its gameweek! week 5 primer

Matchup: West Virginia v Bowling Green

When: Saturday, 3:30p, Big East Network

Line: WVU -20.5

West Virginia Players to Watch:
Geno Smith, QB: 1471 yards, 9 TD, 3 INT
Tavon Austin, WR: 31 rec, 423 yards, 1 TD, 1 return TD
Stedman Bailey, WR: 23 rec, 344 yards, 3 TD
Ivan McCartney, WR: 23 rec, 270 yards, 2 TD
Darwin Cook, S: 28 total tackles, 1 INT, 1 PD

Bowling Green Players to Watch:
Matt Schilz, QB: 1169 yards, 14 TD, 4 INT
Anthon Samuel, RB: 428 rush yards, 3 TD
Eugene Cooper, WR: 21 rec, 374 yards, 6 TD
Kamar Jordan, WR: 26 rec, 266 yards, 4 TD

Storylines:

How will WVU respond after the LSU loss? The first loss for the Mountaineers hopefully doesn't become a letdown. Dana Holrosen will certainly be rallying his boys quickly to get ready for a talented Bowling Green team. In fact, it might be better to have the conference talk muted and ESPN long gone. Time to get back to the basics of football, and football only.

Limiting mistakes has to be a focus this week. Too many eventually were the downfall last week. This team needs to limit turnovers and learn how to tackle. Both seem to come from a lack of focus, somthing the coaches are probably all over. This team will win a lot of games if they can just get more discpline.

Special Teams are a disaster...again. It's like a broken record. Why does this team struggle with covereage every year? Through four games, WVU has already allowed a heap of yardage and two touchdowns. Top add insult to injury, the team is also dead last in net punting. This needs to turn around, and turn around quickly.

Will this be the week where the running game busts out? Seems to be a good possibility. Dustin Garrison was solid in the second half against LSU, and now teams have to respect the pass. If the Mountaineers can get the ground game up to par, this offense may never slow down.

WVU-LSU Reaction

Well, it was a good effort, but too many mistakes ultimately doomed the Mountaineers. WVU did prove quite a bit though. There's no doubt that this offense is coming together. However, tackling and special teams must improve if this Mountaineer team has BCS hopes.

Most Valuable: Offensive Line. The much beleaguered group was outstanding. Geno Smith had ample time to throw all night long, and the ground game found some holes. WVU ended up putting over 500 yards on arguably the country's best defense. The major reason was the big boys up front. If this continues, imagine what the Mountaineers may do against inferior defenses.


Least Valuable: Special Teams. Nothing kills a team like an entire unit dropping the ball. Enter WVU's Special Teams...over the last six years. The coverage was dreadful, and ended up costing the Mountaineers dearly. The 99-yard kick return TD in the 3rd quarter proved to be the back breaker, as WVU failed to right the ship after. To make matters worse, the Mountaineers have the worst net punting in America.


Most Surprising: 533 yards. How good can this offense be if WVU can drop 533 yards on LSU's defense? Geno Smith was able to find open wideouts consistently, and the rushing attack had success in the second half. Now, if the Mountaineers can just hold onto the bal...


Least Surprising: Mistakes. Wish I could say I was surprised, but this WVU team is young, and haven't played in a lot of nationally televised night games. Turnovers, poor tackling, poor punting all plagued the Mountaineers, and ultimately buried them. However, those mistakes can be fixed.


Play of the Game: Morris Clayborne's 99 yard kickoff return. Just when it looked like WVU had a chance to steal the all momentum, Clayborne broke the Mountaineer spirit with the return. Poor tackling and outstanding ability for Clayborne were a recipe for disaster.

Grades:


Quarterback: Geno played well. Sure, he threw a few picks, and had a fumble. But, he also threw for over 460 yards against arguably the best secondary in the nation. Geno's completion percentage does need to improve, but again, it was LSU.
Grade: B


Running Back: The crew did well, and Dustin Garrison may have won the starting job. The youngster has looked the best so far hitting the hole. Shawne Alston once again seems to be pretty good in a short yardage roll. The group was strong in blocking too.
Grade: B+


Wideout: A few drops and a fumble drop the grade down a touch, but a great job finding space and yards after the catch. This group will be very difficult to defend moving ahead.
Grade: B

Offensive line: Just an outstanding day for the group, Yes, there were a few penalties called, but the group was the reason WVU was able to go for over 500 yards of total offense. Look for this group to continue to shine.
Grade: A-

Defensive line: Still no pressure on the quarterback, and struggled late to stop the rush. Need to get more consistent.
Grade: C

Linebacker: Made plays early, but failed to slow the rush down when the team needed it. Also need to learn how to tackle.
Grade: C-

Secondary: Dropped a crucial interception early, and couldn't stop falling for playaction. Was bailed out by a dropped touchdown to start the second half.
Grade: D+

Special Teams: Miserable performance. No yardage gained, coverage was terrible, tackling was even worse, and the punting game is a disaster. This group needs fixing soon.
Grade: D-

Coaching: Mixed bag. Dana Holgorsen had a good game plan, and the turnovers you can put on him. Jeff Casteel was beaten all night. Game plan and adjustments just didn't add up. The defense looked out of place on more than one occasion. Special Teams need help soon.
Grade: C+

West Virginia-LSU Preview

There is no measuring how important this game is for West Virginia. A primetime game on ABC, with the GameDay crew in Morgantown, and the idea that this could be a quasi-audition for the SEC. Who knows if that's the case, but beating the second ranked Tigers on national television couldn't hurt. So, what are the chances WVU can win? Better than most think. An explosive offense, a defense that can make some plays, and a night crowd should help WVU keep this one close.

Offense:

West Virginia: The offense is improving by the week. However, the Mountaineers are yet to put four quarters together. Geno Smith's numbers are ridiculous so far, with over 1,000 yards passing, seven touchdowns, and just one pick(which wasn't his fault). However, his execution in the redzone must get better. The fade pattern has been his nemesis this season, so will see if Dana Holgorsen switches up the play-calling. The rushing game has gotten better. Shawne Alston was a nice addition last week, bringing experience and toughness in short yardage. The youngsters have also looked better hitting the hole. The offensive line was huge against Maryland, opening holes and allowing Geno plenty of time to throw. However, the second half wasn't as strong. This unit will be in a major battle against the LSU front. The Mountaineers will have little chance if the line can't keep Geno Smith from getting killed. Look for WVU to run some quick hitters and draw plays early to potentially slow LSU down.

LSU: Ground control and an efficient passing game has been the recipe for success. Expect a heavy dose of Spencer Ware and Michael Ford throughout the game. The two have combined for nearly 500 yards so far, with an average just under 5.0. A lot of the praise has to go to the offensive line. This unit is one of the best in the SEC, so WVU will have to try some creative stunts to break them down. If the Mountaineers tire out, the LSU line will blow them over late in the game to allow the Tigers to control possession. The great lines has also allowed Jarrett Lee to be very efficient this season. Lee isn't going to beat you with his arm, but he also hasn't been killing his team. However, the Tigers have done a nice job in making sure Lee hasn't been needed to make a lot of big plays, so it's easy to limit the mistakes. Will WVU stack the box? They could, but that leaves single coverage on talented receivers, Russell Shepard and Rueben Randle.

Defense:

West Virginia: Mixed results last week for this unit. While the secondary played well, the front six was blown off the line and out of position way too much. The line still isn't getting pressure on the quarterback, and the linebacking play is a bit inconsistent. The unit isn't facing a dynamic offense, so look for Jeff Casteel to dial up blitzes, especially on 3rd and long. The front six will also be facing a very strong offensive line, so look for WVU to try and use speed to their advantage. The secondary will have to deal with some talented wideouts, but could find an opportunity or two against an unproven quarterback. WVU will need to stop the run plain and simple, to give their offense as many opportunities as possible.

LSU: Got younger from last year, but still one of the best groups in the nation. Allowing just 12 points a game, this defense has already slowed down Oregon and Mississippi State. There are playmakers at every position, especially in the secondary. Morris Claiborne, Tyrann Mathiue and company will map it very hard for the WVU receivers to find any space. The front seven will also look to completely destroy the run. Considering WVU has struggled rushing the ball this season, it might not be that difficult. The Tigers will probably face may quick plays, and the WVU's uptempo style between plays will keep them honest.

Special Teams:

West Virginia: Kicker, Tyler Bitancurt has re-found his mojo from freshman year, going 7-8 to start the season. The coverage continues to improve as well, since looking terrible against Marshall. Tavon Austin is a threat every time he touches the ball, though had a little trouble holding handling the football last week. Austin will be very important in this game. WVU may be in a serious field position battle. If that's the case, then look for Austin to potentially be a difference maker.

LSU: Drew Alleman has only missed one attempt so far, and is a good weapon from deep. The Tigers have used two punters this season, both have been fine. Morris Claiborne is a threat to house it every time he has the ball. Let us not forget that last year the Tigers scored on a punt return touchdown against WVU.

Overall:

It's should be a great game. West Virginia does have a good chance to win this game. A combination of mistake-free offense and solid defense will keep this game close all night. Look for the Mountaineers to put Lee into a few 3rd and longs that he can't convert. This should open the door for Geno Smith and company. Three touchdowns will probably be enough for the Mountaineers to seal the deal. Throw a field goal on top of that, and WVU will come away 4-0.

Prediction: 24-21 West Virginia

Big East Preview, Week 4

An interesting week of games for the Big East, as we get deeper into the season. A few statement matchups mixed in with must-wins should keep the entertainment level up. Can a true statement be made by WVU beating LSU? Or is it the same old story for the besieged conference? To the picks…

Last Week: 6-1

Overall: 18-5

Bye Week: Louisville

Connecticut at Buffalo: Normally this would be a walk in the park for a Big East team, but who knows with this Husky team? UConn has blown two fourth quarter leads in successive weeks, and now stand under .500. The offense still can't finish drives, and the defense is struggling to come up with a big play. Fortunately, the Huskies take on a team with similar issues. Like UConn, Buffalo is still looking for a win over an FBS opponent. The Bulls have been competitive at times, but mistakes continue to derail them. Buffalo's defense has actually played pretty well, and may make it difficult for the Huskies to move the ball, especially if the Bulls stack the box. Look for a closer-than expected game. UConn is going to have to step-up and work for this win, which will happen. The Huskies rushing attack will wear that defense down late.

Prediction: 31-21 Connecticut

Ohio at Rutgers: The Knights come off a bye week searching for consistency on offense. The Jersey boys should be 2-0, but couldn't do anything with many opportunities handed to them by UNC. Balance has been an issue, so look for Rutgers to try to establish it early against a tough Ohio team. The Bobcats come in undefeated, and have one of the best rushing attacks in the nation three weeks in. The Knights will have to stack the box as much as possible, and see if Terry Tettleton can beat them through the air. The Knights' defense has been opportunistic this season so don't be surprised if Greg Schiano has them play aggressively. If the defense does create opportunities for the offense, Chas Dodd better play better. He's going to be going up against a pretty good defense and needs to prove he can play at this level. Look for Rutgers to try to use the talented wideouts as much as possible, even at the QB position if need be. A close game will go Rutgers way late, forcing a big turnover and converting it.

Prediction: 24-20 Rutgers

UTEP at (17) South Florida: The Bulls just continue to roll through the schedule, and it should continue this Saturday. South Florida faces a schizophrenic UTEP team that may be in for a long night. The Miners offense is stagnant, only averaging 21 points a game. Meanwhile, the defense is coming off a good week, but also allowed 24 points to Stony Brook. Look for B.J. Daniels to attack early, and just gain confidence throughout the entire game. The two-headed running attack of Darrell Scott and Demetrius Murray will keep the Miners' defense guess all night as well. When the dust settles, the Bulls will be 4-0, and ready to move in to the Top-15.

Prediction: 41-17 South Florida

Notre Dame at Pittsburgh: Todd Graham is not off to the start he expected. His pass defense is second to last in the nation, and his quarterback has no confidence. Not a good combination going into Notre Dame week. Yes, the Irish are only 1-2, but seem to be in much better shape than the Panthers. Look for Notre Dame to blitz all night long. Tino Sunseri isn't going to feel comfortable. Pitt will need Ray Graham to find daylight, and a lot of it. The speedy running back will be Pitt's only chance to keep the Panthers close. However, it may not matter. If Tommy Rees has time to throw, he will be find open receivers all day long. The Panther's secondary is just in shambles at this point. Look for Brian Kelly to spread his team out and throw it all over the lot. Pitt may keep it close, because Notre Dame is good for three turnovers, but unless the defense wakes up the Irish will pull away late.

Prediction: 34-23 Notre Dame

Toledo at Syracuse: The Orange come back home to a pretty solid opponent. The Toledo Rockets have played well this season, and are looking to get back to winning ways following tough losses to Ohio State and Boise State. Syracuse better not take it lightly or it could be a long night in the dome. The Orange need to find a ground game to help win the possession battle. At the very least the receivers need to hold on to the ball on third down. Toledo can give up big chunks of yards, so look for Ryan Nassib to be looking down the field early. It will be much easier if the Orange can set up the play-action. The Rockets balanced attack could disrupt any sort of rhythm Syracuse may get on offense, so it will be very important for the defense to create havoc. The Orange are a better football team, but this game will simply come down to execution. Syracuse will win if they play smart, mistake-free football.

Prediction: 29-24 Syracuse

NC State at Cincinnati: This is a must win for the Bearcats. A Thursday night showcase game against the conference that continues to take apart the Big East. More importantly, Cincinnati needs to prove to themselves that they can beat a legit team. There’s no doubt the ‘Cats can score, but can the defense stop a pretty good NC State offense? Cincinnati needs to play aggressively, back to the opportunistic style that worked well under Brian Kelly. The Wolfpack have been better offensively than some may have though after losing Russell Wilson. Mike Glennon has been efficient, and should have success tonight. This will be another close game, and may end up a track meet. The ‘Pack will struggle to slow the balanced Cincy attack. Look for the Bearcats’ defense to make a big play or two in the second half to help differentiate the two. Take the over.

Prediction: 38-31 Cincinnati

Game of the Week: (2) LSU at (16) West Virginia: Three touchdowns. If the Mountaineers can score three touchdowns, then it may be a wild Saturday night. The Tigers’ offense will use ball control and the stellar defense will limit the high-flying Dana Holgorsen attack. So, will the Mountaineers have enough to pull off the upset? Let’s just say on Sunday morning Geno Smith will be a household name. Full preview tomorrow.

Prediction: 24-21 West Virginia

Tales from Mountaineer Field – October 29, 1988

By, Dookiestyle

During the 1988 season, my parents purchased two season tickets for me and my brother. At the time, I was 13 and my brother is 12. And we had season tickets to Mountaineer football. Without the parents.

Mountaineer Field was that kind of place. You were surrounded with 55,000 family members that would look after you and make sure you were safe. I don’t think many parents these days would let their 13 and 12 year old go to a sporting event by themselves. Our tickets were on the student side of the stadium, on the lower level on the 15 yard line of the South End Zone. Back when the scoreboard was in front of the hospital and there was grass in the corners.

During the first two games against Bowling Green and Cal-State Fullerton, we started to get to know the people sitting around us. Specifically, Bob, Steve and Larry.

We sat in front of Bob, Steve and Larry. All close friends from college and in their early thirties, they participated in the behavior that most Mountie fans did. They’d be somewhat drunk when they came in, they always had alcohol, and they never missed the band. Throughout the season, those three guys were me and my brother’s buddies. They watched over us and made sure no one gave us a hard time.

The most memorable moment, however, came on October 29, 1988.

WVU had not had a good record against Penn State over the years, but this year promised to be different. WVU was looking at going undefeated and playing for a national title, with Penn State being the only feasible roadblock toward that goal. I remember never seeing so many people in my life. There were more than 66,000 screaming fans in the stadium. Everyone was jacked up. But none moreso than the Mountaineers. And Major Harris.

The Mountaineers hung 51 points on Penn State that day, at that time the most points scored against a Joe Paterno coached PSU team. Nearing the end of the game, the crowd couldn’t contain themselves, and started spilling out on to the field before the game was over. I had always wanted to be a part of being on the field…tearing down the goal posts…celebrating arguably the biggest Mountaineer win of all time.

I moved towards the wall, when Bob put a hand on my shoulder and told me not to go. He said it was wrong what was happening, and that the fans should have more respect than that.

I didn’t go onto the field. Nor have I ever. But I always remember that day as the day I learned a key quality of being a Mountaineer – respect.

Oliver Luck's Statement on Conference Situation

West Virginia Athletic Director, Oliver Luck releasesd a statement regarding the Big East meeting last night.

The Statement...

"President Clements and I represented West Virginia University at last night's BIG EAST meeting in New York. The group concluded the meeting with a strategy to recruit top level BCS-caliber institutions that match the league's strong athletic and academic histories and traditions.

"As I stated before, WVU is an excellent flagship, land-grant University, with national-caliber athletic and academic programs. We are, and will remain, a national player in college athletics.

"The conference office will coordinate any further discussion on this issue."

Umm, short and sweet. Where does this lead us? Good question. I guess we can ask the conference office.

Deep Thoughts, WVU-Style

Yes, there is still a game this weekend, and it happens to be a big one. Conference uncertainty will not stop the LSU Tigers from invading Morgantown. I actually kind of like the uncertainty. I get the feeling that Dana Holgorsen can use it to his advantage. Couldn't you see Holgs rolling out the old "The SEC doesn't think your good enough" line to fire the boys up? There is no doubt that WVU will be up to play.

Who will be the celebrity picker on ESPN GameDay? The smart money is on Bobby Huggins. Nothing would be better than Huggs taking some nice shots at Herby and Corso. Plus, he gets it, and represents WVU well. Next in line might be Jerry West or Don Nehlen. Both would also represent well, especially the NBA logo. The man does have a statue. Other potentials could be Pat White, Darryl Talley, maybe even Marc Bulger. However, if Bill Stewart is the choice, well then I might just break my television.

Will three touchdowns win this game? Possibly. LSU has an average offense, which focusses on the ground game. Yes, the Tiger can eat up a clock, and are very efficient in the redzone, but it's not an offense that scares opponents. Which means WVU better hold onto the football. The Tigers are ready to pounce on any mistake WVU may make to better their chance of getting points on the board. An LSU blowout could be a final score of 23-10. It's just really hard to get a gauge of how many points WVU may need. I do believe that three touchdown drives will put a lot of pressure of the number 2 team in the land.

The atmosphere should be amazing. I can't wait to see Morgantown be highlighted all day on ESPN. I just hope our students and fans represent the old gold and blue to the best of their ability.