Week 1: Oregon State vs. #23 Houston
Summary
QB/OL: OSU’s defense gave up points last year but they weren’t bad.
OSU’s defense gave up points last year but they weren’t bad. Where they got in trouble was not having an offense that could sustain drives, which left their D on the field for too long. They’re not without talent, though.
Against Houston OSU held us in check until the 4th quarter. After numerous failed drives we eventually found success with up tempo. Let’s hope it doesn’t take that long to get it going with our newly revamped o-line. I’m really hoping out o-line gets in a groove early with a good push up front to open up holes for the running backs. If this happens I’m confident we’ll come out on top. This is not only the key to controlling the clock but also keeping their offense off the field.
Offensively, OSU has a lot of newcomers, but so do we. Their new QB was good enough to beat out last years starting QB, so I expect him to test our secondary early and often. If they connect on some big plays we could be in for another tight game.
Given the coaching tree of the new OSU coach, I fully expect them to throw the ball more than last year. Obviously getting pressure on the QB is another key. Last year against Auburn their new QB threw two INT‘s, but then again he was playing behind a much less talented o-line at Mercer.
With time to throw, OSU’s new WB had proven to be a pretty accurate passer. Getting some pressure on the QB can be the difference between big minimizing big plays, quick 3 and outs, and drives that sputter out in the red zone.
Given the turnover with staff and personnel at OSU there is really no way to really know what to expect. Their new coach certainly has the pedigree to be successful, but then again so does our, and this is year 3 for CWF.
Ultimately, I think this game is decided in the trenches, like most games. For OSU, if they can hold their blocks long enough to give the QB time to throw, they have a chance to put a lot of points on the board.
On the flip-side, if our o-line is getting a good push upfront, CWF will use that advantage to pound the ball mixed with some QB draws and TE usage to chew up the clock while keeping their passing offense off the field. Let’s hope our o-line proves worthy from the get go and takes control of the game early. No last minute comebacks in the one, please!
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Teams:
Houston
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