Quick and dirty style. I have to work all day today so I will be missing the game, well, I will be watching it on DVR.
1. Edge speed. This is where MSU can overwhelm just about every team in the county utilizing both Martin and Cunningham on the edge and deep on the sidelines with their speed.
2: Defensive line. The defensive line will need to get good push if MSU has any chance in this game. Think your a first round pick, Worthy? Here is the chance to show it. The Georgia offensive line will be the largest line weve played all year.
3: Controlling the ball. I dont think we will win a shootout. MSU needs to control the ball eat the clock and bleed Georgia dry. I think we can win this game, but our running game will help assure that. If we rack up 150 yards on the ground, we should win handily. I am not sure who I see having a bigger game, Bell or Baker, more of a combo attack. Caper could get in the mix as well with some screen passes and break a few loose.
This is a tough game to call because I have only watch Georgia play one game and that was the SEC championship. I dont think their second half was as good as they are. I think they are more like that first half team. MSU needs to get a jump early and see if things unravel quickly for the Bulldogs. Cousins has been on a tear his last 6 games, keep that up and we win. Turn the ball over early in possessions and give Georgia good field position we lose. I am not happy about having to work since this matchup seems to be of two equal team. Lets all it 31-24 MSU. Close game throughout, one touchdown in the last few minutes gets us the lead and then our defense gets a huge stop to seal the game.
Showing posts with label three things. Show all posts
Showing posts with label three things. Show all posts
Monday, January 2, 2012
Wednesday, November 23, 2011
Turkey and Dreams
MMMMM turkey. Sweet sweet turkey. Hard to run a blog when your traveling to Boston. Taking brewery tours, eating Indian food, and being about the laziest human possible. Yet here I am. Because I love all of the readers, Pat and I have cultivated. MSU has now played three lower level teams in basketball and has gone 3-0 in those games. Not much to say regarding that, these are teams we should beat 100% of the time, and did. The next major opponent is Gonzaga at Gonzaga. MSU football is taking on Northwestern on Saturday, and I am sure Pat will have plenty regarding his team, apparently, they're playing The Ohio State University.
But let us move on to the famous three things.
1. Avoiding the upset:
Can MSU avoid the upset? After clinching a birth to the B1G championship game, this game is not as important as it could have been. The players will need to remain strong mentally to avoid a let down. What this game does present is the opportunity to win the Legends division outright. Should MSU lose and UM win, UM will secure a share of the division, we cant have that.
2. Contain the offense:
That is, play good defense. MSU will need to contain Northwestern, from the start of the game, MSU will need to keep Northwestern's offense off the field. With Northwestern there are two very mobile quarterbacks in Persa and Colter. Persa is very accomplished and looks mostly rehabbed from his achilles injury last year. When throwing Persa will pass to Jeremy Ebert on most attempts. Occasionally Persa will run the option, where he remains effective. This is where Colter can be a huge threat. Colter also plays wide receiver for the wildcats but from time to time, Colter will line up at quarterback. When this happens, look for Colter to run the ball. His passes come out a little duck like, but his speed running the ball is without question a real threat. This will be a good prep game headed into B1G championship. Lots of blitzing from the linebackers and bull rushing with our ends will keep their quarterbacks on edge. Right now our secondary is playing at a level that they will be able to keep the Northwestern wide receivers in check with little underneath help.
3. Keep the scoring going:
I fully expect MSU to score and score often against Northwestern. After putting up 55 against the lowly Hoosiers, the MSU offense is firing on all cylinders. A lot of that can be attributed to the offensive line. I mentioned the offensive line in nearly every three things to start the year, but now they have gelled. Fou Fonoti and Dan France both look strong right now and have improved dramatically as the season has gone on. Travis Jackson looks as good as advertised and will be a four yeart starter for MSU at center, that is impressive. As such, Kirk Cousins has had an impressive year, even against Nebraska, the offensive line played well. Look for this to continue as the offense controls the ball on the ground. Just like against Indiana, MSU should run the ball effectively while gashing Northwestern for big scoring plays.
Prediction: MSU wins this game. Dantonio has already stated he is playing and preparing the players like nothing is different. Dantonio has also stated he does not want to share the division with Wolverines. Look for this one to be around 38-17. About a three score victory is what I am expecting.
Friday, November 18, 2011
BUSY!
Whirlwind week that included being stuck in Atlanta for a night, jetlag, football banquets, interviews and subbing for a bunch of prick 7th graders
So I'm entering into the Tbone category of blogging effort.
3 Things:
1. Drob vs Tmart
The QB who plays the better game likely wins it.
2. Mike Martin vs Errybody
After Tbone declared the Mike Martin hype dead after the UM-MSU game, he's gone out and dominated in three straight games.
3. Pat vs Happiness
Optimism, true optimism is creeping in. I called this game a free roll, that's still true. Win or lose tomorrow this season will be defined as a success or a failure by next week's game. However, this is still an important game as far as national perception is concerned.
Prediction:
Michigan's defense looked nearly dominant last week. I'm a bit cynical, believing the performance was more about Illinois being terrible rather than Michigan being dominant. We'll find out more tomorrow but my expectation is that both Burkhead and Martinez have good days on the ground attacking the edges of Michigan's D as the young DE's make mistakes in the option game. I also think Nebraska's defense isn't anywhere near great. Playing in the Big House, I think Michigan will move the ball throughout the game. If they capitalize in the red zone and get off to a good start I think they'll win this game. This was a game I pegged as a likely loss before the season so it's nice being a little more confident now.
31-28 Michigan
To Clinch Or Not To Clinch
Yup, that is the question. That was about as lame as a Caddylack tweet. So where are we? Well MSU has about a 30 point lead over Texas Southern. The color commentator played for Indiana in 1976 that wen 32-0 and 63-1 in 1975 and 1976, that is ridiculous. That squad was the last undefeated team. On to the game though, Trice looks good. As does Dawson and Nix, and Appling. We look good, but were playing Texas Southern. I did not preview this game because I figured we would crush them. I likely wont preview a lot of the non B1G games, save for Gonzaga. (Jud is a season ticket holder for the Zags)
This Saturday at 11 am central, the Michigan State Spartans take on the Indiana Hoosiers in our protected cross over rivalry game. The battle for the Old Brass Spitoon. Currently, MSU leads the Series 40-12-1. Not bad.
1: Controlling the clock.
MSU will looks to run a lot in this game. Controlling the clock and working the Indiana defense. Indiana's defense is not very stout and is prone to giving up big plays. MSU should score on big plays, 25+ yards while simultaneously running the ball early and often. Cunningham should have a big game, with long receptions for touchdowns.
2: Stop the Tre.
MSU will need to bottle up the Indiana quarterback Tre Robinson. He is a more slender dual threat QB at 6-1 184. However, he can dual threat. MSU has shown great ability to bottle up these types of quarterbacks and there no reason to believe that wont continue. With limited weapons, for the Hoosiers, look for MSU to leave receivers in solo coverage and attack Robinson all game.
3: Senior game!
Well, this is it. MSU's seniors are graduating. This Spartan senior class is the winningest class in school history. Look for these guys to start the game, play well and get off the field so their backups can play. As Spartan fans we should wildly supportive of this class, and if the student section is not sold out, you will see an op-ed column in the State News.
Call it 42-14 MSU for the reasons mentioned above.
This Saturday at 11 am central, the Michigan State Spartans take on the Indiana Hoosiers in our protected cross over rivalry game. The battle for the Old Brass Spitoon. Currently, MSU leads the Series 40-12-1. Not bad.
1: Controlling the clock.
MSU will looks to run a lot in this game. Controlling the clock and working the Indiana defense. Indiana's defense is not very stout and is prone to giving up big plays. MSU should score on big plays, 25+ yards while simultaneously running the ball early and often. Cunningham should have a big game, with long receptions for touchdowns.
2: Stop the Tre.
MSU will need to bottle up the Indiana quarterback Tre Robinson. He is a more slender dual threat QB at 6-1 184. However, he can dual threat. MSU has shown great ability to bottle up these types of quarterbacks and there no reason to believe that wont continue. With limited weapons, for the Hoosiers, look for MSU to leave receivers in solo coverage and attack Robinson all game.
3: Senior game!
Well, this is it. MSU's seniors are graduating. This Spartan senior class is the winningest class in school history. Look for these guys to start the game, play well and get off the field so their backups can play. As Spartan fans we should wildly supportive of this class, and if the student section is not sold out, you will see an op-ed column in the State News.
Call it 42-14 MSU for the reasons mentioned above.
(makes me want a dip)
Saturday, November 12, 2011
Quick and dirty
Just how I like my three things.
1: Cousins.
Kirk needs to have a good game. This Iowa defense isnt as good as years past but still is very capable of causing turnovers. Kirk needs to not play like he did last year.
2: Stopping the run.
MSU needs to stop the Iowa running backs from doing that. Running. This will force Iowa to pass more. That might not be a good thing because McNutt is a sick sick receiver.
3: Score points.
Our offense has been a bit off track. It certainly didn't look spectacular against Minnesota. We need to score points, a close game here and we could very well lose. To score points, I see MSU taking advantage of their tight ends more than in any other game with a lot of passes up the middle. Sims has a broken wrist and is playing with a cast on. I sure hope he doenst play a lot becuase it cannot be easy to catch a ball like that. Linthicum is more than capable of catching the ball. Along with that. MSU has been saying all week that they are gonna pound the ball. Look for that too, but mostly to set up play action passes. If we can break a couple runs early, were gonna score on a 40 yard bomb later.
Prediction:
Everyone that I read, so mostly MSU bloggers are calling for a close game. That seems very logical. But that is something that I lack. We will go 27-17. That sounds close but I think MSU is going to control this game. Look for Jerel Worthy to be in beast mode. Also, as mentioned above, I like the play action set up in this game.
1: Cousins.
Kirk needs to have a good game. This Iowa defense isnt as good as years past but still is very capable of causing turnovers. Kirk needs to not play like he did last year.
2: Stopping the run.
MSU needs to stop the Iowa running backs from doing that. Running. This will force Iowa to pass more. That might not be a good thing because McNutt is a sick sick receiver.
3: Score points.
Our offense has been a bit off track. It certainly didn't look spectacular against Minnesota. We need to score points, a close game here and we could very well lose. To score points, I see MSU taking advantage of their tight ends more than in any other game with a lot of passes up the middle. Sims has a broken wrist and is playing with a cast on. I sure hope he doenst play a lot becuase it cannot be easy to catch a ball like that. Linthicum is more than capable of catching the ball. Along with that. MSU has been saying all week that they are gonna pound the ball. Look for that too, but mostly to set up play action passes. If we can break a couple runs early, were gonna score on a 40 yard bomb later.
Prediction:
Everyone that I read, so mostly MSU bloggers are calling for a close game. That seems very logical. But that is something that I lack. We will go 27-17. That sounds close but I think MSU is going to control this game. Look for Jerel Worthy to be in beast mode. Also, as mentioned above, I like the play action set up in this game.
Friday, November 11, 2011
Thrillinois
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| His name is Mercilus. Hopefully someone can block him. |
Three Things to Watch for on Saturday
1) Illinois offense, do they have any?
The Fighting Illini have been really struggling to move the ball this season. To me, this is terrifying since they scored over 60 points against the Wolverines last season in the Big House. Michigan's defense is clearly improved, but Illinois has had a bye week to work out some of their kinks and will probably also have some new wrinkles installed for Michigan. After losing three straight, coming off a bye, and playing at home, Illinois is likely to give one of their best efforts of the season.
2) Can Denard break a few big runs?
Robinson, for whatever reason, hasn't run much in the previous few games. I'm not sure if he's nicked up and suffering from some sort of injury that we don't know about or if it has been a coaching decision to have him run far less than he was in September. I do see him not looking as explosive and decisive in the running game as he's looked in the past, but he's still the most dangerous weapon Michigan has on the ground and his yards per carry bear that out.
3) Turnover Battle
This could be somewhat of a defensive battle and in those games turnovers and special teams make the difference. The offenses need to be aided by a short field or a defensive or special teams score. Since turnovers come with a giant variance, who knows who has the edge here. Hopefully it goes to Michigan.
Prediction
Home field advantage is important. Illinois is playing in their backs against the wall type situation. They are also coached by Ron Zook. Those first two things scare me, the third brings some comfort.
20 - 17 Illinois
Friday, November 4, 2011
I-Owe-A Lot
I am finding it rather difficult to restrain optimism for Michigan in this game.
Iowa is 5-3 and goes to bowl game every year! (but they just lost to Minnesota)
Denard gives away interceptions like Halloween candy! (but Iowa just lost to Minnesota)
Michigan has struggled in their only two road games this year! (but Iowa just lost to Minnesota)
Iowa has won the last two meetings! (but they just lost to Minnesota)
Iowa is so difficult to beat in Kinnick! (but they just lost to Minnesota)
Did I mention they just lost to Minnesota?
OK, so it was a rivalry game and maybe that game just goes to show you how difficult it is to win on the road in the Big Ten. Iowa also might come out totally fired up and play their best game of the season...or maybe they just aren't very good.
On to the show
3 Things and a Prediction
1) Running Wild (When Michigan is on Offense)
Iowa's defensive front isn't up to the standards of the normally stout unit that it has been the past several years. This should be a huge advantage for Michigan's run game. Iowa doesn't often vary out of their two deep look which should allow Denard and Toussaint to exploit the defense on the ground. Look for Michigan to eclipse 200 yards rushing.
2) Running Wild (When Iowa is on Offense)
If Coker rushes for 250 yards again, Iowa will win this game. Michigan needs to limit Coker and put Vandenberg in 3rd and long situations. Iowa always has a good offensive line. This is a very good test for Michigan's defense. Iowa is going to try to gain 3 yards on 1st and 2nd down and get into third and manageable. If Michigan is stout against the run on 1st and 2nd down I'll be smiling.
3) Road Denard
Robinson needs to be efficient and smart with the football. He's not going to have a 100% completion percentage but if he manages the game Michigan will make plays on offense. If Denard throws 2 or more picks Iowa will have a great chance to win the game.
Prediction:
Iowa comes out with a lot of emotion and rides the home crowd to an early lead but Michigan's offense moves the ball relentlessly on the struggling Hawkeye defense. Vandenberg makes enough plays to McNutt to keep it close into the 4th quarter.
34-24 Michigan.
Iowa is 5-3 and goes to bowl game every year! (but they just lost to Minnesota)
Denard gives away interceptions like Halloween candy! (but Iowa just lost to Minnesota)
Michigan has struggled in their only two road games this year! (but Iowa just lost to Minnesota)
Iowa has won the last two meetings! (but they just lost to Minnesota)
Iowa is so difficult to beat in Kinnick! (but they just lost to Minnesota)
Did I mention they just lost to Minnesota?
OK, so it was a rivalry game and maybe that game just goes to show you how difficult it is to win on the road in the Big Ten. Iowa also might come out totally fired up and play their best game of the season...or maybe they just aren't very good.
On to the show
3 Things and a Prediction
1) Running Wild (When Michigan is on Offense)
Iowa's defensive front isn't up to the standards of the normally stout unit that it has been the past several years. This should be a huge advantage for Michigan's run game. Iowa doesn't often vary out of their two deep look which should allow Denard and Toussaint to exploit the defense on the ground. Look for Michigan to eclipse 200 yards rushing.
2) Running Wild (When Iowa is on Offense)
If Coker rushes for 250 yards again, Iowa will win this game. Michigan needs to limit Coker and put Vandenberg in 3rd and long situations. Iowa always has a good offensive line. This is a very good test for Michigan's defense. Iowa is going to try to gain 3 yards on 1st and 2nd down and get into third and manageable. If Michigan is stout against the run on 1st and 2nd down I'll be smiling.
3) Road Denard
Robinson needs to be efficient and smart with the football. He's not going to have a 100% completion percentage but if he manages the game Michigan will make plays on offense. If Denard throws 2 or more picks Iowa will have a great chance to win the game.
Prediction:
Iowa comes out with a lot of emotion and rides the home crowd to an early lead but Michigan's offense moves the ball relentlessly on the struggling Hawkeye defense. Vandenberg makes enough plays to McNutt to keep it close into the 4th quarter.
34-24 Michigan.
Thursday, October 27, 2011
The Era of Denard Robinson
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| Hail. |
He's good. You know.
But just how good is he?
It's an interesting time for some legacy talk with Denard. For all his greatness, he's been a part of the program during truly difficult times. He's 0-2 versus the Spartans as a starter (0-5 overall against OSU and MSU) and despite two seemingly signature wins against Notre Dame, lacks the consistency of resume to be placed among the truly elite in Michigan lore. I often see Michigan fans placing Denard in the same breath as players such as Woodson, Howard, Carter and Harmon. To this point, despite all his crazy statistics and accolades, he has not earned that elite company.
A Caveat: Football certainly is a team game, and much of Denard's failures have come as a result of a lack of talent around him, (how much worse would things have been without him the last year and a half?) yet the truly great players transcend those hurdles and elevate those around them to new heights.
Crossroads: Robinson played his worst game as Michigan's starter just two weeks ago in East Lansing. There were some mitigating factors (like a very good Spartan defense and a trash tornado) but Denard's play actually led some Michigan fans to call for Devin Gardner to play quarterback and Denard to be moved elsewhere. Those people are lunatics, but Denard's career could go a couple ways from here. He could remain what he is, an electrifying runner who trounces over-matched opponents and is able to inconsistently move the ball with his arm but falls short against good defenses and on the biggest stages, or he could take the next step and move onto the list with all the other Michigan greats.
With Purdue visiting Ann Arbor this weekend, Michigan sits at 6-1 with four games remaining. Denard is essentially through half his career as Michigan's starter. Michigan should beat Purdue, but this next 4 game stretch will define Denard Robinson for the rest of his career. The ever-lying eyeball test reveals Michigan is a better team this season. Just how much better will be spelled out for us over the next four weeks. If the team (and Denard) struggle and Michigan loses three (especially if one of those is to OSU) of the remaining 5 games, the Devin Gardner heat will intensify this summer and the Denard Robinson era will likely end one of hope and potential but ultimately disappointment. It's time to see improvement in Denard Robinson, improvement that comes against Big Ten opponents and leads to meaningful victories. It needs to start this week against Purdue.
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| I apologize to you, Charles, for what I am about to say... |
He may never reach the realm of the truly elite, but then again...
3 Things to Watch Versus Purdue:
1) Can Michigan throw the football?
If Denard comes out and tosses the ball all around, Michigan is going to run away with the game. If Denard is throwing bounce passes and interceptions, buckle-up. The hard part about this is Denard can look atrocious one possession and magnificent the next, so I guess buckle-up either way.
2) Bye-Bye Bye Week
Michigan came out as flat as I have ever seen a team play football last season after their bye week. I expect a much better effort in the Big House on Saturday. If they have no emotion, Purdue has enough talent to make them pay.
3) Can Purdue make big plays?
Michigan's defense has given up yards this season but has come up with turnovers at opportune times and held fairly strong in the red zone. They are not a lights-out shut you down defense. (they were 108th in the country last year after all) However, Michigan has rarely ceded big plays this season. In fact, I don't believe the defense has given up a single play of more than 40 yards. Purdue may need a couple big gainers and big touchdowns if they want to win the game.
Prediction:
If this game was on the road, I'd be awfully nervous. As is, I'm paranoid because I'm worried about what a loss would do to the team's psyche after a difficult couple of years. I don't think Purdue is a very good ball club. (they lost to Rice...even more damning, they played AT Rice) They are a team that will claw tooth and nail to try to reach a bowl game and probably come up one game short.
Michigan 33 - 20
Saturday, October 22, 2011
MSU vs. Wisconsin
WHOA. This game snuck up on me. Nothing posted since the Michigan game. Also, for those UM fans out there, Pat is at a wedding and will unable to post anything. It helps that Michigan has a bye week... So, let us jump right into to East Lansing.
I will start by saying that the reason that they have nets up on College Gameday is that in about 1997 I want to say, fans pelted Herbstreit with beer cans. GO STATE!
What are three things to watch out for?
1: The play of Russel Wilson.
For MSU to win this game, they need to stop Wilson from making plays. Russel is is both an upgrade and a down grade from Denard Robinson, he is a less dynamic runner but a better passer. We need to get to Wilson early and get some hits on him. Any way to rattle the quarterback and disrupt some timing on his passes will go a long way to winning this game. On that note, Wilson is still very capable of running and going out on passes to catch the pass. Which brings me to my next point
2: Defensive line play.
This Wisconsin offensive line is just about a complete 180 from the Michigan offensive line. These are big boys. Wisconsin is best known for their massive offensive linemen and their ability to pound the football. Without William Gholston, the MSU offensive line is going to need to step up their play. We need to find ways get through their line and stop that initial push. If Wisconsin is constantly getting a good 2 or 3 yards of push in the trenches it is going to be a long day for the Spartans. I am looking for the defensive line to blitz more linebackers both on the edge and up the middle and keep the defensive backs in coverage to limit Wilsons ability to pass the ball on blitzes.
3: Can we score some points?
This is a HUGE game for our offense. The offense has been very much a lame duck. At times they have looked good, and other times have looked downright awful. Wisconsin has been scoring at a clip of about 40 ppg. Does the MSU offense need to match that? No. But we are going to need to get some points with touchdowns - not field goals. Like the UM game, I expect Kirk Cousins to attack the edges in the passing game and after Keshawn Martins game last week, I see more plays aimed at him...DO NOT FUMBLE THE BALL!!!!!!!!!! With that, it is pretty obvious that we need to be able to run the football and when MSU is unable to run the football, MSU gets stomped. Edwin Baker looked like a man possessed last week. Will he still have that speed, and will our offensive line still have that push? I sure hope so. If you cant get up for a game like this, you might as well stay home. If Kirk can get the ball on the edges and open up some dump passes in the middle to the TE. We will be very effective on offense.
This game is at night, in Spartan Stadium. The place is going to be rocking. I think this favors us a lot. However, I think Wisconsin is legit. They are big, their running back is fast, and the ability of Wilson to scramble adds another dimension to their offense. As much as it pains me to type this I do not think MSU wins this one. 31-27 Wisconsin. Prove me wrong State!!
I will start by saying that the reason that they have nets up on College Gameday is that in about 1997 I want to say, fans pelted Herbstreit with beer cans. GO STATE!
What are three things to watch out for?
1: The play of Russel Wilson.
For MSU to win this game, they need to stop Wilson from making plays. Russel is is both an upgrade and a down grade from Denard Robinson, he is a less dynamic runner but a better passer. We need to get to Wilson early and get some hits on him. Any way to rattle the quarterback and disrupt some timing on his passes will go a long way to winning this game. On that note, Wilson is still very capable of running and going out on passes to catch the pass. Which brings me to my next point
2: Defensive line play.
This Wisconsin offensive line is just about a complete 180 from the Michigan offensive line. These are big boys. Wisconsin is best known for their massive offensive linemen and their ability to pound the football. Without William Gholston, the MSU offensive line is going to need to step up their play. We need to find ways get through their line and stop that initial push. If Wisconsin is constantly getting a good 2 or 3 yards of push in the trenches it is going to be a long day for the Spartans. I am looking for the defensive line to blitz more linebackers both on the edge and up the middle and keep the defensive backs in coverage to limit Wilsons ability to pass the ball on blitzes.
3: Can we score some points?
This is a HUGE game for our offense. The offense has been very much a lame duck. At times they have looked good, and other times have looked downright awful. Wisconsin has been scoring at a clip of about 40 ppg. Does the MSU offense need to match that? No. But we are going to need to get some points with touchdowns - not field goals. Like the UM game, I expect Kirk Cousins to attack the edges in the passing game and after Keshawn Martins game last week, I see more plays aimed at him...DO NOT FUMBLE THE BALL!!!!!!!!!! With that, it is pretty obvious that we need to be able to run the football and when MSU is unable to run the football, MSU gets stomped. Edwin Baker looked like a man possessed last week. Will he still have that speed, and will our offensive line still have that push? I sure hope so. If you cant get up for a game like this, you might as well stay home. If Kirk can get the ball on the edges and open up some dump passes in the middle to the TE. We will be very effective on offense.
This game is at night, in Spartan Stadium. The place is going to be rocking. I think this favors us a lot. However, I think Wisconsin is legit. They are big, their running back is fast, and the ability of Wilson to scramble adds another dimension to their offense. As much as it pains me to type this I do not think MSU wins this one. 31-27 Wisconsin. Prove me wrong State!!
Friday, October 14, 2011
Quick and Dirty Quarterback Play
Tbone's Final Thoughts and a Prediction:
Kirk Cousins needs to have a good game. Simply put. If Kirk can limit his turnovers, we win this game handily. I can see Kirk attacking this defense on the sidelines, then hitting quick slants for large gains. This game hinges on Kirk ability to be 100% effective. I am currently at a friends house using his computer to do this blog. I just bonged a beer. Spartans.
Overall, we need to limit turnovers and score off turnovers we get. This will limit the scoring ability of Denard Robinson.
Prediction time: 31-21 MSU.
I think our defense keeps us in this game and we have a mistake free game on offense. I can easily see this score being exactly reversed in favor of Michigan. So thats how I feel about this game.
Time to go back to Rusty's. See you at 6 a.m.
I think that's a fair assessment and prediction, I also think it's optimistic as far as the Spartans are concerned.
A late scoring drive, capped by a spectacular run by Shoelace gives Michigan a 28-27 victory.
Kirk Cousins needs to have a good game. Simply put. If Kirk can limit his turnovers, we win this game handily. I can see Kirk attacking this defense on the sidelines, then hitting quick slants for large gains. This game hinges on Kirk ability to be 100% effective. I am currently at a friends house using his computer to do this blog. I just bonged a beer. Spartans.
Overall, we need to limit turnovers and score off turnovers we get. This will limit the scoring ability of Denard Robinson.
Prediction time: 31-21 MSU.
I think our defense keeps us in this game and we have a mistake free game on offense. I can easily see this score being exactly reversed in favor of Michigan. So thats how I feel about this game.
Time to go back to Rusty's. See you at 6 a.m.
(Pat's take below)
I think that's a fair assessment and prediction, I also think it's optimistic as far as the Spartans are concerned.
Here's 3 things to watch:
1) Can Michigan State run the football?
The oft discussed offensive line for MSU is going to have a big test versus an improving Michigan front 7. MSU is going to rush for over 100 yards, so the total yardage isn't really the thing to look out for, instead, look to see if MSU averages over 5 YPC. If they do, they win. It's not so much the damage that will be done on the ground, instead it's all about Cousins. If he has manageable down and distances along with the threat of play action he's going to find Cunningham for big plays. When MSU has the ball, first down is going to be extremely important.
2) Amazing Denard or Oh No Denard?
When Michigan has the ball, MSU could stack the box and shut down the running game, but if they do there are going to be open receivers. Denard is sometimes wildly ineffective and other times terrifyingly good throwing the football. You'll probably witness a little of both tomorrow, but if he limits the oh no's, Michigan is in great shape in this game.
3) Turnovers
Both the above factor into who is going to turn the ball over more and that will be the stat that changes this game. Shoelace has had some serious issues with turnovers this season (9 INTs in 6 games) and Cousins has also been throwing too many ill-advised balls. The team that protects the rock in this game is going to win.
Prediction:
This is as close to a toss up as you can find. I'd pick Michigan by a few if they were at home, but this game is in EL. After a bit of a shaky road start in Evanston last week, I'm concerned that the home field is going to deliver this game to the Spartans.
With all that said, man I believe in Denard in close games. He's got some magic in him...and I don't think I'm being a wild homer in picking the Wolverines.
Saturday, October 8, 2011
Way Too Late
It's unlikely anyone is going to read this before the Michigan game starts in a few hours but here's 3 things to watch and a prediction.
1. Is Persa 100%?
A healthy Dan Persa makes the Wildcats a much different team. They will need him playing and playing at a high level to win this game.
2. Turnover Battle
I can't envision Northwestern winning this game unless they win the turnover battle. If Michigan can protect the football and generate a couple of turnovers from the Wildcats, it should be a Wolverine victory. If Denard throws some picks or Michigan has some fumbling issues, NW will win the game.
3. Defensive success an anomaly?
Michigan is tied for 2nd in the nation in scoring defense. (Yes, you read that correctly) Is that a result of poor competition or a vast improvement in the play of the defense? If Persa is healthy and Michigan is able to shut down the Wildcat offense it will be a telling sign for the rest of the season. If Northwestern racks up over 400 yards of offense without turning the ball over, well that would be a telling sign in the opposite direction. This is a good test for the Michigan defense.
Prediction:
I think this game has all the makings of a trap game for the Wolverines. First road game of the season, rival Michigan State on the docket for next weekend and a 5-0 record and a stomping of Minnesota the previous week. The coaching staff and players have been saying all the right things all week but these are college kids after all and winning on the road (even if it's 40% Michigan fans) is difficult.
With all that said, I believe Michigan is the more talented football team. Northwestern's defense is susceptible to giving up big plays and Denard should be able to take advantage.
35-31 Michigan
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| Heisman hopeful's health an issue. |
1. Is Persa 100%?
A healthy Dan Persa makes the Wildcats a much different team. They will need him playing and playing at a high level to win this game.
2. Turnover Battle
I can't envision Northwestern winning this game unless they win the turnover battle. If Michigan can protect the football and generate a couple of turnovers from the Wildcats, it should be a Wolverine victory. If Denard throws some picks or Michigan has some fumbling issues, NW will win the game.
3. Defensive success an anomaly?
Michigan is tied for 2nd in the nation in scoring defense. (Yes, you read that correctly) Is that a result of poor competition or a vast improvement in the play of the defense? If Persa is healthy and Michigan is able to shut down the Wildcat offense it will be a telling sign for the rest of the season. If Northwestern racks up over 400 yards of offense without turning the ball over, well that would be a telling sign in the opposite direction. This is a good test for the Michigan defense.
Prediction:
I think this game has all the makings of a trap game for the Wolverines. First road game of the season, rival Michigan State on the docket for next weekend and a 5-0 record and a stomping of Minnesota the previous week. The coaching staff and players have been saying all the right things all week but these are college kids after all and winning on the road (even if it's 40% Michigan fans) is difficult.
With all that said, I believe Michigan is the more talented football team. Northwestern's defense is susceptible to giving up big plays and Denard should be able to take advantage.
35-31 Michigan
Friday, September 30, 2011
What Time Is It?
12:38 am Saturday, HUH! OK. Time to nail down these three things a prediction and then black out. But first, lets listen to the white stripes, because the next time the state of Ohio produces a musical group as good as this this you can call me kitten: anything to avoid advertisements. BUY THEIR MUSIC
1: Whats that you say? Number one looks familiar? That's because it is.. Yes, the offensive line. It boils down to this, can MSU protect Kirk long enough for him to throw the ball, with none of those back foot passes. However, what will be more important for this game is if the offensive line can get to that second level. Obviously we will need the offensive line to stop the front four. It is the back three I am worried about. We need to be able to stop a line backer to spring a running back. Look for that if MSU is to win.
2: Oh, the offensive line is important? Well so is the running game. MSU needs to have a successful running game to win this game.. What does a successful run game give you? Simply, it gives you clock control. Clock control is going to be extremely important. Keep the OSU defense on the field - get them tired. Set up the play action pass and expoit it. No one on OSUs defense can guard BJ Cunningham - along with that, no one can guard Dion Sims either. Get the run game going or this will be a long day.
3: Ok, so the last time I mentioned this, the opposite happened, which makes me an oracle of sort. MSU needs to keep the crowd out of it. I expect a rowdy crowd, way louder and larger than what was at Notre Dame. MSU will need to score a touchdown early and rattle young Braxton Miller. Get the crowd out of this game, and demoralize OSU early, that wil go a long way towards winning.
Prediction: Defense is the strength of each time. I will say first to 20 wins. Also, this is the best chance MSU has had to beat OSU in the last decade. Lets make it 24-21. MSU. Michigan State gets a lead on a touchdown and OSU makes it interesting while State plays "bend, don't break" and ultimately gives up a field goal. GO GREEN!!
(P.S. the Tigers game really put a damper on my evening. Well not really, I still managed to drink Pats weight in red wine and am feeling good. Whats worse is the Tigers game might start while MSU is ending. I think pat and I can agree on this, Go Tigers!)
1: Whats that you say? Number one looks familiar? That's because it is.. Yes, the offensive line. It boils down to this, can MSU protect Kirk long enough for him to throw the ball, with none of those back foot passes. However, what will be more important for this game is if the offensive line can get to that second level. Obviously we will need the offensive line to stop the front four. It is the back three I am worried about. We need to be able to stop a line backer to spring a running back. Look for that if MSU is to win.
2: Oh, the offensive line is important? Well so is the running game. MSU needs to have a successful running game to win this game.. What does a successful run game give you? Simply, it gives you clock control. Clock control is going to be extremely important. Keep the OSU defense on the field - get them tired. Set up the play action pass and expoit it. No one on OSUs defense can guard BJ Cunningham - along with that, no one can guard Dion Sims either. Get the run game going or this will be a long day.
3: Ok, so the last time I mentioned this, the opposite happened, which makes me an oracle of sort. MSU needs to keep the crowd out of it. I expect a rowdy crowd, way louder and larger than what was at Notre Dame. MSU will need to score a touchdown early and rattle young Braxton Miller. Get the crowd out of this game, and demoralize OSU early, that wil go a long way towards winning.
Prediction: Defense is the strength of each time. I will say first to 20 wins. Also, this is the best chance MSU has had to beat OSU in the last decade. Lets make it 24-21. MSU. Michigan State gets a lead on a touchdown and OSU makes it interesting while State plays "bend, don't break" and ultimately gives up a field goal. GO GREEN!!
(P.S. the Tigers game really put a damper on my evening. Well not really, I still managed to drink Pats weight in red wine and am feeling good. Whats worse is the Tigers game might start while MSU is ending. I think pat and I can agree on this, Go Tigers!)
Thursday, September 29, 2011
3 Things (Attending Game Edition)
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| I've made par on this hole, I promise. |
1) Phase I: 8 til Noon - The Tailgate
I know the football game doesn't begin until noon, but the real sporting begins when I wake at about 6am. A quick Meijer run to secure the tailgating essentials and then round up the rest of the crew at the hotel. (how lame is it that I'm now on old person who must stay in a hotel?) We will head down the UM golf course, pay our $30 fee and begin consumption. Is there anything more glorious than a college football tailgate? Ahhhh, I'm tingly.
2) Phase II: Noon til 3 - Gametime
Oh yeah, there's a football game going on. I'll be watching to see if Michigan's passing game can get on track, if the defense can shut down Minny's run game and whether or not we get to see some young guys (Devin Gardner puhlease) early in the 2nd half. Also, it has been far too long since I've experienced the best wave in the world. This game should provide ample opportunity for waveage.
Prediction: 33-16 Michigan
3) Phase III: 3 til Snooze - The Bar
With only one weekend in Ann Arbor, where is my time best spent? This is going to be a major decision that will influence my entire experience. In the afternoon I will need to be somewhere that will allow for more football to be watched on television and as night comes it's going to be about staying up and staying inebriated. I'll be reminiscing on my lost college days and trying to recreate them with the powers of booze. Dominick's will surely find it's way into the mix somewhere on this timeline, as will some spectacular Ann Arbor eats.
Glory awaits me this weekend, for now I'm off to coach my 2-1 freshman squad to victory.
The atmosphere won't quite be as awesome as the night game, but I'm pumped to head back to Michigan Stadium nonetheless. Here's a little piece of what it was like just a few weeks ago. Take it away Jack White.
Friday, September 23, 2011
Three Things Spartan Edition
Well, we are at that time again. It is Friday and it is time for the the three things. The first one will be a familiar one once again.
1. How will the offensive line hold up? This is something to keep an eye on the rest of the season. Blake Treadwell is only anticipated to miss this game, however, Jared McGaha is expected to miss all games up to the Michigan game. Travis Jackson is in at center and was the starter all pre-season until an ankle injure pushed Blake in there. Perhaps Travis will represent... A New Hope...... If we suffer another injury, it could be the season. Look for the offensive line to show up. Or at least hope they do. A lot of the break down against ND seemed to be from lack of reps, lack of experience, this needs to stop immediately.
2. Establishing the run? Dan Roushar said hes going to stick with what MSU is for the rest of the year. No more unnecessary flea flickers, no more unnecessary wild cat, no more having one guard on one side of the center and the rest of the line on the other. If anything an offensive lineup like that would hurt such a young line. Keep it simple. Lets run the ball up the middle, have some bumps to the outside as well a pitch outside and get some screen passes going. We should out match CMU all over the place. Lets get in and win.
3. Can we win the turnover battle? This is something we excelled at when we won the Big Ten Title. Last week we had some costly fumbles and failed to score when getting the ball off a turnover. Let's pressure the QB, and get some interceptions and then punch it in. Look for MSU to do that.
CMU was just dominated by WMU and everything that I have read about CMU is that this is not their strongest team, certainly not the level of team that beat us two years ago. (i hate typing that)
Prediction: 34-10 MSU. I do not see this being close at any point. Except before the game starts.
1. How will the offensive line hold up? This is something to keep an eye on the rest of the season. Blake Treadwell is only anticipated to miss this game, however, Jared McGaha is expected to miss all games up to the Michigan game. Travis Jackson is in at center and was the starter all pre-season until an ankle injure pushed Blake in there. Perhaps Travis will represent... A New Hope...... If we suffer another injury, it could be the season. Look for the offensive line to show up. Or at least hope they do. A lot of the break down against ND seemed to be from lack of reps, lack of experience, this needs to stop immediately.
2. Establishing the run? Dan Roushar said hes going to stick with what MSU is for the rest of the year. No more unnecessary flea flickers, no more unnecessary wild cat, no more having one guard on one side of the center and the rest of the line on the other. If anything an offensive lineup like that would hurt such a young line. Keep it simple. Lets run the ball up the middle, have some bumps to the outside as well a pitch outside and get some screen passes going. We should out match CMU all over the place. Lets get in and win.
3. Can we win the turnover battle? This is something we excelled at when we won the Big Ten Title. Last week we had some costly fumbles and failed to score when getting the ball off a turnover. Let's pressure the QB, and get some interceptions and then punch it in. Look for MSU to do that.
CMU was just dominated by WMU and everything that I have read about CMU is that this is not their strongest team, certainly not the level of team that beat us two years ago. (i hate typing that)
Prediction: 34-10 MSU. I do not see this being close at any point. Except before the game starts.
Thursday, September 22, 2011
Three Things
Michigan beat Eastern last week and it's difficult to take a lot from the game. I know it was close after the first quarter, but after that it was never in question. The big story from the game was that Denard ran the ball so many times.
On we move to San Diego State. There are plenty of story lines here as Hoke faces his old team. Two of the top three offensive players in this game play for SDSU. Their quarterback Hindley is an NFL level talent as a big armed statue type. At running back, Hillman is probably the best back UM will face all season. After a monster year last season he's off to a great start and is 2nd in the nation in rushing through three games. Beyond those two, I dont' think the Aztecs stack up across the board to the talent level of the Wolverines.
Three things to watch:
1) Is Denard capable of throwing accurately?
He looked like a precision passer early in the year last year, had some hiccups with decision making during Big Ten play but still graded out as an accurate guy in almost every game last year. This season Robinson's decision making has seemed OK but his accuracy has been far from good. Some of his passes have appeared to be nerves, where he simply overthrew open receivers, but what could be shrugged off as an anomoly is now looking like a disturbing trend. If Denard completes over 70% of his passes, Michigan will win this game easily.
2) Hillman's yards per carry.
After watching the first three weeks of the season, it would be crazy to expect Michigan to shut down Ronnie Hillman. He is currently averaging 6.5 YPC through 3 games. Expect him to run for over 100 yards, probably close to 150. The big question is whether those yards come with a bunch of big gainers, gashing the Wolverines defense or whether he has to work for those yards on a ton of carries. If he's over 5 YPC it is going to be a long day for Hoke & Co, under 4 YPC and it will be a very good performance by the Michigan defense.
3) Will a RB please stand up?
Vincent Smith has played well and earned the start versus the Aztecs, but it's unlikely he can be a mail carrier throughout the season. Thomas Rawls is making some noise in practice and will likely get some carries this week. I still think Fitzgerald Toussaint is the guy, but his health issues seem never ending. I'm hoping Toussaint or Rawls can step up and have a big game Saturday and begin to the ease the load put on Denard in the running game.
Prediction:
Hindley and Hillman keep it close through three quarters. Michigan gives up yards and points on defense but has a good day in both the passing and running game offensively.
42-28 Michigan
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| This guy is good. |
Three things to watch:
1) Is Denard capable of throwing accurately?
He looked like a precision passer early in the year last year, had some hiccups with decision making during Big Ten play but still graded out as an accurate guy in almost every game last year. This season Robinson's decision making has seemed OK but his accuracy has been far from good. Some of his passes have appeared to be nerves, where he simply overthrew open receivers, but what could be shrugged off as an anomoly is now looking like a disturbing trend. If Denard completes over 70% of his passes, Michigan will win this game easily.
2) Hillman's yards per carry.
After watching the first three weeks of the season, it would be crazy to expect Michigan to shut down Ronnie Hillman. He is currently averaging 6.5 YPC through 3 games. Expect him to run for over 100 yards, probably close to 150. The big question is whether those yards come with a bunch of big gainers, gashing the Wolverines defense or whether he has to work for those yards on a ton of carries. If he's over 5 YPC it is going to be a long day for Hoke & Co, under 4 YPC and it will be a very good performance by the Michigan defense.
3) Will a RB please stand up?
Vincent Smith has played well and earned the start versus the Aztecs, but it's unlikely he can be a mail carrier throughout the season. Thomas Rawls is making some noise in practice and will likely get some carries this week. I still think Fitzgerald Toussaint is the guy, but his health issues seem never ending. I'm hoping Toussaint or Rawls can step up and have a big game Saturday and begin to the ease the load put on Denard in the running game.
Prediction:
Hindley and Hillman keep it close through three quarters. Michigan gives up yards and points on defense but has a good day in both the passing and running game offensively.
42-28 Michigan
Friday, September 16, 2011
My Teeth are Green - Notre Dame Style
Not from the Spartan spirit but from NyQuil. Yup. Big N, little y, GIANT F'n Q. Ole tbone here has quit the head cold and it could not have come at a more inopportune time. But this is life, and we move on from it. So whats going on this week? O yea, the Notre Dame game.
Last week, ND came out on a tear and looked like it was going to cruise to victory. Then the second half happened. The offense sputtered, there defense faltered and suddenly they were locked up in a tight one. Going ahead on a TD with about a minute left wasn't enough as the secondary fell apart and eventually gave up the game winning drive. So whats going to happen to ND this week? Some people believe this will be a deflating game for ND and the the Spartans couldn't have asked for a better outcome of that game. Others feel that ND will come out storming and this is bad for the Spartans. I am part of that camp.
The crowd at ND stadium is going to be going bonkers. They want a win and they want it bad. Can ND go 0-3? I hope so. Which leads me to my first of three things:
1. Controlling the crowd: I think it is very important for MSU to come out strong, they do not need to score on the first possession but they need to stop ND from scoring on their first possession. Quiet the crowd a bit and then get some points on the board.
(these next two will sound familiar)
2. Defensive line play: MSU needs to come out firing on all cylinders defensively. This will be the key to the game. ND holds the best passing offensive we will see all year and that still is a weak point for us, especially the way ND passes. Worthy, Gholston and other lineman need to get to the QB - rattle him a bit.
3. Offensive line play: Our young offensive lineman will show their worth in this game. Expect Mante Teo to blitz a lot, can we pick that up and protect Kirk? Can our blockers get to the second level and spring some runs? If Kirk can stay on his feet expect him to find a lot of receivers and gain a lot of yards.
as a 3b choice: I would say Kirk needs redemption for this game (from two years ago) and he knows it. A solid showing here will go a long way to a win.
Prediction: 31-28 ND. I see them winning this one in spite of our recent success down in South Bend. ND has too much to prove to themselves. I feel it will be close throughout but ND's defense gets it done this time as time expires. (I hate writing that)
Last week, ND came out on a tear and looked like it was going to cruise to victory. Then the second half happened. The offense sputtered, there defense faltered and suddenly they were locked up in a tight one. Going ahead on a TD with about a minute left wasn't enough as the secondary fell apart and eventually gave up the game winning drive. So whats going to happen to ND this week? Some people believe this will be a deflating game for ND and the the Spartans couldn't have asked for a better outcome of that game. Others feel that ND will come out storming and this is bad for the Spartans. I am part of that camp.
The crowd at ND stadium is going to be going bonkers. They want a win and they want it bad. Can ND go 0-3? I hope so. Which leads me to my first of three things:
1. Controlling the crowd: I think it is very important for MSU to come out strong, they do not need to score on the first possession but they need to stop ND from scoring on their first possession. Quiet the crowd a bit and then get some points on the board.
(these next two will sound familiar)
2. Defensive line play: MSU needs to come out firing on all cylinders defensively. This will be the key to the game. ND holds the best passing offensive we will see all year and that still is a weak point for us, especially the way ND passes. Worthy, Gholston and other lineman need to get to the QB - rattle him a bit.
3. Offensive line play: Our young offensive lineman will show their worth in this game. Expect Mante Teo to blitz a lot, can we pick that up and protect Kirk? Can our blockers get to the second level and spring some runs? If Kirk can stay on his feet expect him to find a lot of receivers and gain a lot of yards.
as a 3b choice: I would say Kirk needs redemption for this game (from two years ago) and he knows it. A solid showing here will go a long way to a win.
Prediction: 31-28 ND. I see them winning this one in spite of our recent success down in South Bend. ND has too much to prove to themselves. I feel it will be close throughout but ND's defense gets it done this time as time expires. (I hate writing that)
Tomato Can
My esteemed blogging buddy is making movie references, blowing minds and altogether establishing himself as a blogging legend.
I, on the other hand, lament the passing of the annual "Michigan crushes Irish dreams" week.
We move on to to play Eastern Michigan. Losing to EMU would be the worst loss in Michigan history. I know the weight of that statement. I am fully aware of that Michigan lost to these guys just a few years ago. Obligatory video follows.
You know you like that sax. You were swaying to the beat, I caught you.
Anyway, here's 3 things:
1) Don't get hurt Denard
2) Shut down EMU's running game (or I'll be looking at predicting a loss next week versus SDSU)
3) Play reserves, get those banged up guys some rest
There isn't a whole lot else to look at when you play a tomato can. Sorry Eastern fans, you're really bad.
33-6
I, on the other hand, lament the passing of the annual "Michigan crushes Irish dreams" week.
We move on to to play Eastern Michigan. Losing to EMU would be the worst loss in Michigan history. I know the weight of that statement. I am fully aware of that Michigan lost to these guys just a few years ago. Obligatory video follows.
You know you like that sax. You were swaying to the beat, I caught you.
Anyway, here's 3 things:
1) Don't get hurt Denard
2) Shut down EMU's running game (or I'll be looking at predicting a loss next week versus SDSU)
3) Play reserves, get those banged up guys some rest
There isn't a whole lot else to look at when you play a tomato can. Sorry Eastern fans, you're really bad.
33-6
Thursday, September 8, 2011
Lights, Dude
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| Let there be... |
Notre Dame comes off a turnover filled loss to South Florida and Michigan comes in feeling good about their blowout win over Western. So you would think a 1-0 Michigan would be a solid favorite at home over an 0-1 Notre Dame...but Vegas has ND -3.5.
It's going to be a wild one in Ann Arbor Saturday night. Here are:
3 Things to Watch
1. Will the pressure get home?
Michigan's secondary looks like it's improved. Michigan's secondary does not appear to be improved tremendously. Michael Floyd plays for ND. This is bad. Floyd will have a massive game unless Michigan can get regular pressure on ND's quarterbacks. Floyd is probably going to have a big game regardless, but a couple of hurried mistakes by Rees or sacks to stop drives would be just what the doctor ordered. Michigan didn't get home with their front four in the Western game, they may have to against Notre Dame. It will be interesting to see if Mattison can dial up blitz packages that get home two weeks in a row. If Rees has all day in the pocket, the Irish will win this game.
2. Is Notre Dame's defense overrated?
Denard Robinson torched those guys last year. And then everyone kept saying how improved ND's defense was throughout the season and how great Monte Te'o plays at MLB. After lopsided yardage numbers in game one, the Irish defense is still being talked about as a dominant unit. I think maybe ND's D is a bit overrated. If Michigan gets stuffed in the running game, I'll being to believe the hype.
3. Unleashing of Drob
In what should be a very competitive game throughout, it will be very interesting to watch how often Borges turns to Robinson in key situations. He's going to run more than he did against Western, but how much is the big question.
Prediction
I've been waffling here all week. I really think Michigan is going to struggle defensively in this game. I also have a sneaking suspicion the offense might explode and have a huge day as well. I'd be surprised if this isn't a shootout. Call me Simpson, I'm going with:
Michigan 38-28
Wednesday, September 7, 2011
Mea Culpa, Mea Culpa, Mea Maxima Culpa
So I hate writing this. I just hate it and there is nothing I can do about it. I will be out of town all weekend starting Thursday and ending Sunday. Out of town you say? Yes, at a wedding, on Saturday! Who gets married on Saturday in the fall? Whose the guy that lets his wife set that date? Well I know who he is, he IS AN IDIOT. UGH. Obviously, this guy is not my friend, but is the fiance of my girl friends friend. Still following? O well, I have to go.
There will be little to no coverage on my end, I wont see the game, however I will DVR it and try to get a re cap up later in the week for it. Right now I am gonna jump right into three things.
The first two for me are easy for this game. After last week - and seeing what happened to other ranked teams I feel pretty good.
1: Offensive and Defensive Line Play.
How are our offensive and defensive line going to play this game? They were both underwhelming against the Penguins and will need to pick it up against the Owls. Since FAU has played a game, MSU has something to quantify itself against. FAU was held to one yard per carry last week - I would like to be around there . Or at least get some QB sacks. There are some changes. Dan France OR Fou Fonoti are in at LT. I think this is a good thing. I have been big on Fou since the transfer, I think he will work out there in spite of getting most of reps at RT.
2: Line backer play.
This will be quick, Denicos Allen is the starter. I have been raving about him. Watch out! Hes fast, he hits hard, and he was the only player last week to use his arms to wrap people up while tackling. YAY.
3: Penalties.
On one possession we had three penalties in a row. That's unacceptable. Mitchell White had a couple pass interference penalties and over all, penalties are bountiful. MSU needs to stop that, we are a good team, but we need to stop unnecessary penalties. Time to shore up everything before we travel to ND in week 3.
Those are my three things, two of them are from last week, but that's ok, considering how those two units were under performing in my opinion.
Prediction: 38-10 MSU. This one will not feel as close as the YSU game. Late TD for FAU is how I feel.
(I hope I didn't get anything completely wrong, I wrote this pretty quickly. O and also, go blue? I hate ND. But every year this game is like uhhh can they tie?)
There will be little to no coverage on my end, I wont see the game, however I will DVR it and try to get a re cap up later in the week for it. Right now I am gonna jump right into three things.
The first two for me are easy for this game. After last week - and seeing what happened to other ranked teams I feel pretty good.
1: Offensive and Defensive Line Play.
How are our offensive and defensive line going to play this game? They were both underwhelming against the Penguins and will need to pick it up against the Owls. Since FAU has played a game, MSU has something to quantify itself against. FAU was held to one yard per carry last week - I would like to be around there . Or at least get some QB sacks. There are some changes. Dan France OR Fou Fonoti are in at LT. I think this is a good thing. I have been big on Fou since the transfer, I think he will work out there in spite of getting most of reps at RT.
2: Line backer play.
This will be quick, Denicos Allen is the starter. I have been raving about him. Watch out! Hes fast, he hits hard, and he was the only player last week to use his arms to wrap people up while tackling. YAY.
3: Penalties.
On one possession we had three penalties in a row. That's unacceptable. Mitchell White had a couple pass interference penalties and over all, penalties are bountiful. MSU needs to stop that, we are a good team, but we need to stop unnecessary penalties. Time to shore up everything before we travel to ND in week 3.
Those are my three things, two of them are from last week, but that's ok, considering how those two units were under performing in my opinion.
Prediction: 38-10 MSU. This one will not feel as close as the YSU game. Late TD for FAU is how I feel.
(I hope I didn't get anything completely wrong, I wrote this pretty quickly. O and also, go blue? I hate ND. But every year this game is like uhhh can they tie?)
Thursday, September 1, 2011
MSU Three Things and a Prediction
A bit slow to get this up. Recently got a new job. (thanks MSU degree). However, I do have three things to watch for and a game prediction.
1. Can our offensive line dominate the Penguins? As was mentioned in a previous post, our offensive line is young, at least at the tackle and center position. Thanks Pat for forgetting to mention our starting center will be a redshirt freshman. However, this Penguins team is not very good. Plain and simple. Watch for our offensive line to dominate the Penguins and gain confidence. If that doesn't happen, could be a long season.
Plus, have you seen Travis Jackson? Look at that hair!!
2. WRU, I mean MSU. Yes, we are Wide Receiver University. And this years class might be the best group in the country. Add on to that Dion Sims is back on the team and there is a lot of big bodies for Kirk to throw the ball to. If we are passing at all (I expect a lot of run plays) look for BJ Cunningham to break the career receptions record and maybe even catch some of these reported long bombs they have been working on for the last year. Also, this is the year Keith Nichol will be remembered. Hes a big boy and could be used a lot on short passes
yup.
3. For my last thing. I was thinking about saying the linebacker play, but that's too simple. I will go with defensive line play. Like the offensive line, I expect our defensive line to blow through the Penguins offensive line. If Worthy is a top 10 pick, this is a game where he should dominate. Also, Will Gholston needs to get out there, get some hits and take some hits after shoulder surgery last year.
So basically, what I want to see is line play and the receivers catch the ball on some deep passes.
Final prediction: This Youngstown State team does not have the personnel to compete with us and we will not pull a...dare I say it? A Michigan. 41-13 final.
1. Can our offensive line dominate the Penguins? As was mentioned in a previous post, our offensive line is young, at least at the tackle and center position. Thanks Pat for forgetting to mention our starting center will be a redshirt freshman. However, this Penguins team is not very good. Plain and simple. Watch for our offensive line to dominate the Penguins and gain confidence. If that doesn't happen, could be a long season.
2. WRU, I mean MSU. Yes, we are Wide Receiver University. And this years class might be the best group in the country. Add on to that Dion Sims is back on the team and there is a lot of big bodies for Kirk to throw the ball to. If we are passing at all (I expect a lot of run plays) look for BJ Cunningham to break the career receptions record and maybe even catch some of these reported long bombs they have been working on for the last year. Also, this is the year Keith Nichol will be remembered. Hes a big boy and could be used a lot on short passes
3. For my last thing. I was thinking about saying the linebacker play, but that's too simple. I will go with defensive line play. Like the offensive line, I expect our defensive line to blow through the Penguins offensive line. If Worthy is a top 10 pick, this is a game where he should dominate. Also, Will Gholston needs to get out there, get some hits and take some hits after shoulder surgery last year.
So basically, what I want to see is line play and the receivers catch the ball on some deep passes.
Final prediction: This Youngstown State team does not have the personnel to compete with us and we will not pull a...dare I say it? A Michigan. 41-13 final.
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