Here's to You Coach Rod

This weekend was a nightmare for many of the Top 25, the Big East (minus USF), and WVU. As far as the Mountaineer's go, it was not the players fault. We were completely out coached. I love paying $1 million + in coaching to draw right, draw left, and throw screens on 3rd and 8. I saw that combo way too many times Friday night. It made me want to vomit, cry, etc... To say the least, the Mountaineer's coaching failed, miserably. On a bright side, our defense stepped up, big time. They intercepted the now infamous Grothe two times, forced and recovered two fumbles, and allowed only two TD's.
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Unfortunately, we also had to play offense. I believe the O-line should have taken a left at Albuquerque. Although White got scared hurt in the second quarter, he and Slaton combined for a mere 90 yards. Another notable twosome, Brown and Devine, basically carried (literally and figuratively) the Mountaineers (yes I know they lost). If you look at the stats (minus the score) you would believe the Mounties won the game. They out gained the Bulls by approximately 160 yards and dominated the time of possession by over nine minutes. The one stat that cost us the game was turnovers. We came into the game +3 and left +1. The first (and more than likely the worst) was an interception thrown by White in the first quarter. It slightly resembled the USF game of a year ago. White dropped back and looked left for a quick slant, he released it, then immediately regretted it. Ben Moffitt's eyes glazed over. He reached up, snagged the ball, and took it to pay dirt 26 yards later. That play basically set the stage for the rest of the game. WVU turned the ball over again and again, they did not execute the obscure plays the coaches called, and turned the ball over again. We abandoned what works for us; the speed option right, down field passes, and options left.
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So in summary, the players did not execute to the level they normally do, the coaching staff FAILED miserably, and USF wanted it more.
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We shall see what happens with the Top 25 shuffle later today and I may comment more then. But for now, I am disappointed.

The Black Pearl

As many of you may remember from years past, the Pirates from ECU are capable of coming into Morgantown and throwing a wrench into the system. This year seems to be different. Our offense is clicking like a well oiled machine; averaging 47 points/game (9th in the nation), gaining 344 yards/game rushing (2nd in the nation), and totaling 507 yards/game total offense (16th in the nation). Now it seems the defense is on the right track. Although not stupendous, our defense is ranked 44th nationally in scoring (20.3 points/game), 22nd in rush yards allowed/game, and 22nd in interceptions (1.3 per game). Considering our offense-defense point averages, we should win this game.
Now onto ECU. Their offense is averaging 20.7 points/game, 343.7 yards/game, and 242.6 passing yards/game (our weakness). Their defense has given up an average of 361.3 yards/game, their turnover ratio is -3, and have given up 25.3 points/game. Thus far, they have lost to a vulnerable VT team, a 2-1 S. Miss team, and have beaten UNC (well it's UNC). Over their three games, their point difference is -4.5.
So, does ECU have a chance this weekend? No. Will this game help the Mountaineer's quiet their critics? No. Will it be a beautiful day for watching football in Morgantown? Yes.

National Title Contenders?

As the West Virginia Mountaineers roll to 3-0, the question still remains: Are we a National Championship caliber team? Thus far, the polls say no, as do I. Albeit, we have one of the most powerful offences in the nation, our defence is lacking. Many may disagree, I can hear it now "what about the two interceptions against Maryland?" To that I can only say, what about the 3-3-5. It is suspect to the pass. It is venerable to the run. It is a pathetic attempt by "Rod" to be different. Our strength is linebackers, so why not run a 3-4. It is hard-nosed, mean, and most importantly proven. But who am I to comment on such things...