#4 MSU at #3 EWU Game Thread

[Screamin_Eagle174]

http://i.imgur.com/XIZjTg4.pnghttp://i.imgur.com/rLzTCH9.png
#4 Montana State Bobcats (7-2, 5-0 BSC) at #3 Eastern Washington Eagles (7-2, 5-0 BSC)


Saturday, Nov. 9, 2013 • 12:10 p.m. Pacific
Roos Field (8,600) • Cheney, Wash.


http://i.imgur.com/uci5j5z.jpg




TV: Televised live regionally by ROOT Sports & DirectTV Audience Network 101.
Webcast: First Row (Google It).
Radio: 700 ESPN Spokane (http://spokaneradio.com/player/kxlxam.html)


Series History: EWU leads 26-10. (http://cfbdatawarehouse.com/data/div_iaa/bigsky/eastern_washington/opponents_records.php?teamid=2089) MSU has won only 3 times in Cheney, their other 7 wins have come in Spokane (2) or Bozeman (5). While EWU is 20-3 against all teams on the red turf, MSU was the first opponent to win on it, in 2011. The average score in the series is EWU 24, MSU 20.
Last Meeting: EWU won 27-24 in Bozeman in 2012. Recap | Box Score (http://goeags.com/sports/m-footbl/2012-13/Releases/12fbOct13MSURecap)



Roos Field has yet another date with destiny this week.


The Eastern Washington University football team will try to secure the 500th win in school history when fourth-ranked Montana State visits the third-ranked Eagles in an epic showdown in the Big Sky Conference. Kickoff Saturday (Nov. 9) at Roos Field in 12:10 p.m. Pacific time in a battle between a pair of 5-0 league teams.


The sold-out game will be televised live on ROOT Sports, as the Eagles will end the regular season with three-straight games on the regional network. The Eagles and Bobcats are each 7-2 on the season, and this is the first matchup between Big Sky teams ranked in the top five in the NCAA Football Championship Subdivision since 1994 when No. 1 Montana hosted No. 3 Idaho and won 45-21.


“It’s definitely a huge game,” said Eastern head coach Beau Baldwin. “It doesn’t matter who it is, it would be a huge game. We’re both undefeated coming into it so it makes it that much bigger.”


Both teams are on a roll, with EWU entering with a five-game winning streak after last week’s 55-34 victory over Idaho State. The Bobcats, meanwhile, knocked off Northern Colorado 35-28 and has also won five-in-a-row. In fact, the last losses for both schools came more than a month ago at the hands of Southland Conference schools – EWU 49-34 at Sam Houston State on Sept. 28 and MSU seven days earlier by a 52-38 score to Stephen F. Austin. Eastern’s other loss was 33-21 to NCAA Football Championship Subdivision foe Toledo, and MSU’s other loss was 31-30 at SMU, another FBS foe.


Thus far in the Big Sky Conference games, MSU has out-scored opponents 202-88, or an average score of 40-17. Eastern has defeated its five BSC foes by a 207-114 margin – a 41-22 average score.


“Once you get down to a game on that particular day, it’s its own game,” Baldwin said. “No matter what happened in the weeks prior to it, it can go a lot of different directions just on a few plays early.”


In last year’s meeting, the Eagles scored only one offensive touchdown and kicked two field goals in a 27-24 victory over the second-ranked Bobcats. Eastern, ranked sixth at the time, scored on a blocked punt by Dylan Zylstra that was recovered for a touchdown by Evan Day, and then Jordan Tonani returned an interception 21 yards for a touchdown to rally EWU from a 17-13 deficit entering the fourth quarter.


Tonani, who is redshirting this season after surgery to both hips, was just the first of a recent epidemic of injuries at safety. Most recently, free safety Tevin McDonald was lost with a broken fibula, leaving a converted cornerback (Miles Weatheroy) and a walk-on redshirt freshman (Zach Bruce) to take over those positions.


“We have to keep getting the next player up and ready to go,” said Baldwin. “We are definitely in a spot right now where we will be playing some young players and some guys might be moving position-wise. But that’s football. Certain years you have certain positions that get hit a lot harder by injuries. Other players have to step up and find a way. We’ll be fine.”
http://goeags.com/sports/m-footbl/2013-14/Releases/13fbNov4MSUPreview


CONFERENCE ONLY STATS: MSU | EWU


Scoring Offense: 2nd 40.4 ppg | 1st 41.4 ppg
Scoring Defense: 1st 17.6 ppg | 4th 22.8 ppg
Rushing Offense: 2nd 234.4 ypg | 4th 193.0 ypg
Rushing Defense: 5th 135.6 ypg | 4th 113.6 ypg
Passing Offense: 10th 208.2 ypg | 1st 341.6 ypg
Passing Defense: 3rd 202.4 ypg | 13th 302.0 ypg
Kickoff Return Avg.: 1st 39.3 avg | 3rd 25.7 avg
Punt Return Avg.: 2nd 12.1 avg | 1st 13.7 avg
Turnover Margin: 2nd +7 | 7th +2
Sacks/Sacks Allowed: 11/8 | 15/7
3rd Down %/Opponent 3rd Down %: 47.6%/41.9% | 52.3%/31.6%
Red Zone Offense/Defense %: 94.7%/85.7% | 89.5%/92.3%
Time of Possession: 29:53 | 29:21

[Screamin_Eagle174]

BOBCATNATION.COM
BIG SKY CAPSULE: No. 3 Eastern Washington (http://www.bobcatnation.com/node/599) (11/4)
PODCAST: No. 4 Montana State on No. 3 Eastern Washington (http://bobcatnation.com/node/600) (11/5)
It doesn't get much bigger than this (http://bobcatnation.com/node/601) (11/5)
Tuesday Press Conference Quotes (Rob Ash) (http://bobcatnation.com/bobcatbb/viewtopic.php?f=20&t=31901) (11/5)
Explosive Eastern offense more than just prolific passing attack (http://bobcatnation.com/node/603) (11/6)
Adams thrilling during his sophomore season (http://bobcatnation.com/node/602) (11/6)
PODCAST: The Eastern Washington Eagles (http://bobcatnation.com/node/604) (11/7)
Bobcats won't overlook speedy EWU defense (http://bobcatnation.com/node/607) (11/7)
McGhee earned Baldwin's respect during summer meetings (http://bobcatnation.com/node/608) (11/7)
Lightly-recruited Kupp making the rest of the Big Sky pay (http://bobcatnation.com/node/609) (11/8)


BOZEMAN DAILY CHRONICLE
http://www.bozemandailychronicle.com/sports/bobcats/football/article_e645d1ae-46af-11e3-af2c-0019bb2963f4.htmlBattle for the Big Sky (http://www.bozemandailychronicle.com/sports/bobcats/football/article_e645d1ae-46af-11e3-af2c-0019bb2963f4.htmlBattle%20for%20the%20Big%20Sky) (11/5)


BILLINGS GAZETTE
Eastern vs. MSU: The stage is set (http://billingsgazette.com/sports/college/blogs/catgrizinsider/eastern-vs-msu-the-stage-is-set/article_541e2062-4428-11e3-9ce2-001a4bcf887a.html) (11/2)
Spotlight on: Eastern Washington WR Cooper Kupp (http://billingsgazette.com/sports/college/blogs/catgrizinsider/spotlight-on-eastern-washington-wr-cooper-kupp/article_67d38da8-45c8-11e3-8688-0019bb2963f4.html) (11/5)
Don't forget about McGhee and Co. (http://billingsgazette.com/sports/college/blogs/catgrizinsider/don-t-forget-about-mcghee-and-co/article_bf717402-4740-11e3-88c6-0019bb2963f4.html) (11/7)


GREAT FALLS TRIBUNE
Big Sky Conference Notebook: Big game in Cheney (http://www.greatfallstribune.com/article/20131106/SPORTS/311060028/Big-Sky-Conference-Notebook-Big-game-Cheney?nclick_check=1) (11/7)


SPOKESMAN-REVIEW
Top-five matchup first in Big Sky since 1994 (http://www.spokesman.com/eagles/stories/2013/nov/06/top-five-matchup-first-in-big-sky-since-1994/) (11/6)
Eastern Sports chat, noon (Nov. 7) (http://www.spokesman.com/blogs/sportslink/2013/nov/07/eastern-sports-chat-noon-nov-7/)
Big Sky notes: Bobcats follow McGhee’s lead (http://www.spokesman.com/eagles/stories/2013/nov/07/big-sky-notes-bobcats-follow-mcghees-lead/) (11/7)
Sweat the details (http://www.spokesman.com/eagles/stories/2013/nov/08/sweat-the-details/) (11/8)


THE SPORTS NETWORK
In the FCS Huddle: Week 11 Preview (http://www.sportsnetwork.com/merge/tsnform.aspx?c=sportsnetwork&page=cfoot2/news/news.aspx?id=4637683) (11/7)

[citdog]

Should be a GREAT game. Looking forward to watching this one.

[Twentysix]

This should be a good one! When did EWU play in Spokane?

[Texas]

Should be called the Highly Overrated Bowl

[Texas]

Still stumped how you can be top 5 and lose to SFA.

[Screamin_Eagle174]

SHSU nearly lost to SFA this past weekend....


Be quiet, top 5 teams are talking. xcoffeex

[MSUBobcat]

Still stumped how you can be top 5 and lose to SFA.

Didn't Sam just beat SFA by 7 on a neutral field thanks to 6 turnovers by SFA, even though they gave up 742 yards of offense? Meanwhile, MSU was on the road without their 4 year starting QB and his replacement was playing in his first FCS game ever and threw a pick 6 late in the 4th (his 3rd of 4 INT) when they were down 7 points. SHSU won the TO battle 6 to 1 (4 fumbles lost) and only won by 7 on a neutral field.

[Screamin_Eagle174]

This should be a good one! When did EWU play in Spokane?

During the 80's when we went DI, and again in the late 90s/early 2000s. Joe Albi in Spokane seats about 20k, whereas Roos Field (Woodward back then) only seated I think 6 or 7k before the endzone seating was added.

[Texas]

Firstly huge rivalry happens every year.

Win is a win. Something neither of your teams can say against SHSU.

[Grizalltheway]

Firstly huge rivalry happens every year.

Win is a win. Something neither of your teams can say against SHSU.

Quiet, teams that have won national championships are talking.

[Texas]

Quiet, teams that have won national championships are talking.
Aww Big Sky CJ is going.

[Screamin_Eagle174]

Aww Big Sky CJ is going.
Then are you here to watch, or are you the soggy cracker?

[Texas]

Then are you here to watch, or are you the soggy cracker?
We both know I'm not the cracker. Just trying to get guys to stop that stuff.

-Fan of the Undisuputed Big Sky champs Sam Houston State. "Home or on the road"

[kalm]

Quiet, teams that have won national championships are talking.

xlolx

[ALPHAGRIZ1]

I will be going over for this game but I dont expect to be at the stadium very long.

[Bisonator]

I'd like to watch this game but that red turf hurts my eyes. xsmhx

[fmrbearkat]

I'd like to watch this game but that red turf hurts my eyes. xsmhx

Thats the damn truth.... Plus it will be over at half. EWU is going to run away with this game. I was impressed by EWU even after we kicked the **** out of them :D (sorry I had to)!! But seriously I was impressed with the whole team. One thing that really stood out to me against UM was the athleticism of their dline. Only thing that has impressed about Monty state is daly. Won't be close!

[Sam_Kats]

I'll take the Eagles in this one.

[ALPHAGRIZ1]

https://maps.google.com/maps?ie=UTF-8&gl=us&daddr=Cheney,+WA&saddr=Butte,+Mt&panel=1&f=d&fb=1&dirflg=d&geocode=KdE879A2P1pTMZmXT00daM21%3BKf0n6Ek1OZ5UMc2 tQ7N0Pehx&ei=Zmt4UsqhPOPkyQHNy4GoAw&ved=0CC8Q-A8wAA

[Grizzlies82]

https://maps.google.com/maps?ie=UTF-8&gl=us&daddr=Cheney,+WA&saddr=Butte,+Mt&panel=1&f=d&fb=1&dirflg=d&geocode=KdE879A2P1pTMZmXT00daM21%3BKf0n6Ek1OZ5UMc2 tQ7N0Pehx&ei=Zmt4UsqhPOPkyQHNy4GoAw&ved=0CC8Q-A8wAA

Cool map. This is rather like the radar reports of Santa's sleigh at Christmas time. Will the map be updated so we can track your progress along the way?

[dewey]

I also think the Eagles win this one.

Dewey

[Go Lehigh TU owl]

I think EWU wins by 10 points. I've watched every MSU game this year and while they are talented and well coached they are not at the level of EWU imo. The biggest difference is team speed imo. Outside of Shawn Johnson, the Bobcats really don't have anyone on offense that can stretch the field. EWU has weapons everywhere.

[Silenoz]

EWU by 14

[bojeta]

Gotta go with the Eagles by 17, but MSU's QB does make a huge difference. Might turn into a shootout...

[CorrosionDoc]

Still stumped how you can be top 5 and lose to SFA.

Easy. MSU had their backup QB in for that game for only his 2nd start and first on the road, and he threw 4 picks.

[Darlinikki150]

I always like to root against EW, so Montana by 3.

On a different note, how high do u think the score will be? I have noticed that the Big Sky doesn't exactly play defense..

[citdog]

how high do u think the score will be? .

it will be le high

acres





http://www.wilmothgroup.com/blog/images/lehigh%20acre%20lots.jpg

[Screamin_Eagle174]

I'd put the O/U at 80. 45-35 EWU.

Also, articles updated.

[IBleedYellow]

EWU by 21.

Moto X

[frozennorth]

don't worry msu someone will still give you a consolation seed.

[Sammy94]

Eagles in this one. Bobcats can't win big games but they will somehow still end up with a seed.

[Grizalltheway]

Eagles in this one. Bobcats can't win big games but they will somehow still end up with a seed.

Not after the Griz beat them they won't.

[Walkon79]

SHSU nearly lost to SFA this past weekend....


Be quiet, top 5 teams are talking. xcoffeex

:)


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk HD

[Walkon79]

We've had more recent success against Eastern than anyone in the BSC the past three years. If not for a blocked punt and a pic 6 last year we are 3-0 with DeNarius at the helm.

Adams is arguably one of the best QB's in the country this year, but we have a great one as well, and arguably the best RB in the BSC.

And even though our defense is beat up right now, we're still going to slow Adams down more than the Griz did.

IMO the key question is can EWU's defense stop US.


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk HD

[bobcathpdevil56]

We've had more recent success against Eastern than anyone in the BSC the past three years. If not for a blocked punt and a pic 6 last year we are 3-0 with DeNarius at the helm.

Adams is arguably one of the best QB's in the country this year, but we have a great one as well, and arguably the best RB in the BSC.

And even though our defense is beat up right now, we're still going to slow Adams down more than the Griz did.

IMO the key question is can EWU's defense stop US.


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk HD

I agree.

The most intriguing match up is the Bobcat O v. the Eagle D, I believe this will ultimately answer the question of who wins

[Grizalltheway]

We've had more recent success against Eastern than anyone in the BSC the past three years. If not for a blocked punt and a pic 6 last year we are 3-0 with DeNarius at the helm.

Adams is arguably one of the best QB's in the country this year, but we have a great one as well, and arguably the best RB in the BSC.

And even though our defense is beat up right now, we're still going to slow Adams down more than the Griz did.

IMO the key question is can EWU's defense stop US.


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk HD

Just like you slowed down SFA's offense, amirite?

[robsnotes4u]

We've had more recent success against Eastern than anyone in the BSC the past three years. If not for a blocked punt and a pic 6 last year we are 3-0 with DeNarius at the helm.

Adams is arguably one of the best QB's in the country this year, but we have a great one as well, and arguably the best RB in the BSC.

And even though our defense is beat up right now, we're still going to slow Adams down more than the Griz did.

IMO the key question is can EWU's defense stop US.


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk HD

I think you hit the nail on the head. Whose defense comes out ahead.


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk HD

[robsnotes4u]

Just like you slowed down SFA's offense, amirite?

That is like saying why should the Griz show up to play MSU when the Cats crushed NAU and DM played three quarters, and the only touchdown for NAU was a pick six, Baumann had under 30 yards and the Griz were beat handily.

I know the Griz had an off day and NAU got lucky, maybe that is what happened in the MSU game. At least you can say you had your starting QB in the loss.

Weak statement from you that doesn't carry much weight.


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk HD

[Grizalltheway]

That is like saying why should the Griz show up to play MSU when the Cats crushed NAU and DM played three quarters, and the only touchdown for NAU was a pick six, Baumann had under 30 yards and the Griz were beat handily.

I know the Griz had an off day and NAU got lucky, maybe that is what happened in the MSU game. At least you can say you had your starting QB in the loss.

Weak statement from you that doesn't carry much weight.


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk HD

I see you've adopted the cat fan habit of blaming their D giving up 52 points on not having their starting QB.xlolx

The point I'm trying to make is that since facing a very potent offense in SFA, the cats have played the 10th, 9th, 13th, 11th and 8th ranked offenses in the conference. It will be interesting to see how they do against a prolific offense, the likes of which they haven't seen since September.

[robsnotes4u]

I see you've adopted the cat fan habit of blaming their D giving up 52 points on not having their starting QB.xlolx

The point I'm trying to make is that since facing a very potent offense in SFA, the cats have played the 10th, 9th, 13th, 11th and 8th ranked offenses in the conference. It will be interesting to see how they do against a prolific offense, the likes of which they haven't seen since September.

Not at all I was cutting off the excuse of the Griz having a bad day. MSU just got beat by a better team that day. SFA has one hell of a QB, look at how many yards he had against SHSU last weekend.

I respect your opinion. It will be interesting this weekend. Both Montana teams have tough games, and I think MSU has a tougher finish.

A lot of things could happen by the time the Montana teams play


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk HD

[kalm]

I see you've adopted the cat fan habit of blaming their D giving up 52 points on not having their starting QB.xlolx

The point I'm trying to make is that since facing a very potent offense in SFA, the cats have played the 10th, 9th, 13th, 11th and 8th ranked offenses in the conference. It will be interesting to see how they do against a prolific offense, the likes of which they haven't seen since September.

And getting out-gained by UNC and Weber, giving up 382 and 497 respectively.

[Sammy94]

SFA has one hell of a QB, look at how many yards he had against SHSU last weekend.

I think its been very clear that when teams get way behind against Sam, the passing stats go way up.

[robsnotes4u]

I think its been very clear that when teams get way behind against Sam, the passing stats go way up.

True in a lot of games


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk HD

[MSUBobcat]

I see you've adopted the cat fan habit of blaming their D giving up 52 points on not having their starting QB.xlolx

The point I'm trying to make is that since facing a very potent offense in SFA, the cats have played the 10th, 9th, 13th, 11th and 8th ranked offenses in the conference. It will be interesting to see how they do against a prolific offense, the likes of which they haven't seen since September.

I get what you are saying. But the D gave up 45 points in that game (not 52), was put in a bad spot after 2 INT's (on their own 35 and 13 respectively), MSU settled for a FG after recovering at the SFA 16, and had an uncharacteristic 11 drives that ended in 3 and out or only 1 first down before a punt or INT. It's fairly safe to say that if even a few of those short drives were extended an extra set of downs, SFA scores one less TD probably. And maybe McGhee gets them into the endzone from the 16 instead of a FG. All I'm saying is that game may have been quite different if McGhee had played. We'll never know.

[Screamin_Eagle174]

We've had more recent success against Eastern than anyone in the BSC the past three years. If not for a blocked punt and a pic 6 last year we are 3-0 with DeNarius at the helm.

Adams is arguably one of the best QB's in the country this year, but we have a great one as well, and arguably the best RB in the BSC.

And even though our defense is beat up right now, we're still going to slow Adams down more than the Griz did.

IMO the key question is can EWU's defense stop US.


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk HD


A couple points. MSU slowing down our offense better than the Griz isn't saying much, considering our offense was and is like a formula one car. Further, slowing us down is not stopping us. Neither defense will "stop" the opposing offense. They will get a handful of stops, but I'd imagine they'd be few and far between. However, considering how MSU's offense and defense has played the last three weeks and over the course of the season, EWU will stop MSU's offense more than MSU will stop EWU's. I think EWU will look to exploit a soft interior of the Bobcat's DL with some runs, then take the top off when they catch MSU stacking the box. I also think McGhee not being at 100% will play a factor, although I wish it didn't. It would be nice to have both teams at full strength.

[dudeitsaid]

EWU will stop MSU's offense more than MSU will stop EWU's.

I hope that is true. Our defensive injuries are very concerning, and we are having to pull people out of positions to fill our secondary. Both D's are banged up, but we are using corners and redshirts at safety, and could be exposed somewhat. MSU has had great success against EWU the past three years, and aside from a bonehead roughing the kicker penalty that gave us a first down last year that really turned the momentum in our favor, they likely would have won last year too. Overall, EWU historically has owned MSU, even when we weren't that good, but as of late, they have had our number.

That being said, I think EWU wins a thriller at the end, probably in OT.

[Screamin_Eagle174]

I hope that is true. Our defensive injuries are very concerning, and we are having to pull people out of positions to fill our secondary. Both D's are banged up, but we are using corners and redshirts at safety, and could be exposed somewhat. MSU has had great success against EWU the past three years, and aside from a bonehead roughing the kicker penalty that gave us a first down last year that really turned the momentum in our favor, they likely would have won last year too. Overall, EWU historically has owned MSU, even when we weren't that good, but as of late, they have had our number.

That being said, I think EWU wins a thriller at the end, probably in OT.

All good points, but MSU's strength on offense (running the ball) plays right into our strength (and health) on defense. Our front 7 has been pretty good in conference play ranking right near the top. Granted our last three opponents (MSU, CP, and PSU) all rank among the best at running the ball, so I guess we'll see. But how we performed against the Griz run game was telling, I thought. Also, McGhee and MSU's passing offense hasn't been so hot since he got hurt. Their OL might be better than it was last year, but I think we can still get plenty of pressure on him and force him into more mistakes than we make. Regardless, it should be an exciting game.

[Bison Fan in NW MN]

If this was in Bozeman I would give the Cats a chance but no way on the road.

IMO, Montana State is one of the most over-rated teams in the country....paper tiger.

EWU will win this by 2-3 TDs. Plus the Griz will beat them. Then IF they squeak out a 1st round win they will come to Fargo and get an epic beatdown like in '10...but worse....xlolx

[D1A]

Lots of paper tigers in the BSC every year

[Walkon79]

Firstly huge rivalry happens every year.

Win is a win. Something neither of your teams can say against SHSU.

Maybe you should worry about making the playoffs on your end and stay out of a discussion that doesn't concern you. Nobody else started to talk about Sam except for Sam fans.

[Walkon79]

Looks like I'm strongly in the minority, but I just think our defense makes more stops and creates more turnovers on Satuday than the Eagles D does.

Also look out for special teams, both on the positive and negative side. Our kicking game sucks right now, but we have more than made up for it in the return game. Shon Johnson is the x-factor for the Bobcats.

[fmrbearkat]

SHSU nearly lost to SFA this past weekend....


Be quiet, top 5 teams are talking. xcoffeex

Shh....Unanimous 2 years running big sky champions are giving insight.

Eagles are a better team than what they showed in Huntsville. Good running game to go along with a great set of recievers and athletic quaterback. Defense is serviceable with a very athletic Dline which is underated. Secondary is athletic and really fast but can be beaten by good route running if MSU has the athletes to do it and gives DM some time.

Daly will have his work cut out for him chasing adams around. Strong linebackers will limit the run unless adams and the recievers start hitting big plays and get them on their heels. I don't think there is enough talent in MSU's secondary to cover all those recievers. You may stop two of them but that 3rd and 4th are going to be a matchup problem for MSU. Then when that happens the run game will start to go for EWU.

It will be closer than it should since its a conference game and unless EWU makes quite a few mistakes then they will win by double digits.

[catbob]

MSU probably doesn't have an NC team this year, but I think they have a team capable of making a run in the playoffs. Tomorrow will answer that.

We are better on the OL than we have been for a few years, and the guys are all frosh and sophs, with one junior. They have been getting better as the year has gone on. They have had their ups and downs, but I am excited to see them play together in the following years.

Our offense is adequate. Kirk is a workhorse and Johnson is a homerun hitter who can also bounce around too much behind the line of scrimmage. We have a great possession receiver in Tanner Bleskin but outside of him no real gamechangers at the WR spot. McGhee is McGhee but sometimes he can only do so much, and sometimes he tries too hard and forces things. He is better at that this year than he ever has been, but he isn't throwing particularly well since his injury.

Defensively we are small along the interior DL, but have good pass rushing ends. Teams have had success just running straight up the gut on us, or off tackle. Our LBs are are good but haven't been playing great - missing too many tackles in space and not getting off blocks as well as I'd like.

Our secondary might be the strength of the defense surprisingly. Flowers and Gords have been playing just about as well as anyone in the conference, and Marshall has stepped up for Barnett after he went down, and Bethley was playing at an all-conference level before his injury which required a cast, which I heard finally comes off this week (or was that Gords, can't remember).

I think the Cats have the tools and coaching to slow the EWU attack, but probably not under 28 points. And I think the Cats have the weapons to score in the 30s. If the Cats win I think it will be something like 37-34, and if the Eagles win I think it will be more like 42-31.

[Grizalltheway]

Shh....Unanimous 2 years running big sky champions are giving insight.

Eagles are a better team than what they showed in Huntsville. Good running game to go along with a great set of recievers and athletic quaterback. Defense is serviceable with a very athletic Dline which is underated. Secondary is athletic and really fast but can be beaten by good route running if MSU has the athletes to do it and gives DM some time.

Daly will have his work cut out for him chasing adams around. Strong linebackers will limit the run unless adams and the recievers start hitting big plays and get them on their heels. I don't think there is enough talent in MSU's secondary to cover all those recievers. You may stop two of them but that 3rd and 4th are going to be a matchup problem for MSU. Then when that happens the run game will start to go for EWU.

It will be closer than it should since its a conference game and unless EWU makes quite a few mistakes then they will win by double digits.

Just so y'all know, I think the Southland has a looong way to go just to even its all-time record against the Big Sky. Carry on.

[fmrbearkat]

Just so y'all know, I think the Southland has a looong way to go just to even its all-time record against the Big Sky. Carry on.

Soley because of the early 2000's when we had to come to WaGriz in December and get our asses handed to us!! Yes I'm bitter xbadx But it was a hell of an experience I will never forget. Although it does seem to me like the big sky has even farther to go to even its record in Huntsville TX. Yall are 0 for how many.....including the Grizz 2004 regular season loss :D

[catbob]

Soley because of the early 2000's when we had to come to WaGriz in December and get our asses handed to us!! Yes I'm bitter xbadx But it was a hell of an experience I will never forget. Although it does seem to me like the big sky has even farther to go to even its record in Huntsville TX. Yall are 0 for how many.....including the Grizz 2004 regular season loss :D

The Bobcats just seem to struggle with wherever a majority of the out of state players are from. For years it was CA, and now it's Texas. SHSU, SFA, SMU, can't buy a game down there.

[Grizalltheway]

Soley because of the early 2000's when we had to come to WaGriz in December and get our asses handed to us!! Yes I'm bitter xbadx But it was a hell of an experience I will never forget. Although it does seem to me like the big sky has even farther to go to even its record in Huntsville TX. Yall are 0 for how many.....including the Grizz 2004 regular season loss :D


Not just SHSU, several Southland teams have gotten the Wa-Griz in December treatment. xnodx

[fmrbearkat]

Not just SHSU, several Southland teams have gotten the Wa-Griz in December treatment. xnodx

I prefer the September in Bower's treatment!! Nice and quiet sunny 95 degree day with 80% humidity. Opposing team players puking on the field or jogging back to the huddle and mysteriosly sustaining an "injury" xthumbsupx Seems to me you would enjoy the warm weather over the frigid temps in the North West. Our bluehairs love the weather...easy on thier bones!!

[BisonFan02]

I prefer the September in Bower's treatment!! Nice and quiet sunny 95 degree day with 80% humidity. Opposing team players puking on the field or jogging back to the huddle and mysteriosly sustaining an "injury" xthumbsupx Seems to me you would enjoy the warm weather over the frigid temps in the North West. Our bluehairs love the weather...easy on thier bones!!

This was fun for me anyway! Haha


http://youtu.be/oTx__3AIusw

[fmrbearkat]

This was fun for me anyway! Haha


http://youtu.be/oTx__3AIusw

We sucked that year. Don't even know how we made that a good game except that yall weren't that good either. We couldv'e been a whole lot better though. Had the talent but when your head coach drinks more than the players you tend to lose discipline.

[Screamin_Eagle174]

Shh....Unanimous 2 years running national runner-ups are giving insight.

Eagles are a better team than what they showed in Huntsville. Good running game to go along with a great set of recievers and athletic quaterback. Defense is serviceable with a very athletic Dline which is underated. Secondary is athletic and really fast but can be beaten by good route running if MSU has the athletes to do it and gives DM some time.

Daly will have his work cut out for him chasing adams around. Strong linebackers will limit the run unless adams and the recievers start hitting big plays and get them on their heels. I don't think there is enough talent in MSU's secondary to cover all those recievers. You may stop two of them but that 3rd and 4th are going to be a matchup problem for MSU. Then when that happens the run game will start to go for EWU.

It will be closer than it should since its a conference game and unless EWU makes quite a few mistakes then they will win by double digits.

I agree with everything you said. xthumbsupx

[Texas]

Let's be honest neither team has any chance to win the Natty much less make an appearance.

All Big Sky wants for Christmas is SHSU on the other side of the bracket.

[Grizalltheway]

Let's be honest neither team has any chance to win the Natty much less make an appearance.

All Big Sky wants for Christmas is SHSU on the other side of the bracket.

Yep, about as much chance as Sammie has of winning a NC in the next 10 or 15 years.

[Texas]

Yep, about as much chance as Griz being relevant in the next 10 or 15 years.
FTFY

[Grizalltheway]

FTFY

Sorry buddy Flanders is gone next year and so is your shot at winning the big one. It's okay, you had a decent run while it lasted.
http://img.gawkerassets.com/img/18j4mw9dth7l2jpg/k-bigpic.jpg

[Texas]

Sorry buddy Flanders is gone next year and so is your shot at winning the big one. It's okay, you had a decent run while it lasted.
http://img.gawkerassets.com/img/18j4mw9dth7l2jpg/k-bigpic.jpg

Aw look at you busting out that shirt like Montana beat us. So cute.

Flanders gone ok? Keep banking on that as the demise of SHSU.

[putter]

Sorry buddy Flanders is gone next year and so is your shot at winning the big one. It's okay, you had a decent run while it lasted.
http://img.gawkerassets.com/img/18j4mw9dth7l2jpg/k-bigpic.jpg

Still love that they printed the ...We came in 2nd...shirts!

[moosbah]

Aw look at you busting out that shirt like Montana beat us. So cute.

Flanders gone ok? Keep banking on that as the demise of SHSU.

You won't win a natty as long as Barney Fife is your QB.

[Walkon79]

Can't all you Griz, Bearkats and Bison just go AWAY for a few days, unless you can stay on-topic!

This is about EWU and MSU!!!

The AGS GAME OF THE WEEK!

[moosbah]

Can't all you Griz, Bearkats and Bison just go AWAY for a few days, unless you can stay on-topic!

This is about EWU and MSU!!!

The AGS GAME OF THE WEEK!

lol. Sorry, got sidetracked.

I'll say red turf kids by 10.

[Walkon79]

lol. Sorry, got sidetracked.

I'll say red turf kids by 10.

Thanks!

[Walkon79]

I got absolutely -0- done today at work!! Time for a beer!!

Hey Eagles be nice to the MSU kids coming over tonight and tomorrow. One of them is mine although at 6'4" and 270, he can probably fend for himself!!

[Screamin_Eagle174]

Let's be honest neither team has any chance to win the Natty much less make an appearance.

All Big Sky wants for Christmas is SHSU on the other side of the bracket.
xlolx

Had Adams played the whole game last year, Spam Houston would've gotten their clocks cleaned, and EWU would have two NCs. We know how to win the big one once we get there, unlike you choke artists. xthumbsupx

[Texas]

xlolx

Had Adams played the whole game last year, Spam Houston would've gotten their clocks cleaned, and EWU would have two NCs. We know how to win the big one once we get there, unlike you choke artists. xthumbsupx

Yeah? Guess what he had the whole game and his clock was throughly cleaned. Next.

[kalm]

Yeah? Guess what he had the whole game and his clock was throughly cleaned. Next.

What did he have the whole game?

[Texas]

What did he have the whole game?

http://espn.go.com/ncf/boxscore?id=332712534

He played the whole game did he not?

[kalm]

http://espn.go.com/ncf/boxscore?id=332712534

He played the whole game did he not?

Oh...gotcha.. I was confused by your attempt at smack. Who are you guys playing this week?

[Screamin_Eagle174]

http://espn.go.com/ncf/boxscore?id=332712534

He played the whole game did he not?

Reading comprehension... you have none.


xlolx

Had Adams played the whole game last year, Spam Houston would've gotten their clocks cleaned, and EWU would have two NCs. We know how to win the big one once we get there, unlike you choke artists. xthumbsupx

[Texas]

Last year I recall a SHSU win? Face it you are grasping because Adams had his chance against a weaker D and still got stomped.

[Screamin_Eagle174]

Last year I recall a SHSU win? Face it you are grasping because Adams had his chance against a weaker D and still got stomped.
Our offense wasn't the problem this year, it was the defense. Will SHSU even win the SLC this year? Seems to me that SELA has you ladies over a barrel.

[Texas]

Our offense wasn't the problem this year, it was the defense. Will SHSU even win the SLC this year? Seems to me that SELA has you ladies over a barrel.

Yep not everyone can be in a cupcake conference. Montana St lost to SFA and EWU got pummeled by SHSU.

[robsnotes4u]

Yep not everyone can be in a cupcake conference. Montana St lost to SFA and EWU got pummeled by SHSU.

Hmm how many yards to SFA put on SHSU? Let's compare MSU and SHSU with SFA
SFA vs MSU 567 total yards for SFA
SFA vs SHSU 742 yards (505 passing)

Not much to brag about, looks like SHSU might have got lucky and caught EWU on a bad day


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[ALPHAGRIZ1]

Chilly and a little fog here this morning in Cheney

Good huntin weather

[clawman]

That is like saying why should the Griz show up to play MSU when the Cats crushed NAU and DM played three quarters, and the only touchdown for NAU was a pick six, Baumann had under 30 yards and the Griz were beat handily.

I know the Griz had an off day and NAU got lucky, maybe that is what happened in the MSU game. At least you can say you had your starting QB in the loss.

Weak statement from you that doesn't carry much weight.


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I think the point is DM does not play defense yet SFA rang up over 50 points.

[fmrbearkat]

Hmm how many yards to SFA put on SHSU? Let's compare MSU and SHSU with SFA
SFA vs MSU 567 total yards for SFA
SFA vs SHSU 742 yards (505 passing)

Not much to brag about, looks like SHSU might have got lucky and caught EWU on a bad day


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You cleverly left out that we had close to 600 yards and 56 points. Hmm....why does that sound familiar? Well we scored 49 points against EWU but we kneeled the ball with well over a minute left at your 6 yard line! I've been very fair to EWU but any EAstern fan that that wants to talk **** to us after the way we stomped your asses the last 2 years is insane! And I don't really know how SELA has us bent over anywhere? We haven't played them yet and if somehow we do lose we're still in the playoffs. Who knows a loss to them might even give us a couple cupcake games in the BSC!! Wouldn't that be fun :-)

[Bison Fan in NW MN]

You cleverly left out that we had close to 600 yards and 56 points. Hmm....why does that sound familiar? Well we scored 49 points against EWU but we kneeled the ball with well over a minute left at your 6 yard line! I've been very fair to EWU but any EAstern fan that that wants to talk **** to us after the way we stomped your asses the last 2 years is insane! And I don't really know how SELA has us bent over anywhere? We haven't played them yet and if somehow we do lose we're still in the playoffs. Who knows a loss to them might even give us a couple cupcake games in the BSC!! Wouldn't that be fun :-)


SHSU's defense is down this year compared to the last couple of years but I would take the Kats in any game against a BSC opponent in the playoffs this year.....and it will most likely happen with the BSC getting probably 4 teams in.

[robsnotes4u]

You cleverly left out that we had close to 600 yards and 56 points. Hmm....why does that sound familiar? Well we scored 49 points against EWU but we kneeled the ball with well over a minute left at your 6 yard line! I've been very fair to EWU but any EAstern fan that that wants to talk **** to us after the way we stomped your asses the last 2 years is insane! And I don't really know how SELA has us bent over anywhere? We haven't played them yet and if somehow we do lose we're still in the playoffs. Who knows a loss to them might even give us a couple cupcake games in the BSC!! Wouldn't that be fun :-)

Not an EWU fan. Just stating the facts, by the way what was the TO margin in the SFA game?


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[slostang]

DVR set to record.

[robsnotes4u]

I think the point is DM does not play defense yet SFA rang up over 50 points.

That is far from correct, a good offense, which means your field General helps to keep your defense off the field. There is a difference on both sides of the ball when your captain isn't in the battle with you, physically and mentally


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[Screamin_Eagle174]

Chilly and a little fog here this morning in Cheney

Good huntin weather

You better have my $50...

[ALPHAGRIZ1]

You can put it toward medical bills................say hi to the guy you have been *****ing with for me.

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[Screamin_Eagle174]

You can put it toward medical bills................say hi to the guy you have been *****ing with for me.

Sent from my DROID BIONIC using Tapatalk

? You mean you're not going to show?

[ALPHAGRIZ1]

The guy you have been ****ing with is there. The guy you are stalking on Facebook isn't........enjoy

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[Screamin_Eagle174]

I haven't been ****ing with or stalking anyone, unlike you. Figured you wouldn't show... coward.

[Go Lehigh TU owl]

Tied at 7-7 ABOUT 7:30 1Q

[tomq04]

Any chance for a stream? I can't find one... wish i was in cheney right now!

[tomq04]

Vernon sure looking strong, rb's all getting love...not sure whats up with the PAT's. Was that last one an intentional fake? The radio guy made it sound like a fumbled snap.

[Bisonator]

Score? Time?

[Hammersmith]

Score? Time?

26-21 EWU
11:40 3Q

Make that
33-21 EWU
11:30 3Q

[Go Lehigh TU owl]

TD EWU....

33-21 EWU..

[tomq04]

MSU just missed a field goal attempt, score stays same. Some time left in the 3rd quarter, maybe 5 minutes?

[Go Lehigh TU owl]

TD EWU! This might get ugly....MSU simply lacks playmakers/speed...

40-21 EWU 4:00 3Q...

[Screamin_Eagle174]

LongTimeCatFan owes me beer

[Go Lehigh TU owl]

TD MSU! A long time consuming drive but it ends in points....

40-30 EWU 12:52 4Q

[Go Lehigh TU owl]

TD EWU! Adams is inanely good...

47-28 EWU

[Go Lehigh TU owl]

EWU holds MSU on 4th down.

Until Ash can recruit speed on offense MSU is going to be stuck in Top 10-20 purgatory. Outside of Johnson no one as any ability to stretch the field. I know I've sounded like a broken record the last two years but it's painfully obvious watching them play every week.

[Go Lehigh TU owl]

TD EWU!!

54-29 Eagles, this is men vs boys....

[Silenoz]

Cat-Griz, matchup of the two most dysfunctional teams in all the land

[bobcathpdevil56]

Cat-Griz, matchup of the two most dysfunctional teams in all the land

Amen. Oh well

[dudeitsaid]

What a game! Did not expect a score like this. Sounds like the EWU players did either. Vernon Adams and Cooper Kupp are on a tear! And the running game has found some legs. We are finally running more balanced offense, but the passing attack may be the best we've had. VA and KC both are close to, and currently breaking all kinds of EWU, Big Sky, and potentially FCS records in the passing game. Adams maybe another future EWU Payton Award winner? Next season maybe?

Good luck to the Bobcats. Nothing but the best of wishes for you guys in the playoffs (unless you end up playing us again at some point!). McGee, Kirk, and Daly are extremely impressive!

[bobcathpdevil56]

What a game! Did not expect a score like this. Sounds like the EWU players did either. Vernon Adams and Cooper Kupp are on a tear! And the running game has found some legs. We are finally running more balanced offense, but the passing attack may be the best we've had. VA and KC both are close to, and currently breaking all kinds of EWU, Big Sky, and potentially FCS records in the passing game. Adams maybe another future EWU Payton Award winner? Next season maybe?

Good luck to the Bobcats. Nothing but the best of wishes for you guys in the playoffs (unless you end up playing us again at some point!). McGee, Kirk, and Daly are extremely impressive!

Good luck to the Eagles

[Red & Black]

VA and KC both are close to, and currently breaking all kinds of EWU, Big Sky, and potentially FCS records in the passing game. Adams maybe another future EWU Payton Award winner? Next season maybe?

Why next year? Why not this year? He was 16/18 passing yesterday with 4 TD's plus 79 yards on the ground and another TD. Also has been leading the subdivision all season in pass efficiency, 39 passing TD's on the season and will most likely break the Big Sky regular season record for that. Huge numbers in a win over an Ap top 25. Not sure what else he needs to do to win it. I don't think there is a better offensive player in FCS, although I am obviously alittle biased.

[Red & Black]

Yep not everyone can be in a cupcake conference. Montana St lost to SFA and EWU got pummeled by SHSU.

It should be an interesting game next season when Sam plays up in WA without Flanders, et al, while EWU returns just about everybody on offense. Something tells me the result
might be a little different that the past 2 years. Really looking forward to that one.

[robsnotes4u]

It should be an interesting game next season when Sam plays up in WA without Flanders, et al, while EWU returns just about everybody on offense. Something tells me the result
might be a little different that the past 2 years. Really looking forward to that one.

I want to see a rematch this year in the playoffs.


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[Red & Black]

I want to see a rematch this year in the playoffs.


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I wouldn't mind that either. SHSU sure has had our number the past couple of seasons. It'd be nice to get that monkey off our backs, and at home I think we'd fair a little better than earlier this season.

[Houndawg]

Why next year? Why not this year? He was 16/18 passing yesterday with 4 TD's plus 79 yards on the ground and another TD. Also has been leading the subdivision all season in pass efficiency, 39 passing TD's on the season and will most likely break the Big Sky regular season record for that. Huge numbers in a win over an Ap top 24. Not sure what else he needs to do to win it. I don't think there is a better offensive player in FCS, although I am obviously alittle biased.

I think the Payton Is EIU's QB's to lose.

[Red & Black]

I think the Payton Is EIU's QB's to lose.

Why?


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[dudeitsaid]

Why next year? Why not this year? He was 16/18 passing yesterday with 4 TD's plus 79 yards on the ground and another TD. Also has been leading the subdivision all season in pass efficiency, 39 passing TD's on the season and will most likely break the Big Sky regular season record for that. Huge numbers in a win over an Ap top 25. Not sure what else he needs to do to win it. I don't think there is a better offensive player in FCS, although I am obviously alittle biased.

I agree, he very well could do it this season, especially if he finishes strong. Honestly, with Garoppolo being a senior, and leading the FCS in several statistical categories himself, the pessimist in me says they will give it to him as Adams will have two more chances. Especially if Garoppolo finishes strong as well. Other than that, I agree, Adams is having a season for the ages!

[Red & Black]

I agree, he very well could do it this season, especially if he finishes strong. Honestly, with Garoppolo being a senior, and leading the FCS in several statistical categories himself, the pessimist in me says they will give it to him as Adams will have two more chances. Especially if Garoppolo finishes strong as well. Other than that, I agree, Adams is having a season for the ages!

Could be that Garoppolo wins it due to more yards passing, but I am wondering if anyone actually believes that he is a better all-around player than Adams.

On EIU, I think there's a decent chance they get exposed in the playoffs. They have a nice win over San Diego State, but generally speaking haven't really played as difficult a schedule as a team from the MVFV, Big Sky, CAA, etc. That won't prevent their QB from winning some awards, though.


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[Go Lehigh TU owl]

Adams is the best QB I've seen in a few years. The kid is ridiculous! He's Armanti Edwards and Rocky Butler rolled into one....

[dudeitsaid]

Adams is the best QB I've seen in a few years. The kid is ridiculous! He's Armanti Edwards and Rocky Butler rolled into one....

What's amazing is he is another in a decent line of strong QB's at EWU, with Meyer, Nichols, and Mitchell all recent studs as well. Hope we can keep the QB tradition going for many years. But for now, it's sweet to know VA is just a sophomore!

[veinup]

edited: nevermind, i shouldnt be a dick.

[Catbooster]

Congrats, EWU. I went to the game, had fun (other than the game itself). Definitely the better team won. I thought the teams were evenly matched but we'd pull out the win. Ummm....not so muchxbowx Good luck the rest of the way.

I enjoyed the game in Cheney. The fans were friendly. Definitely seemed like a growing game-day crowd/excitement - should be an exciting time for Eagle fans. Although I don't like the red field, everyone was right - it's not as bad in real life as on tv.

Personally, the red field and the track make it not the greatest place to go for a game, but I suspect it's only a matter of time before the track is gone. It seems like the gateway project has big plans and the fans are excited about football, so congrats not only on the game but on the general direction of things at Cheney.

[Red & Black]

Congrats, EWU. I went to the game, had fun (other than the game itself). Definitely the better team won. I thought the teams were evenly matched but we'd pull out the win. Ummm....not so muchxbowx Good luck the rest of the way.

I enjoyed the game in Cheney. The fans were friendly. Definitely seemed like a growing game-day crowd/excitement - should be an exciting time for Eagle fans. Although I don't like the red field, everyone was right - it's not as bad in real life as on tv.

Personally, the red field and the track make it not the greatest place to go for a game, but I suspect it's only a matter of time before the track is gone. It seems like the gateway project has big plans and the fans are excited about football, so congrats not only on the game but on the general direction of things at Cheney.

Thanks man. Good luck to the Cats the rest of the way.

[Walkon79]

We couldn't make ONE STOP!!!

Hats off to Vernon and Co.!


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