Well folks, it could be worse — we could be Michigan fans. Luckily, the Panthers came out pumped up and ready to win. Although we didn’t have anyone dominate the game, we consistently played better that Eastern Michigan and wore them down for a 27-3 victory. I know, the game almost seemed like it was last month but the weekend and Labor Day went too fast.
Obviously, we’re going to be talking about Stull’s injury in this game longer than any other story to come from it, and it’s really a disappointment. I didn’t expect much from Stull, because I’m a huge Pat Bostick fan. However, as I objectively watched, I was pleased with his play for only his first start and meaningful time, so it’s a shame that he won’t be playing for a few weeks.
With Derek Kinder out, it was assumed that his new biggest targets would be Oderick Turner and Marcel Pestano. It was true, with Pestano catching 4 for 75 yards (leading all players) and Turner pulling in a 21 yard catch for a touchdown. What wasn’t expected was the way the tight ends would factor into the passing game. Out of 17 total receptions, the combination of Byham-Strong-Pelusi caught 10 of those — almost 60%. If the tight ends are going to make this type of impact all year it’s a good thing. If opposing defenses have to concentrate on more weapons, it could lead to more openings for our playmakers.
Speaking of those playmakers, does LeSean McCoy look like he’s going to be a special player or what? I would have liked to have seen more first half playing time for Shady, but as Chas touched on, there’s only so much you can do with a porous offensive line. I loved what Shane Brooks was able to do down near the goal line, and I think he showed the coaches that he can be counted on to put the ball in the end zone.
One thing that I don’t think gets enough attention (but should maybe get more concern) is our inability to put the ball deep on kickoffs. With the kickoffs being moved back 5 yards, a guy with a huge leg is more important than ever. EMU might not make us pay but teams with good return guys can give their team some exceptional field position.
Other Notes:
— Interesting punt formation by EMU, being so spread out and all.
— Very early in the game, one of our defenders (Scott McKillop I believe) picked up a EMU receiver shortly after the ball hit the ground and pretty much body slammed him. I was surprised to see no flag on the play.
— Oderick Turner seems much bigger and stronger this year as exemplified on his only catch of the night; going up with the EMU defender and pulling it down for the touchdown.
— Taking away more credibility from this win, Eastern Michigan made ESPN’s “Bottom Ten” as part of “Direction Michigan”.
That said, they fully deserve their ridicule and to drop out of the Top 25. Not for the actual loss, because by all accounts, App State is not a terrible team, regardless of affiliation. But it’s the principle of scheduling such games.
Unfortunately, this won’t stop any team from scheduling 1-AA games. That’s the mindset of the greedy beancounters (like Long and Nordenberg, who shamefully are in the forefront of scheduling garbage).
No, it will likely only keep App State from getting any future paydays. Nobody will schedule them now, at least until they stink again. How dare they win!