wildcat offense were just one step ahead of the Hurricanes the whole day. The running game was the main feature that worked. Between QB Collin Klein and RB John Hubert, they combined for 177 yards on the ground (288 YDS total rushing) on 41 carries and scored 4 touchdowns (6 total for the team). Klein only threw 11 passes for the game, but he completed 9 of them for 110 yards and a touchdown and interception a piece. The defense had a nice day as well recovering 3 fumbles that led to 14 points.
What to watch for: We'll have to see if Kansas State will push the Mean Green around like LSU did in weeek 1. North Texas had done well against QB's Riko Smalls and Rudy Johnson (combined 1.9 YPC on 15 carries). But Klein will not be an easy task. Especially with the way their offensive line handled the Hurricanes last week.
WR Breland Chancellor will need to get more involved in the offense if UNT has a chance to make this game a close contest. If they respect the run, they have hope. On the defensive side Marcus Trice and Zach Whitfield (both had an interception)will need to keep up the good work if the passing game becomes frequent.
Conclusion: K-State has too many weapons on offense for the Mean Green to account for. While the LSU Tigers had a quarterback making his first start, it's not going to be the same situation against the Wildcats.
The Wildcats will probably do the same thing they did to Miami last week and milk the clock for everything it's work. And with K-State head coach Bill Snyder, they are going to strike the Mean Green defense early and often.
Prediction: Kansas State by 35.
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September 15, 2012- Bill Snyder Family Stadium, Manhattan, KS
North Texas: The Mean Green could've done better against Texas Southern, but a win is a win (34-7). UNT did well on the defensive end. Their rushing attack was good as well. But the passing game will need to show up if there is an upset to be had.
QB Derek Thompson (11-24, 145 YDS and 1 INT) was not having one of his best games. The Tigers weren't getting much pressure on him, and yet his passes were having trouble with the north Texas winds. Luckily, Texas Southern was having the same problems. RB Brandon Byrd (136 yards and 2 TD on 24 carries) was having his way with the Tigers.
Kansas State: If anyone was expecting the Hurricanes to make it a ball game against the Wildcats in Manhattan, guess again. Head coach Bill Snyder could do no wrong and Miami was out of it in hurry (52-13).
The Wildcat offense were just one step ahead of the Hurricanes the whole day. The running game was the main feature that worked. Between QB Collin Klein and RB John Hubert, they combined for 177 yards on the ground (288 YDS total rushing) on 41 carries and scored 4 touchdowns (6 total for the team). Klein only threw 11 passes for the game, but he completed 9 of them for 110 yards and a touchdown and interception a piece. The defense had a nice day as well recovering 3 fumbles that led to 14 points.
What to watch for: We'll have to see if Kansas State will push the Mean Green around like LSU did in weeek 1. North Texas had done well against QB's Riko Smalls and Rudy Johnson (combined 1.9 YPC on 15 carries). But Klein will not be an easy task. Especially with the way their offensive line handled the Hurricanes last week.
WR Breland Chancellor will need to get more involved in the offense if UNT has a chance to make this game a close contest. If they respect the run, they have hope. On the defensive side Marcus Trice and Zach Whitfield (both had an interception)will need to keep up the good work if the passing game becomes frequent.
Conclusion: K-State has too many weapons on offense for the Mean Green to account for. While the LSU Tigers had a quarterback making his first start, it's not going to be the same situation against the Wildcats.
The Wildcats will probably do the same thing they did to Miami last week and milk the clock for everything it's work. And with K-State head coach Bill Snyder, they are going to strike the Mean Green defense early and often.
Prediction: Kansas State by 35.
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Texas A&M @ SMU
Scouting Report for Texas A&M Aggies(0-1) vs. SMU Mustangs (1-1)
September 15, 2012- Gerald Ford Stadium, University Park,TX
Texas A&M: New coach, new quarterback, new conference, but the same old problem. Once again, the Aggies can't hold a lead in the 2nd half. New head coach Kevin Sumlin will look to get the Aggies 1st win on the road.
A&M had very good 1st half against the Florida Gators. Sadly, the Aggies point total stalled at 17 with 7:01 before halftime. With the Gators down by 10, they rallied back with 13 unanswered points. The game was over with 13:05 remaining in the game. QB Johnny Manziel had a great time rushing in the 1st half (7 carries, 53 YDS and 1 TD). But the defense adjusted in the second half with Manziel gaining 17 yards on 10 carries. Speaking of defense, the Aggies defense was very successful against the pass. They got 8 sacks on QB Jeff Driskel and were getting quite a bit of pressure on him.
But when it came to the running game featuring Mike Gillislee (83 YDS and 2 TD on 14 carries), the Aggies were doomed.
SMU: Good thing stats don't win games, because SMU was outgained 466-328 in total yards against the Lumberjacks of Stephen F. Austin. So how did the Mustangs get a 52-0 blowout? When your team forces 6 picks and recover 4 fumbles is a start. And capitalizing on those opportunities were something that the Ponies did all game long.
QB Garrett Gilbert (19-36 205 YDS, 1 TD and 1 INT) improved a bit and RB Zach Line (19 carries, 60 YDS and 2 TD). The defense had a dream game with performances from CB's Ryan Smith and Kenneth Acker(2 INT's a piece). Acker scored on his 2 pick of the day (77 YD return) and scored on a blocked FG attempt (56 YD return). LB Ja'Gared Davis had a 34 YD return off a turnover as well.
What to watch for: Texas A&M needs the offense to mix up the play calling. Florida head coach Will Muschamp has familiarity with the Aggies (Texas DC 2008-10), and the rest is history. If they are going to win Manziell (23-30, 179 YDS passing) will need to depend on WR's Mike Evans (7 catches 60 YDS)and Ryan Swope (5 catches 16 YDS). RB Christine Michael (13 carries 2.5 YPC) will need to step it up as well.
SFA was too easy for the Mustangs last game and it showed. As long as SMU can learn from their mistakes against Baylor (59-24 defeat), the Ponies will make this a close ball game. The Aggies offense can be high octane just like Baylor's. Which means that Gilbert will need to be consistent like he was against the Lumberjacks to have any chance against A&M.
Conclusion: Coach Sumlin has been perfect against SMU head coach June Jones. When he was the head man at Houston, the Cougars were 4-0 against the Ponies in conference play. While that may play a key factor, the Aggies have had their issues in the second half. If Gilbert can be consistent and give the defense heavy doses of Line, it wouldn't be a stretch to say that SMU will end their winless streak against Sumlin. With Manziell being a true freshman playing his first road game and the SMU defense coming off a spectacular performance, this game should be pretty close.
Prediction: Texas A&M by 9.
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September 15, 2012- Gerald Ford Stadium, University Park,TX
Texas A&M: New coach, new quarterback, new conference, but the same old problem. Once again, the Aggies can't hold a lead in the 2nd half. New head coach Kevin Sumlin will look to get the Aggies 1st win on the road.
A&M had very good 1st half against the Florida Gators. Sadly, the Aggies point total stalled at 17 with 7:01 before halftime. With the Gators down by 10, they rallied back with 13 unanswered points. The game was over with 13:05 remaining in the game. QB Johnny Manziel had a great time rushing in the 1st half (7 carries, 53 YDS and 1 TD). But the defense adjusted in the second half with Manziel gaining 17 yards on 10 carries. Speaking of defense, the Aggies defense was very successful against the pass. They got 8 sacks on QB Jeff Driskel and were getting quite a bit of pressure on him.
But when it came to the running game featuring Mike Gillislee (83 YDS and 2 TD on 14 carries), the Aggies were doomed.
SMU: Good thing stats don't win games, because SMU was outgained 466-328 in total yards against the Lumberjacks of Stephen F. Austin. So how did the Mustangs get a 52-0 blowout? When your team forces 6 picks and recover 4 fumbles is a start. And capitalizing on those opportunities were something that the Ponies did all game long.
QB Garrett Gilbert (19-36 205 YDS, 1 TD and 1 INT) improved a bit and RB Zach Line (19 carries, 60 YDS and 2 TD). The defense had a dream game with performances from CB's Ryan Smith and Kenneth Acker(2 INT's a piece). Acker scored on his 2 pick of the day (77 YD return) and scored on a blocked FG attempt (56 YD return). LB Ja'Gared Davis had a 34 YD return off a turnover as well.
What to watch for: Texas A&M needs the offense to mix up the play calling. Florida head coach Will Muschamp has familiarity with the Aggies (Texas DC 2008-10), and the rest is history. If they are going to win Manziell (23-30, 179 YDS passing) will need to depend on WR's Mike Evans (7 catches 60 YDS)and Ryan Swope (5 catches 16 YDS). RB Christine Michael (13 carries 2.5 YPC) will need to step it up as well.
SFA was too easy for the Mustangs last game and it showed. As long as SMU can learn from their mistakes against Baylor (59-24 defeat), the Ponies will make this a close ball game. The Aggies offense can be high octane just like Baylor's. Which means that Gilbert will need to be consistent like he was against the Lumberjacks to have any chance against A&M.
Conclusion: Coach Sumlin has been perfect against SMU head coach June Jones. When he was the head man at Houston, the Cougars were 4-0 against the Ponies in conference play. While that may play a key factor, the Aggies have had their issues in the second half. If Gilbert can be consistent and give the defense heavy doses of Line, it wouldn't be a stretch to say that SMU will end their winless streak against Sumlin. With Manziell being a true freshman playing his first road game and the SMU defense coming off a spectacular performance, this game should be pretty close.
Prediction: Texas A&M by 9.
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TCU @ Kansas
Scouting Report for TCU Horned Frogs(1-0) vs. Kansas Jayhawks (1-1)
September 15, 2012- Memorial Stadium, Lawrence,KS
TCU: TCU could do no wrong against the Grambling State Tigers (56-0). The Tigers just had no chance from the opening whistle. Especially since Deante' Gray first play as a collegiate was a 70 YD punt return for the game's first score. And it got worse from there.
Between QB's Casey Pachall and Trevone Boykin, they completed all 17 passes for 276 yards and 4 TDs. RB's Waymon James, B.J. Catalon and Matthew Tucker combined for 167 yards on 25 carries and 1 TD (James). WR Josh Boyce had 4 catches for 114 YDS and 2 TDS. CB Elisha Olabode scored the only defensive TD with a 28 YD return on Grambling's 3rd series. With that win, Gary Patterson now has 110 (all time leader at TCU).
Kansas: The Rice Owls had a 20 game losing streak against Big 12 teams. Which should have been an easy game. In the first week, Rice lost to UCLA by 25, while the Jayhawks won by 14 over FCS South Dakota State. The Owls didn't win pretty, but a win is a win and the Jayhawks will have to think of something.
Kansas had a 24-13 advantage with 11:47 remaining in the 3rd quarter. The only thing was that Rice wasn't fooled by the scoreboard. RB's Tony Pierson (19 carries,120 YDS) and Taylor Cox (15 carries 75 YDS and 1 TD) were having a great day against the Owls' defense . But when it came to the passing game, QB Dayne Crist was under pressure all day. While he was throwing for 16-28, 144 YDS, 1 TD and 2 INT, it was the second pick that led to Rice PK Chris Boswell's GW 45 YD FG.
What to watch for: The Frogs are not facing a Big 12 powerhouse in football against the Jayhawks, but they can be a tough opponent at home. The offense looked great, but how will the young defense handle Charlie Weis' offense?
Kansas will be playing angry. Whether that will produce positive results is going to be the real question here. As mentioned before, the Jayhawks won by 14 over the Jackrabbits of South Dakota State. Had Crist been a little more poised, Kansas could've done a whole lot better. Which it is why it was no shock that Rice got the win last week.
Conclusion: It is well chronicled that coach Weis and Crist have good rapport with each other. The only thing that Jayhawk fans are hoping for is that they will have much better success at Kansas than at Notre Dame. There were two contributing factors that led to that loss besides Crist. 1) The defense couldn't get a 4th down stop and 2) Weis called his final timeout to ice Boswell. But there was 17 seconds and Rice had a timeout. But that was last game.
TCU will shouldn't have problems against the defense. But if Kansas doesn't forsake Pierson and Cox late in the game, then the Horned Frogs will be in a shootout. Despite only two sacks between the two them, DE's Devonte Fields and Stansly Maponga should give Crist a run for his money. Just as long as they get the running game stymied.
Prediction: TCU by 18.
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September 15, 2012- Memorial Stadium, Lawrence,KS
TCU: TCU could do no wrong against the Grambling State Tigers (56-0). The Tigers just had no chance from the opening whistle. Especially since Deante' Gray first play as a collegiate was a 70 YD punt return for the game's first score. And it got worse from there.
Between QB's Casey Pachall and Trevone Boykin, they completed all 17 passes for 276 yards and 4 TDs. RB's Waymon James, B.J. Catalon and Matthew Tucker combined for 167 yards on 25 carries and 1 TD (James). WR Josh Boyce had 4 catches for 114 YDS and 2 TDS. CB Elisha Olabode scored the only defensive TD with a 28 YD return on Grambling's 3rd series. With that win, Gary Patterson now has 110 (all time leader at TCU).
Kansas: The Rice Owls had a 20 game losing streak against Big 12 teams. Which should have been an easy game. In the first week, Rice lost to UCLA by 25, while the Jayhawks won by 14 over FCS South Dakota State. The Owls didn't win pretty, but a win is a win and the Jayhawks will have to think of something.
Kansas had a 24-13 advantage with 11:47 remaining in the 3rd quarter. The only thing was that Rice wasn't fooled by the scoreboard. RB's Tony Pierson (19 carries,120 YDS) and Taylor Cox (15 carries 75 YDS and 1 TD) were having a great day against the Owls' defense . But when it came to the passing game, QB Dayne Crist was under pressure all day. While he was throwing for 16-28, 144 YDS, 1 TD and 2 INT, it was the second pick that led to Rice PK Chris Boswell's GW 45 YD FG.
What to watch for: The Frogs are not facing a Big 12 powerhouse in football against the Jayhawks, but they can be a tough opponent at home. The offense looked great, but how will the young defense handle Charlie Weis' offense?
Kansas will be playing angry. Whether that will produce positive results is going to be the real question here. As mentioned before, the Jayhawks won by 14 over the Jackrabbits of South Dakota State. Had Crist been a little more poised, Kansas could've done a whole lot better. Which it is why it was no shock that Rice got the win last week.
Conclusion: It is well chronicled that coach Weis and Crist have good rapport with each other. The only thing that Jayhawk fans are hoping for is that they will have much better success at Kansas than at Notre Dame. There were two contributing factors that led to that loss besides Crist. 1) The defense couldn't get a 4th down stop and 2) Weis called his final timeout to ice Boswell. But there was 17 seconds and Rice had a timeout. But that was last game.
TCU will shouldn't have problems against the defense. But if Kansas doesn't forsake Pierson and Cox late in the game, then the Horned Frogs will be in a shootout. Despite only two sacks between the two them, DE's Devonte Fields and Stansly Maponga should give Crist a run for his money. Just as long as they get the running game stymied.
Prediction: TCU by 18.
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Friday, September 7, 2012
Grambling State @ TCU
Scouting Report for Grambling State Tigers(0-1) vs. TCU Horned Frogs (0-0)
September 8, 2012- Amon G. Carter Stadium, Fort Worth,TX
Grambling State: The Tigers of Grambling State looked like they were in control when they had a 21-9 lead going in to the 3rd quarter against Alcorn State. However, Braves RB Darius Smith had a 3 yard touchdown run with 9:36 remaining. Then Smith had the go ahead score from 4 yards with 1:35 to go. Despite missing the two point conversion, Alcorn State won the Port City Classic 22-21 in Shreveport.
The Tigers had 356 YDS rushing and scored all 3 TDS in the game. RB Juwan Martin scored in the 1st quarter from 8 yards. RB Anthony McGehee scored from 33 yards in the 2nd. And leading rusher RB Jeremy Runner (13 carries, 166 YDS) scored from a yard out in the 3rd.
TCU: The Horned Frogs have had a up and down offseason. The big news was that TCU is now a member of the Big 12. Even though they were supposed to be a member of the Big East, things were complicated for a bit, but now they are here. Then on February 15th, there was a drug bust on campus that received national attention. As a result, LB Tanner Brock, CB Devin Johnson, T T.J. Yendrey and OL Tyler Horn were dismissed after their arrests. But Amon G. Carter is now completely renovatated and is ready for some football.
TCU could've been without QB Casey Pachall (228-343, 2921 YDS, 25 TD and 7 INT). Pachall did fail a drug test earlier this year, but has entered therapy for it. The Frogs will hope that he can build on his game against Louisiana Tech (31-24 victory) at the Poinsettia Bowl (15-29 passing, 206 yards with a touchdown and interception).
What to watch for: TCU is now in their 4th conference in the FBS era. The Horned Frogs should take this game rather easily.
Grambling State should be proud of their running game (10.2 YPC). But the Tigers need to do better than 66 yards passing (all by D.J. Williams) to have a good showing against TCU in their home opener.
Conclusion: TCU should win big. The question is how big? Most experts would be surprised if Grambling State wins this game. But the bigger surprise will be if the Frogs don't take this Tiger team seriously. And if they don't, then Amon G. Carter Stadium will suffer the same fate as California's Memorial Stadium's reopening (Nevada 31-24).
Prediction: TCU by 45.
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September 8, 2012- Amon G. Carter Stadium, Fort Worth,TX
Grambling State: The Tigers of Grambling State looked like they were in control when they had a 21-9 lead going in to the 3rd quarter against Alcorn State. However, Braves RB Darius Smith had a 3 yard touchdown run with 9:36 remaining. Then Smith had the go ahead score from 4 yards with 1:35 to go. Despite missing the two point conversion, Alcorn State won the Port City Classic 22-21 in Shreveport.
The Tigers had 356 YDS rushing and scored all 3 TDS in the game. RB Juwan Martin scored in the 1st quarter from 8 yards. RB Anthony McGehee scored from 33 yards in the 2nd. And leading rusher RB Jeremy Runner (13 carries, 166 YDS) scored from a yard out in the 3rd.
TCU: The Horned Frogs have had a up and down offseason. The big news was that TCU is now a member of the Big 12. Even though they were supposed to be a member of the Big East, things were complicated for a bit, but now they are here. Then on February 15th, there was a drug bust on campus that received national attention. As a result, LB Tanner Brock, CB Devin Johnson, T T.J. Yendrey and OL Tyler Horn were dismissed after their arrests. But Amon G. Carter is now completely renovatated and is ready for some football.
TCU could've been without QB Casey Pachall (228-343, 2921 YDS, 25 TD and 7 INT). Pachall did fail a drug test earlier this year, but has entered therapy for it. The Frogs will hope that he can build on his game against Louisiana Tech (31-24 victory) at the Poinsettia Bowl (15-29 passing, 206 yards with a touchdown and interception).
What to watch for: TCU is now in their 4th conference in the FBS era. The Horned Frogs should take this game rather easily.
Grambling State should be proud of their running game (10.2 YPC). But the Tigers need to do better than 66 yards passing (all by D.J. Williams) to have a good showing against TCU in their home opener.
Conclusion: TCU should win big. The question is how big? Most experts would be surprised if Grambling State wins this game. But the bigger surprise will be if the Frogs don't take this Tiger team seriously. And if they don't, then Amon G. Carter Stadium will suffer the same fate as California's Memorial Stadium's reopening (Nevada 31-24).
Prediction: TCU by 45.
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SFA @ SMU
Scouting Report for Stephen F. Austin Lumberjacks(1-0) vs. SMU Mustangs (0-1)
September 8, 2012- Gerald Ford Stadium, University Park,TX
SFA: Last week the Lumberjacks faced the Southwestern Oklahoma Bulldogs. Who are they? The Bulldogs are Division II school based in the Great American Conference all the way from Weatherford, OK (69 miles west of Oklahoma City). And here's another fact about Southwestern Oklahoma... they lost 49-14 to these Lumberjacks.
SFA just completely dominated Southwestern Oklahoma from the get go. They finished the game scoring 6 touchdowns (4 passing and 2 rushing). QB Brady Attaway went 21-37 354 YDS 3 TD in the air and RB Gus Johnson was the leading rusher with 107 YDS, 2 TD on 10 carries. Cordell Roberson was the leading receiver with 100 YDS and a touchdown on 8 catches.
SMU: There is nobody in Waco happier than Baylor DC Phil Bennett was on September 2nd. First, SMU fired him as head coach in 2007 (hired in 2002). Then, he was the interim coach at Pitt when they lost 28-6 at the BBVA Compass Bowl. So you can imagine that blowing out the Ponies 59-24 was a very sweet feeling.
To say that the Mustangs were overmatched is an understatement. QB Garrett Gilbert (34-59, 286 YDS, 2 TD and 2 INT) was not very consistent from the start. WR Darrius Johnson had a miserable game as well. Johnson had juggled a pass on the Mustangs 1st red zone possesion which led to Eddie Lackey 23 yard INT return. And in the second half, Johnson fumbled after making a catch which resulted in a Mike Hicks 66 YD return for a score. The offense did it's best when RB Zach Line had the ball. He had 135 YDS on 25 carries. The defense just couldn't match Baylor's uptempo style.
What to watch for: If Gilbert can find his niche in this game, then the Mustangs should easily win this game. Also they need to pound the ball with Line early and often to make a statement.
While SFA may seem to be easy, the Lumberjacks should not be underestimated. Southland Conference rival McNeese State beat Middle Tennessee last week 27-21. And with SFA expected to finish 2nd in the conference, the Lumberjacks are going to look to give the Mustangs defense fits all day long.
Conclusion: If Stephen F. Austin is going to win this game, they need to take two things in consideration. The first is that they shouldn't let off the gas pedal. The Lumberjacks did give up 14 points in the final moments. While they can get away with it against Southwestern Oklahoma, SMU is a higher level opponent. And the second, cut down the penalties. Being penalized 12 times for 111 yards against SMU will make this game a blowout.
SMU will need to have poise as well to stay in this game. While the referees missed 3 facemask penalties on the Bears, that is no excuse for losing. Hopefully they will not have their defense start their series they way they did last week (4 penalties on the opening drive).
Prediction: SMU by 26.
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September 8, 2012- Gerald Ford Stadium, University Park,TX
SFA: Last week the Lumberjacks faced the Southwestern Oklahoma Bulldogs. Who are they? The Bulldogs are Division II school based in the Great American Conference all the way from Weatherford, OK (69 miles west of Oklahoma City). And here's another fact about Southwestern Oklahoma... they lost 49-14 to these Lumberjacks.
SFA just completely dominated Southwestern Oklahoma from the get go. They finished the game scoring 6 touchdowns (4 passing and 2 rushing). QB Brady Attaway went 21-37 354 YDS 3 TD in the air and RB Gus Johnson was the leading rusher with 107 YDS, 2 TD on 10 carries. Cordell Roberson was the leading receiver with 100 YDS and a touchdown on 8 catches.
SMU: There is nobody in Waco happier than Baylor DC Phil Bennett was on September 2nd. First, SMU fired him as head coach in 2007 (hired in 2002). Then, he was the interim coach at Pitt when they lost 28-6 at the BBVA Compass Bowl. So you can imagine that blowing out the Ponies 59-24 was a very sweet feeling.
To say that the Mustangs were overmatched is an understatement. QB Garrett Gilbert (34-59, 286 YDS, 2 TD and 2 INT) was not very consistent from the start. WR Darrius Johnson had a miserable game as well. Johnson had juggled a pass on the Mustangs 1st red zone possesion which led to Eddie Lackey 23 yard INT return. And in the second half, Johnson fumbled after making a catch which resulted in a Mike Hicks 66 YD return for a score. The offense did it's best when RB Zach Line had the ball. He had 135 YDS on 25 carries. The defense just couldn't match Baylor's uptempo style.
What to watch for: If Gilbert can find his niche in this game, then the Mustangs should easily win this game. Also they need to pound the ball with Line early and often to make a statement.
While SFA may seem to be easy, the Lumberjacks should not be underestimated. Southland Conference rival McNeese State beat Middle Tennessee last week 27-21. And with SFA expected to finish 2nd in the conference, the Lumberjacks are going to look to give the Mustangs defense fits all day long.
Conclusion: If Stephen F. Austin is going to win this game, they need to take two things in consideration. The first is that they shouldn't let off the gas pedal. The Lumberjacks did give up 14 points in the final moments. While they can get away with it against Southwestern Oklahoma, SMU is a higher level opponent. And the second, cut down the penalties. Being penalized 12 times for 111 yards against SMU will make this game a blowout.
SMU will need to have poise as well to stay in this game. While the referees missed 3 facemask penalties on the Bears, that is no excuse for losing. Hopefully they will not have their defense start their series they way they did last week (4 penalties on the opening drive).
Prediction: SMU by 26.
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Texas Southern @ North Texas
Scouting Report for Texas Southern Tigers (1-0) vs. North Texas Mean Green(0-1)
September 8, 2012- Apogee Stadium, Denton, TX
Texas Southern: The Tigers of the SWAC last game against the Prairie View A&M Panthers (44-41 victory) at Reliant Stadium in Houston was one for the books. Texas Southern overcame a 20-7 1st quarter deficit by outscoring PVAMU 31-14 in the 2nd and 3rd quarters. And the 4th quarter shootout could've went to overtime when Panther QB Jerry Locklove ran the game tying TD from 5 yards with 1:16 remaining. But the Tigers answered with some well executed plays after a short kickoff. Ben Hersh hit the game winning 47 YD FG and gave 1st year head coach Darrell Asberry his first victory.
Besides Hersh (3/4 FG's), Texas Southern had some great contributions. QB Riko Smalls did well in the air and on the ground. He was the leading passer with 222 yards 1 TD and 2 INTs on 9/18 passing and the leading rusher (101 YDS on 11 carries). LeTevin Wilcox returned a fumble for 33 yard touchdown in the 2nd quarter. Edward Perkins-Long (18 carries, 88 YDS)had 2 rushing touchdowns to jump start the Tigers in the 3rd quarter. Daniel McKayhan returned 3 kickoffs for 114 yards.
North Texas: Good news, bad news. The bad news was that the Mean Green allowed 41 points to another SEC team (Alabama 41-0 last season). The good news was that they scored two touchdowns and avoided even worse humiliation than anticipated. Still, a 27 point blowout is nothing to write home about. However, given LSU being in a tougher conference, the passing game did quite well with the Bayou Bengals. The running game was what ultimately hurt North Texas (316 yards allowed, 76 yards gained).
If there is any silver lining, the Mean Green did have some bright spots. QB Derek Thompson didn't have the game of his life, but he did have more touchdowns than interceptions (2:1). Thompson also (9-21 passing) threw for 143 yards. 114 yards of that were to the game's leading receiver WR Brelan Chancellor (4 catches) who also had North Texas' only TD's of the game (1st for 80 yards and the 2nd for 15). DB Hilbert Jackson had 9 tackles and did get a sack.
What to watch for: This is the second time that a Houston area team will open the season at Apogee Stadium (Houston won 48-23). If North Texas is going to have success, the ground game will have to improve if they are to return to .500.
For Texas Southern, they're going to need to play a flawless game against a Mean Green team who is motivated to win. Especially against a team like the Tigers. Just because they are the defending SWAC champions going against a Sun Belt team, it doesn't mean that this contest will be close. More importantly whose going to be the best QB, Smalls or Dantavious Parker (5-13, 65 YDS 1 TD)?
Conclusion: This may look like a game that North Texas should win with both hands tied behind their back. But if Texas Southern can exploit the Mean Green's inexperienced secondary, this game will be a whole lot closer than anyone expected.
Given the fact that Texas Southern won at a bigger venue to start the season, PVAMU isn't exactly a football powerhouse. North Texas should have an easier time with this version of the Tigers than they did with the more powerful version that they faced at LSU.
Prediction: North Texas by 31.
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September 8, 2012- Apogee Stadium, Denton, TX
Texas Southern: The Tigers of the SWAC last game against the Prairie View A&M Panthers (44-41 victory) at Reliant Stadium in Houston was one for the books. Texas Southern overcame a 20-7 1st quarter deficit by outscoring PVAMU 31-14 in the 2nd and 3rd quarters. And the 4th quarter shootout could've went to overtime when Panther QB Jerry Locklove ran the game tying TD from 5 yards with 1:16 remaining. But the Tigers answered with some well executed plays after a short kickoff. Ben Hersh hit the game winning 47 YD FG and gave 1st year head coach Darrell Asberry his first victory.
Besides Hersh (3/4 FG's), Texas Southern had some great contributions. QB Riko Smalls did well in the air and on the ground. He was the leading passer with 222 yards 1 TD and 2 INTs on 9/18 passing and the leading rusher (101 YDS on 11 carries). LeTevin Wilcox returned a fumble for 33 yard touchdown in the 2nd quarter. Edward Perkins-Long (18 carries, 88 YDS)had 2 rushing touchdowns to jump start the Tigers in the 3rd quarter. Daniel McKayhan returned 3 kickoffs for 114 yards.
North Texas: Good news, bad news. The bad news was that the Mean Green allowed 41 points to another SEC team (Alabama 41-0 last season). The good news was that they scored two touchdowns and avoided even worse humiliation than anticipated. Still, a 27 point blowout is nothing to write home about. However, given LSU being in a tougher conference, the passing game did quite well with the Bayou Bengals. The running game was what ultimately hurt North Texas (316 yards allowed, 76 yards gained).
If there is any silver lining, the Mean Green did have some bright spots. QB Derek Thompson didn't have the game of his life, but he did have more touchdowns than interceptions (2:1). Thompson also (9-21 passing) threw for 143 yards. 114 yards of that were to the game's leading receiver WR Brelan Chancellor (4 catches) who also had North Texas' only TD's of the game (1st for 80 yards and the 2nd for 15). DB Hilbert Jackson had 9 tackles and did get a sack.
What to watch for: This is the second time that a Houston area team will open the season at Apogee Stadium (Houston won 48-23). If North Texas is going to have success, the ground game will have to improve if they are to return to .500.
For Texas Southern, they're going to need to play a flawless game against a Mean Green team who is motivated to win. Especially against a team like the Tigers. Just because they are the defending SWAC champions going against a Sun Belt team, it doesn't mean that this contest will be close. More importantly whose going to be the best QB, Smalls or Dantavious Parker (5-13, 65 YDS 1 TD)?
Conclusion: This may look like a game that North Texas should win with both hands tied behind their back. But if Texas Southern can exploit the Mean Green's inexperienced secondary, this game will be a whole lot closer than anyone expected.
Given the fact that Texas Southern won at a bigger venue to start the season, PVAMU isn't exactly a football powerhouse. North Texas should have an easier time with this version of the Tigers than they did with the more powerful version that they faced at LSU.
Prediction: North Texas by 31.
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Tuesday, September 4, 2012
Dallas Cowboys @ New York Giants
Scouting Report for Dallas Cowboys(0-0) vs. New York Giants (0-0)
September 5, 2012-MetLife Stadium East Rutherford, NJ
Cowboys: Last season should be a distant memory for the Cowboys. After finishing 8-8 and missing the playoffs for the second straight season, Dallas will have a lot on the line. And how they start off against their division rivals could be a strong indication.
In the offseason, the secondary got a boost when they signed Brandon Carr (45 tackles, 15 passes defended and 4 INT with the Chiefs last season) and drafted Morris Claiborne (6th overall-LSU). And with DL Jay Ratilff (Ankle) and S Danny McCray (Neck) out, Carr and Claiborne could be tested early. Tony Romo, who is 0-2 at MetLife stadium (52-73, 631 YDS, 4 TD and 2 INT last year), will probabaly be without TE Jason Witten (lacerated spleen). Witten was the leading reciever with 79 catches for 942 yards and 5 TDS. That means TE's John Phillips and James Hanna will have to fill the void.
Giants: At this point last season, the G-Men weren't even in playoff consideration. Good thing football isn't played on paper. Despite finishing the regular season at 9-7, they won their division, won the NFC and then won their 2nd Super Bowl in 4 seasons. And the Giants don't expect anything less.
QB Eli Manning (359-589, 4933 YDS, 29 TD and 6 INT), WR Victor Cruz (82 catches, 1536 YDS and 9 TD), and RB Ahmad Bradshaw (659 carries, 3.6 ypc and 9 TD) will be there. Whether the Giants second leading receiver Hakeem Nicks (76 catches, 1192 YDS and 7 TD) will be there is another issue (questionable with a foot injury). But it's going to be up to the 11 men on the Giants defense that make the difference.
What to watch for: Forget the stats, it's a rivalry game. Forget last year's game (31-14 Giants), the stakes are different. And forget the Cowboys last opening game at Met Life Stadium (27-24 Jets), this game is going to be a battle of 4 quarters and potentially overtime.
How will the G-Men do with the losses of RB Brandon Jacobs (117 YDS and 2 TD on 26 carries against the Cowboys) to the 49ers and CB Aaron Ross (8 tackles against the Cowboys)to the Jaguars? And with the exceptions of Miles Austin and Dez Bryant, which Wide Receiver will step up? Will the tandem of DeMarco Murray (897 YDS and 2 TD on 164 carries) and Felix Jones (575 YDS and 1 TD on 127 carries) take the pressure off the passing game? You'll have to tune in and find out Wednesday night.
Conclusion: The stakes may be different, but the pressure is still the same. While the Cowboys are coming off an impressive 3-1 preseason and the Giants were .500, it doesn't mean anything for two reasons. The first being that you don't see the starters for the full game. And the second, all the Cowboys wins came against teams with new head coaches (Raiders- Dennis Allen, Rams- Jeff Fisher, Dolphins- Joe Philbin). The Giants don't have that problem at this time.
The home team on opening night are 8-0. Last season's opener versus the Jets, the Cowboys blew a 24-10 lead in the 4th quarter. Yes, Romo threw an interception to Darrelle Revis that lead to the GW field goal by Nick Folk from 50 yeards. But it was the Cowboys defense and special teams that were the reason for the letdown. Matt McBriar's punt was blocked that led to the game tying TD by Joe McKnight. If the Cowboys have put that game and their last contest against the Giants in their rear-view mirror, then this game is too close to call.
Prediction: Giants by 3.
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September 5, 2012-MetLife Stadium East Rutherford, NJ
Cowboys: Last season should be a distant memory for the Cowboys. After finishing 8-8 and missing the playoffs for the second straight season, Dallas will have a lot on the line. And how they start off against their division rivals could be a strong indication.
In the offseason, the secondary got a boost when they signed Brandon Carr (45 tackles, 15 passes defended and 4 INT with the Chiefs last season) and drafted Morris Claiborne (6th overall-LSU). And with DL Jay Ratilff (Ankle) and S Danny McCray (Neck) out, Carr and Claiborne could be tested early. Tony Romo, who is 0-2 at MetLife stadium (52-73, 631 YDS, 4 TD and 2 INT last year), will probabaly be without TE Jason Witten (lacerated spleen). Witten was the leading reciever with 79 catches for 942 yards and 5 TDS. That means TE's John Phillips and James Hanna will have to fill the void.
Giants: At this point last season, the G-Men weren't even in playoff consideration. Good thing football isn't played on paper. Despite finishing the regular season at 9-7, they won their division, won the NFC and then won their 2nd Super Bowl in 4 seasons. And the Giants don't expect anything less.
QB Eli Manning (359-589, 4933 YDS, 29 TD and 6 INT), WR Victor Cruz (82 catches, 1536 YDS and 9 TD), and RB Ahmad Bradshaw (659 carries, 3.6 ypc and 9 TD) will be there. Whether the Giants second leading receiver Hakeem Nicks (76 catches, 1192 YDS and 7 TD) will be there is another issue (questionable with a foot injury). But it's going to be up to the 11 men on the Giants defense that make the difference.
What to watch for: Forget the stats, it's a rivalry game. Forget last year's game (31-14 Giants), the stakes are different. And forget the Cowboys last opening game at Met Life Stadium (27-24 Jets), this game is going to be a battle of 4 quarters and potentially overtime.
How will the G-Men do with the losses of RB Brandon Jacobs (117 YDS and 2 TD on 26 carries against the Cowboys) to the 49ers and CB Aaron Ross (8 tackles against the Cowboys)to the Jaguars? And with the exceptions of Miles Austin and Dez Bryant, which Wide Receiver will step up? Will the tandem of DeMarco Murray (897 YDS and 2 TD on 164 carries) and Felix Jones (575 YDS and 1 TD on 127 carries) take the pressure off the passing game? You'll have to tune in and find out Wednesday night.
Conclusion: The stakes may be different, but the pressure is still the same. While the Cowboys are coming off an impressive 3-1 preseason and the Giants were .500, it doesn't mean anything for two reasons. The first being that you don't see the starters for the full game. And the second, all the Cowboys wins came against teams with new head coaches (Raiders- Dennis Allen, Rams- Jeff Fisher, Dolphins- Joe Philbin). The Giants don't have that problem at this time.
The home team on opening night are 8-0. Last season's opener versus the Jets, the Cowboys blew a 24-10 lead in the 4th quarter. Yes, Romo threw an interception to Darrelle Revis that lead to the GW field goal by Nick Folk from 50 yeards. But it was the Cowboys defense and special teams that were the reason for the letdown. Matt McBriar's punt was blocked that led to the game tying TD by Joe McKnight. If the Cowboys have put that game and their last contest against the Giants in their rear-view mirror, then this game is too close to call.
Prediction: Giants by 3.
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Sunday, September 2, 2012
SMU @ Baylor
Scouting Report for SMU Mustangs(0-0) vs. Baylor Bears (0-0)
September 2, 2012-Floyd Casey Stadium Waco, TX
SMU: The Mustangs are looking to build off their momentum that started near the end of last season. In their final two games, SMU knocked off Rice 27-24 and Pittsburgh 28-6 in the BBVA Compass Bowl. To give benefit of the doubt to these teams, Rice was 4-8 and Pittsburgh was in coaching limbo when Todd Graham took the Arizona State job. Either way, these were games the Ponies should've (and did) win.
SMU will have someone new, yet familiar in the QB position. Garrett Gilbert, formerly of the Longhorns will make his 1st start since shoulder surgery. In his last start against the Bears in 2010 (Longhorns lost 30-22), Gilbert completed 22 of 39 passes for 231 yards and one interception. He was also their leading rusher with 79 yards on 8 carries and a touchdown. We'll have to see if FB Zach Line can do some damage against the Baylor D-Line (208 carries, 5.9ypc and 17 TDs in 2011). DE Margus Hunt will be looking to make his mark in Baylor's offense(27 tackles, 3 sacks in 11 games last season).
Baylor: The Bears closed out last year with a bang. They finished the season on a 6 game winning streak, won the highest scoring bowl games in the BCS era (123 point, Washington had 56 points) and Robert Griffin III won the first Heisman in school history. Now that RG-3 is gone to the NFL, it's a going to be a new and interesting chapter in Baylor football.
Baylor will have a similar situation at QB when senior Nick Florence will make his first start since 2009 when the Bears lost to Texas A&M 38-3 (11-21, 177 yds and 1 INT).The entire secondary will return and hopefully keep the Mustangs offense in check.
What to watch for: Will this be an old Southwest Conference shootout? We'll have to wait and see. Gilbert is actually in a familiar system that he played while at Lake Travis HS. But SMU head coach June Jones uses more of a run-and-shoot approach.
During Baylor's 6 game winning streak, the defense surrendered 38.2 points while winning on average by 13.6. With SMU winning every contest last season when they scored 21 points or more, this could be more of a scoring spree if the secondary continues to give up big plays.
Conclusion: The Bears may have lost quite a bit of fire power when RG-3 and Kendall Wright now gone to the NFL, but that doesn't mean that head coach Art Briles won't find a way to get a win. Currently, Baylor has won their last 3 opening games (all at home). But with the Ponies headed to the Big East in 2013, they're going to want to make statement tonight.
Prediction: Baylor by 4.
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September 2, 2012-Floyd Casey Stadium Waco, TX
SMU: The Mustangs are looking to build off their momentum that started near the end of last season. In their final two games, SMU knocked off Rice 27-24 and Pittsburgh 28-6 in the BBVA Compass Bowl. To give benefit of the doubt to these teams, Rice was 4-8 and Pittsburgh was in coaching limbo when Todd Graham took the Arizona State job. Either way, these were games the Ponies should've (and did) win.
SMU will have someone new, yet familiar in the QB position. Garrett Gilbert, formerly of the Longhorns will make his 1st start since shoulder surgery. In his last start against the Bears in 2010 (Longhorns lost 30-22), Gilbert completed 22 of 39 passes for 231 yards and one interception. He was also their leading rusher with 79 yards on 8 carries and a touchdown. We'll have to see if FB Zach Line can do some damage against the Baylor D-Line (208 carries, 5.9ypc and 17 TDs in 2011). DE Margus Hunt will be looking to make his mark in Baylor's offense(27 tackles, 3 sacks in 11 games last season).
Baylor: The Bears closed out last year with a bang. They finished the season on a 6 game winning streak, won the highest scoring bowl games in the BCS era (123 point, Washington had 56 points) and Robert Griffin III won the first Heisman in school history. Now that RG-3 is gone to the NFL, it's a going to be a new and interesting chapter in Baylor football.
Baylor will have a similar situation at QB when senior Nick Florence will make his first start since 2009 when the Bears lost to Texas A&M 38-3 (11-21, 177 yds and 1 INT).The entire secondary will return and hopefully keep the Mustangs offense in check.
What to watch for: Will this be an old Southwest Conference shootout? We'll have to wait and see. Gilbert is actually in a familiar system that he played while at Lake Travis HS. But SMU head coach June Jones uses more of a run-and-shoot approach.
During Baylor's 6 game winning streak, the defense surrendered 38.2 points while winning on average by 13.6. With SMU winning every contest last season when they scored 21 points or more, this could be more of a scoring spree if the secondary continues to give up big plays.
Conclusion: The Bears may have lost quite a bit of fire power when RG-3 and Kendall Wright now gone to the NFL, but that doesn't mean that head coach Art Briles won't find a way to get a win. Currently, Baylor has won their last 3 opening games (all at home). But with the Ponies headed to the Big East in 2013, they're going to want to make statement tonight.
Prediction: Baylor by 4.
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Saturday, September 1, 2012
North Texas @ LSU
Scouting Report for North Texas Mean Green (0-0) vs. LSU Tigers (0-0)
September 1, 2012-Tiger Stadium Baton Rouge, LA
North Texas: The Mean Green have had a pretty busy offseason. Back in February, head coach Dan McCarney suffered a mild stroke. Fortunately, there was no damage and he's been back at work since. And then in May, North Texas announced they are joining Conference USA in 2013. UNT finished last season (5-7) on a high note with a 59-7 win over Middle Tennessee State, their last game against an SEC school didn't go too well (loss to Alabama 41-0 9/17/2011). While the odds are against them, there are some things to consider.
The Sun Belt Conference last season was pretty tough. Arkansas State became only the second team to win 10 regular season games, but the first to win the conference. Louisiana Lafayette won the conference's only bowl game (35-32 New Orleans Bowl over San Diego State). Florida International and Western Kentucky made big strides with winning seasons as well. So if UNT is going to make a grand exit from the Sun Belt, they'll have to start in Death Valley.
LSU: Not to be outdone, the Tigers have had some issues of their own. First, LSU lost the national championship (21-0 to Alabama). Then, 2011 Heisman candidate Tyrann Mathieu was reportedly kicked off the team for drug use. Turns out he'll go through rehab and then come back. And to make matters complicated, Hurricane Isaac came on Wednesday and delayed some practice time. But it didn't delay the game.
Other than that, everything else has been going as smooth as expected. This will be the first start for Zach Mettenberger. Last season, he was the 3rd string quarterback who played in two games last season. But he'll do just fine in this game. With RB's like Michael Ford, Spencer Ware, Alfred Blue and Kenny Hilliard who combined for 2338 yards on 444 carries a season ago, head coach Les Miles' team looks like they'll have an easy time against the Mean Green.
What to watch for: We'll have to see if Mettenberger handles his first start. Last season he played in mop up duty against Northwestern State (8-11, 92 yds, 1 TD) and Ole Miss (25 yds on 1 carry). North Texas QB Derek Thompson will have to be creative against a Tiger defense that will bring their A-Game. Other than that, let's see if North Texas secondary can have a positive impact.
Conclusion: Even though the Mean Green has a secondary that lacks experience, the Tigers lack experience with their quarterback. If LSU's defense has their way with UNT's offense, then this will be, no doubt, an easy victory for the Tigers.
The one thing that North Texas has to consider...upsets do happen. If they have that mindset of Appalachian State (upset Michigan State 35-32 in 2007) and James Madison (upset Virginia Tech 21-16 in 2010), the Mean Green could make this game a contest. But, that's easier said than done. Western Kentucky was the latest Sun Belt team to attempt that feat (LSU 42-9 in 2011). North Texas might not fare any better.
Prediction: LSU by 27.
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September 1, 2012-Tiger Stadium Baton Rouge, LA
North Texas: The Mean Green have had a pretty busy offseason. Back in February, head coach Dan McCarney suffered a mild stroke. Fortunately, there was no damage and he's been back at work since. And then in May, North Texas announced they are joining Conference USA in 2013. UNT finished last season (5-7) on a high note with a 59-7 win over Middle Tennessee State, their last game against an SEC school didn't go too well (loss to Alabama 41-0 9/17/2011). While the odds are against them, there are some things to consider.
The Sun Belt Conference last season was pretty tough. Arkansas State became only the second team to win 10 regular season games, but the first to win the conference. Louisiana Lafayette won the conference's only bowl game (35-32 New Orleans Bowl over San Diego State). Florida International and Western Kentucky made big strides with winning seasons as well. So if UNT is going to make a grand exit from the Sun Belt, they'll have to start in Death Valley.
LSU: Not to be outdone, the Tigers have had some issues of their own. First, LSU lost the national championship (21-0 to Alabama). Then, 2011 Heisman candidate Tyrann Mathieu was reportedly kicked off the team for drug use. Turns out he'll go through rehab and then come back. And to make matters complicated, Hurricane Isaac came on Wednesday and delayed some practice time. But it didn't delay the game.
Other than that, everything else has been going as smooth as expected. This will be the first start for Zach Mettenberger. Last season, he was the 3rd string quarterback who played in two games last season. But he'll do just fine in this game. With RB's like Michael Ford, Spencer Ware, Alfred Blue and Kenny Hilliard who combined for 2338 yards on 444 carries a season ago, head coach Les Miles' team looks like they'll have an easy time against the Mean Green.
What to watch for: We'll have to see if Mettenberger handles his first start. Last season he played in mop up duty against Northwestern State (8-11, 92 yds, 1 TD) and Ole Miss (25 yds on 1 carry). North Texas QB Derek Thompson will have to be creative against a Tiger defense that will bring their A-Game. Other than that, let's see if North Texas secondary can have a positive impact.
Conclusion: Even though the Mean Green has a secondary that lacks experience, the Tigers lack experience with their quarterback. If LSU's defense has their way with UNT's offense, then this will be, no doubt, an easy victory for the Tigers.
The one thing that North Texas has to consider...upsets do happen. If they have that mindset of Appalachian State (upset Michigan State 35-32 in 2007) and James Madison (upset Virginia Tech 21-16 in 2010), the Mean Green could make this game a contest. But, that's easier said than done. Western Kentucky was the latest Sun Belt team to attempt that feat (LSU 42-9 in 2011). North Texas might not fare any better.
Prediction: LSU by 27.
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