#6 EWU @ #2 MSU Game Thread

[Screamin_Eagle174]

http://www.myuploadedimages.com/images/90382637677860438106.png AT http://www.myuploadedimages.com/images/18118841285332062333.png
#6 Eastern Washington Eagles 4-1 (3-0 BSC) AT #2 Montana State Bobcats 6-0 (3-0 BSC)

Saturday, Oct. 13, 2012 • 12:40 p.m. Pacific
Bobcat Stadium (17,777) • Bozeman, Mont.

TV: Root Sports/DirectTV’s Audience Network (Tom Glasgow/Jason Stiles/Jen Mueller)
Audio: http://spokaneradio.com/player/kxlxam.html
Webcast: ???
Live Stats: http://www.statbroadcast.com/events/statmonitr.php?gid=mnst


Ranked sixth in this week’s Sports Network NCAA Football Championship Subdivision Top 25 poll, Eastern enters the game 4-1 overall and 3-0 in the Big Sky Conference, with its lone loss a narrow 24-20 setback at Washington State on Sept. 8. The Bobcats, ranked second behind defending NCAA Division I champion North Dakota State, are a perfect 6-0 overall and 3-0 in the league.

“This game is huge -- I can’t wait,” said Eastern head coach Beau Baldwin following last week’s 55-17 romp over North Dakota. “I love these big games, and our players do too. We’ll enjoy the North Dakota win for a day, but believe me, I’m already thinking about Montana State because they are the real deal. They are a great team and we know that, but it’s going to be an exciting opportunity for our program.”

Two years ago, Eastern fell to 2-2 when 17th-ranked Montana State out-scored ninth-ranked EWU 10-0 in the second half in a 30-7 win, and out-gained EWU in total offense 439-382. However, EWU would go on to win its next 11 games and bring home the NCAA Division I title.

In the rematch last year between the No. 4 Bobcats and No. 21 Eagles, Montana State out-scored Eastern 26-7 over the final 35:08 of the game for a 36-21 win and drop EWU to 0-4 on the season. The offensive battle was won by MSU 416-371, but again, the Eagles responded well from that loss to win six of their next seven games and finish the season 6-5.

Prior to the last two losses, the Eagles have dominated the all-time series with MSU, winning 25 of the first 33 meetings. Eastern’s seven-game winning streak in the series was snapped in 2010.

But for Eastern to reverse the recent trend, it will have to find a way to stop Bobcat quarterback DeNarius McGee. Of the 855 yards MSU has accumulated the last two years, he has accounted for 545 of them. In 2010, he was 15-of-24 passing for 283 yards, and added 24 rushing. He was just 12-of-26 for 161 yards a year ago, but also rushed for 77 yards.

McGhee is 10th in FCS in total offense, averaging 288.3 yards per game, and as a team the Bobcats are 19th (433.8). Eastern, meanwhile, is 16th in total offense (448.6), providing a match-up Saturday of two of the top 20 offenses in FCS. The Eagles rushed for 290 yards in last week’s win over North Dakota, but EWU will be tested by a Bobcat defense which is seventh in FCS in rushing defense (70.8).
http://www.goeags.com/sports/m-footbl/2012-13/Releases/12fbOct8MSU

[Screamin_Eagle174]

Billings Gazette (Greg Rachac)
Big Sky notebook: Turnovers a benefit and a burden for Cats, Griz (http://billingsgazette.com/sports/college/big-sky-conference/university-of-montana/football/big-sky-notebook-turnovers-a-benefit-and-a-burden-for/article_611c4e5e-fdae-51d0-b41e-c796c11394a1.html) (10/9)
Stakes are high in Bobcats, Eagles showdown (http://billingsgazette.com/sports/college/big-sky-conference/montana-state-university/football/stakes-are-high-in-bobcats-eagles-showdown/article_1b6a2e80-b82e-5b5b-a967-c808a0d6e82c.html) (10/10)

Bozeman Chronicle (Colter Nuanez)
Turnover plague of dire concern for Bobcats (http://www.bozemandailychronicle.com/sports/bobcats/football/article_0b416276-10ff-11e2-a3ff-001a4bcf887a.html) (10/8)
Montana State holds steady at No. 2 with No. 6 Eastern Washington coming to town (http://www.bozemandailychronicle.com/sports/bobcats/football/article_2f6989f2-11cd-11e2-9ed7-0019bb2963f4.html) (10/8)
Matchup between EWU, MSU one of Bobcat Stadium’s biggest (http://www.bozemandailychronicle.com/sports/bobcats/football/article_f62ff020-128c-11e2-84be-001a4bcf887a.html) (10/10)
Former MSU star Adams has warm memories of his time in Bozeman (http://www.bozemandailychronicle.com/sports/bobcats/football/article_ebf663fc-1339-11e2-8695-001a4bcf887a.html) (10/11)

Spokesman-Review (Jim Allen)
Sixth-ranked Eagles look for improvement (http://www.spokesman.com/stories/2012/oct/09/sixth-ranked-eagles-look-improvement/) (10/9)
McGhee gives MSU something special (http://www.spokesman.com/stories/2012/oct/10/mcghee-gives-msu-something-special/) (10/10)
EWU Football Live Chat (http://www.spokesman.com/blogs/sportslink/2012/oct/11/ewu-football-live-chat/) (10/11)
Eastern’s Ceja shows his stature on the field (http://www.spokesman.com/stories/2012/oct/11/easterns-ceja-shows-his-stature-field/) (10/11)
Eastern, MSU prepare for Big Sky showdown (http://www.spokesman.com/stories/2012/oct/12/eastern-msu-prepare-big-sky-showdown/) (10/12)

KXLY
[VIDEO] Raw interview: EWU's Beau Baldwin (http://www.kxly.com/sports/No-6-EWU-preps-for-No-2-Montana-State/-/100918/16923654/-/j8vnlmz/-/index.html) (10/9)

SWX
VIDEO: No. 6 vs. No. 2: Eastern Heads to Bozeman for Colossal Matchup (http://www.swxrightnow.com/story/19786218/no-6-vs-no-2-eastern-heads-to-bozeman-for-colassal-matchup) (10/10)

MSUBOBCATS.COM
Bobcat Football Tuesday Press Conference, 10/10/2012 (http://www.msubobcats.com/news/2012/10/10/FB_1010120726.aspx) (10/9)
FIRST LOOK: MSU, Eastern Battle for Superiority of I-90, Big Sky (http://msubobcats.com/news/2012/10/10/FB_1010123822.aspx) (10/10)

TSN
Week 7 Preview (http://www.sportsnetwork.com/merge/tsnform.aspx?c=sportsnetwork&page=cfoot2/writers/infcshuddle_mcdonnell/index.htm) (10/11)

700 ESPN
AUDIO: Beau Baldwin interview 10 11 12 (http://soundcloud.com/700-espn/beau-baldwin-interview-10-11)

[Walkon79]

Should be a classic. This game will be won on defense, despite the lofty offensive numbers to date. I predict at least one score by the defense, I just don't know which one.

xdontknowxxdontknowx

[Screamin_Eagle174]

Should be a classic. This game will be won on defense, despite the lofty offensive numbers to date. I predict at least one score by the defense, I just don't know which one.

xdontknowxxdontknowx

Or special teams. RS Freshman WR Shaquille Hill had a 99 yard KOR TD against UND, plus another 41 yard return. xcoolx

In the end though, it's going to come down to who can score more points. xsmiley_wix xlolx

[Ivytalk]

Because that colorectal douche ScreaminEagle didn't rank Harvard this week, I'm revoking my previous EWU pick on CS in favor of a narrow MSU win.:Dxmadx

[Screamin_Eagle174]

Because that colorectal douche ScreaminEagle didn't rank Harvard this week, I'm revoking my previous EWU pick on CS in favor of a narrow MSU win.:Dxmadx

xlolx

Wait, I was supposed to be impressed with a win over Cornell? Or San Diego? Or Holy Cross? Or Brown? My apologies, I didn't get the memo. :D



In all seriousness though, I don't usually rank the Ivies because a) The Ivy League isn't that strong, and b) They're too pretentious to participate in the playoffs, so it's hard to gauge how strong they are from year to year in relation to better known quantities. xcoffeex

[putter]

this will be a great game. IMO, this will either expose the Cats or highlight them. Eastern will be fired up.

[Go Lehigh TU owl]

EWU has been the more impressive team but the Bobcats are at home. I'm pulling for MSU but I think the Eagles win by 7.

[CopperCat]

Next to UM, MSU has the best home field advantage in the Big Sky, that will be a factor.

If turnovers can be limited, MSU by 4. If not, EWU by 10. That offense with Adams at the helm is much too opportunistic to allow MSU to win like they did against Davis.

[Screamin_Eagle174]

Next to UM, MSU has the best home field advantage in the Big Sky, that will be a factor.

If turnovers can be limited, MSU by 4. If not, EWU by 10. That offense with Adams at the helm is much too opportunistic to allow MSU to win like they did against Davis.

That's pretty much how I see this game. It'll be fun watching DE Jerry Ceja against your young OL... he already has 5 sacks on the year, plus a strip.

[THE HERD]

If MSU keeps playing like they have all year thus far.............Eagles win by 10.

[coover]

After watching some of the EWU - UND game and the MSU - UCD games last week, I believe that EWU is underated and MSU is overated. EWU by 2 touchdowns!

An interesting thought ... my guys play EWU in a non-league game later this year and we don't play MSU at all (unless we meet in the playoffs), and frankly, I'd rather meet MSU in a league game than EWU in the non-league game. Poly MAY go into the EWU game undefeated. I'm not so sure if we will be after that game. EWU is that good!

[MTfan4life]

Next to UM, MSU has the best home field advantage in the Big Sky, that will be a factor.

If turnovers can be limited, MSU by 4. If not, EWU by 10. That offense with Adams at the helm is much too opportunistic to allow MSU to win like they did against Davis.

My thought is, how will a freshman quarterback handle playing in a very hostile environment? He played for a half at comparatively quiet Weber and otherwise has played only at home. Also, do you know if Kirk is going to be playing?

[BisonBohl]

MSU will win this game.

[Walkon79]

Kirk is questionable along with Jody Owens. But there are injury issues on both teams, so the backups need to step in and play like starters, which has been the case at least for MSU.

[Grizalltheway]

My thought is, how will a freshman quarterback handle playing in a very hostile environment? He played for a half at comparatively quiet Weber and otherwise has played only at home. Also, do you know if Kirk is going to be playing?

I think ours played pretty well in a hostile environment in Boone. I expect much the same from Adams.

[CorrosionDoc]

Or special teams. RS Freshman WR Shaquille Hill had a 99 yard KOR TD against UND, plus another 41 yard return. xcoolx

In the end though, it's going to come down to who can score more points. xsmiley_wix xlolx

Man, I couldn't disagree with you more. It's going to come down to which defense can hold the other team to the fewest points... :p

[bojeta]

Got to root for EWU in this one. Pretty sure a win by the Eagles would come in handy if the Big Sky comes down to a tie-breaker

[Griz_are_Beta_AF]

Kirk is questionable along with Jody Owens. But there are injury issues on both teams, so the backups need to step in and play like starters, which has been the case at least for MSU.

Yeah, our back ups have played really well. Davis plays like a starter, and if Kirk doesn't play. Robinson can have a couple more touches. Also Singleton stepped up this week for Owens, he played really well, especially right away.

[Jacked_Rabbit]

Per 5dimes.com, the game is a currently listed as a Pick'em. I'd guess EWU would probably be favored by 3 or 4 if the game was being played on their red turf... Should be a great game! The only thing I know is that one team is going to drop in the rankings, and the other is going to have control of their own playoff destiny. Best of luck to both squads and their fans - I'm not going to even attempt to predict this one.

[dudeitsaid]

EWU lost to a McGee led offense the year we won the NC, and lost handily on the Bobcats home turf. This game terrifies me. It was nice to have a blowout last week, but if EWU is truly elite, they should've beaten Wazzu, beaten Weber down, and solidly beaten Montana. (However, that last minute come from behind win reminds me of the NC team!) Now EWU is also without some key defensive starters. But...I think Vernon Adams is getting more and more comfortable every game, and the team is responding to him. I have no idea what will happen in Bozeman, but I hope the game is as exciting and close as the rankings show it should!

[lucchesicourt]

Having seen the UCD/MSU game, I am not all that impressed as to MSU being a top 10 team. Cal Poly is much better. To defeat MSU, all you need to do is contain McGee while keeping pressure on. MSU's defense isn't all that great, and if it comes down to offense EWU is superior. EWU by 14.

[Screamin_Eagle174]

EWU lost to a McGee led offense the year we won the NC, and lost handily on the Bobcats home turf. This game terrifies me. It was nice to have a blowout last week, but if EWU is truly elite, they should've beaten Wazzu, beaten Weber down, and solidly beaten Montana. (However, that last minute come from behind win reminds me of the NC team!) Now EWU is also without some key defensive starters. But...I think Vernon Adams is getting more and more comfortable every game, and the team is responding to him. I have no idea what will happen in Bozeman, but I hope the game is as exciting and close as the rankings show it should!

It should be a great game no doubt, but in hindsight the losses to MSU the last two years are understandable. In 2010, Bo Levi was still learning the offense and wasn't on the same page as his WRs, who were also quite young and inexperienced. We were also leaning heavily on Taiwan because of the aforementioned, but also because he was such a ridiculous play maker. We were moving the ball quite well until he went down, then the offense sputtered. We had no game plan without him. Last year our run game was virtually non-existent, and MSU game planned well for that by putting the pressure on BLM. This year we have a MUCH better run game (168ypg, 1.4 TD/g), and while Adams is still relatively inexperienced, he's been in the offense for over a year now and has rapport with his WRs, who are VERY talented and experienced. If MSU manages to shut down Bronson and the two-headed monster that is Talley/Forte, I'm confident in Adams' ability to air it out, as we saw in the UM game. Bobcats don't have a run game comparable to the Griz.

In the end though, turnovers will be key, as both offenses will move the ball well. MSU is at -5 on the year, EWU is +6.

I'll say EWU 34, MSU 27.

[Screamin_Eagle174]

Also, updated the 2nd post with more game week articles.

[MSUBobcat]

Having seen the UCD/MSU game, I am not all that impressed as to MSU being a top 10 team. Cal Poly is much better. To defeat MSU, all you need to do is contain McGee while keeping pressure on. MSU's defense isn't all that great, and if it comes down to offense EWU is superior. EWU by 14.

All you have to do is contain McGee(sic) he says. I'm sure the 25 teams that MSU has beaten in the last 2 and a half seasons would have loved to know that little tidbit of information, as I'm sure none of them had thought of trying that. xrolleyesx

As people who actually have something to contribute to the conversation have already said, the key to this game is going to be turnovers. MSU has had close games that shouldn't have been because of their turnover issues. If they continue, EWU is too good a team to beat if you are on the wrong side of the +/- statistic. Against previous opponents, MSU offense was able to overcome spotting the other teams points off turnovers. That won't happen against a team that scores easily enough on its own.

[Walkon79]

Having seen the UCD/MSU game, I am not all that impressed as to MSU being a top 10 team. Cal Poly is much better. To defeat MSU, all you need to do is contain McGee while keeping pressure on. MSU's defense isn't all that great, and if it comes down to offense EWU is superior. EWU by 14.

MSU's D leads the league in many of the categories that matter. If the O doesn't give them a short field all game long, I'm confident they will hold up just fine and put a ton of pressure on that young gunslinger in Cheney!!

[Walkon79]

Cats by 7!!

[moosbah]

This should be a good game, but I think the gingers sneak this one out by less than a TD.

[Screamin_Eagle174]

More articles and interviews added (2nd post).

[Silenoz]

Kirk is questionable

A good thing imo. More carries for Davis

[Walkon79]

A good thing imo. More carries for Davis

If he can hold onto the ball he's a game-changer.

[Grizo406]

I'm kinda' sorry that I won't be able to watch this game. But, I'm fairly certain that the crowd in Washington/Grizzly will be kept updated on the score throughout the Thunderbird/Griz game this Saturday.

I've ask this before, and it's not meant to be a trick question...WHO, on MSU's defense will be able to effectively contain/cover Brandon Kaufman?

Just because the Griz defense couldn't do it, doesn't mean that the Bobcats don't have someone that can...I'd like to know who the fans think that is?!!?

#1 is a freakin' load, and correctly numbered...IMO!

[Grizalltheway]

I'm kinda' sorry that I won't be able to watch this game. But, I'm fairly certain that the crowd in Washington/Grizzly will be kept updated on the score throughout the Thunderbird/Griz game this Saturday.

I've ask this before, and it's not meant to be a trick question...WHO, on MSU's defense will be able to effectively contain/cover Brandon Kaufman?

Just because the Griz defense couldn't do it, doesn't mean that the Bobcats don't have someone that can...I'd like to know who the fans think that is?!!?

#1 is a freakin' load!

I can't recall the Griz facing a more uncoverable receiver since Barden, and we all know what he's doing on Sundays now...xbowx

[Go Lehigh TU owl]

The excitement is building! The golf club I work for will be hosting their usual tailgate! I'm expecting a big turnout!!

I have a feeling this game will be won in the trenches. How does MSU matchup with the EWU front 7? vice versa? I know the Bobcats are undersized relatively speaking.

[Screamin_Eagle174]

The excitement is building! The golf club I work for will be hosting their usual tailgate! I'm expecting a big turnout!!

I have a feeling this game will be won in the trenches. How does MSU matchup with the EWU front 7? vice versa? I know the Bobcats are undersized relatively speaking.

MSU has a better DL, but not by a lot, IMO. EWU definitely has the bigger and more experienced OL (6'4, 300lbs on average). MSU's is about 6'3ish 270 I think. Should be a great battle.

[Walkon79]

I'm kinda' sorry that I won't be able to watch this game. But, I'm fairly certain that the crowd in Washington/Grizzly will be kept updated on the score throughout the Thunderbird/Griz game this Saturday.

I've ask this before, and it's not meant to be a trick question...WHO, on MSU's defense will be able to effectively contain/cover Brandon Kaufman?

Just because the Griz defense couldn't do it, doesn't mean that the Bobcats don't have someone that can...I'd like to know who the fans think that is?!!?

#1 is a freakin' load, and correctly numbered...IMO!

Our corners probably can't cover him. We need safety help over the top and pressure from our front 4. He'll have his moments, I'm sure. We also need to keep the EWU offense off the field. I think our O can do that to a great degree if we don't TURN IT OVER!!!

[Screamin_Eagle174]

Updated.

[bobcathpdevil56]

Thanks for all those links Screamin. Great thread. Go Cats

[Screamin_Eagle174]

Thanks for all those links Screamin. Great thread. Go Cats

No problem. Updated with more. GO EAGS. :D

[Screamin_Eagle174]

Updated.

[CopperCat]

The excitement is building! The golf club I work for will be hosting their usual tailgate! I'm expecting a big turnout!!

I have a feeling this game will be won in the trenches. How does MSU matchup with the EWU front 7? vice versa? I know the Bobcats are undersized relatively speaking.

Dude, you live in Bozeman and haven't heard of Zach Minter?

Doesn't really matter who the kid is up against. He will bring the heat every play. Had a HUGE pick last week that was arguably the biggest play in the game. If he is 100% along with Jody Owens, I see the front seven of EWU having some issues.

[Screamin_Eagle174]

Dude, you live in Bozeman and haven't heard of Zach Minter?

Doesn't really matter who the kid is up against. He will bring the heat every play. Had a HUGE pick last week that was arguably the biggest play in the game. If he is 100% along with Jody Owens, I see the front seven of EWU having some issues.

When did Minter and Owens switch over to OL? xlolx

[MSUBobcat]

The excitement is building! The golf club I work for will be hosting their usual tailgate! I'm expecting a big turnout!!

I have a feeling this game will be won in the trenches. How does MSU matchup with the EWU front 7? vice versa? I know the Bobcats are undersized relatively speaking.

You wouldn't know it from the activity here on AGS. xsmhx Would think being 1 day away from 2 top 6 teams playing there would be a lot more discussion.

As far as comparing the lines, as SE174 mentioned EWU's OL is bigger (300 vs. 277), as are their linebackers (slightly), while MSU's DL is slightly bigger (266 vs. 258).

If by saying the Bobcats are undersized relatively speaking, you are referring to the OL, then I agree. I disagree that the defensive front 7 are undersized, not for their style of play anyway. The Cats are the 7th best rush defense in the nation, allowing only 70.83 ypg, and are tied for #21 with 2.67 sacks/game.

[Walkon79]

Not Saturday yet? DAMMIT!!

[wapiti]

Is this game going to be over the air televised or available on a free web feed?

[CopperCat]

When did Minter and Owens switch over to OL? xlolx

Yeah, I just realized that too.

I'm going back to bed.

[MSUBobcat]

Not Saturday yet? DAMMIT!!

I feel the same way. I'm extra excited because this is the only game I will get to see during my 2 weeks off. Stupid bye week! Why didn't they schedule it during my 2 week hitch? I need to contact the administration and give them my work schedule. xnodx;)

[MSUBobcat]

Is this game going to be over the air televised or available on a free web feed?

Televised on Root Sports (DirecTV channels 683 and 687; Dish Network channels 414 and 426). Unfortunately there will NOT be a webcast on Big Sky TV (America One).

[Grizalltheway]

You wouldn't know it from the activity here on AGS. xsmhx Would think being 1 day away from 2 top 6 teams playing there would be a lot more discussion.

As far as comparing the lines, as SE174 mentioned EWU's OL is bigger (300 vs. 277), as are their linebackers (slightly), while MSU's DL is slightly bigger (266 vs. 258).

If by saying the Bobcats are undersized relatively speaking, you are referring to the OL, then I agree. I disagree that the defensive front 7 are undersized, not for their style of play anyway. The Cats are the 7th best rush defense in the nation, allowing only 70.83 ypg, and are tied for #21 with 2.67 sacks/game.

Don't mean to smack, but I'd be surprised if you put Adams on his back at all in this game. Sneaky bugger, he is. xnodx

[wapiti]

Televised on Root Sports (DirecTV channels 683 and 687; Dish Network channels 414 and 426). Unfortunately there will NOT be a webcast on Big Sky TV (America One).

Thanks. I do not have cable or DirecTV or Dish.

I suppose I will have to listen on the radio. xlcountry.com

[MSUBobcat]

Don't mean to smack, but I'd be surprised if you put Adams on his back at all in this game. Sneaky bugger, he is. xnodx

I agree about Adams. My point was just that though the DL, and front 7, may not be the biggest, it doesn't mean they get blown up by the opponents' big hogs all game long.

We may not get a sack, but I'd bet that the Cats get some hurries and at least a couple knockdowns.

[MSUBobcat]

Thanks. I do not have cable or DirecTV or Dish.

I suppose I will have to listen on the radio. xlcountry.com

No bars with the game in your area? No satellite for me either, but I'm damn sure finding my way to the bar. xnodx As an added bonus, Saturday is a fellow MSU grad buddy's b-day so I'm hoping for multiple reasons to be partying it up. :D

[Grizalltheway]

I agree about Adams. My point was just that though the DL, and front 7, may not be the biggest, it doesn't mean they get blown up by the opponents' big hogs all game long.

We may not get a sack, but I'd bet that the Cats get some hurries and at least a couple knockdowns.

Definitely possible. Looking ahead a bit, it'll be interesting to see how they do against the hogs on our O-line. Best rushing D vs the best non-option rushing offense in the conference.

[MSUBobcat]

Definitely possible. Looking ahead a bit, it'll be interesting to see how they do against the hogs on our O-line. Best rushing D vs the best non-option rushing offense in the conference.

Interesting is not the word I would choose. I thought MSU's run defense was good last year. Up until the Griz ran it straight down their throats. :oxoopsx

[wapiti]

No bars with the game in your area? No satellite for me either, but I'm damn sure finding my way to the bar. xnodx As an added bonus, Saturday is a fellow MSU grad buddy's b-day so I'm hoping for multiple reasons to be partying it up. :D

I do not like bars. They are not my thing. I have been to bars, but have never felt comfortable in one.
Maybe one of the tv/appliance stores will have the game on. Just pull up a lawn chair in Sears and watch.

There is a fair chance I will still be out hunting when the game begins. (Depending on how cooperative the Elk are.)
In which case I carry a small solar powered radio with me.

[Go Lehigh TU owl]

Apparently this is a big recruiting week for the Bobcats, upwards of 28 potentials. Coach was talking very highly of a RB from Billings.

[Screamin_Eagle174]

You wouldn't know it from the activity here on AGS. xsmhx Would think being 1 day away from 2 top 6 teams playing there would be a lot more discussion.

As far as comparing the lines, as SE174 mentioned EWU's OL is bigger (300 vs. 277), as are their linebackers (slightly), while MSU's DL is slightly bigger (266 vs. 258).

If by saying the Bobcats are undersized relatively speaking, you are referring to the OL, then I agree. I disagree that the defensive front 7 are undersized, not for their style of play anyway. The Cats are the 7th best rush defense in the nation, allowing only 70.83 ypg, and are tied for #21 with 2.67 sacks/game.

Not saying the MSU front 7 aren't good against the run, because they are, but the numbers are misleading.

RUSHING OFFENSE
D-II Chadron
Drake - 89th
UNC - 115th
UC-Davis - 96th
SUU - 111th
SFA - 109th

[Grizcountry420]

Not saying the MSU front 7 aren't good against the run, because they are, but the numbers are misleading.

RUSHING OFFENSE
D-II Chadron
Drake - 89th
UNC - 115th
UC-Davis - 96th
SUU - 111th
SFA - 109th

They have 1 good player that plays on the d-line.. Thats about it.

[MSUBobcat]

Not saying the MSU front 7 aren't good against the run, because they are, but the numbers are misleading.

RUSHING OFFENSE
D-II Chadron
Drake - 89th
UNC - 115th
UC-Davis - 96th
SUU - 111th
SFA - 109th

No disagreement that they aren't the best rushing opponents. You play the teams on your schedule though.


They have 1 good player that plays on the d-line.. Thats about it.

Which 1 good player would that be? Our front 7 are pretty good players when healthy, IMO. Daly, Minter, Bignell, Schreibeis, Owens, Grosulak, Moeakiola.....

[Grizalltheway]

Interesting is not the word I would choose. I thought MSU's run defense was good last year. Up until the Griz ran it straight down their throats. :oxoopsx

xlolx

We shall see. With the butter-fingers syndrome we've apparently contracted this year, I'm already having visions of the 2010 edition of The Brawl. xoopsxxoopsx

[MSUBobcat]

xlolx

We shall see. With the butter-fingers syndrome we've apparently contracted this year, I'm already having visions of the 2010 edition of The Brawl. xoopsxxoopsx

This is an epidemic that seems to be sweeping the state. The team that corrects this problem will win the game.

[Screamin_Eagle174]

This is an epidemic that seems to be sweeping the state. The team that corrects this problem will win the game.

Stop getting along with each other! FIGHT YOU @SSHOLES! xlolx

[tingly]

Everyone, let's hug it out with Screaming_Eagle174.

[Grizcountry420]

No disagreement that they aren't the best rushing opponents. You play the teams on your schedule though.



Which 1 good player would that be? Our front 7 are pretty good players when healthy, IMO. Daly, Minter, Bignell, Schreibeis, Owens, Grosulak, Moeakiola.....

Minter, Schreibeis, and Owens ill give you that but Bignell pisses down his legs too much..

[Screamin_Eagle174]

Everyone, let's hug it out with Screaming_Eagle174.

xlovex

[Grizalltheway]

Stop getting along with each other! FIGHT YOU @SSHOLES! xlolx

Shut yer yap, or I won't be showing up to support the beagles on our off day.xcoffeex

[Screamin_Eagle174]

Shut yer yap, or I won't be showing up to support the beagles on our off day.xcoffeex

I'm sorry. Please forgive me. xprayx

[caribbeanhen]

East Wash wins because MontSt is overrated

[CopperCat]

Don't mean to smack, but I'd be surprised if you put Adams on his back at all in this game. Sneaky bugger, he is. xnodx

I'll take that bet. If a QB tries to make something out of nothing like he often does he is bound to get whapped.

[CopperCat]

East Wash wins because MontSt is overrated

But we all know Delaware isn't overrated. Just ask Maine.

Troll.

[Nickels]

MSU is overrated, EWU wins big.

[Go Lehigh TU owl]

MSU is overrated, EWU wins big.

I can't see the Bobcats getting blown out on their home turf. The place is going to be rocking. With that said, I think EWU wins but it will be close.

[MSUBobcat]

MSU is overrated, EWU wins big.

Thanks for stopping by to offer that insightful football wisdom. We are all much more informed football fans thanks to the all-knowing Nickels.

[clawman]

Winner = whoever has the ball last

[caribbeanhen]

But we all know Delaware isn't overrated. Just ask Maine.

Troll.

whoops, struck a nerve.... and Delaware is overrated... they are still in the ORV column ..... was disappointed with your poor performance in the playoffs last year against Sammy and was thinking .... how can they lose to this team this bad? must not be that good and i will hold that opinion until you beat someone

[No_Skill]

I see this game is on DirecTV channel 239-1. I'll have to record it and speed watch it later.

[MSUBobcat]

East Wash wins because MontSt is overrated

I agree that MSU is probably overrated somewhat, given their performance so far this season and tendency to put the ball on the ground. This will be a tough game and will either prove they deserve a high ranking or drop them down to where they probably should have been ranked at this point. I just don't see the Eagles winning big, as Nickels said with no information to support his claim. This is still easily a top 10 team and they are at home, so the Cats would have to $h!t the bed to lose big, IMO.

[CopperCat]

whoops, struck a nerve.... and Delaware is overrated... they are still in the ORV column ..... was disappointed with your poor performance in the playoffs last year against Sammy and was thinking .... how can they lose to this team this bad? must not be that good and i will hold that opinion until you beat someone

So what you're saying is that your opinion of MSU is based on one game that happened last year.

[tingly]

The game on Directv 239 is only available in some areas, maybe most. It doesn't show up on my onscreen guide, but I'm hoping.

[MSUBobcat]

The game on Directv 239 is only available in some areas, maybe most. It doesn't show up on my onscreen guide, but I'm hoping.

DirecTV's channel guide online shows the game is on channel 239, Audience Network, which is included in all packages, so if you have DirecTV, I'd assume you can watch this game. Its also on Root Rocky Mtn (683) and Root NW (687), which are included in all packages except the basic Entertainment Package.

[100%GRIZ]

I think this is going to be who ever has the ball last kind of game. Either they score or BLOW IT! I'm calling the cats blow it! We will see!

[Screamin_Eagle174]

Just updated the 2nd post with the final pregame article/interview.

LET'S DO THIS!!!! GO EAGS!!!!! FTC!!!!!!!

[wapiti]

and there is the kickoff. The game has begun!!!!!

[wapiti]

MSU kicked. Returned to the 23

[wapiti]

EWU tried a 4th and long 1 with less than 10 yrds for a score.

MSU sacked the QB at the 15.

[Go Lehigh TU owl]

I have no idea what EWU coach was thinking. That was a horrid decision.

[wapiti]

Cats are driving.

Score still 0 - 0

[MR. CHICKEN]

MONTANA STATE 7
E. WASHINGTON 0

[wapiti]

TD Cat's

MSU 6
EWU 0

[wapiti]

XP is good

MSU 7
EWU 0

[MR. CHICKEN]

IGGLES......UH WAPITI...IN DUH HEADLIGHTS.......INTERCEPTION......'CATS BALL ON 30 O' 'CATS

[MR. CHICKEN]

17004......EAGLES....PASSED ON UH CHIPPY 3 FG......CAIN'T BE SAME HEAD COACH....WHOM BEAT UD....AWK???

[MR. CHICKEN]

17005.....IGGLES...PLAYIN' LIKE HENS!

[MR. CHICKEN]

MONTANA STATE ENTERS DUH RED ZONE!

[MR. CHICKEN]

TIME OUT 'CATS....2 MIN LEFT IN 1ST Q.......BRAWK/OBAMA/BIDEN!

[wapiti]

Cat's looking good.


I have the griz game on tv
SUU 13
UM 10

[MR. CHICKEN]

3RD & GOAL....'CATS

[MR. CHICKEN]

Cat's looking good.


I have the griz game on tv
SUU 13
UM 10

GRIZZWOLD'S......ARE SO OVERAH!

[MR. CHICKEN]

SACK ON DUH 'CATS

[MR. CHICKEN]

FG ATTEMPT.....PEREZ IS STILL PERFECT ON DUH 30 YARDER...10-ZIP....AWK!

[MR. CHICKEN]

10-3 BOBCATS.................HALFTIME!

[Grizalltheway]

BRAAAAAAWK!

[MR. CHICKEN]

BRAAAAAAWK!

17006....GRIZZWOLD'S...HAVE DER PAWS-FUL....WHIFF...DUH MORMONS....AWK!

[MR. CHICKEN]

E.WASH. FG......NOW 10-6.....'CATS.....DOODLE-DOO!

[Go Lehigh TU owl]

MSU defense very impressive. Not sure why EWU keeps throwing deep though.

[Go Lehigh TU owl]

TD EWU!

[CopperCat]

Roughing the kicker call was complete b.s. you're welcome ewu.

[MR. CHICKEN]

NOT TA WORRY FT....'CATS ARE DRIVIN'...DOWN TA E. WASH. 11....AWK!

[MR. CHICKEN]

FIRST DOWN 'CATS!

[MR. CHICKEN]

HALF DUH DISTANCE..ON #93 IGGLES!

[MR. CHICKEN]

DENARIUS IS ROCKED....'NOTHERAH PERSONAL..ON 39...DIS TIME!

[Go Lehigh TU owl]

TD MSU!

EWU making a ton of dumb mistakes...

[MR. CHICKEN]

MONTANA STATE TD!

[MR. CHICKEN]

THANKY E. WASH....FO' ALL DUH FREE YDS!

[MR. CHICKEN]

M. ST. 17
E. W. 13

[Go Lehigh TU owl]

EWU QB not very impressive imo. Not sure why EWU takes so many shots deep.

[MR. CHICKEN]

17007....GOURD GUARDS UP......FOURFF Q!

[Go Lehigh TU owl]

Ewu blocks a punt and recovers for a TD!

[MR. CHICKEN]

E. WASH 20
M. ST. 14

[Go Lehigh TU owl]

EWU with a pick six!

MSU too one dimensional.

[MR. CHICKEN]

PICK SIX TD...IGGLES......27-17......BRAWK/OBAMA/BIDEN!

[Go Lehigh TU owl]

MSU with a missed FG. EWU can work on the clock.

[MR. CHICKEN]

PEREZ...32 YARDER...WIDE RIGHT.......OUCH....BOBCATS......27-17 IGGLES!

[Go Lehigh TU owl]

Td MSU!

2:38 left...

[MR. CHICKEN]

27-24...IGGLES!

[MR. CHICKEN]

UH BIG THUD...IN BOZEMAN!

[Go Lehigh TU owl]

Ewu wins!

[Go Lehigh TU owl]

UH BIG THUD...IN BOZEMAN!

Not an upset imo. EWU was the better team coming in and proved it. MSU needs to finish strong to make the playoffs. I'm not sure if the Big Sky can get 4 teams in.

[wmmii]

I had EWU as preseason top 3 so not surprised

[Screamin_Eagle174]

EEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAGGGGGG GGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLL LLLLLLLLLLLLLEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEESSSSSS SSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS

[caribbeanhen]

[QUOTE=FTG06';1865229]So what you're saying is that your opinion of MSU is based on one game that happened last year.[/QUOTE

Yes

[Screamin_Eagle174]

Not an upset imo. EWU was the better team coming in and proved it. MSU needs to finish strong to make the playoffs. I'm not sure if the Big Sky can get 4 teams in.

We will. I don't think MSU will lose until the playoffs. EWU, CP, NAU, MSU will make it.

[Screamin_Eagle174]

Held that vaunted MSU rushing attack to 1.3 yards per carry! 52 attempts, 70 yards!!!

[Walkon79]

Not an upset imo. EWU was the better team coming in and proved it. MSU needs to finish strong to make the playoffs. I'm not sure if the Big Sky can get 4 teams in.

Proved what? We have them 17 points!

[Grizalltheway]

Proved what? We have them 17 points!

What are you even trying to say here? xrolleyesx

[Screamin_Eagle174]

EWU QB not very impressive imo. Not sure why EWU takes so many shots deep.

Because if we had connected like we usually do, that would've freed up room to run.

[Screamin_Eagle174]

Proved what? We have them 17 points!

Funny, I thought EWU took them. I wasn't aware McGhee walked over and handed us the ball. Then again, I was decently inebriated and my contacts might've been a little blurry.

[Go Lehigh TU owl]

Proved what? We have them 17 points!

That Eagles are the team to beat in the Big Sky.

MSU played awesome on defense. EWU resorted to chucking the ball deep to move the ball. The difference in the game was the 3 or 4 plays EWU made in all phases of the game.

MSU's offense is a lot like the Philly Eagles. They rely on McGhee to make plays through a bit of improv. Their OL is not very big/physical so they struggle to run.

[Screamin_Eagle174]

That Eagles are the team to beat in the Big Sky.

MSU played awesome on defense. EWU resorted to chucking the ball deep to move the ball. The difference in the game was the 3 or 4 plays EWU made in all phases of the game.

MSU's offense is a lot like the Philly Eagles. They rely on McGee to make plays through a bit of improv. Their OL is not very big/physical so they struggle to run.

Although technically correct, I wouldn't quite say all. We dominated in all 3 phases (Offense, Defense, Special Teams) last week vs. UND. Today, we dominated on defense and special teams, but got shut down for the most part on offense. This defense/team is very opportunistic and makes a couple big plays a game... key stops, turnovers, field position flip, what-have-you, much like the 2010 defense/team did. Once Adams gets more experience and is more comfortable, we will be a tough team to beat. Hopefully we get it figured out real soon with SUU and Cal Poly looming in the not so distant future.

[Catbooster]

Although technically correct, I wouldn't quite say all. We dominated in all 3 phases (Offense, Defense, Special Teams) last week vs. UND. Today, we dominated on defense and special teams, but got shut down for the most part on offense. This defense/team is very opportunistic and makes a couple big plays a game... key stops, turnovers, field position flip, what-have-you, much like the 2010 defense/team did. Once Adams gets more experience and is more comfortable, we will be a tough team to beat. Hopefully we get it figured out real soon with SUU and Cal Poly looming in the not so distant future.
I agree they were very opportunistic, but I didn't see Eastern's defense as dominating. MSU had a little higher than our average first downs and third down conversion rate, ok yardage (slightly above average passing and below average running), etc. Since we haven't played any "good" teams before this game and our stats are inflated, I guess we did ok. You did largely take away our running game. Since over half your points came from a pick-6 and a blocked punt recovery in the end-zone, opportunistic is right but IMO dominating is a stretch.

It was a good game - entertaining and exciting to the end. Congratulations on the win. I hope this lesson gets absorbed and our team quits making so many mistakes. They've been able to win in previous games despite the mistakes but as most of us thought before the game, we couldn't afford to do that against EWU. If we can clean those problems up and our O line continues to improve, I think we can have a very successful season, as I expect EWU to have as well.

[Screamin_Eagle174]

I agree they were very opportunistic, but I didn't see Eastern's defense as dominating. MSU had a little higher than our average first downs and third down conversion rate, ok yardage (slightly above average passing and below average running), etc. Since we haven't played any "good" teams before this game and our stats are inflated, I guess we did ok. You did largely take away our running game. Since over half your points came from a pick-6 and a blocked punt recovery in the end-zone, opportunistic is right but IMO dominating is a stretch.

It was a good game - entertaining and exciting to the end. Congratulations on the win. I hope this lesson gets absorbed and our team quits making so many mistakes. They've been able to win in previous games despite the mistakes but as most of us thought before the game, we couldn't afford to do that against EWU. If we can clean those problems up and our O line continues to improve, I think we can have a very successful season, as I expect EWU to have as well.

Agreed on all accounts. Considering you guys averaged 160 on the ground before this week, I was very impressed we held you to 70 and 1.3 a carry (although the 6 sacks helped with that average). MSU will be very tough to beat if they can clean up the turnovers and the OL can learn quicker. McGhee won't last the season if he isn't extremely careful avoiding defenders while trying to pick up first downs with his feet. Great game, and good luck the rest of the way.

[MSUBobcat]

We will. I don't think MSU will lose until the playoffs. EWU, CP, NAU, MSU will make it.

+1. Congrats to the Eagles. Perez uncharacteristically missing that FG and the incomprehensible roughing the kicker on a 4th and 20 when EWU was deep in their side of the field leading to a TD cost us the game. Those 2 picks McGhee threw, one for a pick 6, were ugly too.

[Walkon79]

What are you even trying to say here? xrolleyesx

Sorry, we "gave" them 17 points. Too many beers last night.

[Walkon79]

Good game tho, EWU. Both defenses were flat GETTING AFTER IT yesterday!