Scouting Report for Arkansas State Red Wolves (5-3) vs. North Texas Mean Green(3-5)
November 3, 2012- Apogee Stadium, Denton, TX
Arkansas State: The Red Wolves went in to Lafayette and knocked off the University of Louisiana 50-27. The defending Sun Belt conference champions will play their 3rd road game in 5 weeks.
Arkansas State's offense scored 6 points in the first quarter off of 2 Brian Davis FGs (5 total). Ryan Aplin (21-31, 269 YDS & 1TD) and the offense got going in the second quarter pushing the lead to 20-0. David Oku (22 carries, 83 YDS) had a 5 YD TD run and Rocky Hayes (3 carries, 86 YDS)had a 57 YD run of his own in the 3rd to keep Louisiana Lafayette honest on defense.
Had it not been for the Ragin' Cajuns 5 turnovers (3 interceptions, 2 lost fumbles), it could've been a loss for the Red Wolves. Arkansas State scored 27 points more as a result. Tausean Holmes, Chaz Scales and Chris Stone each picked off Terrance Broadway. However, the defense did give up big plays that resulted in 14 quick points for Louisiana.
North Texas: After Middle Tennessee was crushed on the road against Mississippi State the week before, the Blue Raiders got even against the Mean Green at home(38-21).
UNT never seemed to get into a rhythm the whole game. After the first play on offense, the Mean Green lost Brelan Chancellor for the season with a broken collarbone. Derek Thompson(17-29, 221 YDS, 1 TD) was picked off 3 times. The Mean Green trailed 31-0 at the 13:48 mark in the 3rd quarter before they got going. However, Antoinne Jimmerson (16 carries, 85 YDS) rushed for 2 touchdowns and Brandin Byrd added 87 yards on 16 carries to help North Texas on the ground.
The defense gave up big plays. Middle Tennessee was able to pull off scoring plays of over 15 yards on all but one scoring drive. Marcus Trice was one of the bright spots for UNT with 7.5 tackles (3 for losses).
What to watch for: The Mean Green has not scored in the first quarter in the last 3 games. The last time they did, was against Florida Atlantic on the road. The last time at home resulted in a 14-7 loss to Troy the week prior. If they are to win, the Mean Green need to do so through their offense.
Conclusion: There is a lot riding on this game. North Texas will need to win the 3 of their next 4 games to become bowl eligible. But winning all of them will help. If Louisiana-Monroe loses their next game (vs. Louisiana-Lafayette) and Arkansas State wins, the Sun Belt will be a toss up. Both teams will hope to shore up their respective defenses if this game is to be close. The Mean Green will need to play 60 minutes to win this game. They will also need to stymie the Red Wolves' fast paced offense if they are to have a great homecoming game.
Prediction: Arkansas State by 13.
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Showing posts with label North Texas. Show all posts
Showing posts with label North Texas. Show all posts
Friday, November 2, 2012
Friday, October 26, 2012
North Texas @ Middle Tennessee
Scouting Report for North Texas Mean Green (3-4) vs. Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders(4-3)
October 27, 2012- Johnny "Red" Floyd Stadium, Murfreesboro, TN
North Texas: The Mean Green passed their first tough test against Louisiana-Lafayette last week. The Ragin' Cajuns had a 20-6 advantage in the 3rd quarter, but North Texas woke up and rallied to win the game 30-23 in Denton.
Antoinne Jimmerson caught only 2 passes. However, both of those catches led to touchdowns. The first reception gave UNT it's first touchdown (28 YDs in the 3rd) and the second was the go ahead score late in the 4th (78 YDs). Brelan Chancellor recorded 105 all purpose yards, including a 10 yard rush that tied the game at 20. Brandin Byrd and Jeremy Brown combined for 160 yards on the ground on 33 carries. Derek Thompson (17-28, 282 YDS and 2 TD) found Ivan Delgado 5 times for 84 yards.
The defense held it's own. With exception to Terrence Broadway's rushing for 84 yards on the ground (including 75 yard TD run in the second quarter), the rest of the Cajun running game had 22 yards. Louisiana had two turnovers courtesy of Zach Orr (early 2nd quarter) and a Effrem Reed fumble to seal the game.
Middle Tennessee: The Blue Raiders were hoping for another upset on the road (beat Georgia Tech 49-28 in Atlanta). Through the first half, Middle Tennssee kept the score to a one possesion game at 10-3. But with 9:30 to go in the 3rd quarter, Mississippi State's offense woke up and scored 21 points. The Bulldogs added another 2 touchdowns to take down Middle Tennessee 45-3.
Their only score came when Mississippi State's Devon Walker missed a 35 yard field goal with 9:46 remaining. The Blue Raiders took 4:40 off the clock and added a Carlos Lopez field goal from 32 yards out. Logan Kilgore had a pretty good outing (16-25, 159 YDS) until the Bulldog defense picked him off (Jonathan Banks).After the interception (led to a touchdown pass from Tyler Russell to Chris Smith), they forced Kilgore to lose a fumble which resulted in another Russell touchdown pass (this time to Robert Johnson). Jordan Parker and Reggie Whatley combined for 114 yards on 19 carries. Anthony Amos had 6 catches for 93 yards.
Mississippi State's O-Line just pushed the Blue Raider defense arond all game long. The secondary gave up 215 yards in the air and the D-Line gave up 231 yards on the ground. One bright spot was Shubert Bastien. Bastien had a sack and forced fumble on Russell early in the game (recovered by the Bulldogs).
What to watch for: North Texas' defensive line will need to maintain their physical style against the run game. It might be easier said than done with Middle Tennessee running back Benny Cunningham (600 yards on 97 carries for 11 touchdowns)out for the season with a knee injury. Also, the offense will need to be a lot more disciplined. All 5 of the Mean Green's penalties came off their side of the ball.
Conclusion: After getting blown out in Starkville, the Blue Raiders will be reeling. Which means that they are going to be much more physical when they play North Texas. The Mean Green can play tough, but if they have a game like they did against the Ragin' Cajuns, that could spell a loss. With that said, this game has a chance to be close. However, if North Texas doesn't treat Middle Tennessee like a team that has a wounded animal mentality, then the Mean Green will be 1-4 on the road.
Prediction: North Texas by 9.
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October 27, 2012- Johnny "Red" Floyd Stadium, Murfreesboro, TN
North Texas: The Mean Green passed their first tough test against Louisiana-Lafayette last week. The Ragin' Cajuns had a 20-6 advantage in the 3rd quarter, but North Texas woke up and rallied to win the game 30-23 in Denton.
Antoinne Jimmerson caught only 2 passes. However, both of those catches led to touchdowns. The first reception gave UNT it's first touchdown (28 YDs in the 3rd) and the second was the go ahead score late in the 4th (78 YDs). Brelan Chancellor recorded 105 all purpose yards, including a 10 yard rush that tied the game at 20. Brandin Byrd and Jeremy Brown combined for 160 yards on the ground on 33 carries. Derek Thompson (17-28, 282 YDS and 2 TD) found Ivan Delgado 5 times for 84 yards.
The defense held it's own. With exception to Terrence Broadway's rushing for 84 yards on the ground (including 75 yard TD run in the second quarter), the rest of the Cajun running game had 22 yards. Louisiana had two turnovers courtesy of Zach Orr (early 2nd quarter) and a Effrem Reed fumble to seal the game.
Middle Tennessee: The Blue Raiders were hoping for another upset on the road (beat Georgia Tech 49-28 in Atlanta). Through the first half, Middle Tennssee kept the score to a one possesion game at 10-3. But with 9:30 to go in the 3rd quarter, Mississippi State's offense woke up and scored 21 points. The Bulldogs added another 2 touchdowns to take down Middle Tennessee 45-3.
Their only score came when Mississippi State's Devon Walker missed a 35 yard field goal with 9:46 remaining. The Blue Raiders took 4:40 off the clock and added a Carlos Lopez field goal from 32 yards out. Logan Kilgore had a pretty good outing (16-25, 159 YDS) until the Bulldog defense picked him off (Jonathan Banks).After the interception (led to a touchdown pass from Tyler Russell to Chris Smith), they forced Kilgore to lose a fumble which resulted in another Russell touchdown pass (this time to Robert Johnson). Jordan Parker and Reggie Whatley combined for 114 yards on 19 carries. Anthony Amos had 6 catches for 93 yards.
Mississippi State's O-Line just pushed the Blue Raider defense arond all game long. The secondary gave up 215 yards in the air and the D-Line gave up 231 yards on the ground. One bright spot was Shubert Bastien. Bastien had a sack and forced fumble on Russell early in the game (recovered by the Bulldogs).
What to watch for: North Texas' defensive line will need to maintain their physical style against the run game. It might be easier said than done with Middle Tennessee running back Benny Cunningham (600 yards on 97 carries for 11 touchdowns)out for the season with a knee injury. Also, the offense will need to be a lot more disciplined. All 5 of the Mean Green's penalties came off their side of the ball.
Conclusion: After getting blown out in Starkville, the Blue Raiders will be reeling. Which means that they are going to be much more physical when they play North Texas. The Mean Green can play tough, but if they have a game like they did against the Ragin' Cajuns, that could spell a loss. With that said, this game has a chance to be close. However, if North Texas doesn't treat Middle Tennessee like a team that has a wounded animal mentality, then the Mean Green will be 1-4 on the road.
Prediction: North Texas by 9.
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Monday, October 15, 2012
Louisiana-Lafayette vs North Texas
Scouting Report for Louisiana-Lafayette Ragin' Cajuns (4-1) vs. North Texas Mean Green(2-4)
October 16, 2012- Apogee Stadium, Denton, TX
Louisiana-Lafayette: The Cajuns overcame a slow start of then-winless Tulane (41-13). Though they only scored 3 points in the 1st quarter, Louisiana put on a 21-10 rout in the second and never looked back.
Terrence Broadway only completed 40.9% of his passes, however he averaged 6.8 yards per completion. Javone Lawson scored 2 TDs (24 YD & 20 YD)on 4 catches. Alonzo Harris had a big day on the ground with a TD (23 carries, 123 YDS). The Cajun defense was able to get pressure on the Green Wave offensive line all game. They force D.J. Ponder to throw back to back interceptions (the second led to a pick six by Justin Anderson). They also recovered a fumble on their only sack of the game. The Tulane ground game was limited to 53 total yards.
North Texas: UNT never had a chance against the resurgent Houston Cougars a couple of Saturdays ago (44-21 loss). The Mean Green had a balanced attack in Houston. Sadly, so did the Cougars. Even though North Texas pulled within 10 early in the second half, UH scored 13 unanswered to seal the game.
Derek Thompson put up 252 yards in the air, but he threw 2 INTs and could get a touchdown through the air. Thompson did score a rushing touchdown in the 3rd. Antoinne Jimmerson scored on a 1 yard run. Brandin Byrd and Jeremy Brown (48 YD TD run) combined for 176 yards on 26 carries. Ivan Delgado and Brelan Chancellor combined for 8 catches for 129 yards. The Mean Green defense couldn't slow Houston down as the Cougars outgained UNT by 140 yards in total offense.
What to watch for: North Texas has played a very tough schedule. And so far they've been competing. But against Houston, they committed 7 penalties for 87 yards. The defense was the main culprit as they accumulated 4 of them. They lost 40 yards on personal fouls and 12 for pass interference. The offense had 30 yards for illegal blocks and a false start penalty. In short, the Mean Green need to play smart.
Conclusion: As some may recall, Broadway played for the Cougars in 2010 before transferring to Louisiana. With the exception of Oklahoma State (65-24 defeat),the Cajuns have played a pretty easy schedule. ULL had a pretty easy time against Tulane's O-Line. They won't have an easier time with the Mean Green line. UNT is due for a win given the circumstances. Because Louisiana-Lafayette is two wins from bowl eligibility and need to have momentum before they head to Gainesville in 3 weeks, all the reason why this game should be close.
Prediction: North Texas by 4.
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October 16, 2012- Apogee Stadium, Denton, TX
Louisiana-Lafayette: The Cajuns overcame a slow start of then-winless Tulane (41-13). Though they only scored 3 points in the 1st quarter, Louisiana put on a 21-10 rout in the second and never looked back.
Terrence Broadway only completed 40.9% of his passes, however he averaged 6.8 yards per completion. Javone Lawson scored 2 TDs (24 YD & 20 YD)on 4 catches. Alonzo Harris had a big day on the ground with a TD (23 carries, 123 YDS). The Cajun defense was able to get pressure on the Green Wave offensive line all game. They force D.J. Ponder to throw back to back interceptions (the second led to a pick six by Justin Anderson). They also recovered a fumble on their only sack of the game. The Tulane ground game was limited to 53 total yards.
North Texas: UNT never had a chance against the resurgent Houston Cougars a couple of Saturdays ago (44-21 loss). The Mean Green had a balanced attack in Houston. Sadly, so did the Cougars. Even though North Texas pulled within 10 early in the second half, UH scored 13 unanswered to seal the game.
Derek Thompson put up 252 yards in the air, but he threw 2 INTs and could get a touchdown through the air. Thompson did score a rushing touchdown in the 3rd. Antoinne Jimmerson scored on a 1 yard run. Brandin Byrd and Jeremy Brown (48 YD TD run) combined for 176 yards on 26 carries. Ivan Delgado and Brelan Chancellor combined for 8 catches for 129 yards. The Mean Green defense couldn't slow Houston down as the Cougars outgained UNT by 140 yards in total offense.
What to watch for: North Texas has played a very tough schedule. And so far they've been competing. But against Houston, they committed 7 penalties for 87 yards. The defense was the main culprit as they accumulated 4 of them. They lost 40 yards on personal fouls and 12 for pass interference. The offense had 30 yards for illegal blocks and a false start penalty. In short, the Mean Green need to play smart.
Conclusion: As some may recall, Broadway played for the Cougars in 2010 before transferring to Louisiana. With the exception of Oklahoma State (65-24 defeat),the Cajuns have played a pretty easy schedule. ULL had a pretty easy time against Tulane's O-Line. They won't have an easier time with the Mean Green line. UNT is due for a win given the circumstances. Because Louisiana-Lafayette is two wins from bowl eligibility and need to have momentum before they head to Gainesville in 3 weeks, all the reason why this game should be close.
Prediction: North Texas by 4.
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Friday, October 5, 2012
North Texas @ Houston
Scouting Report for North Texas Mean Green (2-3) vs. Houston Cougars(1-3)
October 6, 2012- Robertson Stadium, Houston, TX
North Texas: Despite not having much of a running game (56 net yards), the Mean Green held off the Owls 20-14 for their first conference win. It was also their first road win. If anything good came from this win, UNT never trailed.
Brelan Chancellor was his usual self catching a game high 6 passes for 135 yards and a touchdown. Drew Miller was the first player other than Chancellor to have a receiving touchdown in the third quarter. Mike Trice and Derek Akunne intercepted Graham Wilbert on back to back possessions. Zach Olen overcame his two misses from last week to help seal the deal for North Texas.
Houston: The Cougars have lost their first 3 games by an average of 18.3 points. But if you watched the Battle for the Bayou Bucket at Reliant Stadium last week (35-14 over Rice), it would be hard to believe.
David Piland torched the Owls secondary for 361 yards and 2 touchdowns. Charles Sims did his fair share of the damage on the ground with 158 yards on 24 carries. The Cougar defense made Driphus Jackson uncomfortable in his 1st start. Houston brought pressure to Jackson. Despite giving up big plays on Sam McGuffie's 2 TD catches, the Cougars defense did its job well.
What to watch for: If the Cougars can do what they did last week, then the Mean Green offensive line will have to step up. In other words, they'll have to treat UH like they did against LSU and Kansas State. Ivan Delgado will need to step to give Derek Thompson many chances to capitalize on drives. Also it will help Brandin Byrd and Antoinne Jimmerson establish the run game.
Conclusion: Houston's bye week came at the right time. They needed to win against Rice to have a shot of confidence. North Texas will be looking to avenge last year's loss (48-23) at Apogee Stadium. While there may be a new coach in Tony Levine and a new quarterback in Piland, that doesn't mean there could be a repeat in Houston. Just as long as UNT can improve on their performance from last week, we could be seeing a shootout.
Prediction: Houston by 13.
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October 6, 2012- Robertson Stadium, Houston, TX
North Texas: Despite not having much of a running game (56 net yards), the Mean Green held off the Owls 20-14 for their first conference win. It was also their first road win. If anything good came from this win, UNT never trailed.
Brelan Chancellor was his usual self catching a game high 6 passes for 135 yards and a touchdown. Drew Miller was the first player other than Chancellor to have a receiving touchdown in the third quarter. Mike Trice and Derek Akunne intercepted Graham Wilbert on back to back possessions. Zach Olen overcame his two misses from last week to help seal the deal for North Texas.
Houston: The Cougars have lost their first 3 games by an average of 18.3 points. But if you watched the Battle for the Bayou Bucket at Reliant Stadium last week (35-14 over Rice), it would be hard to believe.
David Piland torched the Owls secondary for 361 yards and 2 touchdowns. Charles Sims did his fair share of the damage on the ground with 158 yards on 24 carries. The Cougar defense made Driphus Jackson uncomfortable in his 1st start. Houston brought pressure to Jackson. Despite giving up big plays on Sam McGuffie's 2 TD catches, the Cougars defense did its job well.
What to watch for: If the Cougars can do what they did last week, then the Mean Green offensive line will have to step up. In other words, they'll have to treat UH like they did against LSU and Kansas State. Ivan Delgado will need to step to give Derek Thompson many chances to capitalize on drives. Also it will help Brandin Byrd and Antoinne Jimmerson establish the run game.
Conclusion: Houston's bye week came at the right time. They needed to win against Rice to have a shot of confidence. North Texas will be looking to avenge last year's loss (48-23) at Apogee Stadium. While there may be a new coach in Tony Levine and a new quarterback in Piland, that doesn't mean there could be a repeat in Houston. Just as long as UNT can improve on their performance from last week, we could be seeing a shootout.
Prediction: Houston by 13.
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Friday, September 28, 2012
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
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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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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Friday, September 7, 2012
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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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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