2021 Fall Quarterfinal: South Dakota State @ #5 Villanova

[Professor Chaos]

These two met in the 2016 playoffs in what was a 10-7 SDSU win but that was at SDSU and this one will be at Villanova. Game kicks off at 2PM ET on Saturday 12/11 and will be streamable on ESPN+.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51728782771_a0100d7d96_z.jpg

[putter]

I have only watched Villanova's game with Holy Cross. Despite being shut out in the second half I think SDSU is too physical for Nova.

[ysubigred]

I have only watched Villanova's game with Holy Cross. Despite being shut out in the second half I think SDSU is too physical for Nova.SDSU by 11

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[mmiller_34]

Villanova by a million

[Professor Chaos]

2PM ET kickoff on Saturday 12/11 per Dom Izzo's twitter.

[Go Lehigh TU owl]

No Villanova hoops game on Saturday and Army vs Navy is at the Meadowlands this year. Hopefully another good turnout on the Main Line. Philly needs all the positive college football mojo they can get....

[Chalupa Batman]

Eck is going to have his own personal reckoning like Roehl had after the Marker game for the Bunnies to make it much further. They may still be able to sneak by Villanova but they won't go any further if he keeps getting cute like tonight.

[JacksFan40]

I have only watched Villanova's game with Holy Cross. Despite being shut out in the second half I think SDSU is too physical for Nova.
You’ll change your mind when you see the brilliant SDSU play calling of not running the damn ball on 1st and 2nd down.

[acbearkat]

You’ll change your mind when you see the brilliant SDSU play calling of not running the damn ball on 1st and 2nd down.

[emoji38]


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[Gangtackle11]

Welcome Jackrabbits to the Main Line!! I was at the 10-7 loss in 2016 & plan on being there next Saturday. Safe travels to all making the trip.

True Nova football fans know this is a tall task for the ‘Cats, but if they play their “A” game it should be competitive. xpeacex

[Pards Rule]

Welcome Jackrabbits to the Main Line!! I was at the 10-7 loss in 2016 & plan on being there next Saturday. Safe travels to all making the trip.

True Nova football fans know this is a tall task for the ‘Cats, but if they play their “A” game it should be competitive. xpeacex

Good luck to the Cats! Cats vs Jacks! Wow that previous playoff was 5 years ago this month!

[Bison Fan in NW MN]

You’ll change your mind when you see the brilliant SDSU play calling of not running the damn ball on 1st and 2nd down.


This here.

Run Davis/Strong until the defense stops it.....period!!

[caribbeanhen]

Welcome Jackrabbits to the Main Line!! I was at the 10-7 loss in 2016 & plan on being there next Saturday. Safe travels to all making the trip.

True Nova football fans know this is a tall task for the ‘Cats, but if they play their “A” game it should be competitive. xpeacex

bye week helps

home game helps

It looked like South Dakota State took a physical beating in the second half of their game last night, a few players were down on turf for a bit, the MVFC grinder and playing all the games this spring might be starting too add up

Find Smith and yank those Dollar Store ear rings out, keep the physical play on em for 4 quarters and Nova has a shot to win this game

oh, send memo to OC about Hayak

[Professor Chaos]

bye week helps

home game helps

It looked like South Dakota State took a physical beating in the second half of their game last night, a few players were down on turf for a bit, the MVFC grinder and playing all the games this spring might be starting too add up

Find Smith and yank those Dollar Store ear rings out, keep the physical play on em for 4 quarters and Nova has a shot to win this game

oh, send memo to OC about Hayak
It will be SDSU's 24th game in the past 10 months when this one kicks off.

[letsgonova00]

It will be SDSU's 24th game in the past 10 months when this one kicks off.

That's a bonkers stat. I know they are 19-22 year olds, but that takes a toll on anyone.

[Nova09]

Talley's Revenge!

Jacks sent him packing for good after his first trip to the Rushmore state was his last loss ever. Ferrante will look to avenge his mentor as the Jacks come to the mainline for their first time (not gonna bother looking if they've come to the city or brotherly love or elsewhere in this keystone state).

For a little bit of our history I see in these jacks: 2008 we had to go on the road for the quarters specifically because we lost a game on a hail mary. Being on the road proved costly as we lost our lead and the game on the final drive. Now our crowd is no bridgeforh, but hopefully the comforts of home give us the extra something we need to pull out a close one.

I'm not making a prediction bc both of these teams have shown a knack for inconsistency, so who knows not only who shows up but who crashes and burns from one drive to the next. I will say my analysis is sdsu is slightly better overall team, and slightly more consistent. So that would indicate edge to them, but I do like (as a fan, not necessarily for our sake) the strength on strength Jacks run vs nova d.

[caribbeanhen]

It will be SDSU's 24th game in the past 10 months when this one kicks off.

Yep, I think it’s starting to catch up with them, maybe Sammy as well.

South Dakota State started game really strong obviously but seemed to wear down in second half

[Daytripper]

Yep, I think it’s starting to catch up with them, maybe Sammy as well.

South Dakota State started game really strong obviously but seemed to wear down in second half

This is where playing a "weaker" schedule may help us. Also, we had two bye weeks. Still a lot of punishment in a calendar year.

[caribbeanhen]

This is where playing a "weaker" schedule may help us. Also, we had two bye weeks. Still a lot of punishment in a calendar year.

I kept asking myself yesterday as Schmid was taking a beating..... why are they relying on him to run ball so much, he is tough but might not get up eventually

[MR. CHICKEN]

32339
...AS STATED ABOVE.....SOUFF DAKOTAH STATE...IS LOSIN' STEAM.....AH'M GUESSIN' IT''LL BE DUH FREQUENT FLYER MILES......IT'S WHAA GOT MAINE...COUPLE YEARS AGO......'NOVA BYE DID 'EM NO FAVORS...AGIN'....HOLY COW.....'CEPT FO' R/R.........DEY'RE BACK TA GAME SPEED NOW..........NOT 'NUFF CARROTS....IN WABBITS...BAG O' TRIX....xsmhx.....BRAWK!

[Chalupa Batman]

This game looks like the ultimate wild card. As we saw last night SDSU can be incredibly inconsistent and we don't know which team is going to show up, even within a game. I haven't watched Villanova other than the Holy Cross game but I hear Daniel Smith can be very streaky which makes the Wildcats inconsistent as well. Could be a blowout either way, a well played classic, or a sloppy game that ends up being close.

[MavRabbitMatt]

It's going to be hard to watch, in part because of the low camera angle at Villanova's stadium. The HC/Villanova game was impossible to follow since it was like the camera was one guy standing on another's shoulders high. Ugh.

[SoDakSA]

These two met in the 2016 playoffs in what was a 10-7 SDSU win but that was at SDSU and this one will be at Villanova. Game kicks off at 2PM ET on Saturday 12/11 and will be streamable on ESPN+.

I'll also add a team stats breakdown when they're updated tomorrow.

I think SDSU will play much better at Villanova. As I said in the Sac State thread, SDSU just does not play well at home in big games against good teams. Unless that team is NDSU.

[katss07]

a potential matchup with Villanova freaks me out much more than a game against SDSU, so go big go blue go jacks!

[Professor Chaos]

The NCAA teams stats site finally got updated so I put the team stats comparison in the first post.

Also, SDSU opens as a 7.5 point favorite with an O/U of 51 on 5dimes (https://madduxsports.com/college-football-lines.php).

[Christiank22]

a potential matchup with Villanova freaks me out much more than a game against SDSU, so go big go blue go jacks!

This is definitely a troll post, no one would rather play SDSU over Villanova, especially a team that almost lost to Incarnate Word.

[crusader11]

Hard not to like South Dakota St in this one.

[Daytripper]

This is definitely a troll post, no one would rather play SDSU over Villanova, especially a team that almost lost to Incarnate Word.

He posted that at 1:42 am. Use that information in your evaluation.

[BNATION]

He posted that at 1:42 am. Use that information in your evaluation.

Been there, I think these two teams are closer in comparison than some are giving NOVA credit for. I watched their game with JMU, these kids can definitely play with SDSU who has been a little inconsistent.

[Gangtackle11]

Been there, I think these two teams are closer in comparison than some are giving NOVA credit for. I watched their game with JMU, these kids can definitely play with SDSU who has been a little inconsistent.

It all comes down to the Nova QB play. The defense has played well against all comers sans Penn State & even the Nittany Lions couldn't run the ball. I believe its also the last time any team scored a passing TD on Nova defense.

Now if you tell me that Nova can’t move the ball & our passing game is non-existent than eventually the defense will wear down & the Jacks will roll. Tbh, I can see it either way.

I’m hoping the 2019 version of Dan Smith is in the stadium on Saturday. That would make for a really entertaining game.

See you there! xpeacex

[Christiank22]

He posted that at 1:42 am. Use that information in your evaluation.

Fair point hahaha

[Professor Chaos]

I have a gut feeling that SDSU is going to put up a clunker this week. 2nd straight road game... seems like they're getting dinged up. Nova is pretty good at bottling up the run. Seems like both QBs are hit or miss so might come down do which one is on (or which one is less off).

I do know which team/QB is better at executing the 4th down hail mary heave out of bounds to run the clock out... ;)

[katss07]

He posted that at 1:42 am. Use that information in your evaluation.
It's 2021, not everyone operates on the same schedule.

[katss07]

This is definitely a troll post, no one would rather play SDSU over Villanova, especially a team that almost lost to Incarnate Word.
Chris Oladokun looked average in both of SDSU's playoff games. I know Daniel Smith isn't average. Would rather take my chances with a run first team. At least I know we have a chance to stop that.

Different opinion=trolling

[Chalupa Batman]

I have a gut feeling that SDSU is going to put up a clunker this week. 2nd straight road game... seems like they're getting dinged up. Nova is pretty good at bottling up the run. Seems like both QBs are hit or miss so might come down do which one is on (or which one is less off).

I do know which team/QB is better at executing the 4th down hail mary heave out of bounds to run the clock out... ;)

You could very well be right about another SDSU clunker. At some point the extra game and the travel is going to catch up with them but I think they are just too talented for Villanova and they'll sneak by this week.

Looking at the numbers I think Nova's run defensive statistics are pretty inflated. They opened the season against Patriot League foes Lehigh & Bucknell, who rank #124 & 125 respecitively (out of 128) nationally in rushing offense. The Wildcats held those 2 teams to a combined 9 rushing yards. They've played 4 teams ranked in the top 50 nationally in rushing offense in Wiliam & Mary, Holy Cross, Stony Brook, & JMU. In games not against Villanova those 4 averaged 188.7 rushing yards per game, against the Wildcats they were "held" to 172.5 rushing yards per game. And while they did do a good job against B1G Penn State, the Nittany Lions were ranked #118 out of 130 FBS teams in rushing yards so they're not really a run first team anyway.

SDSU is the highest ranked rushing offense Villanova will face yet this year and I expect they will have success on the ground. Villanova's only hope in containing the run IMO is that coach Eck gets too cute with the play calling like in the 2nd half against Sac State and decides to start throwing the ball all over the place.

[NY Crusader 2010]

No Villanova hoops game on Saturday and Army vs Navy is at the Meadowlands this year. Hopefully another good turnout on the Main Line. Philly needs all the positive college football mojo they can get....

Student turnout for Villanova was beyond awesome last Friday night. Wildcats can use all the help they can get from the 12th man next week. I think it's a close game if Villanova is able to open up the offense with some throws downfield. Smith was not hitting his spots against Holy Cross. To be fair, he was pressured all night despite the fact that we only ended up with 1 or 2 sacks. South Dakota State is going to score, one way or another, so IMO the onus is on the Villanova offense.

I see this as a close game next week. Decided within 8 points.

[NY Crusader 2010]

I think SDSU will play much better at Villanova. As I said in the Sac State thread, SDSU just does not play well at home in big games against good teams. Unless that team is NDSU.

You guys played pretty well in Frisco last year, especially given that your star frosh QB was knocked out in the 1st half.

[POD Knows]

This game isn’t going to be close. SDSU wins by a lot.

[POD Knows]

Oh and just to add. Villanova is a seed and at HOME and lowly SDSU is favored. WTF does that tell you.

[SU DOG]

Sleep on Oladokun at your own risk. This guy can elevate his game when it's needed the most.

[FUBeAR]

Oh and just to add. Villanova is a seed and at HOME and lowly SDSU is favored. WTF does that tell you.
It tells FUBeAR that the FCS Playoff Structure & FCS Playoff Committee’s Selection/Seeding/Bracketing processes are complete BS.

Exactly the same thing FUBeAR has been saying for weeks, but all these MVFC Fans & Big Sky Fans keep disagreeing with him. Reckon why that would be?

[Daytripper]

It tells FUBeAR that the FCS Playoff Structure & FCS Playoff Committee’s Selection/Seeding/Bracketing processes are complete BS.

Exactly the same thing FUBeAR has been saying for weeks, but all these MVFC Fans & Big Sky Fans keep disagreeing with him. Reckon why that would be?

Well, it also means that wins and losses matter. Sorry that the Jackrabbits play in the MVFC, but a 3 (fcs) loss team is not getting a seed.

[SoDakSA]

You guys played pretty well in Frisco last year, especially given that your star frosh QB was knocked out in the 1st half.

Exactly..road game

[Professor Chaos]

It tells FUBeAR that the FCS Playoff Structure & FCS Playoff Committee’s Selection/Seeding/Bracketing processes are complete BS.

Exactly the same thing FUBeAR has been saying for weeks, but all these MVFC Fans & Big Sky Fans keep disagreeing with him. Reckon why that would be?
Does that mean that the poll that you vote in is complete BS too since it had Nova in the exact same spot as the committee?


Well, it also means that wins and losses matter. Sorry that the Jackrabbits play in the MVFC, but a 3 (fcs) loss team is not getting a seed.
A 3 loss SDSU got a seed in 2016 and a 4 loss SDSU got a seed in 2019. It was just a tougher task to get into the top 8 this year. Dare I say SDSU wasn't even the biggest snub amongst the unseeded, I'd say EWU takes that honor.

[FUBeAR]

Does that mean that the poll that you vote in is complete BS too since it had Nova in the exact same spot as the committee?
No longer a voter. “Retired” after 2019 Season.

[uofmman1122]

A 3 loss SDSU got a seed in 2016 and a 4 loss SDSU got a seed in 2019. It was just a tougher task to get into the top 8 this year. Dare I say SDSU wasn't even the biggest snub amongst the unseeded, I'd say EWU takes that honor.
I don't want this to come off the wrong way, but it pretty much comes down to the Big Sky, as far as seeds go right now.

If the BSC has more than 2 or 3 decent teams, and they all don't play each other, the Big Sky is probably gonna get at least 2-3 seeds on the regular (fairly or unfairly).

For example, UC Davis was probably the single most overrated team in FCS this year, and if not for them having to play EWU, they likely would've also gotten a (completely undeserved) seed at 9-2.

If the Big Sky top teams all play each other, it's likely they only get one or two seeds, making it a lot more likely a 3-loss team gets a seed from another conference (but even then, who knows).

[caribbeanhen]

You could very well be right about another SDSU clunker. At some point the extra game and the travel is going to catch up with them but I think they are just too talented for Villanova and they'll sneak by this week.

Looking at the numbers I think Nova's run defensive statistics are pretty inflated. They opened the season against Patriot League foes Lehigh & Bucknell, who rank #124 & 125 respecitively (out of 128) nationally in rushing offense. The Wildcats held those 2 teams to a combined 9 rushing yards. They've played 4 teams ranked in the top 50 nationally in rushing offense in Wiliam & Mary, Holy Cross, Stony Brook, & JMU. In games not against Villanova those 4 averaged 188.7 rushing yards per game, against the Wildcats they were "held" to 172.5 rushing yards per game. And while they did do a good job against B1G Penn State, the Nittany Lions were ranked #118 out of 130 FBS teams in rushing yards so they're not really a run first team anyway.

SDSU is the highest ranked rushing offense Villanova will face yet this year and I expect they will have success on the ground. Villanova's only hope in containing the run IMO is that coach Eck gets too cute with the play calling like in the 2nd half against Sac State and decides to start throwing the ball all over the place.

did you ever consider by “throwing the ball over the place” they might of been trying to keep the RBs fresh?

After all S Dak Dt will Live and Let Die with the RBs so the fresher the better

[smilo]

South Dakota State is an obvious top 3 team in the FCS, and I expect them to win by about 11, but I retain hope on the cross-country travel argument.

Villanova's offense just looks absolutely hopeless right now. The inexplicable wildcat plays in the Delaware game. The low percentage passes on first down from a QB who has had erratic accuracy this season in the Holy Cross game. And when you have no passing game and then try running on 2nd down, the halfbacks really can't get more than a couple yards.

Fortunately as others noted, the Jackrabbits had a bit of the same problem in the Sac State game. Lot of streakiness here. Daniel Smith has shown incredible ability to make in-game adjustments this season, but I don't think adjustments will be enough to come back against this team. He needs to play his A-game all four quarters. And the play-calling needs to take a major step forward.

[Chalupa Batman]

did you ever consider by “throwing the ball over the place” they might of been trying to keep the RBs fresh?

After all S Dak Dt will Live and Let Die with the RBs so the fresher the better

That would be a new one, all I've heard for years and years is that you keep running the ball to wear out the other team. I can maybe see this strategy if they still only had Pierre Strong, but with Isaiah Davis back (and fresh) that would be a very ineresting decision.

IMO the Jacks' best way to navigate the bracket and make it to Frisco, is to control the clock as much as possible to keep the defense as fresh as possible. Even if they don't gain any extra first downs, running the ball instead of passing on 1st & 2nd downs gets them a couple extra minutes TOP on top of the 32:16 that they had. That's around at least 8 extra plays that the defense isn't on the field. And if they gain a first down or three because it's 3rd & 5 instead of 3rd & 10 they could've easily gotten the TOP up to 37-38 minutes.

[caribbeanhen]

That would be a new one, all I've heard for years and years is that you keep running the ball to wear out the other team. I can maybe see this strategy if they still only had Pierre Strong, but with Isaiah Davis back (and fresh) that would be a very ineresting decision.

IMO the Jacks' best way to navigate the bracket and make it to Frisco, is to control the clock as much as possible to keep the defense as fresh as possible. Even if they don't gain any extra first downs, running the ball instead of passing on 1st & 2nd downs gets them a couple extra minutes TOP on top of the 32:16 that they had. That's around at least 8 extra plays that the defense isn't on the field. And if they gain a first down or three because it's 3rd & 5 instead of 3rd & 10 they could've easily gotten the TOP up to 37-38 minutes.

Just win baby

I've seen RB's get worn down as the season progresses, these players are taking a lot of hits on the legs, ankles and what not all year and it adds up especially for run heavy teams and compounded by the 24 games S Dak State has played this year

Now having said that, S Dak St being a team with 2 great RB's is not the best example but If you live by the run conserve those carries when you can for the next game

just a thought

[caribbeanhen]

Villanova has a excellent opportunity to pull a big upset for a few reasons

Let me say this, South Dakota State is the better team, however....

They have played 24 games this year, that is unprecedented ( I think all the xtra games might be wearing on Sammy some too)

They did not get a seed so they had no bye week like Nova did

while Nova was making sure the car doors were locked on the week off, South Dakota State had to play UC Davis and beat the overrated Aggies very soundly ... one extra game for them not gonna help this Saturday

Saturday night, they were on the Left Coast matched up against the 4 seed Sacramento State.... http://www.gohens.net/boards/images/smilies/icon_biggrin.gif They started that game like a fined tuned machine opening up a big lead, but that game turned around late in second quarter and the Rabbits really looked fatigued in the second half, but they did hold on for the win. They had several players down for extended periods of time.

Now, the have to travel to the East Coast and play on the road again, that's a lot of travel

The Nova Quarterback, Dime Store Daniel Smith is in a funk right now, not the player he was in 2019 but if he can find his mojo again Nova is going to be a threat to beat S Dak State. Why did I call him Dime Store? because of the cheap dangly ear rings he was sporting in the Holy Cross game http://www.gohens.net/boards/images/smilies/icon_biggrin.gif Just get some pearls Danny... (Go Braves)

Nova plays the run well and it will be interesting to see how they do against the best 1 2 punch in all of FCS as Davis and Strong are outstanding.

I will be shocked if this is not a very good football game and wouldn't be surprised to see Nova pull it off

[Houndawg]

Villanova has a excellent opportunity to pull a big upset for a few reasons

Let me say this, South Dakota State is the better team, however....

They have played 24 games this year, that is unprecedented ( I think all the xtra games might be wearing on Sammy some too)

They did not get a seed so they had no bye week like Nova did

while Nova was making sure the car doors were locked on the week off, South Dakota State had to play UC Davis and beat the overrated Aggies very soundly ... one extra game for them not gonna help this Saturday

Saturday night, they were on the Left Coast matched up against the 4 seed Sacramento State.... http://www.gohens.net/boards/images/smilies/icon_biggrin.gif They started that game like a fined tuned machine opening up a big lead, but that game turned around late in second quarter and the Rabbits really looked fatigued in the second half, but they did hold on for the win. They had several players down for extended periods of time.

Now, the have to travel to the East Coast and play on the road again, that's a lot of travel

The Nova Quarterback, Dime Store Daniel Smith is in a funk right now, not the player he was in 2019 but if he can find his mojo again Nova is going to be a threat to beat S Dak State. Why did I call him Dime Store? because of the cheap dangly ear rings he was sporting in the Holy Cross game http://www.gohens.net/boards/images/smilies/icon_biggrin.gif Just get some pearls Danny... (Go Braves)

Nova plays the run well and it will be interesting to see how they do against the best 1 2 punch in all of FCS as Davis and Strong are outstanding.

I will be shocked if this is not a very good football game and wouldn't be surprised to see Nova pull it off

At this point in the season a bye week has to worth a TD to the oddsmakers

[VUCats02]

The best thing Nova has going for them on offense is that Covington looks 100%, and he missed 50% of the season, so he is coming into this game as healthy as anyone left in the playoffs.

[semobison]

Voted for the Jacks because I think they are the better team but won’t be surprised if Nova takes them down. Bunnies found ways to lose games they should have won this year!

[Gil Dobie]

Stigs play calling could be the biggest factor, if the Bunnies lose. They have some great players, just need to lead them to the promised land better.

[VUCats02]

Villanova is a full touchdown, 7 pt underdog, per the opening posted spreads. Weather looks really warm for Saturday (66 degrees at kickoff) with some rain.

As someone who was all over Holy Cross +13.5, I would definitely lean the other way with taking all of those points with Nova in this one.

[Chalupa Batman]

Voted for the Jacks because I think they are the better team but won’t be surprised if Nova takes them down. Bunnies found ways to lose games they should have won this year!


Stigs play calling could be the biggest factor, if the Bunnies lose. They have some great players, just need to lead them to the promised land better.

Yeah I think the Jacks win too, but at some point all these weeks in a row without a break is going to catch up to them and it could come this week. Their bye was way back in week 3 (Sep. 18) and have been playing nonstop then. I guess the good part of having so many injuries is a lot of their better players are actually still pretty fresh.

[Mfergy4]

Yeah I think the Jacks win too, but at some point all these weeks in a row without a break is going to catch up to them and it could come this week. Their bye was way back in week 3 (Sep. 18) and have been playing nonstop then. I guess the good part of having so many injuries is a lot of their better players are actually still pretty fresh.

Like the Bison when they lost to JMU at home....long hard season, early bye week lead to a beat up tired team in the Semi's..

[Chalupa Batman]

Like the Bison when they lost to JMU at home....long hard season, early bye week lead to a beat up tired team in the Semi's..

Yeah good call. I haven't been impressed with Villanova and they are probably the only seed left that makes me still pick SDSU.

[Mfergy4]

Yeah good call. I haven't been impressed with Villanova and they are probably the only seed left that makes me still pick SDSU.

Going with SDSU for the win but after last week's second half sputters I hope they have enough in the tank to win this one.

[Chalupa Batman]

Yeah good call. I haven't been impressed with Villanova and they are probably the only seed left that makes me still pick SDSU.

I would also favor SDSU over ETSU this week

[Gangtackle11]

iMHO whether this is a competitive game or not lies on Nova QB play.

Our passing game has completed less than 50% of attempts in 4 of last 5 games. 68 for 130 overall (52%), 8 Tds/8 ints.

2021 season: 167-306-2206 yds. 54.5% (22 TDs/9 ints) - 7 rushing TDs - 228 yds. rushing

2019 season: 222-367-3069 yds. 60.4% (32 TDs/10 ints) 12 rushing TDs - 457 yds. rushing


2019 Dan Smith in the house on Saturday its game on. 2021 Dan not so much. See ya in the tailgate lot! xpeacex

[caribbeanhen]

iMHO whether this is a competitive game or not lies on Nova QB play.

Our passing game has completed less than 50% of attempts in 4 of last 5 games. 68 for 130 overall (52%), 8 Tds/8 ints.

2021 season: 167-306-2206 (tel:167-306-2206) yds. 54.5% (22 TDs/9 ints) - 7 rushing TDs - 228 yds. rushing

2019 season: 222-367-3069 (tel:222-367-3069) yds. 60.4% (32 TDs/10 ints) 12 rushing TDs - 457 yds. rushing


2019 Dan Smith in the house on Saturday its game on. 2021 Dan not so much. See ya in the tailgate lot! xpeacex

Dime store Danny looks better when Hayak involved in the offense

Im not offended in any way by earrings just not a fan of them hanging down 2 inches 😂

[Gangtackle11]

Dime store Danny looks better when Hayak involved in the offense

Im not offended in any way by earrings just not a fan of them hanging down 2 inches 

Dan appears to travel to the beat of his own drum for sure. xpeacex

[Gangtackle11]

Temps will be unseasonably warm
in the 60s. Good chance of rain, but may start after game. xpeacex

[Nova09]

Gameday! As gang tackle said forecast still calls for low 60s and rain probably holding off until after game. Beautiful day for football!

[Gangtackle11]

Good luck to the Jackrabbits and fans. Heartened some by JMU score last night, but certainly have respect for the team coming here today. Tough task for Cats here. Need to show they can control the LOS and be plus on turnovers. Could get curb stomped if not.

Go Cats! xpeacex

[MR. CHICKEN]

......WIND WARNINGS FROM 1 PM....GUSTS TA 45 MPH.....PER ACTION NEWS...DIS AM......AS MIDWEST STORMS APPROACH......AWK!

[Nova09]

......WIND WARNINGS FROM 1 PM....GUSTS TA 45 MPH.....PER ACTION NEWS...DIS AM......AS MIDWEST STORMS APPROACH......AWK!

Meant to mention the wind in my post...mostly 10-20 throughout game. Not nothing but not sustained enough to take away throwing game. As Mr chicken notes it could gust over 40, but like the rain mostly getting worse later in evening.

[Catbooster]

Go Jacks. We need you to win so if we pull off the upset MSU can host another game.

Here's to no more injuries in the playoffs. xbeerchugx

[acbearkat]

Go Jacks. We need you to win so if we pull off the upset MSU can host another game.

Here's to no more injuries in the playoffs. xbeerchugx

The Bobcats are losing tonight, sorry.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Go Lehigh TU owl]

......WIND WARNINGS FROM 1 PM....GUSTS TA 45 MPH.....PER ACTION NEWS...DIS AM......AS MIDWEST STORMS APPROACH......AWK!

I have a friend who lives in Center City. Given the increased velocity the big buildings cause there's some legit concern there will be damage to windows and cars....

The Midwest/Midsouth got crushed last night xembarrassedx

[KPSUL]

The Bobcats are losing tonight, sorry.


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Hold on, let me check my Magic 8 Ball: "Reply Hazy, Try Again Later"

[Go Lehigh TU owl]

SDSU got the ball first eventually punted and pinned Nova at their own 1....

[Go Lehigh TU owl]

SDSU converts on 4th and short then busts about a 30 yard TD run....

[Pards Rule]

I have a friend who lives in Center City. Given the increased velocity the big buildings cause there's some legit concern there will be damage to windows and cars....

The Midwest/Midsouth got crushed last night xembarrassedx

Yes! LBI is getting the wind now

[Go Lehigh TU owl]

'Nova responds! TD Cats!

7-7 2:20 1Q

[Go Lehigh TU owl]

SDSU clearly trying to lean on 'Nova. They've had the ball the entire first half it seems...

[Go Lehigh TU owl]

TD Jacks! That was an impressive drive. Converted a huge 3rd and 14 around mid-field with a draw play.

SDSU 14-7 8:09 2Q

'Nova needs a couple of first downs. Their defense has been on the field way too long....

[MavRabbitMatt]

Strong is out, though. That's a concern. But of O-line controls things like that, Davis and Johnson will run wild anyway.

[Go Lehigh TU owl]

Big review coming up on a long pass play for 'Nova. I think it will be tough to overturn but it's close....

[MavRabbitMatt]

Phantom PI.

[JacksFan40]

Phantom PI.
No idea what the hell that ref saw. All Gardener did was touch his arm, never even grabbed him.

[JacksFan40]

Two awful PI calls give Nova an easy TD drive. These refs suck.

[Go Lehigh TU owl]

Cats answer back! This is going to be a good one!

14-14 4:18 2Q

[Sycamore62]

This camera angle is awful. The only way it could be worse is to be standing behind the players on the sideline

[VUCats02]

Beautiful drive there to get that D the much needed rest it needed!! They probably were sidelined there for 25 mins in real time with the review and commercials.

[MavRabbitMatt]

Jacks should take a couple of shots since touchy PIs are on special today.

[VUCats02]

Nova got a phantom holding call on their last drive on a 25 yard run. Agree last PI was a terrible call but it has gone both ways so far.

[MavRabbitMatt]

Nova got a phantom holding call on their last drive on a 25 yard run. Agree last PI was a terrible call but it has gone both ways so far.

Yeah, that hold looked bad, but Nova receiver had let go.

[Go Lehigh TU owl]

Nova will get the ball back before half. They also get the second half kickoff.....

[JacksFan40]

Chris Oladokun couldn’t hit a deep ball if his life depended on it.

[MavRabbitMatt]

SDSU's pass defense is a disaster. Call a time out then don't cover anyone.

[JacksFan40]

God our secondary sucks. They just keep getting absolutely burnt.

[Go Lehigh TU owl]

TD 'Cats on a long TD pass! Smith is having great success against this SDSU secondary. Holy Cross D was legit this year....

21-14 'Nova 0:44 2Q

[VUCats02]

Got the GOOD DAN SMITH today!!! You never know which one you’ll get!

[Go Lehigh TU owl]

Got the GOOD DAN SMITH today!!! You never know which one you’ll get!

I think he played a better defense last week....

[VUCats02]

Both teams are selling out to stop the run, so whoever can have the better deep passing attack in the 2nd half is going to win the game.

[MavRabbitMatt]

Announcers still haven't noticed that Pierre Strong is out. He's in street clothes on the sideline.

[VUCats02]

It’s also quite possible the wind is helping his throws because I’ve seen on non windy days him overthrow guys consistently by 5+ yards. He’s such a whacky QB.

[Gangtackle11]

Here at the game. Entertaining game so far. Looks like Nova has a good chance against this secondary. Smith looking like to the 2019 version so far. Go Cats! xpeacex

[Bison56]

Why is the camera so low?

[JacksFan40]

Wasted 30 seconds to get 13 yards. Great clock management and play calling.

[MavRabbitMatt]

It’s also quite possible the wind is helping his throws because I’ve seen on non windy days him overthrow guys consistently by 5+ yards. He’s such a whacky QB.

He's playing very well. No pressure and defensive confusion from the Jacks, too.

[Sycamore62]

Why is the camera so low?
It’s awful

[Go Lehigh TU owl]

'Nova intercepts the hail mary to end the half. 'Cats ball to start the second 30 minutes...

'Nova 21-14 Half

[JacksFan40]

Jaxon Janke had positioning to get that ball and proceeds to not even look for it. This team has zero mental toughness.

[Christiank22]

If SDSU doesn’t score at the start of the 3rd I think Nova is taking home the W. I don’t see SDSU having the heart the battle back. You love to see it

[Nova09]

If SDSU doesn’t score at the start of the 3rd I think Nova is taking home the W. I don’t see SDSU having the heart the battle back. You love to see it

Nova gets ball, so of sdsu doesn't score they could be down 2 scores giving us ball with chance to go up 3.

But HEY NOW!!! Don't discount our coaches' abilities to do the worst things possible with a lead!!

[Christiank22]

Nova gets ball, so of sdsu doesn't score they could be down 2 scores giving us ball with chance to go up 3.

But HEY NOW!!! Don't discount our coaches' abilities to do the worst things possible with a lead!!

That’s even better!

[MavRabbitMatt]

But HEY NOW!!! Don't discount our coaches' abilities to do the worst things possible with a lead!!

Wait... that's OUR coaches' thing.

[caribbeanhen]

TD 'Cats on a long TD pass! Smith is having great success against this SDSU secondary. Holy Cross D was legit this year....

21-14 'Nova 0:44 2Q

Hayak is a beast

[Nova09]

I think this game will probably hinge on a 3rd q turnover or unfortunate stalled drive (quick 3 and out or penalty killing offense).

Other than those things, I think both offenses just control the ball and run clock

[MavRabbitMatt]

Commentator asks Stig how they'll use Strong. Um... Strong is out, dude.

I don't know how you don't notice he hasn't been in the game since the first drive...

[Go Lehigh TU owl]

Whew, 'Nova had another TD if Smith doesn't feel that pressure. As it is, SDSU forces a 3 and out...

[VUCats02]

So you have all the momentum in the world and you come out and the very first thing you do is false start that causes a 3 and out. Villanova football ladies and gentlemen.

[MavRabbitMatt]

So you have all the momentum in the world and you come out and the very first thing you do is false start that causes a 3 and out. Villanova football ladies and gentlemen.

These teams really are similar.

[Go Lehigh TU owl]

SDSU on the march...Inside the 'Cat 10...

[Bison56]

This guy's voice is making me sleepy.

[Daytripper]

That's the Davis I remember from Frisco.

[Go Lehigh TU owl]

#22 for SDSU is a beast!

This is a fun game. If you're 'Nova you know you can throw the ball but you can't afford quick positions cause SDSU knows they can run the ball....

[Bison56]

#22 for SDSU is a beast!

This is a fun game. If you're 'Nova you know you can throw the ball but you can't afford quick positions cause SDSU knows they can run the ball....

They may know they can run but that doesn't mean they will.

[Nova09]

Strong Sela vibes. Halftime lead, ball, kinda in control of game, stupidity, oh look it's a ballgame! Gonna be back and forth now!

[Go Lehigh TU owl]

They may know they can run but that doesn't mean they will.

I was even going to say that neither team can do either flawlessly given mistakes. I think 'Nova needs to get Covington the ball more. He and Smith can be a dangerous combo.

Really good chess match potential. Weather is moving up from the south. Might get there near the end of the game...

[VUCats02]

at this point Nova should be using play action pass on 80% of their plays. The 1 yard run up the middle on first down when the D is all out stopping the run continues to make me question all of these coaching decisions. Terrible terrible play calling!!

[semobison]

#22 for SDSU is a beast!

This is a fun game. If you're 'Nova you know you can throw the ball but you can't afford quick positions cause SDSU knows they can run the ball....

I laughed at the ESPN promo that claimed Pierre Strong as the best RB in FCS. Hell, he is probably the 2nd best on his team. Isiah Davis was hurt much of the year. He almost single handidly won the Natty against Sammy last spring!

[MavRabbitMatt]

at this point Nova should be using play action pass on 80% of their plays. The 1 yard run up the middle on first down when the D is all out stopping the run continues to make me question all of these coaching decisions. Terrible terrible play calling!!

Honestly, are you a Jackrabbit fan incognito? Our fans were questioning the coaches' bizarre play calls over and over and over last week.

[JacksFan40]

No reason to touch that damn ball Jaxon. Absolute idiotic move and could cost SDSU the game if Nova gets it.

Illegal touch by kicking team, but still just leave the ball alone.

[VUCats02]

No reason to touch that damn ball Jaxon. Absolute idiotic move and could cost SDSU the game if Nova gets it.

Illegal touch by kicking team, but still just leave the ball alone.

I thought it was actually a pretty smart play. He knew Nova touched it so that gives you a free return even if you fumble. The worst thing that happens is you get the ball where you pick it up. The best thing that can happen is you can gain free yards.

[Nova09]

No reason to touch that damn ball Jaxon. Absolute idiotic move and could cost SDSU the game if Nova gets it.

Illegal touch by kicking team, but still just leave the ball alone.

If he was 100% POSITIVE from his vantage point it was touched, smart play. Could catch the coverage team off guard. But yeah, if there was any doubt nova touched it, that could have been the game changing play

[Go Lehigh TU owl]

SDSU really ended up with great field position. 'Nova had the ball near midfield after the long pass....

[VUCats02]

Honestly, are you a Jackrabbit fan incognito? Our fans were questioning the coaches' bizarre play calls over and over and over last week.

I love this team but I have more and more headaches watching them and it’s very bad for my health.

[VUCats02]

Nova D should not be celebrating after giving up 6 yards on a 3rd and 7 bc they are clearly not going to get a stop on 4th and 1 against this O line!

[Go Lehigh TU owl]

SDSU hits their big pass play! TD!

[JacksFan40]

SDSU is a team of halves, play great in one and play like ass in the other. Hopefully they keep playing like this.

[VUCats02]

Nova getting out coached in every aspect of the game. Down by 7 feels like being down by 21 right now!

[Go Lehigh TU owl]

Nova D should not be celebrating after giving up 6 yards on a 3rd and 7 bc they are clearly not going to get a stop on 4th and 1 against this O line!

I thought the same thing! When they all put up the "fist" to signal 4th down I was like, they got you right where they want you...lol

[Daytripper]

Nova is letting this thing slip away.

[Chalupa Batman]

Love the aggressiveness from Stig on the 4th down calls. Nova needs a sustained drive here bad.

[Go Lehigh TU owl]

Wow! Smith with a physical run!

[Bison56]

Lol

[Go Lehigh TU owl]

another brutal penalty for 'Nova...

[Daytripper]

Damn. That Coyote defender just got blown up by a QB.

[Nova09]

Stats of game (unofficial just how I remember them):

4th down: sdsu 2/2 nova 0/0
3rd and 10+: sdsu 2/2 nova 0/x

[Go Lehigh TU owl]

'Nova opts to run the hook and ladder instead of letting the 3rd quarter run out. probably shouldn't have done that....

[Chalupa Batman]

Damn. That Coyote defender just got blown up by a QB.

That’s worse than calling them San Diego State. [emoji23]

[acbearkat]

Damn. That Coyote defender just got blown up by a QB.

The quarterback should have been called for targeting.


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[MavRabbitMatt]

Ismail appears to be about 8 feet tall.

[Daytripper]

Get what you can here. This is four down territory. They can't stop the Coyotes.

[Go Lehigh TU owl]

Wow, need to come up with that catch...

[acbearkat]

Get what you can here. This is four down territory. They can't stop the Coyotes.

You realize it’s South Dakota State, correct?


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[MavRabbitMatt]

You realize it’s South Dakota State, correct?

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I think he's messing with us. If he's not, that's how you mess with us.

[Go Lehigh TU owl]

SDSU gets the stop! A soul crushing drive could be up next....

[Daytripper]

You need 4 yards. Throw a catchable 6 yard pass. Geez.

- - - Updated - - -


SDSU gets the stop! A soul crushing drive could be up next....

Yep. They are getting ready to put this on ice.

[Chalupa Batman]

You need 4 yards. Throw a catchable 6 yard pass. Geez.

- - - Updated - - -



Yep. They are getting ready to put this on ice.

Lumberjacks gonna get a 2nd shot at stopping Isaiah Davis.

[MavRabbitMatt]

Davis and the 605Hogs are dominating this half.

[Go Lehigh TU owl]

#22 was the best player on the field today. He's the difference....

[MavRabbitMatt]

#22 was the best player on the field today. He's the difference....

He was injured in two of the three losses. The third loss was a win that the coaches decided to lose.

[Go Lehigh TU owl]

Interesting play calling by SDSU. I would just give the ball to #22....

[Chalupa Batman]

He was injured in two of the three losses. The third loss was a win that the coaches decided to lose.

He missed all 3 losses. UND was his first game back

[Daytripper]

Lumberjacks gonna get a 2nd shot at stopping Isaiah Davis.

Who are these Lumberjacks you speak of??

[MavRabbitMatt]

He missed all 3 losses. UND was his first game back

You're right. Yes. Still, the third loss was a win the coaches decided to lose. I stand by that part.

[Go Lehigh TU owl]

SDSU wises up and hands the ball to Davis. That will be curtains for the Cats....

35-21

[Chalupa Batman]

Who are these Lumberjacks you speak of??

They’re playing the Coyotes next week

[Daytripper]

They’re playing the Coyotes next week

It's my understanding that it will be the Bearkats or the Bobcats.

[VUCats02]

Where is Jay Wright when you need him? In all seriousness, definitely impressed with Jackribbits O-line. This Nova D hasn’t looked this bad in a long time.

[Daytripper]

That’s worse than calling them San Diego State. [emoji23]

Ah, just realized what I did... lol.

[Chalupa Batman]

Ah, just realized what I did... lol.

And now you realized what I did.

[Go Lehigh TU owl]

'Nova has had way too many negative 1st down plays....

[Daytripper]

And now you realized what I did.

Yes. Do you want a cookie?

[acbearkat]

Yes. Do you want a cookie?

[emoji38]


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[Go Lehigh TU owl]

SDSU with an INT to really salt this away. Smith looked "off" after that big hit/near fumble. 'Nova was moving the ball well before that play....

[acbearkat]

That was a lazy pass.


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[Bison56]

Yes. Do you want a cookie?

What kind of cookies do you have?

[VUCats02]

Really doesn’t matter who the RB is, can basically throw anyone with half athleticism back there and they’re going to avg 7 yards a carry.

[Nova09]

As noted, nova first drive of 2nd half killed by penalty, and then turnover ends the game.

There's good Daniel, and bad, 1st half was good, 2nd was bad. A bunch of ppl outside caa/pl thought they would only see bad, if we could have gotten a 2nd half of good we could have won, but we didn't. Congrats jacks, I said previously you were better overall but no one could predict who would bring a better team this day. You did, and you deserve to be in semis.

[JayJ79]

so the rules specifically negate the ineligible player downfield if the quarterback is "throwing the ball away" when outside the pocket?

[MavRabbitMatt]

As noted, nova first drive of 2nd half killed by penalty, and then turnover ends the game.

There's good Daniel, and bad, 1st half was good, 2nd was bad. A bunch of ppl outside caa/pl thought they would only see bad, if we could have gotten a 2nd half of good we could have won, but we didn't. Congrats jacks, I said previously you were better overall but no one could predict who would bring a better team this day. You did, and you deserve to be in semis.

I like guys like Smith. He's a gamer. Jacks' QB last season (and next) Mark Gronowski has that attitude but also size and a ton of physical ability.

[Chalupa Batman]

so the rules specifically negate the ineligible player downfield if the quarterback is "throwing the ball away" when outside the pocket?

Apparently. I've never heard that call before either.

[marenlee]

My wife just sat down with me to watch the game at 0751 local time. She asked me “Why does this look like a high school game?” Haha. Sorry Nova fans but your stadium sucks.


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[MavRabbitMatt]

My wife just sat down with me to watch the game at 0751 local time. She asked me “Why does this look like a high school game?” Haha. Sorry Nova fans but your stadium sucks.


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The TV angle is terrible.

[JayJ79]

technically, when an untouched punt comes to rest, isn't the play supposed to be blown dead? Or am I misremembering?
obviously in a 14 point game, it would be silly to NOT let the last couple seconds tick off even when the punt has stopped, but I'm just curious as to the actual rules.

[VUCats02]

My wife just sat down with me to watch the game at 0751 local time. She asked me “Why does this look like a high school game?” Haha. Sorry Nova fans but your stadium sucks.


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We take pride in how ****ty everything is. It’s a Philly thing. You should see their on campus basketball facility for a team that has won 2 national championships in the past 5 years….awful all around but there’s just no space anywhere. It’s a beautiful area outside the stadium though!

[2002jack]

I thought it was actually a pretty smart play. He knew Nova touched it so that gives you a free return even if you fumble. The worst thing that happens is you get the ball where you pick it up. The best thing that can happen is you can gain free yards.

This


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[marenlee]

We take pride in how ****ty everything is. It’s a Philly thing. You should see their on campus basketball facility for a team that has won 2 national championships in the past 5 years….awful all around but there’s just no space anywhere. It’s a beautiful area outside the stadium though!

Haha. I’ve been there on a business trip. And I’ve seen my fair share of “It’s Always Sunny.”


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[acbearkat]

Apparently. I've never heard that call before either.

Neither have I. I’ve been paying more attention to recruiting than football today. Texas just ended up getting a commitment from the nation’s number one offensive tackle today, who by the way is from the Houston area.


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[DFW HOYA]

My wife just sat down with me to watch the game at 0751 local time. She asked me “Why does this look like a high school game?” Haha. Sorry Nova fans but your stadium sucks.

It's old, that's all.

[smilo]

Great game, great season. Hoping this ends with the xDSU final this nation deserves as these are clearly the top 2 teams. Had SDSU stop my poll as long as I could try and rationalize it and unfairly inflated SIU next to them for far too long by dumb luck.

Sorry for the two phantom PIs keeping it as a nail biter longer than necessary but really enjoyable experience.

Very similar teams, Nova and the Rabbits - they're just bigger, better and this a blip more consistent. Well-earned.

[Catbooster]

The Bobcats are losing tonight, sorry.


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I guess we'll find out soon.
Congrats SDSU. Hopefully we'll pull off the upset and host you next week.

[CHIP72]

My wife just sat down with me to watch the game at 0751 local time. She asked me “Why does this look like a high school game?” Haha. Sorry Nova fans but your stadium sucks.


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For people who follow Villanova football and have attended games on the Main Line, this is like telling people the Pope is Catholic.

Ironically, on Reddit late last night, there was a question about terrible or overrated college football stadiums, and I identified Villanova Stadium as one of my honorable mentions, saying it looks like a large high school stadium. (My comment primarily focused on Penn State’s Beaver Stadium however.)


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[CHIP72]

The TV angle is terrible.

That’s what happens when the stands don’t have enough steepness and there’s a running track around the field.


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[acbearkat]

I guess we'll find out soon.
Congrats SDSU. Hopefully we'll pull off the upset and host you next week.

I’m calling it now. Montana State will win. I have no confidence we can come back.


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[BisonBacker]

My wife just sat down with me to watch the game at 0751 local time. She asked me “Why does this look like a high school game?” Haha. Sorry Nova fans but your stadium sucks.


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Did you see Sammy"s? Coaches have to use a freaking flashlight to see their play sheets. xlolx

[caribbeanhen]

Did you see Sammy"s? Coaches have to use a freaking flashlight to see their play sheets. xlolx

That was Ryan Carty who is the next head coach at Delaware

[WeAreThePride]

It will be SDSU's 24th game in the past 10 months when this one kicks off.
That's an obscene number of football games in that amount of time.

[MR. CHICKEN]

Did you see Sammy"s? Coaches have to use a freaking flashlight to see their play sheets. xlolx


....CARTY GOES FROM...OUTHOUSE...TA PENTHOUSE.......xlolxxlolxxlolxxnodxxlolxxlolxxlol x.........ON MONDAY........BRAWK!

[kdinva]

You should see their on campus..... but there’s just no space anywhere.....

welcome to Lexington, Va

[kdinva]

Did you see Sammy"s? Coaches have to use a freaking flashlight to see their play sheets. xlolx

FBS lighting?

hoping VMI gets ANY lighting this decade.