Looking back on the game with Akron I see the following positive things.
1. Penalities: TU looked poised, well-coached, and ready to play. 3 penalties for 15 yards, is fine with me as this is an improvement over last season. And no pass interference calls was a plus.
2. Tackling: Yes there were some missed tackles, but there were also solid tackles limiting the Akron yardage after contact.
3. Receiving: I was expecting there would be a drop-off since the majority of the receiving corps are new. But I saw good things from the receivers. Nice catches, and additional yardage after the catch.
4. Punting: The 53 yard punt really pinned Akron deep in their own territory. From what I saw this punter can kick.
5. RB- Yes the O-line failed to open holes, but Saydee & Hubbard showed they can run in traffic. Speed is iffy, but they can take a lick and continue moving forward.
6. QB- EJ Warner got going after a few missed throws. He did have some room to run, especially on some 3rd and long situations. But I just as soon not get him nicked up. Let his arm do the work. It seemed he was working well with his receivers.
7. End of game: Drayton mismanaged the clock at the end of the first half. But the Owls came back and shut the door late in the game.
8. Interception: This play put an exclamation point in the second half. Great read, defense, and way to step into the passing lane and make the pick.
Minuses
1. O-line: A continuing work in progress. Pass blocking was OK, no sacks allowed. But run blocking really needs to be improved.
2. Big plays: The TU defense actually surprised me with their consistent gritty play. The 2 long pass plays caught us napping. Secondary needs to be ready to limit the long pass plays.
3. Kickoff and punt returns: If we can not get significant yardage, why not call for a fair catch on the kickoffs?
4. Kickoffs: When are we going to find a guy who can kick the ball off through the back of the end zone?
I watched the entire game and although the Owls started slowly and got down on the 2nd play, these young men were capable of coming back when required. This is mental toughness and bodes well for upcoming games. It is going to be an interesting season.
GO OWLS!!!! Beat Rutgers!
1. Penalities: TU looked poised, well-coached, and ready to play. 3 penalties for 15 yards, is fine with me as this is an improvement over last season. And no pass interference calls was a plus.
2. Tackling: Yes there were some missed tackles, but there were also solid tackles limiting the Akron yardage after contact.
3. Receiving: I was expecting there would be a drop-off since the majority of the receiving corps are new. But I saw good things from the receivers. Nice catches, and additional yardage after the catch.
4. Punting: The 53 yard punt really pinned Akron deep in their own territory. From what I saw this punter can kick.
5. RB- Yes the O-line failed to open holes, but Saydee & Hubbard showed they can run in traffic. Speed is iffy, but they can take a lick and continue moving forward.
6. QB- EJ Warner got going after a few missed throws. He did have some room to run, especially on some 3rd and long situations. But I just as soon not get him nicked up. Let his arm do the work. It seemed he was working well with his receivers.
7. End of game: Drayton mismanaged the clock at the end of the first half. But the Owls came back and shut the door late in the game.
8. Interception: This play put an exclamation point in the second half. Great read, defense, and way to step into the passing lane and make the pick.
Minuses
1. O-line: A continuing work in progress. Pass blocking was OK, no sacks allowed. But run blocking really needs to be improved.
2. Big plays: The TU defense actually surprised me with their consistent gritty play. The 2 long pass plays caught us napping. Secondary needs to be ready to limit the long pass plays.
3. Kickoff and punt returns: If we can not get significant yardage, why not call for a fair catch on the kickoffs?
4. Kickoffs: When are we going to find a guy who can kick the ball off through the back of the end zone?
I watched the entire game and although the Owls started slowly and got down on the 2nd play, these young men were capable of coming back when required. This is mental toughness and bodes well for upcoming games. It is going to be an interesting season.
GO OWLS!!!! Beat Rutgers!
