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NFC East Draft Class Analysis
The NFC East could be defined as mediocre compared to the rest of the NFL during last season’s campaign. The top team was the Washington Redskins (9-7) which resulted in a playoff berth. With the addition of new players from the 2016 NFL draft teams try to rebuild and prepare for the new season.
Dallas Cowboys
Ezekiel Elliott (RB Ohio State), Round 1 Pick 4 (4th Overall)
This was a reach for a new running back with the fourth pick overall in this year’s draft; especially since the Cowboys could have had the luxury of Jalen Ramsey and DeForest Buckner on their team. Now that the draft is over, the intentions are clear about Dallas, as they transition into a more run oriented offense. During Elliott’s junior season, at Ohio State, he scored 23 touchdowns and rushed for over 1800 yards. Past running back s in the Cowboys’ system, including DeMarco Murray, have had success with a stable offensive line. The Buckeyes’ product will fit in perfectly with the impeccable skill and talent of the offensive line that Dallas possesses. He could potentially be another version of Murray or another version of a versatile back that can catch passes and block for Tony Romo. He should thrive under the system of Jason Garret and new offensive coordinator, Scott Linehan.
Anthony Brown, (CB Perdue), Round 6 Pick 14 (189th Overall)
Jaylon Smith, (LB Notre Dame), Round 2 Pick 3 (34th Overall)
Both Anthony Brown and Jaylon Smith possess something that the Cowboys need. With these two picks Dallas now has depth at the linebacker position. The picks listed above would fill holes left by a below average Dallas defense. Anthony Brown, in his seasons at Baylor, intercepted 4 passes and broke up many more. As for Jaylon Smith, he has a history of knee injuries and the Cowboys hope that this pick in round 2 was worth the stretch. Sean Lee, a linebacker for the Cowboys and a difference maker on defense, has been the workhorse of the linebacker corps but has dealt with injury in the last couple of years. If Smith is injured, then he becomes another Sean Lee. When healthy, he has shown flashes of being a lethal back and could be an anchor for this Dallas squad.
Philadelphia Eagles
Carson Wentz, (QB North Dakota State), Round 1 Pick 2 (2nd Overall)
The Eagles are heading in a positive direction with Wentz. They are starting to dig themselves out of a grave that was dug by Chip Kelley and his ideals. A team starts with the leadership of the quarterback. During his time at North Dakota State he led his team to two consecutive championships, in 2014 and 2015. In the beginning of the 2015 season, he broke his hand and later that year, led the Bisons to a title. Wentz has an athletic build and can be molded into a running quarterback or a throwing quarterback. He will need good receivers (other than Jordan Matthews) and a decent running back in order for the Eagles to compete. If Sam Bradford decides to go elsewhere, the starting job will be open to Wentz. However, if Bradford decides to stay, though he has inquired about being dealt, then he will be Wentz’s mentor in understanding the complexity of the NFL. With help, Wentz can turn into an elite quarterback that could lead Philadelphia to a championship.
Isaac Seumalo (OG, Oregon State), Round 3 Pick 16 (79th Overall)
Halapoulivaati Vaitai (OT, TCU), Round 5 Pick 27 (164th Overall)
Every good team starts with a foundation of an offensive line. Dallas, San Francisco, and Oakland are solid examples of this. When a team has a strong offensive line, they can protect the quarterback from injury and give him more time to make accurate passes. It also helps the running game when the line is able to open up bigger holes for backs. Both Seumalo and Vaitai would improve the production of the offense and take the pressure off of Carson Wentz. Running backs Ryan Matthews and Darren Sproles can be more efficient in the Eagles’ offense, with effective blocking from Seumalo and Vaitai. Seumalo needs to obtain faster hands and avoid injury to truly be effective in helping Philadelphia, even though he has good footwork and has the mindset of a true superstar. Vaitai is another interesting pick by the Eagles, as he possesses the ability to be versatile on the line by playing on both the left and the right. Vaitai will need to improve his athletic shape to cover more ground and really protect his passers, paving way for the Eagles’ running backs.
New York Giants
Eli Apple (CB Ohio State), Round 1 Pick 10 (10th Overall)
Ohio State’s Eli Apple replaces what was left by Prince Amukamara and hopefully will be the shutdown corner that the Giants desperately need. The defense is becoming less and less because of the departure of Antrel Rolle and Jason Pierre Paul’s amputated finger. This pick is going to help build the defensive presence in games. Being in the Big Ten league for three years (Totaling 53 tackles, 3 interceptions, and 10 pass breakups) Apple has gotten used to guarding big players and speedsters at his position. Apple was picked in the hopes of avoiding games like in early November against the Saints in where the Giants gave up 52 points to the Saints offense. He will have to learn a new system and will eventually move into that demanding spot of cornerback; guarding elite wide receivers like DeSean Jackson, Jordan Matthews, and Dez Bryant. This Ohio State product is a player and an athletic one at that. Hopefully the Giants can mold him into the shape of a Josh Norman, Richard Sherman, or a Darrelle Revis type of cornerback.
Sterling Shepard (WR Oklahoma) Round 2 Pick 9 (40th Overall)
The Giants sent a message with picking a wide receiver in the second round. A lot of people in the Giants organization are ecstatic about Shepard because of his quickness and willingness to play in the slot with Odell playing the wide out position. A product of Oklahoma, Shepard has to build chemistry with Eli Manning and learn to play alongside ODB. By adding him to the roster he has the ability to take pressure off of OBJ, another weapon for Eli Manning. If he does develop, he can take defenders away and draw shift defensives away from everyone else. Giants fans will wait in anticipation until training camps come around but the organization is hopeful that Shepard could make the 52-man roster.
Washington Redskins
Josh Doctson (WR TCU), Round 1 Pick 22 (22nd Overall)
Josh Doctson will help the newly franchised tagged quarterback, Kirk Cousins, while being a perfect complement for DeSean Jackson in the slot. Doctson is a speedster that can make quick turns, stop on a dime, and also has active hands. The Redskins need a touchdown threat because DeSean Jackson had a mediocre season in 2015. He needs to add more muscle and learn the Redskins’ new play book but that comes with time on the team. A natural route runner along with being mentally tough, Doctson could take over this team and storm into the NFL.
Su’a Cravens (OLB USC) Round 2 Pick 22 (53rd Overall)
The defense of the Redskins has always been a question mark especially after the departure of Brian Irakpo. The Redskins are trying to retool and rejuvenate their defense starting with the outside linebacker position. Cravens, a linebacker and safety hybrid, is part of the defensive rebuilding plan a as he recorded 52 tackles and 4 interceptions at USC. He is a good matchup with a pass catching tight end. He has the smarts and the toughness to make it in this league, he just needs experience. Being new to the position of linebacker, he will need to work with the coaching staff to evolve into the type of player that the Redskins ultimately need: a physical defensive presence.
Army-SB Nation Article
I recently took a job as the unofficial Army beat writer for UnderDog Dynasty on SB Nation. Here is my first article analyzing Army’s spring practices. The spring game is April 30. Stay tuned for a recap of the Black and Gold game this coming weekend.
Recruiting Nation: 4 Notable NJ/NY HS Players
The class of 2016 in New Jersey and New York has its fair share of talented players. Rashan Gary from Paramus Catholic (NJ) is the number one ranked all-around player at defensive tackle. However, there are 3 other players that are underrated in the Metropolitan Area. With signing day set for February 3, some of the players below have committed to Division 1 schools, but others are undecided.
- Rashan Gary: Defensive Tackle, Paramus Catholic (NJ)- The no. 1 recruit on ESPN’s Recruiting Database, Rashan Gary is a freak of nature. At 6’5″ and 290 pounds, the defensive tackle ran the fastest forty-yard dash for a linemen at 4.86 seconds. An All-American this year, Gary averaged over 5 tackles per game, landing him a top 5 ranking in New Jersey. Scouts have raved about his quick hands as well. He recovered 2 fumbles this season, and pressured opposing quarterbacks over 10 times. Michigan, Alabama, Ole Miss, and USC are just 4 out of over 20 colleges that have offered Gary a full scholarship. He has visited all of the colleges listed. The Wolverines have appeared to be the front runners for the undeclared no. 1 recruit. Keep an eye on Rashan Gary come signing day in early February.
- Elijah Riley: Halfback/Safety, Newfield (LI, NY)- Elijah Riley is an explosive halfback who lead Newfield High School, in Long Island, to their first undefeated season at 12-0. Unranked on ESPN, Riley is a name scout’s have not heard of outside of the Metropolitan Area. He is a dual-threat aggressive player at halfback and safety. This earned him the Carl A. Hansen Award, given to a top player in Suffolk County. Riley lead Newfield to the Long Island Class II Championship, scoring 3 touchdowns. He has committed to Army West Point. Elijah Riley can provide a spark for the Black Knights on special teams. Coach Jeff Monken could utilize him on Army’s triple threat offense, as an h-back, but also on the defensive end as a solid back.
Newfield’s (LI, NY) Elijah Riley is a dual-threat at halfback and safety, making him a solid contributor for Army. - Jelani Greene: Wide Receiver, Newfield (LI, NY)- Jelani Greene transferred from Longwood in Long Island, his junior year because he did not fit the offense. This proved to be the best decision the wideout made. The All-American will continue his career at the University of New Hampshire, which competes in the CAA. Greene recorded 33 receptions, hauled in 14 touchdowns, and picked up over 1,000 receiving yards. He was named to Newsday’s All-Long Island first team. Newsday reports on high school sports in Nassau and Suffolk Counties. He is notable for his Odell Beckham Jr. one handed catches. Greene is praised for having “the complete package”: quick hands, speed, and fast runner, according to scouts and Newfield’s head coach, Joe Piccininni.
Jelani Greene, Newfield’s (LI, NY) standout receiver makes spectacular one handed grabs like Odell Beckham Jr. He has the potential to do so at New Hampshire. - Devon Robinson: Offensive Guard, Winslow TWP (NJ)- Though he ranks 40th out of 44 of ESPN’s top offensive guards from New Jersey, Devon Robinson is an undervalued blocker. The 6’6″ 275 lbs lineman is considered a 2-star recruit by scouts. However, he has a 5.60 40-yard dash, quick for an offensive linemen. His power throw, however, could use some work. His favorite school is Illinois, the first Division 1 school to offer him a full scholarship. Some other schools that have offered Robinson include Miami (FL), Army, and Temple. If Robinson bulks up, he could be a solid contributor on any O-Line. Illinois is a good fit for him. The Fighting Illini have a history of producing NFL linemen including former New York Giant and 2 time Super Bowl winner, David Diehl.
2015 Bowl Preview: December 28-January 2
The 2015 bowl season debuted on December 19, but this coming week features some quality matchups of top ranked opponents participating in a variety of bowls from the Russell Athletic Bowl to the College Football Playoff semifinals. These 10 games have their share of impact players who will carry their team against quality defenses.
- December 28: Military Bowl-Pitt vs #21 Navy Keenan Reynolds, Navy’s star senior quarterback who sparked questions after not being named a Heisman finalist, will play his final home game against the Pittsburgh Panthers in the Military Bowl. He is going up against the 20th ranked rushing defense in the country in Pitt. Ejuan Price, the Panther’s star linebacker, is a threat to opposing quarterbacks, he ranks sixth in the nation averaging over 2 sacks per game. Navy’s offensive line will have to protect Reynolds, who likes to run on the outside, where Price would be camped out. Expect Navy’s coach Ken Niumatalolo to integrate some pass plays against a solid Pitt rushing defense, to throw them off.
- December 29: Russell Athletic Bowl-#10 UNC vs #17 Baylor This 2015 Russell Athletic Bowl pits two quality offense against each other. Marquise Williams quarterbacks the no. 10 Tar Heels. He threw for 224 passing yards in UNC’s loss to Clemson in the ACC Championship game. Baylor’s secondary will have a test as Williams likes to throw the deep ball, something the Bears’ cornerbacks especially have difficulty defending. On the Baylor side, star wideout Corey Coleman, the winner of the Fred Biletnikoff award, will miss the Russell Athletic Bowl, as he underwent a sports hernia surgery. Jay Lee will step up for Baylor. The senior wideout is averaging more than 20 yards per reception. The only problem is the Bears lack a strong quarterback. Seth Russell injured his neck in late October, and true freshman Jarett Stidham, who also went season-ending surgery. Junior Lynx Hawthorne will be under center for Baylor. UNC’s defense will have to step up and cover Lee heavily.
Baylor’s Jay Lee is going to be heavily targeted, as star wideout Corey Coleman will miss the Russell Athletic Bowl. (Kevin Hoffman-USA TODAY Sports) - December 30: Birmingham Bowl-Auburn vs. Memphis Memphis (9-3) is a surprise entering the post-season. The Tigers have defeated opponents such as Ole Miss and Navy. The Tigers’ quarterback, Paxton Lynch, was a legitimate Heisman candidate in the beginning of the season. He has only thrown 3 interceptions this season. Lynch has received extensive blocking from his offensive line. Auburn’s passing defense is mediocre, they lack a strong secondary. However, their running game can make up for these lapses. Auburn’s Peyton Barber has had a quiet, but productive year. He is averaging almost 5 yards per carry, with 13 TDs. AU’s offense specializes in short runs, preferably on second downs.
- December 30: Holiday Bowl-#25 USC vs. Wisconsin USC is no stranger to the Holiday Bowl as they defeated Nebraska last year 45-42. This will be Wisconsin’s first time in the Holiday Bowl. The Trojans have not lost to the Badger in bowl competition, recording 6 wins, most notably the 1963 Rise Bowl. For USC, quarterback Cody Kessler has been sacked 35 times, the most sacks allowed to a QB in the PAC-12. However, the Trojans have a reliable threat at receiver in JuJu Smith-Schuster. The sophomore wideout ranks sixth in the nation in total yards, and averages 16.3 yards per reception. The Badgers’ defense will have to play tight man civerage on Smith-Schuster. Another threat on the Trojans side, is running back Ronald Jones II. Jones is a threat on short runs, he is averaging 6.5 yards per carry. He is more of a goal line back, than an I-Form back. Despite quarterback Joel Stave and Wisconsin’s successful deep ball offense, their defense will have to challenge USC’s passing and running game. The Badgers will have to match the Trojans’ offensive performance if they are going to win.
- December 31: CFP Semifinal(Orange Bowl)-#4 Oklahoma vs. #1 Clemson The Orange Bowl features two great quarterbacks in Clemson’s Deshaun Watson and Oklahoma’s Baker Mayfield. Watson threw for 289 yards and 3 touchdowns in the ACC Championship win over UNC. The sophomore QB has lead the Tigers to a perfect season at 13-0. Oklahoma’s star cornerback Jordan Thomas looks to challenge Watson’s receivers. The Sooners’ sophomore cornerback ranks seventh in the nation with 5 interceptions for 153 yards. Oklahoma’s coach Bob Stoops likes for Thomas to play tight man coverage. On the other side of the ball, Baker Mayfield is going up against the 12th ranked passing defense in Clemson. The Tigers have sacked opposing quarterbacks 38 times. While Mayfield’s offensive line usually does a solid job of protecting him, the Tigers will look to put pressure on Oklahoma’s passing-oriented offense.
Oklahoma’s Baker Mayfield is taking the college football world by storm, a walk-on from Texas Tech. (USA Today Sports) - December 31: CFP Semifinal(Cotton Bowl)-#3 Michigan State vs. #2 Alabama Both Michigan State and Alabama are 12-1 teams vying for a spot in the College Football National Championship. The Crimson Tide’s Derrick Henry took home the Heisman trophy, the first time a running back took home the Heisman trophy, college football’s most prestigious award since Mark Ingram in 2009, another “Roll Tide” product. Michigan State’s rushing defense ranks 15th in the nation, allowing opposing running backs under 4 yards per carry. The only power running back the Spartans have faced this season is Ohio State’s Ezekiel Elliott. MSU held Elliott to 33 yards and a touchdown in a win over the Buckeyes. Shilique Calhoun anchors Michigan State’s defense. The Middletown, NJ native fights in the “trenches” and finds open gaps. On the other side of the ball, MSU’s Connor Cook is considered an NFL draft sleeper. He has only thrown 5 interceptions this season. However, Alabama’s defensive back, Eddie Jackson, ranks second nationwide with 230 yards off 5 picks. His assignment in the Cotton Bowl will be the Spartans’ star receiver, Aaron Burbridge, who averages 15 yards per reception, leading all receivers in the Big 10. I strongly advise you to ring in 2016 with this key matchup of high-powered offenses and strong defenses.
The 2015 Heisman winner, Derrick Henry, is an explosive running back who is facing a challenging Michigan State rushing defense in the Cotton Bowl. (Getty Images) - January 1: Fiesta Bowl-#8 Notre Dame vs. #7 Ohio State The reigning national champions did not book a plane ticket to the College Football Playoffs this season, but they face a contender-like team in no.8 Notre Dame. Quarterback DeShone Kizer has filled in nicely for Malik Zaire, who is out for the season. The sophomore play caller threw for 234 yards in ND’s loss to Stanford. Kizer has been sacked 19 times. Running back C.J. Prossie is a threat as an explosive back and is a target for the Irish’s passing game. Prossie lines up in the slot, when submitted in shotgun plays. Ohio State’s defense must react quickly to Kizer’s audibles, and star defensive end, Joey Bosa, must break through a strong Notre Dame offensive line. On the other side of the ball, OSU’s Ezekiel Elliott has had an other solid year. The junior running back is averaging almost a first down every carry, and has tallied 19 TDs. He presents a challenge to a decent Irish running defense. They will also have to cover dual-threat halfback, Braxton Miller. If the Irish can pressure the Buckeyes’ two quarterbacks, J.T. Barett and Cardale Jones, then Notre Dame will have a better chance of defeating Ohio State.
- January 1: Rose Bowl-#6 Stanford vs. #5 Iowa Stanford’s Christian McCaffrey was a Heisman finalist, and is an all-around star running back. The sophomore ranks second in the nation in rushing yards this season (1847) and averages 5.8 yards per carry. Stanford utilizes McCaffrey for short runs, usually on second down and goal line I-Formations. Iowa has a strong rushing defense, allowing opposing backs to 3.4 yards per carry. In the Big 20 Championship game against no. 5 Michigan State, the Hawkeyes gave up 73 rushing yards and a TD to the Spartans’ freshman running back, LJ Scott. The key for Iowa to win the Rose Bowl is do limit McCaffrey’s numbers by spreading out the secondary. This would allow for Kevin Hogan, Stanford’s senior quarterback to pass more. Hogan is one of the best passers in the PAC-12, with a 85.4 QBR, a career best. Either with McCaffrey or with their quarterback’s impressive mix of throwing for short and long gains, Stanford has valuable assets against a strong Iowa defense.
- January 1: Sugar Bowl-#16 Oklahoma State vs. #12 Ole Miss The nephew of Buffalo Bills great Jim Kelly, Chad Kelly faces a weak Oklahoma State secondary in the 2016 Sugar Bowl. The Cowboys’ defense gave up almost 200 passing yards and 2 TDs to Oklahoma’s Baker Mayfield in their last game. OSU’s defensive line is a rotation system, where each defender shifts positions after each down. This is supposed to confuse the offensive linemen, but has not been successful in their recent games. On the other side of the ball, Mason Rudolph leads an underrated passing offense in the Cowboys. Wideout James Washington has 10 TDs and is Rudolph’s favorite target. The Rebel’s secondary is worse than the Cowboys’. They have given opposing quarterbacks an average of 200 yards per game. Ole Miss could use a 4-3 defensive scheme when pressuring Rudolph. The secondary must limit Washington’s receptions, as well.
Oklahoma State’s James Washington is a top receiver in the Big 12; he is proving himself as a top receiver in Division 1-A. (USA Today Sports) - January 2: Taxslayer Bowl-Penn State vs. Georgia WIthout star running back Nick Chubb, Georgia (9-3) was dropped from the AP Top 25 rankings by the middle of October. Bulldogs quarterback, Greyson Lambert, has thrown 11 TDs and was picked off twice this season. Backup running back Sony Mitchel has run for 7 TDs, a career high for the sophomore. Defensive backs, however, have been successful in bringing him down. Opposing quarterbacks fear Penn State’s Carl Nassib. The 272 lbs senior leads the nation in sacks (16) and has picked off one pass this season. Georgia’s offensive line has their work cut out for them with the star defensive end. On the other side of the ball, the Nittany Lions’ Christian Hackenberg threw for 257 yards in PSU’s most recent loss to Michigan State, on November 28. The Bulldogs have the best passing defense in Division 1-A, allowing an average of about 6 yards per completion. Hackenberg averages about 5 yards per completion. Penn State will have to throw more shotgun plays against a great Bulldogs secondary if they are going to win.
Featured Game: Army-Navy
Philadelphia- I had the great chance of attending the 116th meeting of one of the oldest college football rivalries: Army and Navy. Army was projected as 22 point underdogs. The Black Knights shattered these expectations at halftime, when they lead 17-14, but Navy’s senior quarterback, Keenan Reynolds’ record setting day was too much for the Army defense. Navy (10-2,), with their 21-17 win, have now defeated the Black Knights (2-10) a series record 14 consecutive times.
Navy’s star senior quarterback, Keenan Reynolds, was snabbed in the Heisman candidacy voting, placing fifth on the ballot for the finalist position. Disappointment was not evident at Lincoln Financial Field, as Reynolds threw for over 100 yards and a TD to his number one target: Jamir Tillman. The senior quarterback also ran all over Army’s secondary, rushing for 136 yards and 2 touchdowns.
“My hat is off to [Keenan]” Navy’s coach Ken Niumatalolo said. “I thought he was going to be a good player, [his] freshman year, but I had no clue Keenan would be that good.”
Reynolds is now the record holder for most touchdowns in Division 1 football, 1-A and 1-AA. The senior also holds the record for most touchdowns in the history of the Naval Academy with 31. This 2015 season marked the Tennessee native’s second career 1,000 yard rushing and passing season.
Army’s top wideout, Edgar Poe lead West Point in receiving yards, a career high of 121 yards, and hauled in a 39 yard TD from freshman quarterback, Chris Carter. The Tuscon, AZ native also returned a punt for 50 yards, career high, which set up a Daniel Grochowski 32 yard field goal, on Army’s first possession of the game.
Grochowski would miss a 29 yard field goal early in the fourth quarter.
Army’s freshman quarterback Chris Carter started the game following an impressive outing in a loss to Rutgers on November 21. Carter had chances late in the fourth quarter to pull off the Black Knights’ upset. However, the California native did not live up to his expectations, throwing an interception and fumbled the ball two times in the second half.
“[Navy’s] defense brought some pressure that was too much for [Chris] to handle” Army coach Jeff Monken said. “Experience will teach him to throw the ball into the stands, but he did play decent in his first start [in the Army-Navy game.]”
Carter finished the day with 208 yards. Including the Rutgers game, his first start, the freshman quarterback threw for over 100 yards in his first two games, a Black Knights record.
Navy coach Ken Niumatalolo was in consideration for the BYU head coaching job. His future with Navy football is uncertain. “I’ve known other coaches who have taken another [coaching] job and never tell the other coaches [and players]. How do you do that?” The Hawaiian native coach choked back tears. “I just could not do it to these guys. We’re a family, and I love these guys so much.”
Up next for the Midshipmen is the Pittsburgh Panthers, at Annapolis, on December 28 for the Military Bowl.
Featured Game:Rutgers at Army
WEST POINT, NY-I had the opportunity to be in the Hoffman Press Box at Michie Stadium for the Rutgers-Army game Saturday afternoon. Kudos to Army Athletic Communications for allowing First and Ten to experience gameday at the US Military Academy. Army (2-9) had arguably their best performance of the year, but Rutgers (4-7) came out on top 31-21.
Freshman Chris Carter quarterbacked Army’s triple option, a big role to fill, as the Black Knights were without two key QB’s: senior A.J. Schurr(knee) and sophomore Ahmad Bradshaw wore a boot (leg) on his right foot. The freshman native of Imperial, California native made up for these loses by throwing for 140 yards and a TD, a season-high passing yards for the Black Knights. Carter also lead the team in rushing yards(111) and ran for a TD on fourth and goal.
“Like a lot of guys who play for the first time, [Carter’s] probably a nervous wreck in his own heart‐of‐hearts in the first series.” Army coach Jeff Monken said. “But once the game gets going and he gets settled down, you realize that it’s just like any other football game. He did a good job.”
The Rutgers secondary lost starting safety, Antony Cioffi, who lead the team with 4 interceptions this year. Josh Hicks, the Scarlet Knights’ sophomore running back started, and he certainly looked like he had more experience at safety. Hicks had a team high 6 solo tackles and picked off Carter’s pass in the end zone, erasing an hopes of an Army comeback. That was the Black Knights’ last offensive possession of the game.
Paul James rushed for his first 100-yard game of the season, and 3 touchdowns. James extended the Scarlet Knights’ 10-point lead in the beginning of the third quarter, by waltzing into Army’s end zone, untouched, on fourth down.
“I thought [James] was back to 100 percent, and he looked that way.” Rutgers coach Kyle Flood said. “When he’s 100 percent, he’s a threat.”
Besides giving up big yardage to James, the Black Knights’ defense could not keep up with the high powered Rutgers running game. Army gave emerging no. 2 running back, Robert Martin, 50 rushing yards in the fourth quarter alone.
Coach Monken acknowledged the defensive lapses throughout the whole game. “It is natural for secondaries to want to play on top of the ball and make the play, and anticipate the ball’s direction. We were overly aggressive on defense.”
The most targeted Rutgers’ wideout was Janarion Grant, who leads the nation in kickoff return touchdowns. Grant stepped up for star reciever, Leonte Carroo, who left the second quarter with a hip injury and did not return. The senior receiver from Edison, NJ before exiting the game was targeted 4 times for 37 yards.
Army receiver Edgar Poe had a brilliant catch over Rutgers’ Blessuan Austin, and ran 65 yards into the end zone, with under a minute left in the third quarter. Poe finished the day with 95 yards. The score marked the junior wideout’s seventeenth touchdown of his career.
Rutgers’ standout defensive linemen, Kevin Wilkins, left the game with an apparent knee injury, and did return late in the fourth quarter. The freshman from Mahwah, NJ, blocked Army’s first field goal attempt of the game.
Mid way through the fourth quarter, Carter was taken off the field, following a hard hit by the Scarlet Knights’ Isaiah Wharton. The Black Knights were forced to dig deep into their bench by inserting true freshman, Luke Langdon. The quarterback’s first Army pass was incomplete, intended for Poe. After a few more plays Carter returned, and on his first play back was picked off by Hicks in the end zone.
Next up…
Rutgers(4-7)-The Scarlet Knights return On the Banks for their final key home matchup against the Maryland Terrapins next Saturday. This is a must needed victory for Rutgers if they want any shot at a bowl game. If they do not secure a bowl invite, it would be the first time since 2010 without a bowl appearance for the Scarlet Knights.
Army(2-9)-The next Black Knights game is the annual Army-Navy game on December 12, in Philadelphia, PA. The Army defense will have a tough time defending the Midshipmen’s rushing leader, Keenan Reynolds, who last week against SMU, broke Montee Ball’s record for most all-time rushing touchdowns .
Week 10-Preview
Now this is an interesting week! The 10th installment of the 2015 college football season involves some rivalry games and teams with winning records going at it. First, I will break down 6 important games and 2 favorable and 2 unfavorable matchups. By the way, the rankings are now based on the College Football Playoff committee.
- #2 LSU at #4 Alabama(8:00)- Classic is the best word to describe this SEC West matchup. All college football fans have heard about Leonard Fournette solidifying his Heisman candidacy with 100+ yards every game, and scoring multiple touchdowns on top of that. Alabama’s defense looks to change this. The Crimson Tide rank 3rd in the nation allowing opposing backs 2.6 yards per carry and only 4 total TDs. The only running back to average over 100 yards, was Georgia’s Nick Chubb, before his season ending surgery. ‘Bama will have to limit Fournette’s long carries if they want to win this crucial SEC matchup. LSU’s defense is a notch below Alabama’s at number 4 in stopping the run. The Tigers’ experienced defensive linemen will look to put pressure on the Crimson Tide’s stud running back, Derrick Henry, who is proving himself a legitimate Heisman candidate. Henry averages around 5 yards per carry, and unlike Fournette, thrives on short runs up the middle. Keep an eye on Alabama’s QB, Jake Coker. His receivers are facing a weak Tigers’ secondary. Expect Henry to be used as dual threat in the run and a passing option for Coker.
Both Alabama and LSU have explosive running backs in Derrick Henry(left) and Leonard Fournette(right), that lead firepower offenses.(Ronald Martinez/Getty Images) - Navy at # 13 Memphis(7:00)- The Memphis Tigers are not your average American Athletic Conference team. The Tigers come back from double digit scores almost every game. They trailed Tulane, a mediocre American team, by 13 points at the half. The go-to guy in every situation that Navy will have to put pressure on, is QB Paxton Lynch. The junior former 4 star recruit from San Antonio has a legitimate shot as a Heisman finalist this year. Lynch has only thrown one interception this year, and it was the offensive line’s fault for giving him too much time in the pocket. He has had only one game where the Tigers’ star quarterback did not throw for over 300 yards(week 1 against Missouri State). No QB is that consistent in the pocket, besides TCU’s Trevone Boykin. Keenan Reynolds has maintained extreme consistency when rushing out of the pocket. The senior from Tennessee is having a record breaking year. He is 5 TDs from matching former Wisconsin standout, Montee Ball’s, single-season rushing TD record(82), and is 6 short of tying former Florida Heisman winner of 2007, Tim Tebow. Reynolds already has the most TDs in the Midshipmen’s record books. I am confused, though, on why Reynolds is not considered a Heisman candidate. If Memphis looses this game, expect Navy to swoop in and take a top 20 ranking.
This is a rare shot of Navy’s QB, Keenan Reynolds, actually throwing, who is closing in on Montee Ball’s single-season TD record. (AP Photo File) - Duke at UNC(12:00)- Basketball rivalries are also football rivalries. We all know this is college basketball’s primary rivalry that draws millions to ESPN. Except this time, the football teams are actually good. The Tar Heels’ only loss came to South Carolina in week 1 action. Last week, UNC upset Pitt 26-19, earning them an AP Top 25 ranking. Marquise Williams, the senior QB from Charlotte, is taking control of a decent passing offense of Chapel Hill. Last year in Durham, NC, Williams threw for almost 280 yards and a pair of touchdowns in a blowout win against the Blue Devils. Duke, meanwhile, was winning against Miami, but a 7-lateral kickoff return, one of the craziest plays in college football history, squashed the Blue Devils’ hopes of pulling away. However, Duke’s passing defense ranks 6th in the nation, giving up about 166 yards per game to opposing quarterbacks. UNC’s Williams will have to integrate more screen plays, against an okay Duke defensive line. The problem for the Tar Heels will be contending with Duke’s aggressive cornerbacks. This will prove to be the key for UNC to win.
- Penn State at # 21 Northwestern(12:00)- This Big 10 matchup is a great offense versus an outstanding defense. Penn State’s senior defensive end, Carl Nassib, leads the nation in sacks(14.5). Nassib will be tough for Northwestern’s offensive linemen to block against, especially the right tackle, Eric Olson. He will have to put more muscle and get up into Nassib’s jersey, to protect his QB, Clayton Thorson. On the flip side, the Nittany Lions’ QB, Christian Hackenberg, has only thrown 2 interceptions, with the excellent protection of Penn State’s offensive line. Northwestern’s defensive line will have to pressure Hackenberg quickly. The junior play caller from Virginia likes to air it out against bad defenses. Expect Thorson to rely on his running backs more. This could knock Northwestern out of the playoff picture if the Wildcats lose in Evanston, IL.
Carl Nassib(95) leads the nation in sacks this season with 14.5 sacks. (AP Photo) - Army at Air Force(3:30)- It is always a fun game when the military schools play each other. Air Force is undefeated at home, and is tied for first with Boise State and Utah State, in the Mountain division of the Mountain West Conference. Jacobi Owens, the Falcons’ junior running back, is having a decent season. Owens has rushed for 137 yards and 2 TDs in a victory over Hawaii last week. Owens is facing a good Army secondary and will have to resort to short runs. On the other side of the ball, Air Force’s defensive line will have to put pressure on the Black Knights’ QB, A.J. Schurr. The senior Army QB had a passing and rushing TD last week in a loss against Rice. Expect Air Force’s defense to put pressure on the Black Knights solid passing offense.
- #16 Florida State at # 1 Clemson(3:30)- This ACC Atlantic divisional matchup proves crucial to Florida State. The Seminoles will need to defeat the unbeaten Tigers, and tame their all-star QB, Deshaun Watson, in order to move up the College Football Playoff committee’s rankings. Florida State’s defense has a handful with the unpredictable Watson as the play caller for the Tigers. The sophomore Heisman candidate has averaged about 9 yards per completion. He is facing a weak Seminoles’ defensive line. Expect Watson to throw more long passes than usual, facing a banged up Florida State secondary. On the flip side, Everett Golson, the successor to Jameis Winston, has had an outstanding year as quarterback for the ‘Noles. However, Clemson’s passing defense ranks in the top 10, averaging 169 yards per game to opposing quarterbacks. This game is going to be tough for Golson, who has thrown for under 200 yards in only 2 games this season. The Florida State offensive line will have to block for Golson, as the experienced Clemson defensive line will look to put pressure and sack him. Expect Clemson’s defense to limit Golson.
Favorable Matchups:
7. Josh Doctson(#8 TCU) vs. # 14 Oklahoma State secondary- Yes, both TCU and OK State are undefeated. However, the Cowboys are only undefeated because of QB Kyle Rudolph, and the high scoring offense. Josh Doctson will have a favorable matchup against OK State’s cornerbacks. The TCU senior averages 17.6 yards per completion, and has broken various TD records. It is not surprising that Honred Frogs’ QB,Trevone Boykin’s number one target has multi-touchdown games. Doctson had a pair of TDs against West Virginia last week. The key for the Cowboys will be to defend the TCU receiver tough. Watch Boykin’s chemistry with Doctson. When they link eyes, you know that there is going to be a big play.
8. Cody Kessler(USC) vs. Arizona defensive line- Expect USC’s QB, Cody Kessler, to have a field day against an atrocious Arizona passing defense. The Wildcats have given about 280 yards per game to opposing quarterbacks, and 21 TDs. Arizona is without star defensive end, Scooby Wright, who would have put continued pressure on Kessler. This season, the Trojans’ QB is averaging almost a first down every completion. Kessler already has 18 touchdowns. Expect Kessler to integrate more short passes than long passes,which will put Arizona’s defense on its heels. The Wildcats defense will have to put pressure on Kessler, if they want any chance of victory.
Unfavorable Matchups:
9. Rutgers running backs vs. # 17 Michigan secondary- Michigan’s run defense ranks second in the nation, giving opposing rushers 74.6 yards per game. Who is leading this elite secondary? Jabrill Peppers, the Big 10’s best safety, is known for patrolling the backfield, like a cop working the night shift. The sophomore from East Orange, NJ, will face Paul James, Josh Hicks, and Robert Martin. Hicks had the majority of the carries in a loss at Wisconsin last week, rushing for 72 yards. James had not been used that much, coming off knee surgery this past summer. However, Martin has been given more carries than usual. The Wolverines will have to pressure Martin when he is in the backfield. His preference is running up the middle.
10. Mitch Leidner(Minnesota) vs. # 3 Ohio State defensive line- Ohio State has the number 1 passing defense in the nation, limiting opposing QBs to around 149 yards per game. This is largely due in part to Joey Bosa, the sack machine for the Buckeyes. Minnesota’s offensive line will have their hands full with Bosa and company. Mitch Leidner, the Golden Gophers’ junior QB, is having a decent season. He threw for over 300 yards in last week’s loss to Michigan. Expect Bosa and the Ohio State defensive line to put pressure on Leidner, resulting in more sacks against Minnesota.
10 Storylines-Week 7
It is hard to comprehend that the 2015 college football season is a little more than half way done. Week 7 saw teams desperate for the win, and they got it! Not many upsets and some all around good games occurred at the halfway point in the season.
- No. 7 Michigan State Pulls Off Remarkable Ending to Defeat No. 12 Michigan- Unpredictable. That’s the best word I see fit to describe the epic battle at the Big House. Spartans’ defensive back and Michigan native, Jalen Watts-Jackson, had not recorded a sack in 7 weeks of action. His first major play came at the right time, as the sophomore lineman scooped up the missed snap intended for Wolverines’ punter, Blake O’Neil. Michigan State’s QB, Connor Cook, had his second game where he passed for over 300 yards, in the Spartans’ 27-23 stunning win. LJ Scott rushed for a pair of short touchdown runs. He was utilized in his usual formation: on goal line downs. Spartans’ senior receiver, Macgarrett Kings Jr, caught his and Connor Cook’s only touchdown of the game, a 30-yarder straight to the house. Michigan’s number one back, De’Veon Smith, was not the rushing producer on Saturday. You can give senior fullback, Sione Houma, credit for 2 TDs on 30 yards. The Wolverines travel to Minneapolis to take on the Golden Gophers. Expect De’Veon Smith to receive more carries this game. Michigan State will face an Indiana team that dropped a 25 point lead in a Rutgers comeback win.
Jalen Watts-Jackson spoiled Michigan’s potential upset, by recovering fumble from a muffed snap. (Melanie Maxwell/Ann Arbor News) - Rutgers Comes Back From 25 Point Deficit, Defeats Indiana on Field Goal: Rutgers allowed 4 TDs in the third quarter alone. Nothing was going their way all game. Then Scarlet Knights’ defensive end, Kemoko Turay, scooped up a missed snap similar to the Michigan outcome, and started a 3 touchdown rally in the first quarter. Kyle Federico’s 26 yard field goal, as time expired, would break Indiana’s victory hopes, in a 55-52 close win for the Scarlet Knights. Rutgers’ QB, Chris Laviano, threw for 386 yards, his first 300-plus yardage game of his career. Star wideout, Leonte Carroo, caught all 3 of his quarterback’s end zone passes, while catching 7 receptions for 157 yards. However, sophomore running back, Robert Martin, proved to be the difference maker. The Scarlet Knights’ explosive back rushed for TDs as well, his third started the rally in the fourth quarter. Hoosiers’ QB, Nate Sudfield, threw 2 picks, both in the big last quarter for Rutgers. The Scarlet Knights return to Piscataway, this time in a crucial matchup against #1 Ohio State, on national TV. It will be hard for the Rutgers defense to contain power back, Ezekiel Elliot, and Braxton Miller.
- Memphis Upsets No. 13 Ole Miss to Stay Undefeated-Memphis’ new high scoring offense was too much for Ole Miss to handle. Tigers’ quarterback, Paxton Lynch’s 384 passing yards and 3 TDs, led his team to a 37-24 victory over the Rebels. The Tigers were the opposite of the hunted, they were the hunters. Defensive Backs, Dion Witty and Arthur Maulet, picked off Ole Miss’ Chad Kelly twice in the game. Defensive ends,DeMarco Montgomery and Christian Johnson, sacked Kelly once respectively. Back to the Memphis offense. Lynch threw his 3 touchdowns to 3 different receivers. Like so many quarterbacks I have discussed in First and Ten, Lynch is a team player. He distributes the wealth. The first TD of the game for Ole Miss ran a trick play where Kelly threw a screen pass to junior wideout, Laquon Treadwell, who threw a pass to wideout, Quincy Adeboyejo, a 68 yarder to the end zone. This was true play calling at its finest. Ole Miss, now # 24 hosts # 15 Texas A & M, an ESPN televised game on Saturday, at Vaught-Hemingway Stadium in Mississippi. Expect Ole Miss’ defense to tighten their defensive backs on the Aggies’ receivers. Memphis, now
QB Paxton Lynch is the reason why #18 Memphis is undefeated, and ranked in the AP Top 25 Rankings. (Daily News File/Andrew J. Breig) # 18, hosts Tulsa on Friday Night Showcase, on ESPN. Expect Lynch to continue to rack up big passing numbers.
- No. 11 Florida State Thumps Louisville, Powered by Cook’s 3 TDs- Everett Golson keeps showing up each week as a contender. The Florida State senior is resembling former Nole, Jameis Winston. Golson threw for 372 yards and 3 touchdowns in a 41-21 victory over Louisville. Florida State’s standout running back, Dalvin Cook, also made his presence known to the Cardinals’ defense. The sophomore power back rushed for almost 170 yards and a pair of touchdowns. Louisville’s QB, Lamar Jackson, threw for 307 yards and 3 TDs, like Golson. However, his receivers were covered fairly tight by Florida State’s defensive backs. Louisville travels to Boston to take on Boston College. BC’s defense ranks ninth in passing yards per game (144.6). Florida State is away at Georgia Tech Saturday night. The Yellow Jackets are yet to defeat an ACC opponent. Expect Golson and Cook to continue their domination of man to man defenses.
- Schurr’s 3 TDs Give Army First Home Win- A.J. Schurr, Army’s quarterback, came off the bench as a valuable role player, after repeatedly missing practice time last week due to injuries. Schurr connected with Edgar Poe on a 68 yard score, for the game winning touchdown, in a close 21-14 victory over Division 1-AA Patriot League, Bucknell, in West Point, NY. The Black Knights’ senior QB took the ball himself, rushing for almost 100 yards and 2 TDs. Schurr averaged almost 3 yards per carry, utilizing short runs to set up the tempo of Army’s offense. Bisons’ QB, R. J. Nitti, looked better on paper, throwing for 186 yards and a pair of touchdowns. However, with under 5 minutes remaining in the fourth quarter, Nitti threw an interception on the first play of the Bucknell drive, erasing any hopes of a Bisons’ comeback. Army travels to Dallas, TX, to take on the Rice Owls. Expect Schurr to be integrated in more passing plays, as well as rushing plays.
Army QB, A.J. Schurr keeps the TDs rolling, coming off the bench to rush for 2 and throw for the winning score against Bucknell. (Hans Pennink/AP)
Big Games to Watch For:
6. # 20 California at UCLA Thursday (9:00)- California is fresh off a needed bye week, following a week 6 loss to no. 4 Utah at home. QB Jared Goff will try to get the no. 20 Cal Bears back on track against a decent Bruins passing defense. Goff is considered an underrated Heisman candidate, completing 70.2% of his passes, and throwing only 4 interceptions through 7 weeks. UCLA gave up 3 TDs to Stanford QB, Kevin Hoagen, last week. On the flip side, Bruins’ QB, Josh Rosen, will be happy with the Cal defense he is facing. The Bears give up an average of 236.3 yards per game on defending the passing. Their secondary, however is fire! They’ve picked off 12 interceptions and recorded 19 sacks. Plus, they have run the opposite side of the field, straight to the end zone, 5 times! This is a stat UCLA should be worried about. Their offensive line must do a great job to protect Rosen. Expect a grind it out Pac-12 matchup.
7. Princeton at # 15 Harvard(12:00)- Even though this is a Division 1-AA matchup, this game will definitely prove to be an entertaining one. Harvard is ranked no. 15 on the FCS Coaches Poll. At 5-0, the Crimson are at the top of the Ivy League standings, tied with Dartmouth for 2-0. Princeton is a game behind the two schools, sitting at 4-1, 1-1 in the Ivy League. The Tigers lost to Brown last week, 38-31, in a game that the New Jersey school should have won. Princeton’s junior QB, Chad Kanoff, threw for 321 yards, all deep balls, against Brown. However, he also threw 2 interceptions. This was a result of bad blocking by the Tigers’ offensive line, that caused the play. Kanoff is still a great quarterback in the Ivy League, dominated by rushing yards and touchdowns. For Harvard, Paul Stanton Jr., the senior running back, ranks in the top 40 in the FCS, in rushing yards (498). The Crimson senior has scored 7 TDs in only 5 games started! Princeton’s defense will have to contain Stanton if they want to give Harvard their first loss. If you want to check out this Ivy League matchup( and I strongly advise you do), it would be on SNY, though the covering station is American Sports Network.
8. Western Kentucky at #5 LSU (7:00)- Western Kentucky’s QB, Brandon Doughty, ranks second in the nation averaging 387 passing yards per game, midway through the 2015 NCAA season. Doughty has also thrown for 24 TDs and averages a first down every play. However, Western Kentucky is going up against a top defense in LSU. Their defensive line is anchored by junior defensive end and captain, Lewis Neal. Neal had 3 sacks in the Tigers’ win against Florida. Doughty’s offensive line will have to do some major blocking and they have not felt this caliber of defense before. On the flip side, the Hilltoppers will attempt to defend LSU’s power running back and obvious Heisman candidate, Leonard Fournette. Fournette leads the nation in total rushing yards(1202) and touchdowns(14). The explosive Tigers back averages almost a first down every play. Expect a highly offensive game for LSU. Western Kentucky will have to contain Fournette and the rest of the Tigers’ offense, if they want to win this game.
Favorable Matchup:
9. Jeremy McNichols(Boise State) vs. Wyoming defensive backs- I understand that Wyoming’s running back, Brian Hill, ranks third in the nation with total rushing yards(985) this season. However, the Cowboys’ rushing defense is atrocious. They have given up an average of 213.6 rushing yard per game, not to mention 18 TDs. Boise State’s primary running back, Jeremy McNichols, is used in goal line situations. Wyoming cannot defend short rushes. This is great for the Broncos’ sophomore number 1 and goal line back, McNichols. He has 12 touchdowns half way through the season, 2 less than LSU’s explosive back, Leonard Fournette. That’s great company to be with! Wyoming’s toughest task will be containing Boise State’s goal line and short yardage runs. The game plan should call for Broncos’ freshman quarterback, Brett Rypien, to throw the ball more. Expect a big game from McNichols.
Unfavorable Matchup:
10. No. 23 Duke offensive line vs. Virginia Tech defensive line- The war in the trenches is very undervalued in college football. Defensive linemen are looking to break up the offensive team’s play, whether it be an incomplete pass, interception, or sack on the quarterback. The offensive linemen must block for their quarterback, so he has enough time in the pocket, and create holes for their running backs. Duke’s offensive line will definitely have trouble blocking for QB, Thomas Sirk. Virginia Tech’s defensive line is one of the best in Division 1-A football. They are known for producing impacting performers on the defensive side of the ball, most notably, cornerback DeAngelo Hall of the Washington Redskins, who played from 2002-2004, with the Hokies. Ken Ekanem, a junior defensive end, captains this core VT line. He has assisted on 12 tackles and 1.5 sacks. Duke will have its hands full with Virginia Tech’s defensive line. The Blue Devils’ offensive line must step up, and make sure that the various gaps are covered.
Week 7-Breakouts
- Christian McCaffrey Stanford RB- It is hard to believe that Stanford running back, Christian McCaffrey, scored only one touchdown against a mediocre Arizona defense last week. The sophomore back ran all over the Bruins’ defense, scoring 4 TDs in a critical 56-35 victory against #18 UCLA, last Thursday night. McCaffrey also ran for 243 yards and averaged almost a first down every carry. Stanford’s offensive line should be given the majority of the credit, as the running back ran mostly up the middle. The linemen provided crucial blocking, filling in the “A” and “B” gaps. The Cardinals are now undefeated at home and against Pac-12 rivals. Stanford takes on the Washington Huskies next Saturday. Bad news for McCaffrey, the Huskies’ defense ranks #22 in rushing defense. They have allowed for only 5 TDs all season. Expect Stanford to switch to utilizing their speedy running back as a passing threat.
Stanford running back, Christian McCaffrey (5) always finds room to run against defenses, with the help of the Cardinals’ offensive line.(AP Photo/Tony Avelar) - Baker Mayfield Oklahoma QB- The leading quarterback in the early Heisman polls was TCU’s Trevone Boykin. Undervalued, but not anymore, is Oklahoma’s star quarterback, Baker Mayfield. Mayfield threw for 282 yards and 5 TDs in the #19 Sooners’ 55-0 rout over Kansas State. All of the junior play caller’s end zone trips came within the first half only! None of the Wildcats’ defenders came even close to hitting Mayfield, much less forcing turnovers. Give credit to the Sooners’ offensive line. Oklahoma faces a terrible Texas Tech defense next week. Expect Mayfield to continue to increase his passing yard numbers, and spread the wealth among his receivers.
- Corey Coleman Baylor WR- Baylor QB, Seth Russell, threw 5 TDs. Three end zone passes were thrown to Corey Coleman in the Bears’ 62-28 blowout win over West Virginia. The junior wideout broke Baylor’s touchdown record of 16, formerly held by the Tennessee Titans’ Kendall Wright. Colemen caught 10 passes for almost 200 receiving yards, his record for yards per reception this season. No West Virginia cornerback could cover the receiver, as the junior Bear faked left and right to throw off the Mountaineers’ defensive backs. Baylor hosts Big 12 rival, Iowa State, on Saturday. I-State has a mediocre defense. Expect Coleman to continue to impress.
Baylor has an explosive offense with junior receiver, Corey Coleman, who surpassed the Titans’ Kendall Wright for most all time touchdowns (16) for the Bears. (AP) - DeShaun Watson Clemson QB- There are a lot of great quarterbacks in the SEC. DeShaun Watson may just be the best out of all of them. The sophomore quarterback grew up in Gainesville,Fl, the primary location for the Florida Gators’ football team. Clemson is really lucky that Watson had no intentions of staying home. The Tigers’ Qb threw for a season high 420 yards and 3 TDs, in a 34-17 victory over Boston College. BC is still without a win through 7 weeks of ACC action. Watson is the reason why Clemson is still undefeated, and a solid contender for the College Football Playoffs. He can throw and run, the ultimate threat to a defense. Watson ran the ball right to the house, untouched of course. His stellar offensive line gives him enough time in the pocket to complete a solid throw to his targeted receiver. That X factor for Watson was Artavis Scott, also a sophomore Florida native, who caught one of this QB’s throws, and was thrown to the most. The no. 6 Tigers travel to Miami on Saturday afternoon. The ‘Canes rank in the top 40 (38), on total passing yards allowed this season. Artie Burns, a junior defensive back for Miami, is tied for third for passes intercepted (5). He is a threat to DeShaun Watson. Expect Clemson’s QB to still maintain his composure, going up against The U.
Undefeated Clemson is making a strong case for a potential College Football Playoff appearance, lead by sophomore QB, DeShaun Watson, who has been putting up eye popping numbers each week. (AP Photo) - Akrum Wadley Iowa RB- No. 17 Iowa is an undervalued team on the AP Top 25 Rankings. Not only that, but Akrum Wadley, the Hawkeye’s sophomore running back, is truly a beast! Wadley rushed for over 200 yards and 4 TDs in a 40-10 dominant win over number 20 Northwestern. The loss kicked the Wildcats off the exclusive rankings. The game was Wadley’s first multi-touchdown game of his career. He also tied the Iowa record for most touchdowns in a game. The Newark, NJ native had rushed for a season high of 18 yards prior to visiting Northwestern. He averaged almost 8 yards per carry, a great number for only a sophomore back. Wadley came in for the injured senior running back, Jordan Canzeri, and got hot quick! The offensive line adjusted to Wadley’s faster approach to faking defenders. Now number 12 Iowa travels back to Iowa City to take on Maryland Saturday afternoon. The Terps’ defense against the run is not good at all. They are giving up an average of almost 200 yards per game, ranking 83 out of 128 college teams in Division 1-A. Expect Wadley to continue to hone his skills, and fit into a fast paced Iowa offense.
10 Storylines-Week 4
I know it has been more than a week since I last blogged, but school work comes first! I am your typical high school student, not to mention a college football blogger on the side. After an upset filled Saturday across the nation, I will break down all of the five upsets and a preview of week 6 action.
- Arizona State Upsets No. 7 UCLA In First PAC 12 South Win- UCLA’s freshman, Josh Rosen, almost mirrored Sun Devils’ senior, Mike Bercovici. Rosen threw for 280 yards, 7 yards more than Bercovici. Both playcallers threw for a pair of touchdowns and an interception. But the real hero for Arizona State was sophomore running back, Kalen Ballage, who dived into the end zone for the game’s winning touchdown in Arizona State’s 38-23 conference win over UCLA. The Sun Devils’ offense relied on both their running backs and their receivers. Arizona State can now contend in the PAC 12 South with the underrated Bercovici leading the way. The Sun Devils’ QB does not need to rely on eye popping numbers each week, but can come up on huge plays when called upon. This is a trait that has helped another behind the curtain player from the past, Jake Plummer. Plummer threw for less than 2,600 yards each of his 3 seasons at Arizona State. He focused more on helping his teammates find good looks, as is the same with Bercovici. The Sun Devils take on a weak Colorado secondary next Saturday. UCLA has a bye week, than an anticipated week 7 matchup at #18 Stanford on Thursday night.
Arizona State’s Kalen Ballage (9), swarmed by Bruins’ defenders, falls into the end zone to secure the upset. (Aubrey Yeo/Daily Bruin) - No. 6 Notre Dame Misses Tying Two Point Conversion As No. 12 Clemson Hangs On: Do not count out Coach Dabo Swinney’s Tigers out of the playoff race just yet. QB DeShaun Watson threw for 2 touchdowns and ran for another in Clemson’s 24-22 upset win over Notre Dame. The win was the Tigers’ 12th straight victory at Memorial Stadium, the third longest streak in the school’s history, and fourth longest in the FBS. Watson looked composed, facing a blitz of 5 or more defenders on both passing touchdowns. The Tigers’ offensive line deserves the most credit for keeping their QB protected. Clemson hosts Georgia Tech on Saturday. Notre Dame has to deal with another great quarterback, in Navy’s Keenan Reynolds next Saturday. Expect Notre Dame’s defense to bounce back and stop Reynolds when he rushes.
- Florida Stays Undefeated, Upsets No. 3 Ole Miss: Ole Miss QB, Chad Kelly, could not follow up last week’s great performance against Alabama this week against Florida. Will Grier proved to be the “it” factor for Florida, throwing for more than 270 yards and 4 touchdowns in a 38-10 victory over Ole Miss. Grier focused more on finding open teammates in the endzone. This is evident as the Gators’ passing game saw 4 different receivers catch touchdown passes. This performance will definitely move Florida up the AP Top 25 Rankings. On the flip side, the Gator’s defense flooded the Rebels’ pocket, by sacking Kelly 4 times. Ole Miss faces a must win next week when New Mexico State comes to Oxford, MS. Florida faces a tough Missouri secondary next week, captained by power linebacker, Kentrell Brothers. Expect Grier to throw for shorter gains against a good MIZZOU defense.
Ole Miss’ defense was no match for Florida QB, Will Grier (7), who threw 4 TDs and spread the wealth(Kim Klement/USA Today) - #13 Alabama Defense Key In Rout of No. 8 Georgia: It is hard to imagine Alabama as a 2 point underdog against SEC rival Georgia. The Crimson Tide’s defense proved to be key in a 38-10 rout over the Bulldogs. Alabama’s defense “Roll Tided” all over Georgia quarterbacks, holding them to a combined passing yards of 106. The Crimson Tide’s junior defensive back, Eddie Jackson, picked off Georgia backup quarterback, Brice Ramsey, less than 2 minutes into the second half, and ran 50 yards untouched into the end zone. Not many defensive linemen could run half the football field for a touchdown. Also, Crimson Tide running back, Derrick Henry, rushed for almost 150 yards and a TD in the victory. Up next for now #8 Alabama is a favorable SEC West matchup against Arkansas. Georgia travels to Neyland Stadium to take on Tennessee.
- No. 19 Wisconsin Turns the Ball Over 4 Times, Upset By Iowa: Desmond King and the Iowa defense showed Wisconsin what playing with guts felt like. The junior defensive back picked off Badgers’ Joel Stave twice in the Hawkeye’s 10-6 win in Madison, WC. Iowa power back,Jordan Canzeri, rushed for 125 yards. Stave lost two fumbles in the loss. This was the first time Iowa did not score in the second half, since defeating Minnesota 21-16, in 2007. The win earned the Hawkeye’s the Heartland Trophy, presented to the winner of the annual Wisconsin-Iowa game. The victory could shift the balance of power in the Big 10 West standings. Next up for the now no. 22 Iowa Hawkeyes is Illinois. Both teams have conference wins. Wisconsin travels to Lincoln to take on Nebraska.
Iowa’s Desmond King (14) recorded two picks to lead the Hawkeyes to their first Heartland Trophy since 2009. (Byron Houlgrave/The Register)
Big Games to Watch For:
6. #13 Northwestern at #18 Michigan Saturday (3:30): This Big 10 matchup is quite an interesting one on both sides of the ball. The Wildcats rank tenth in the nation passing defense, allowing an average of 130 yards per game. However, Northwestern will be without standout safety Kyle Queiro, as he is deemed out for the season with a broken arm. Michigan will have to rely on their power back, De’Veon Smith to carry the load. Expect a grind-it-out kind of game involving two good passing offenses and solid defenses.
7. #23 California at #5 Utah Saturday (10:00): Who would have thought that the Utes would have claimed Oregon’s spot in the AP Top 25 Rankings! By the way, Oregon is not ranked because of a 62-20 loss to Utah back in week 4. Utah’s power running back, Devontae Booker is carrying his team by rushing for over 100 yards every home game. California ranks below the top 20 in total rushing yards allowed this season. This is good news for Booker and his offensive linemen, who are the reason their star running back finds holes in defenses. The Utes’ defense faces a tough task in forcing Cal’s QB, Jared Goff, out of the pocket. Goff threw for over 320 yards against a mediocre Washington State defense last week. Both teams are undefeated, adding more emphasis to obtaining the win. Expect Cal’s defense to step up against Booker and the Utes’ awesome running game.
8. #21 Oklahoma State at West Virginia Saturday (7:00): This is a must win game for both teams. OSU barely defeated Kansas State last week, 36-34, dropping them from no. 20 to no.21. This seems like nothing, but if the Cowboys loose to the Mountaineers, they could drop their AP Top 25 Ranking to their opponent, West Virginia. It helps that Oklahoma State has 2 Big 12 wins under their belt. The stakes are high for Cowboys’ quarterback, Mason Rudolph, who is going up against a top 30 passing defense in the Mountaineers. OSU’s defense is facing Skyler Howard, the Mountaineers QB, who averages above 230 yards per game. The bad news for him is that Cowboys’ star defensive end, Emmanuel Ogbah ranks 6th in the nation in sacks(6.0 per game). Expect Ogbah and the Oklahoma State defense to put pressure on Howard.
9. Favorable Matchup:
Ezekiel Elliot(#1 Ohio State) vs. Maryland Defensive Line: Ohio State’s power back,Ezekiel Elliot, ranks in the top 10 in the nation in average rushing yard per play(7.3 yds.) and has rushed for over 100 yards each week. The Terrapins’ rushing defense will have try to limit the Buckeyes’ running back to less than 100. Maryland’s rushing defense ranks 110th out of 128 FBS teams, allowing opposing backs almost 200 yards per game. This is music to Ohio State coach, Urban Meyer’s, ears. He likes to integrate Braxton Miller in as a halfback, too. Double trouble for the Terps!
10. Unfavorable Matchup:
Matt Johns(Virginia) vs. Pittsburgh Defense: Notice how I said Pitt defense as a whole, not an individual position. Pittsburgh brings in a top notch defense in this ACC Coastal matchup. The Panthers rank 12th in the nation allowing 690 passing yards through 4 games and average 172.5 yards per game. The Steel City averages 4.25 sacks per game, ranking 2nd in the nation. Virginia’s quarterback, Matt Johns, will have to handoff the rock to Taquan Mizzell, the junior halfback, who is yet to score a touchdown. But the Panthers are not all about defense. Redshirt freshman running back, Qadree Ollison, ran for 122 yards and a TD against Virginia Tech, after last year’s ACC Player of the Year, James Conner, tore his MCL in week 1 action. Expect Pitt’s defense to force turnovers on a below average Virginia team.
First and Ten 