The straight scoop from Colonel Mustard
Oct. 18, 2005
That
was a solid workman-like win over a fair opponent. Baylor is a team that
we should beat but any win this year is a good one. The offense was OK
but not anything special. I have seen progress from the offense on a game
by game basis, but this week we leveled off. Zac did fine but he missed
a couple of reads that resulted in FG's and not TD's. The defense played
a good game, holding Baylor to 253 yards. This was the worst officiated
game that I can remember.
The offensive line did a good job pass blocking and really struggled in
the running game. Additionally the backs picked improper running lanes
on plays that could have resulted in bigger gains. Zac took care of the
ball but as I said missed some reads. Nunn is turning into a star and
Hardy made a tough catch which was good to see. A great many points were
left on the field between fumbles, and our overall lack of red zone efficiency
hurt against Texas Tech and will bite us again. We averaged only 3.6 yards
per carry in the ground game and that won't get it done. The passing game
was just over 5 per attempt which isn't all that hot. I thought that the
offense played a sluggish game and failed to progress. They were good
enough to win and that was about it.
The defensive front 7 took over the game in the second half. They were
as dominant as the secondary was shaky. Baylor wouldn't have scored if
we hadn't had every penalty known to man called on us in the first drive
and a lousy play by Bullocks. The safeties had a rough game and our corners
reverted to Darlington-style of not looking for the ball. Our secondary
is the weakest spot on the team so the front 7 must continue to excel
to cover that weakness.
The special teams were outstanding in all facets. Grixby's punt return
was a big play and Congdon converted his opportunities. Koch punted as
well as their All-American and that negated an advantage Baylor typically
has.
We got the win we needed and are within one of a bowl which is a huge
deal to this team. Missouri is a swing game in that it will let us know
if we are headed to a minor bowl or the Big 12 championship game. They
are favored and should be at home. Their coach is under pressure and he
needs to win this game. Missouri has probably the best offense and the
worst defense in the North so our offense needs to come up big for us
to win. I believe that this a a pick-em game that is too close to call.
A win Saturday would indicate that our program is making real progress.
Keep
the Faith GBR
The Colonel
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