Week Two: What a Weekend!
9/8/2004 12:00:00 AM | Football
Philadelphia, PA (Sports Network) - I just found out what my life lacked in college. Little did I know, when I woke up Saturdays around Noon and turned on the television, how great it could be to have a football game on campus five or six weekends a year.
Not only was the game at Montana unbelievable, the whole atmosphere makes the home football weekend into a showcase event. From going out on Friday to the early tailgates on Saturday, game day truly brings the community and much of the state together in Missoula.
After a Friday night at Red's and Stock's and a burger at the Missoula Club, I was more than ready for the atmosphere before the game. The trailers, flags, and general festive attitude would dissuade anyone with the perception that I- AA is not big time college football.
As fan support goes, I'd ask anyone to find a way down to the sidelines at Washington-Grizzly Stadium and listen to the home crowd before and during the game. That is, listen if you're hearing allows it. As many Griz fans suggested, I could have used earplugs with the cannon shooting off and deafening crowd noise combining for a decibel level that left my ears ringing.
The game itself lived up to its billing as the best matchup of the weekend. Maine and Montana appeared to be even physically even, and if not for some mistakes and costly penalties the Black Bears may have pulled the upset. Montana's offense proved its versatility with a shotgun attack led by quarterback Craig Ochs, and the Grizzlies have the look of a squad that should stay in the top five all season. If Maine can get through a tough early schedule, the Black Bears proved to be a playoff-caliber team as well.
The game was well worth the two long plane rides, one of which left Missoula on Sunday at 6 am (which still felt like Saturday night). It was even worth the achy knees I now face for a few days after being crammed into a seat in coach for five straight hours. A bit of advice, people. Before you recline back for an in-flight nap, take a look at who is behind you. When you're 6-3, you just pray the person in front of keeps that seat in the upright and locked position.
As eye opening as the trip to Missoula was, it wasn't the only football action I took in. Before the long trip Northwest, I made a quick drive for some I-AA action in Philadelphia. Or, to be exact, in Villanova, Pa. And for all that I saw in Missoula, the thing that stuck in my mind by Sunday afternoon was the play of the Villanova defense.
Granted, Villanova did not play an offensive juggernaut in Bucknell. But in the first three quarters, the defensive line dominated up front, the linebackers tracked down every ball carrier after little or no gain, and the secondary allowed almost nothing in the passing game. The Wildcats surrendered just 178 yards of total offense, and if not for three turnovers would have held Bucknell to single digits in points.
Right now, Maine, Montana and many others are more complete than the 'Cats. Marvin Burroughs had flashes of brilliance but also was inconsistent and ineffective at times. The offense moved the ball throughout the first half, but had trouble putting points on the board when they reached Bucknell territory.
However, Burroughs is a sophomore who has little game experience. He shows the potential to become a great playmaker in time. If that time comes before the end of the regular season, coaches will not want to see Villanova on their playoff schedule.
WEEK ONE NOTEBOOK
Co-Teams of the Week: Nicholls State and New Hampshire
I usually hate doing this. The whole point of awards and recognition is to honor a significant achievement, and including more than one winner will take the importance away. But in this case, I would be remiss if I failed to mention either of these squads for what they accomplished last week.
Everyone would have understood if Nicholls State struggled in the home opener against Eastern Washington. To begin with, the Colonels lost a majority of the starters from a mediocre 2003 team. Two weeks before the game, head coach Daryl Daye was fired amidst an academic scandal he was not directly involved in. Jay Thomas was promoted from the assistant position and had scant little time to prepare for the opener. The Colonels dedicated the game to coach Daye, and played on an emotional high on their way to a 30-0 halftime lead. Nicholls State ran all over a good Eastern Washington team in the 37-14 victory, and proved their mental strength by playing such a strong game after a difficult couple of weeks.
On any other week, New Hampshire earns this honor by itself. The Wildcats, who have been a thorn in Delaware's side in recent years, went into Delaware and knocked off the defending champion Blue Hens, 24-21. The fact New Hampshire won is not as surprising as how they won. Star quarterback Mike Granieri was expected to be the Wildcats best chance at an upset, but he went down with a serious knee injury in the second quarter. Redshirt freshman Ricky Santos came in to complete 10-11 passes for 146 yards and lead the Wildcats to victory. Reports are that Granieri will be out for an extended period of time, maybe even the season, but the Wildcats showed their might with the win last week.
Mid-Major Team of the Week: Duquesne
Holy Cross isn't the best I-AA has to offer, but a Mid-Major team running all over a Patriot League team still merits recognition. Duquesne showed why it is the best Mid-Major in the land in a commanding 31-7 win against the Crusaders. Quarterback Neil Loebig tossed four touchdowns and the Dukes' defense held Holy Cross scoreless until late in the fourth quarter. Duquesne gets a shot at Patriot teams Fordham, Georgetown and Bucknell later in the year, and you can bet none of those teams will take the Dukes lightly.
Best Top 25 Win: No. 8 McNeese State 35, Southern 17
Questions persisted for both powers entering the season. The Cowboys, especially, had to find replacements for 11 All-Southland picks and critics questioned McNeese State's ability to remain a national power. The Cowboys made a resounding statement about their elite status with a convincing road win against a quality opponent. Michigan State transfer Kris Bush ran for 129 yards, quarterback Scott Pendarvis threw for another 254, and the Cowboys never trailed in the game. The Cowboys have sent a message that the Southland title may still have to come through Lake Charles.
Worst Top 25 Loss: New Hampshire 24, No. 1 Delaware 21
11 of last week's top 25 teams fell, so the Blue Hens are not without company in the loss column. However, Delaware wasn't on the road, wasn't facing a I-A team, and did not have any significant injury that led to the defeat as others did. A team that is expected to finish in the middle of the A-10 North simply outplayed the Blue Hens. To make matters worse, it was New Hampshire, not Delaware, that had to overcome a major injury during the game. It's a long season, and one game is still just one game. But Delaware could not have envisioned starting its title defense with a home loss.
Best Game: No. 3 Montana 27, No. 11 Maine 20
To be fair, I was at this contest and got an appreciation for how competitive the matchup was. Still, it was the only game involving two ranked teams and both teams showed why they are serious playoff contenders. The duel turned from a defensive struggle to a Montana shootout after the Grizzlies switched to a shotgun formation after halftime. However, Maine tied the score at 13 early in the fourth and the game remained tight until the final minutes. Montana deserved the win, but Maine also proved itself with a strong effort in a tough environment.
Play of the Week: North Carolina A & T kicker Carlos Davalos booted a 50-yard field goal with no time left on the clock to lift the Aggies over N.C. Central, 16-15. It was Davalos' first successful kick in his collegiate career, and according to NC A & T head coach George Small it was the furthest Davalos has kicked a ball, including in practice. "I don't know what got into him, but I'm glad it did," Smith said. The final play should really never have happened, but N.C. Central fumbled the snap when all it had to do was take a knee to run out the clock. The improbable win was huge for the MEAC, which already saw one team (Norfolk State) lose to a lower level opponent.
Stat of the Week: 20-161
The numbers indicate the penalties and penalty yards whistled against Massachusetts in the Minutemen's 51-0 drilling of Delaware State. The Massachusetts defense allowed only 14 more yards (175) than the team committed in penalties. Ironically, the 20 penalties (which included 14 in the first half) broke the old school record of 16 set in 1980 against Delaware State. To be sure, the Minutemen will have to clean up their act with contests against Colgate and Delaware looming.
Quote of the Week: "I thought it was surprisingly a great effort by everyone especially because of the roller coaster we've been through the last month" - Nicholls State head coach Jay Thomas
Top Performances
Offensive Player of the Week: Martin Hankins, QB, Southeastern Louisiana - 30- for-41, 588 yards, 4 passing TD, 1 rushing TD in 46-32 win against Arkansas- Monticello
Others: Charles Anthony, RB, Tennessee State - 202 yards rushing, 2 TD in 42-7 win over Alabama A & M
Alonzo Coleman, RB, Hampton - 209 yards rushing, 3 TD in 38-19 win against Jackson State
Defensive Player of the Week: Mario Williams, S, Gardner-Webb - 15 tackles, INT return for TD, fumble return for TD in 32-26 loss to Tennessee Tech
Others: Cortland Finnegan, S, Samford - 16 tackles, INT, FF in 28-7 loss to Georgia Tech
Reed Doughty , S, Northern Colorado - 17 tackles, 2 INT, FF in 15-13 win over North Dakota State
Special Teams Player of the Week: Justin Zaitz, K, Northern Colorado - 5-6 FG in 15-13 win over North Dakota State
Others: James Norris, KR, Western Illinois - 98-yard TD return, 75-yard return in 56-17 loss at Nebraska
Now, a look at the news from the week that was and the week that will be in I- AA football:
A SAD END TO THE SEASON
With one hit, one of the best talents in I-AA football and top candidates for the Walter Payton Award saw his season come to an end. Grambling State quarterback Bruce Eugene, who finished in the top three of the Payton balloting the past two seasons, is done for the season with a torn anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee. He will have surgery either locally or in Birmingham with well-known Dr. James Andrews. Grambling head coach Melvin Spears said Grambling would apply for a medical redshirt so Eugene could return next season. True freshman Brandon Landers will have large shoes to fill, but was a two-time all-Louisiana selection in high school. The loss of Eugene is a blow to Grambling and all of I-AA football, and we can only hope to see the medical redshirt granted and Eugene back on the field for another season.
BETTER REVISE THE MEDIA GUIDE
When New Hampshire's media guide came out late in the summer, no one outside of Ricky Santos' family noticed that he did not have a bio page. But any media members who scrambled to find some background on Santos after his 10-11, 146- yard performance against Delaware were out of luck. See, Santos, the reigning A-10 Rookie of the Week, was only supposed to be the fourth quarterback for the Wildcats. But No. 1 quarterback Mike Granieri went down with a knee injury in the second quarter against Delaware, No. 2 signal-caller Matt Skoby transferred to play baseball, and No. 3 man Hasan Noble was nursing an injury. Suddenly, Santos got thrust into a game at defending national champion Delaware, and to say the least he acclimated himself well. Granieri is still being evaluated, and may try to come back later this season if he is unable to receive a medical redshirt. At the very least, Granieri is out for an extended period of time and the former No. 4 quarterback will get a chance to show if last week was a mirage or breakout performance.
HURRICANE FRANCES FORCES I-AA CANCELLATIONS
Unless you're the New York Yankees, you realize that sports had to take a backseat to the disastrous situation in Florida this past weekend. With that in mind, four games were affected by the hurricane that swept through the state over the weekend. The Savannah State-Bethune-Cookman and Jacksonville-Florida International games were both cancelled, and the Jackson State-Hampton game was moved from Orlando to Hampton. Citadel officials postponed the school's game with Charleston Southern until the end of the season. Though the weather did not turn out to be as dire in South Carolina, no one can complain when the school puts safety before athletics.
DID MY EARS DECIEVE ME?
In the first quarter of the Maine-Montana game Saturday, the Black Bears committed the first of what would be 12 penalties in the game. Expecting to hear the usual, "Holding-Offense", I jumped up a bit when I heard something added at the end. The announcement of "Holding-Offense-Number 68" brought a smile to my face. Withholding the number of the player who commits an infraction was one college football tradition that made no sense. Almost every other sport not only says the number, but takes the player off the field or assesses some kind of personal penalty that could affect their status in the game. Finally, at least in some conferences, fans can know who to point the finger at and refs actually have to own up to their call.
DID MY EYES DECIEVE ME?
Two things really captured my attention this weekend, though one turned out to be false. The reality was the 77-point performance for Western Carolina against West Virginia State. While others put up big days against DII opponents, Western Carolina wasn't exactly supposed to be a juggernaut. To their credit, most of the scoring in the second half was on defense and the Catamounts were not running up the score. In the other case, it wasn't my eyes but rather the information that was incorrect. When I saw on ESPN that Presbyterian led Furman, 14-0, in the second quarter, I was more than a bit surprised. When the score went final, I suddenly began thinking of ideas for next week's column. I pondered what might have happened, and how we all could have overrated Furman so badly. Luckily, before I put any ideas down in the notebook ESPN had corrected its mistake. The Paladins, of course, won the game 52-7, pretty much the same score that was expected. Hopefully, the network will learn how to input scores a little better during the rest of the I-AA season.
TIGERS SCARED OF I-AA POWERS
Furman beat up on Presbyterian last week, while Wofford had the week off before opening the season this Saturday at South Carolina State. However, don't expect either of South Carolina's top I-AA teams to take on the state's best I-A team, Clemson, any time soon. "I kind of like the I-AAs, as long as it's not Wofford or Furman," Clemson head coach Tommy Bowden said. "Give me somebody else other than those two. Those two are too good, even at I-AA."
LET THERE BE LIGHT
The fact that a game between NAIA William Penn and Mid-Major Drake gets mention means something pretty significant is going on. In this case, it's the time of the contest that draws attention. For the first time since Nov. 11, 1960, Drake will host a game at night. The teams will play under portable lights from Musco Lighting in Oskaloosa, Iowa, and night games will be more of a fixture in the future as the stadium renovation project includes a new lighting system. It's fitting for a night game to take place at Drake, the birth of modern night football. On Oct. 6, 1928, the Bulldogs beat Simpson, 40-6, at Drake Stadium in the first football game ever played under the lights in the United States. The Drake Stadium lights were removed in August of 1967.
THE GAMES
Call it what you will. Maybe it was just beginner's luck, or more accurately just a lot of easy games to predict with the DII and I-A opponents on the schedule. Still, a 27-6 record is good for 81.8 percent, and I'll take that to start the season. The second week gets tougher to predict, but much more exciting to watch, as five games between ranked opponents and tough challenges for the top five highlight the schedule.
OUICK HITS
Johnson C. Smith (0-2) at No. 10 Georgia Southern (0-1), 6 p.m.
Sometimes, history does repeat itself. The only other time Georgia Southern faced Johnson C. Smith, the Eagles were playing their home opener after a season-opening loss to Georgia. Same case here. The Eagles scored the first 48 points of that contest, and held a 613 to 242 edge in total yardage. Payton award candidate Jermaine Austin is doubtful for this one, but it won't matter. Georgia Southern should win in a laugher. Final Score: Georgia Southern 63, Johnson C. Smith 7
Concord (0-2) at No. 11 Western Kentucky (0-1), 8 p.m.
The Hilltoppers represented I-AA very well with a strong showing at Kansas State. They were within a touchdown into the fourth quarter and lost just 27-13 to the 12th ranked Wildcats. With a rivalry game at Eastern Kentucky next week, the Hilltoppers can be excused for playing a contest that will amount to little more than a bye week. The last time Western Kentucky played a team from the West Virginia Intercollegiate Athletic Conference, it won by a 67-3 margin. Considering Concord is being outscored by nearly 30 points a game, this one will get ugly quick. Final Score: Western Kentucky 59, Concord 0
Minnesota State (0-2) at No. 9 Northern Iowa (0-1), 5:05
The Panthers had to be a bit disappointed by their showing against Iowa State. While losing is acceptable and understandable, UNI was never really in the game against a weak Big 10 team. UNI takes on Stephen F. Austin next week, so the Panthers will use this game to get some confidence on offense and get in the win column. Final Score: UNI 45, Minnesota State 3
Cheyney (0-2) at No. 16 Western Illinois (0-1), 7:05
The Leathernecks weren't exactly expected to hang with Nebraska, but falling behind 42-3 by halftime was not what they were hoping for either. Western Illinois did play a bit better in the second half, and James Norris was dynamic on kick returns to provide them with some scoring. As for this week, all anyone needs to know is that Northeastern beat Cheyney, 71-0, a week ago. Final Score: Western Illinois 66, Cheyney 0
Adams State (0-2) at No. 12 Montana State (0-0), 3:05
The Bobcats must have been happy to move up three spots in the rankings without playing a game. They certainly have a chance to move up a few notches again because Adams State won't provide much of a test in the season opener. Montana State is actually just 1-2 against DII opponents under head coach Mike Kramer, but Adams State has only scored 13 points in two games and the Bobcats defense won't be a remedy for those offensive woes. Final Score: Montana State 38, Adams State 3
Illinois State (1-0) and AP No. 22 Minnesota (1-0), 3:30
The Redbirds went the same route as many teams, with a DII and a I-A team in the first two weeks. Illinois State fattened up on St. Xavier in the opener, and now the Redbirds will take their shot to keep it respectable against the Gophers. The game is a homecoming for Illinois State's Demetrius Johnson and Pierre Jackson, (both Minnesota transfers) but they likely won't enjoy the visit against a Minnesota offense that scored 63 against Toledo. Final Score: Minnesota 49, Illinois State 10
Eastern Washington (0-1) at Air Force (0-1), 2:00
The Big Sky isn't exactly known as a running league, so Eastern Washington's defense could struggle facing an option-based team for the second week in a row. The Eagles lost to a Nicholls State team that ran for 246 yards, and now Eastern Washington faces the fourth best I-A rushing attack of a year ago. Air Force will run all over the Eagles and burden Eastern Washington with an 0-2 start. Final Score: Air Force 35, Eastern Washington 14
Weber State (0-1) at UTEP (0-1), 9:05
The Wildcats get to face former head coach Mike Price in his second game as the UTEP head man. Unfortunately for Weber, the move up to I-A brought Price more money and more talent. The Miners got beat up pretty good in a 41-9 loss to Arizona State, and Price will be in search of his first win at the helm. When Price coached Weber State in the 80's, the Wildcats lost twice to UTEP. The third time won't be the charm for Weber State. Final Score: UTEP 44, Weber State 20
Sam Houston State (1-0) at Southwest Missouri State (1-0), 7:00
Southwest Missouri State running back Cody Pratt and Sam Houston State quarterback Dustin Long have shown what I-A transfers can mean to a program. Pratt, who had 1,233 yards a year ago, led all of I-AA with 217 yards rushing last week as SMS held off Drake, 31-26. Long received Southland Conference Player of the Week honors in his first game last week, passing for 231 yards and three touchdowns. The Southland posted wins against the Big Sky and SWAC a week ago, and Sam Houston will add a Gateway member to the list. Final Score: Sam Houston State 35, SMS 24
Indiana State (0-1) at Eastern Illinois (0-0), 7:00
Eight teams are going to be rooting hard for the Panthers here. The entire Ohio Valley Conference could use a win here to get on the board in the OVC/Gateway challenge series. Last year, the Gateway went 8-0 and Southern Illinois started this season's challenge by blasting Southeast Missouri. The Panthers are at least as good as the Sycamores, and with the homefield advantage should be able to end the OVC losing skid. Final Score: Eastern Illinois 24, Indiana State 21
Texas Southern (0-1) at Alabama State (1-0), 8:00
Texas Southern did the unthinkable and the unacceptable last week: it lost to Prairie View. To be fair, this is not the same Prairie View team that earned the No. 1 spot on ESPN's "Worst 25 teams of all-time" list. But when you tell someone that Prairie View won, eyebrows get raised. The going gets tougher for the Tigers this week, as Alabama State looked solid in a 27-12 win against Howard. The Hornets should roll again. Final Score: Alabama State 31, Texas Southern 10
Bethune-Cookman (0-0) at Arkansas Pine Bluff (1-0), 7:30
The Golden Lions posted a 42-point second half and pasted Mississippi Valley State, 49-17, in the opener a week ago. Arkansas Pine-Bluff looked good in that contest, but that was a battle between two poor teams. Bethune-Cookman will always be competitive under Alvin Wyatt, but they do have the disadvantage of playing the first game of the season after last week's contest with Savannah State was postponed. The Wildcats get the kinks worked out and come away with the victory. Final Score: Bethune-Cookman 34, Arkansas Pine-Bluff 21
Gardner-Webb (0-1) at Morgan State (1-0), 6:00
Gardner-Webb lost, 32-26, to an average team from the Ohio Valley Conference in week one. This week, the Bulldogs take on what should be an average to slightly above average team in the MEAC. For the Big South to considered seriously as a conference, someone has to start winning these games consistently. The Bears of Morgan State have enough firepower to score on Gardner-Webb, and will foil the Big South's chance for a quality win again. Final Score: Morgan State 38, Gardner-Webb 27
GOOD GAMES
No. 19 New Hampshire (1-0) at Rutgers (1-0), 1:00
The Wildcats and Scarlet Knights both posted significant wins for the program a week ago, so this could amount to the classic letdown game for both teams. New Hampshire found a way to win without No. 1 quarterback Mike Granieri against then top-ranked Delaware, but will have to go on without Granieri for now. Rutgers is actually not the punchline for jokes anymore, and scored a huge win for the program with a 19-14 triumph against Michigan State. The Scarlet Knights will probably have trouble getting up for New Hampshire early, but have more than enough talent to fend off the Wildcats. Final Score: Rutgers 38, New Hampshire 14
No. 18 Northeastern (1-0) at Navy (1-0), 1:30
For this contest, I'll make not only a prediction but a guarantee. Northeastern will not win 71-0, and will not hold Navy to 18 yards of rushing. The Huskies step up in class from Cheyney to Northeastern is like going from middle school right to college. Navy ran all over Duke for 301 yards in the opener, and the Midshipmen's ground game promises to bring fits for Northeastern's defense as well. The Huskies might be able to hang in for a little while, but Navy is too talented in the end. Final Score: Navy 31, Northeastern 20
Nicholls State (1-0) at Western Carolina (1-0), 4:00
Both teams posted significant wins for different reasons in the opener. The Colonels overcame the firing of head coach Daryl Daye and banded together to throttle a pretty good Eastern Washington team, 37-14. The Catamounts didn't play such a worthy opponent with West Virginia State, but put up a school- record 77 points in an overwhelming victory. Western Carolina will be better in the Southern this season, and Nicholls State won't be playing on the same emotion that they used a week ago. The Catamounts take the game in a nailbiter. Final Score: Western Carolina 27, Nicholls State 24
Florida International (0-0) at Youngstown State (1-0), 5:00
There are two ways to look at Youngstown State's 35-13 win against Slippery Rock last week. The Penguins looked terrible in the first half, going into the break down 6-0 with only 56 yards of total offense. In the second half, Youngstown State looked like a different team with 21 unanswered points in under seven minutes in the third quarter. Youngstown will need to play a more complete game against the Panthers, but the Penguins have the advantage of home field and the Panthers' practices have been cut short due to Hurricane Frances. Those factors will help propel the Penguins to the win. Final Score: Youngstown State 31, Florida International 24
North Carolina A & T (1-0) at Alcorn State (1-0), 7:00
Both teams won the opener, but each had to come away from the game with a different feeling about the way they played. The Aggies struggled against N.C. Central in the Aggie-Eagle Classic and needed a 50-yard field goal as time expired to come away with the victory. Alcorn State beat Grambling with a strong defensive effort and effective game by quarterback Donald Carrie, who could be a breakout star in 2004. The Braves have won six straight dating back to last season, and will extend the streak to seven with a win here. Final Score: Alcorn State 28, NC A & T 20
Grambling State (0-1) at Alabama A & M (0-1), 7:30
In their worst dreams, neither team could have envisioned the way the 2004 season started. Grambling State was already on its way to a surprisingly big loss at home to Alcorn State before Bruce Eugene went down with an injury. When Eugene got hurt in the third quarter, and now is out for the season, the Tigers first loss didn't seem so important anymore. Alabama A & M was blasted, 42-7, by Tennessee State in the opener. In the process, the Bulldogs allowed over 200 yards rushing to TSU running back Charles Anthony. The walls appear to be caving in at Grambling, with a true freshman at quarterback and a pair of receivers out with injury. But the program has a strong history and character, and the players will be motivated enough to win without Eugene here. Final Score: Grambling State 27, Alabama A & M 17
Howard (0-1) at Hampton (1-0), 6:00
Hampton's Joe Taylor won his 100th game as head coach of the Pirates against Jackson State last week, and moved his overall record at Hampton to a staggering 100-39-1. The Pirates' running game rolled up yardage behind Jelani Clement and a strong offensive line. The rushing totals are not a good sign for a Howard defense that allowed 170 yards on the ground in a loss to Alabama State. Taylor faces his alma mater, Western Illinois, next weekend in a big game for the Pirates. Hampton should have an unblemished record entering the contest. Final Score: Hampton 31, Howard 17
No. 21 Northwestern State (0-1) at Jackson State (0-1), 7:00
The Demons had by far the most disappointing loss of any I-AA team facing a I-A last week. Northwestern State had troubles in the kicking game, lost three fumbles and threw an interception in a 14-7 loss to UL-Lafayette. The Demons outgained the Ragin' Cajuns by nearly 60 yards, and running back Derrick Johnese picked up 126 yards on the ground. Jackson State has a long way to go to return to the glory days of the past, but it is the Tigers' home opener and that should provide for some extra incentive to keep it close. Northwestern State's talent edge, however, will be too much to overcome. Final Score: Northwestern State 35, Jackson State 21
No. 3 Wofford (0-0) at South Carolina State (1-0), 7:00
The Terriers face a potential trap game at South Carolina State. Wofford has not seen game action yet this season, and has a road trip to Georgia Southern on tap for next week. If they get caught looking ahead, the Bulldogs could pose a threat. South Carolina State romped over Benedict, 51-0, in the opener and only lost 7-6 at home against the Terriers in 2002. With all that information aside, Wofford has the better line, better running game, and better defense. Coach Mike Ayers will have his team ready to go and the physical advantage the Terriers enjoy will carry them to victory. Final Score: Wofford 30, South Carolina State 13
Cal Poly (1-0) at Idaho State (0-1), 8:05
In a game between two teams unofficially ranked No. 30 and No. 31 in the Sports Network poll, the winner will knock on the door of the top 25 while the loser falls further down the "others receiving votes" category. It's hard to judge the teams based on last week, as Cal Poly rolled over DII Humboldt State and Idaho State fell behind 38-0 before making it respectable in a 38-21 loss to San Diego State. In what should be a shootout, Cal Poly has a slight edge on defense while Idaho State holds a bit of an edge on offense. Idaho State came back to win, 38-31, a year ago to effectively end any hopes the Mustangs had for a playoff berth. Cal Poly will exact some payback here and become the second Great West team to win at a Big Sky opponent in as many weeks. Final Score: Cal Poly 38, Idaho State 31
Hofstra (1-0) at No. 2 Montana (1-0), 3:05
There are some reasons for hope for the Pride. In 2000, Hofstra made the trip to Missoula and upended the Grizzlies, 10-9. Hofstra also looked good in a 45-0 win against Albany as quarterback Bobby Seck threw for 424 yards. Now, back to reality. The teams have went in different directions since 2000, and Albany is a Mid-Major. Montana has a great balance between run and pass, with weapons at all the skill positions. The Grizzlies defense will make it a lot tougher for Seck to have time in the pocket and find receivers. The season-ending injury to wide receiver Marques Colston won't help matters for Hofstra in this one, and the Griz have a possible No. 1 ranking on the line with Southern Illinois facing a I-A team. Hofstra could hang in for a little while but the outcome should be decided by the start of the fourth quarter. Final Score: Montana 38, Hofstra 14
No. 5 Furman (1-0) at Samford (1-1), 7:00
Like their local rival Wofford, the Paladins face a game they should be able to win but won't come easy. With Ingle Martin at quarterback, Furman's offense is drastically upgraded from a season ago and the defense is just as good if not better than last season's stellar unit. But the game is on the road, and the Bulldogs trio of quarterback Ray Nelson, wide receiver Efrem Hill, and defensive back Cortland Finnegan can make things difficult on the best teams. Furman has the edge in talent and should prevail, but they'll have to sweat a bit to come out with the victory. Final Score: Furman 24, Samford 17
Southeastern Louisiana (1-0) at No. 6 McNeese State (1-0)
In case anyone needed a reminder about the Cowboys' ability, McNeese sent a message to the rest of the Southland with a 35-17 win at Southern a week ago. The Cowboys might not be as good as last year, but the cupboard isn't bare either. The Cowboys beat Southeastern Louisiana, 58-20, a year ago by running all over the Lions' suspect defense and getting after quarterback Martin Hankins all day. Hankins has the ability to become something special, and with Hal Mumme has the head coach Southeastern Louisiana's offense is sure to have some firepower. But in year two of the re-establishment of the program, the Lions' roster does not come close to matching the overall talent of McNeese. Hankins better bring his running shoes because he will be hounded again. Final Score: McNeese State 52, Southeastern Louisiana 27
Towson (1-0) at No. 7 Delaware (0-1), 7:00
Sometimes you ask for what you get. The Tigers wanted the tougher competition of the Atlantic 10, and do they ever open with a challenging contest. Delaware might not be as good as last year's national championship team, but they certainly should show better than last week's effort in a 24-21 loss to New Hampshire. Delaware's loss ended a 10-game home winning streak, and the Blue Hens should start working on a new streak this week. With last week's loss to motivate them, Delaware handles Towson with ease. Final Score: Delaware 45, Towson 13
MARQUEE MATCHUPS
No. 1 Southern Illinois (1-0) at Northern Illinois (0-1), 4:05
The Salukis are ranked No. 1 in a weekly poll for the first time since winning the national championship in 1983. That season was also the last time Southern Illinois defeated a I-A school, so the Salukis could follow a successful pattern with a win here. Actually, Southern Illinois would probably finish in the middle or a bit higher if they competed in the MAC. The Salukis boast one of the best backfields in the nation, and the rest of the roster is more than capable of beating schools like Akron, Kent State and Ohio on a regular basis. However, Northern Illinois is not one of those mid-level MAC opponents. The Huskies finished 10-2 a season ago and boasted wins over Maryland, Alabama and Iowa State on their way to finishing No.26 in the final poll. Northern Illinois fell in a close game to Maryland last Saturday, and faces Iowa State next week. If they don't take the Salukis seriously, Southern Illinois could be primed for an upset. Even if Northern Illinois plays a great game, the Salukis have enough talent to make this one tight right up to the end. Southern Illinois will represent I-AA well, but lose in a close one. Final Score: Northern Illinois 24, Southern Illinois 21
No. 23 Northern Colorado (1-0) at No. 17 Maine (0-1), 6:00
Both of these teams deserve plenty of credit for scheduling good opposition out of the conference. Maine lost to Montana last week, and Northern Colorado plays the Grizzlies later in the season. Maine played a solid road game at Montana, but penalties and a late interception doomed chances of a mild upset. With games remaining at Mississippi State Delaware, and Massachusetts, the Black Bears need this win badly or the only way to the playoffs may be to win the A-10 title. Northern Colorado won't be going to the playoffs this season, but it could still cause some havoc along the way. The Bears were 9-2 a year ago and are the class of the Great West. However, UNC will have to improve on last week's performance against North Dakota State. The Bears were outgained by nearly 200 yards in the game and nearly blew a 15-0 lead at home. Maine should be pumped for the home opener, and has the edge in talent as well. The Black Bears take the win by a couple touchdowns. Final Score: Maine 31, Northern Colorado 17
No. 20 Eastern Kentucky (0-0) at No. 24 Appalachian State (0-1), 2:00
Neither team exactly has a whole lot of momentum coming in. Eastern Kentucky has yet to play a game, and Appalachian State got pounded in a 53-7 loss at Wyoming. For Eastern Kentucky, it's probably a good idea that last week was a bye considering a three-game stretch against Appalachian State, Western Kentucky and Jacksonville State to begin the season. The Colonels pounded Appalachian State, 35-7, a year ago so the Mountaineers will be looking for some revenge. The best matchup will come when EKU has the ball, as its wide- open passing offense faces a high-caliber Mountaineers secondary. The Mountaineers might need the win a little more, considering the Southern Conference will be much tougher to win than the Ohio Valley. The home field advantage helps, but right now I'm just not convinced that Appalachian State's running game can get the job done. Head coach Jerry Moore will have to wait one more game for his 150th win, and the Mountaineers will be off to an uncommon 0-2 start. Final Score: Eastern Kentucky 31, Appalachian State 28
No. 13 Northern Arizona (0-1) at No. 15 Stephen F. Austin (1-0), 8:00
Both of these "Lumberjacks" play a challenging non-conference schedule, so each team could use a victory here. Though Stephen F. Austin won and Northern Arizona lost a week ago, the Lumberjacks from Arizona were probably more pleased with their performance. Northern Arizona held Arizona to just a touchdown into the fourth quarter before falling, 21-3. Jason Murrietta struggled against the Wildcats defense, but he'll likely have a bounce back game here. Running back Derek Farmer went for 132 yards in his first game with Stephen F. Austin, but the 30-14 win over Henderson State was not as overwhelming as expected. Both teams have a star at quarterback and running back, and the rest of the rosters square up comparably. The only clear separation between the two is the home field for Stephen F. Austin, so the Lumberjacks from Nacogdoches are the pick. Final Score: Stephen F. Austin 20, Northern Arizona 17
No. 8 Villanova (1-0) at No. 22 Lehigh (1-0), 1:00
The Wildcats and the Mountain Hawks each have plenty of questions after the first game. Villanova appeared to be on its way to an easy win over Bucknell until the offense gave the ball away on three second half possessions. The Bison came back from a 20-0 deficit to cut Villanova's lead to 20-14, and literally came within inches of taking a lead on the Wildcats. Lehigh had to overcome offensive struggles of its own in a 25-2 win against Mid-Major Stony Brook. Lehigh moved the ball on the ground in the second half and pulled away, but the offensive effort left plenty to be desired. Both Villanova's Marvin Burroughs and Lehigh's Mark Borda are under pressure to perform, especially early in the season. Both quarterbacks unseated last year's incumbent in fall practice, and now have to prove themselves on the field. Burroughs had a better first outing than Borda, but both had a mixed bag of good plays and ineffectiveness. I saw Villanova's defense firsthand, and came away extremely impressed. Something tells me that, by the end of the year, the offense will catch up a bit and the Wildcats will be a team to avoid come playoff time. Villanova has more speed and talent on both sides of the ball, and would probably win a series between the two pretty easily. But the Brown and White know how perfect they must be out-of-conference if they need an at-large playoff berth, and will play with motivation to prove themselves in this game. Lehigh finds a way to score just enough points, and pulls off the upset in a close contest. Final Score: Lehigh 14, Villanova 13
GAME OF THE WEEK
No. 4 Colgate (0-0) at No. 14 Massachusetts (1-0), 6:00
For a team that made the national championship game last season, the Raiders still have plenty of doubters out there. People say they won because of the snow and cold, and the real Colgate showed up in the title game against Delaware. The Raiders have their first shot to prove people wrong with a matchup at one of the teams they beat in that playoff run. Colgate still has Walter Payton Award winner Jamaal Branch, quarterback Chris Brown, and wide receiver Luke Graham so the offense shouldn't lose a step. The defense will be solid again, and Colgate does have an 18-game regular season winning streak coming in. Of course, Massachusetts would like nothing better than to get some revenge and end that streak. Even though it was against a weak Delaware State team, quarterback Tim Day's 17-for-19 performance a week ago shows that all is not lost with the graduation of Jeff Krohn. The Minutemen know they won't get by with 20 penalties against Colgate, so discipline will be a key. The Raiders are playing their first game, and they may struggle a bit to get their feet wet at the beginning. But Colgate has the better roster, and the offense will put up enough points to get past the Minutemen. I'll be in attendance at this game, so Minutemen fans will know where to go to let me hear about it if I'm wrong. Final Score: Colgate 31, Massachusetts 21
Mid-Major Game of the Week: No. 7 Morehead State (0-1) at No. 2 Dayton (1-0)
The Eagles and the Flyers are still considered the top two programs in the Pioneer for good reason. However, both have plenty of question marks early in 2004 with major losses on the offensive side of the ball. Dayton has quarterback Brandon Staley and not much else back on offense, but the unit still moved fine in a 38-9 win over Tiffin to open the season. The Eagles went down, 28-7, to Coastal Carolina in the first contest and fell four spots in the rankings. The Flyers have been a step or two ahead of the Eagles the past few years, and that should also be the case this weekend. Final Score: Dayton 27, Morehead State 14
Not only was the game at Montana unbelievable, the whole atmosphere makes the home football weekend into a showcase event. From going out on Friday to the early tailgates on Saturday, game day truly brings the community and much of the state together in Missoula.
After a Friday night at Red's and Stock's and a burger at the Missoula Club, I was more than ready for the atmosphere before the game. The trailers, flags, and general festive attitude would dissuade anyone with the perception that I- AA is not big time college football.
As fan support goes, I'd ask anyone to find a way down to the sidelines at Washington-Grizzly Stadium and listen to the home crowd before and during the game. That is, listen if you're hearing allows it. As many Griz fans suggested, I could have used earplugs with the cannon shooting off and deafening crowd noise combining for a decibel level that left my ears ringing.
The game itself lived up to its billing as the best matchup of the weekend. Maine and Montana appeared to be even physically even, and if not for some mistakes and costly penalties the Black Bears may have pulled the upset. Montana's offense proved its versatility with a shotgun attack led by quarterback Craig Ochs, and the Grizzlies have the look of a squad that should stay in the top five all season. If Maine can get through a tough early schedule, the Black Bears proved to be a playoff-caliber team as well.
The game was well worth the two long plane rides, one of which left Missoula on Sunday at 6 am (which still felt like Saturday night). It was even worth the achy knees I now face for a few days after being crammed into a seat in coach for five straight hours. A bit of advice, people. Before you recline back for an in-flight nap, take a look at who is behind you. When you're 6-3, you just pray the person in front of keeps that seat in the upright and locked position.
As eye opening as the trip to Missoula was, it wasn't the only football action I took in. Before the long trip Northwest, I made a quick drive for some I-AA action in Philadelphia. Or, to be exact, in Villanova, Pa. And for all that I saw in Missoula, the thing that stuck in my mind by Sunday afternoon was the play of the Villanova defense.
Granted, Villanova did not play an offensive juggernaut in Bucknell. But in the first three quarters, the defensive line dominated up front, the linebackers tracked down every ball carrier after little or no gain, and the secondary allowed almost nothing in the passing game. The Wildcats surrendered just 178 yards of total offense, and if not for three turnovers would have held Bucknell to single digits in points.
Right now, Maine, Montana and many others are more complete than the 'Cats. Marvin Burroughs had flashes of brilliance but also was inconsistent and ineffective at times. The offense moved the ball throughout the first half, but had trouble putting points on the board when they reached Bucknell territory.
However, Burroughs is a sophomore who has little game experience. He shows the potential to become a great playmaker in time. If that time comes before the end of the regular season, coaches will not want to see Villanova on their playoff schedule.
WEEK ONE NOTEBOOK
Co-Teams of the Week: Nicholls State and New Hampshire
I usually hate doing this. The whole point of awards and recognition is to honor a significant achievement, and including more than one winner will take the importance away. But in this case, I would be remiss if I failed to mention either of these squads for what they accomplished last week.
Everyone would have understood if Nicholls State struggled in the home opener against Eastern Washington. To begin with, the Colonels lost a majority of the starters from a mediocre 2003 team. Two weeks before the game, head coach Daryl Daye was fired amidst an academic scandal he was not directly involved in. Jay Thomas was promoted from the assistant position and had scant little time to prepare for the opener. The Colonels dedicated the game to coach Daye, and played on an emotional high on their way to a 30-0 halftime lead. Nicholls State ran all over a good Eastern Washington team in the 37-14 victory, and proved their mental strength by playing such a strong game after a difficult couple of weeks.
On any other week, New Hampshire earns this honor by itself. The Wildcats, who have been a thorn in Delaware's side in recent years, went into Delaware and knocked off the defending champion Blue Hens, 24-21. The fact New Hampshire won is not as surprising as how they won. Star quarterback Mike Granieri was expected to be the Wildcats best chance at an upset, but he went down with a serious knee injury in the second quarter. Redshirt freshman Ricky Santos came in to complete 10-11 passes for 146 yards and lead the Wildcats to victory. Reports are that Granieri will be out for an extended period of time, maybe even the season, but the Wildcats showed their might with the win last week.
Mid-Major Team of the Week: Duquesne
Holy Cross isn't the best I-AA has to offer, but a Mid-Major team running all over a Patriot League team still merits recognition. Duquesne showed why it is the best Mid-Major in the land in a commanding 31-7 win against the Crusaders. Quarterback Neil Loebig tossed four touchdowns and the Dukes' defense held Holy Cross scoreless until late in the fourth quarter. Duquesne gets a shot at Patriot teams Fordham, Georgetown and Bucknell later in the year, and you can bet none of those teams will take the Dukes lightly.
Best Top 25 Win: No. 8 McNeese State 35, Southern 17
Questions persisted for both powers entering the season. The Cowboys, especially, had to find replacements for 11 All-Southland picks and critics questioned McNeese State's ability to remain a national power. The Cowboys made a resounding statement about their elite status with a convincing road win against a quality opponent. Michigan State transfer Kris Bush ran for 129 yards, quarterback Scott Pendarvis threw for another 254, and the Cowboys never trailed in the game. The Cowboys have sent a message that the Southland title may still have to come through Lake Charles.
Worst Top 25 Loss: New Hampshire 24, No. 1 Delaware 21
11 of last week's top 25 teams fell, so the Blue Hens are not without company in the loss column. However, Delaware wasn't on the road, wasn't facing a I-A team, and did not have any significant injury that led to the defeat as others did. A team that is expected to finish in the middle of the A-10 North simply outplayed the Blue Hens. To make matters worse, it was New Hampshire, not Delaware, that had to overcome a major injury during the game. It's a long season, and one game is still just one game. But Delaware could not have envisioned starting its title defense with a home loss.
Best Game: No. 3 Montana 27, No. 11 Maine 20
To be fair, I was at this contest and got an appreciation for how competitive the matchup was. Still, it was the only game involving two ranked teams and both teams showed why they are serious playoff contenders. The duel turned from a defensive struggle to a Montana shootout after the Grizzlies switched to a shotgun formation after halftime. However, Maine tied the score at 13 early in the fourth and the game remained tight until the final minutes. Montana deserved the win, but Maine also proved itself with a strong effort in a tough environment.
Play of the Week: North Carolina A & T kicker Carlos Davalos booted a 50-yard field goal with no time left on the clock to lift the Aggies over N.C. Central, 16-15. It was Davalos' first successful kick in his collegiate career, and according to NC A & T head coach George Small it was the furthest Davalos has kicked a ball, including in practice. "I don't know what got into him, but I'm glad it did," Smith said. The final play should really never have happened, but N.C. Central fumbled the snap when all it had to do was take a knee to run out the clock. The improbable win was huge for the MEAC, which already saw one team (Norfolk State) lose to a lower level opponent.
Stat of the Week: 20-161
The numbers indicate the penalties and penalty yards whistled against Massachusetts in the Minutemen's 51-0 drilling of Delaware State. The Massachusetts defense allowed only 14 more yards (175) than the team committed in penalties. Ironically, the 20 penalties (which included 14 in the first half) broke the old school record of 16 set in 1980 against Delaware State. To be sure, the Minutemen will have to clean up their act with contests against Colgate and Delaware looming.
Quote of the Week: "I thought it was surprisingly a great effort by everyone especially because of the roller coaster we've been through the last month" - Nicholls State head coach Jay Thomas
Top Performances
Offensive Player of the Week: Martin Hankins, QB, Southeastern Louisiana - 30- for-41, 588 yards, 4 passing TD, 1 rushing TD in 46-32 win against Arkansas- Monticello
Others: Charles Anthony, RB, Tennessee State - 202 yards rushing, 2 TD in 42-7 win over Alabama A & M
Alonzo Coleman, RB, Hampton - 209 yards rushing, 3 TD in 38-19 win against Jackson State
Defensive Player of the Week: Mario Williams, S, Gardner-Webb - 15 tackles, INT return for TD, fumble return for TD in 32-26 loss to Tennessee Tech
Others: Cortland Finnegan, S, Samford - 16 tackles, INT, FF in 28-7 loss to Georgia Tech
Reed Doughty , S, Northern Colorado - 17 tackles, 2 INT, FF in 15-13 win over North Dakota State
Special Teams Player of the Week: Justin Zaitz, K, Northern Colorado - 5-6 FG in 15-13 win over North Dakota State
Others: James Norris, KR, Western Illinois - 98-yard TD return, 75-yard return in 56-17 loss at Nebraska
Now, a look at the news from the week that was and the week that will be in I- AA football:
A SAD END TO THE SEASON
With one hit, one of the best talents in I-AA football and top candidates for the Walter Payton Award saw his season come to an end. Grambling State quarterback Bruce Eugene, who finished in the top three of the Payton balloting the past two seasons, is done for the season with a torn anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee. He will have surgery either locally or in Birmingham with well-known Dr. James Andrews. Grambling head coach Melvin Spears said Grambling would apply for a medical redshirt so Eugene could return next season. True freshman Brandon Landers will have large shoes to fill, but was a two-time all-Louisiana selection in high school. The loss of Eugene is a blow to Grambling and all of I-AA football, and we can only hope to see the medical redshirt granted and Eugene back on the field for another season.
BETTER REVISE THE MEDIA GUIDE
When New Hampshire's media guide came out late in the summer, no one outside of Ricky Santos' family noticed that he did not have a bio page. But any media members who scrambled to find some background on Santos after his 10-11, 146- yard performance against Delaware were out of luck. See, Santos, the reigning A-10 Rookie of the Week, was only supposed to be the fourth quarterback for the Wildcats. But No. 1 quarterback Mike Granieri went down with a knee injury in the second quarter against Delaware, No. 2 signal-caller Matt Skoby transferred to play baseball, and No. 3 man Hasan Noble was nursing an injury. Suddenly, Santos got thrust into a game at defending national champion Delaware, and to say the least he acclimated himself well. Granieri is still being evaluated, and may try to come back later this season if he is unable to receive a medical redshirt. At the very least, Granieri is out for an extended period of time and the former No. 4 quarterback will get a chance to show if last week was a mirage or breakout performance.
HURRICANE FRANCES FORCES I-AA CANCELLATIONS
Unless you're the New York Yankees, you realize that sports had to take a backseat to the disastrous situation in Florida this past weekend. With that in mind, four games were affected by the hurricane that swept through the state over the weekend. The Savannah State-Bethune-Cookman and Jacksonville-Florida International games were both cancelled, and the Jackson State-Hampton game was moved from Orlando to Hampton. Citadel officials postponed the school's game with Charleston Southern until the end of the season. Though the weather did not turn out to be as dire in South Carolina, no one can complain when the school puts safety before athletics.
DID MY EARS DECIEVE ME?
In the first quarter of the Maine-Montana game Saturday, the Black Bears committed the first of what would be 12 penalties in the game. Expecting to hear the usual, "Holding-Offense", I jumped up a bit when I heard something added at the end. The announcement of "Holding-Offense-Number 68" brought a smile to my face. Withholding the number of the player who commits an infraction was one college football tradition that made no sense. Almost every other sport not only says the number, but takes the player off the field or assesses some kind of personal penalty that could affect their status in the game. Finally, at least in some conferences, fans can know who to point the finger at and refs actually have to own up to their call.
DID MY EYES DECIEVE ME?
Two things really captured my attention this weekend, though one turned out to be false. The reality was the 77-point performance for Western Carolina against West Virginia State. While others put up big days against DII opponents, Western Carolina wasn't exactly supposed to be a juggernaut. To their credit, most of the scoring in the second half was on defense and the Catamounts were not running up the score. In the other case, it wasn't my eyes but rather the information that was incorrect. When I saw on ESPN that Presbyterian led Furman, 14-0, in the second quarter, I was more than a bit surprised. When the score went final, I suddenly began thinking of ideas for next week's column. I pondered what might have happened, and how we all could have overrated Furman so badly. Luckily, before I put any ideas down in the notebook ESPN had corrected its mistake. The Paladins, of course, won the game 52-7, pretty much the same score that was expected. Hopefully, the network will learn how to input scores a little better during the rest of the I-AA season.
TIGERS SCARED OF I-AA POWERS
Furman beat up on Presbyterian last week, while Wofford had the week off before opening the season this Saturday at South Carolina State. However, don't expect either of South Carolina's top I-AA teams to take on the state's best I-A team, Clemson, any time soon. "I kind of like the I-AAs, as long as it's not Wofford or Furman," Clemson head coach Tommy Bowden said. "Give me somebody else other than those two. Those two are too good, even at I-AA."
LET THERE BE LIGHT
The fact that a game between NAIA William Penn and Mid-Major Drake gets mention means something pretty significant is going on. In this case, it's the time of the contest that draws attention. For the first time since Nov. 11, 1960, Drake will host a game at night. The teams will play under portable lights from Musco Lighting in Oskaloosa, Iowa, and night games will be more of a fixture in the future as the stadium renovation project includes a new lighting system. It's fitting for a night game to take place at Drake, the birth of modern night football. On Oct. 6, 1928, the Bulldogs beat Simpson, 40-6, at Drake Stadium in the first football game ever played under the lights in the United States. The Drake Stadium lights were removed in August of 1967.
THE GAMES
Call it what you will. Maybe it was just beginner's luck, or more accurately just a lot of easy games to predict with the DII and I-A opponents on the schedule. Still, a 27-6 record is good for 81.8 percent, and I'll take that to start the season. The second week gets tougher to predict, but much more exciting to watch, as five games between ranked opponents and tough challenges for the top five highlight the schedule.
OUICK HITS
Johnson C. Smith (0-2) at No. 10 Georgia Southern (0-1), 6 p.m.
Sometimes, history does repeat itself. The only other time Georgia Southern faced Johnson C. Smith, the Eagles were playing their home opener after a season-opening loss to Georgia. Same case here. The Eagles scored the first 48 points of that contest, and held a 613 to 242 edge in total yardage. Payton award candidate Jermaine Austin is doubtful for this one, but it won't matter. Georgia Southern should win in a laugher. Final Score: Georgia Southern 63, Johnson C. Smith 7
Concord (0-2) at No. 11 Western Kentucky (0-1), 8 p.m.
The Hilltoppers represented I-AA very well with a strong showing at Kansas State. They were within a touchdown into the fourth quarter and lost just 27-13 to the 12th ranked Wildcats. With a rivalry game at Eastern Kentucky next week, the Hilltoppers can be excused for playing a contest that will amount to little more than a bye week. The last time Western Kentucky played a team from the West Virginia Intercollegiate Athletic Conference, it won by a 67-3 margin. Considering Concord is being outscored by nearly 30 points a game, this one will get ugly quick. Final Score: Western Kentucky 59, Concord 0
Minnesota State (0-2) at No. 9 Northern Iowa (0-1), 5:05
The Panthers had to be a bit disappointed by their showing against Iowa State. While losing is acceptable and understandable, UNI was never really in the game against a weak Big 10 team. UNI takes on Stephen F. Austin next week, so the Panthers will use this game to get some confidence on offense and get in the win column. Final Score: UNI 45, Minnesota State 3
Cheyney (0-2) at No. 16 Western Illinois (0-1), 7:05
The Leathernecks weren't exactly expected to hang with Nebraska, but falling behind 42-3 by halftime was not what they were hoping for either. Western Illinois did play a bit better in the second half, and James Norris was dynamic on kick returns to provide them with some scoring. As for this week, all anyone needs to know is that Northeastern beat Cheyney, 71-0, a week ago. Final Score: Western Illinois 66, Cheyney 0
Adams State (0-2) at No. 12 Montana State (0-0), 3:05
The Bobcats must have been happy to move up three spots in the rankings without playing a game. They certainly have a chance to move up a few notches again because Adams State won't provide much of a test in the season opener. Montana State is actually just 1-2 against DII opponents under head coach Mike Kramer, but Adams State has only scored 13 points in two games and the Bobcats defense won't be a remedy for those offensive woes. Final Score: Montana State 38, Adams State 3
Illinois State (1-0) and AP No. 22 Minnesota (1-0), 3:30
The Redbirds went the same route as many teams, with a DII and a I-A team in the first two weeks. Illinois State fattened up on St. Xavier in the opener, and now the Redbirds will take their shot to keep it respectable against the Gophers. The game is a homecoming for Illinois State's Demetrius Johnson and Pierre Jackson, (both Minnesota transfers) but they likely won't enjoy the visit against a Minnesota offense that scored 63 against Toledo. Final Score: Minnesota 49, Illinois State 10
Eastern Washington (0-1) at Air Force (0-1), 2:00
The Big Sky isn't exactly known as a running league, so Eastern Washington's defense could struggle facing an option-based team for the second week in a row. The Eagles lost to a Nicholls State team that ran for 246 yards, and now Eastern Washington faces the fourth best I-A rushing attack of a year ago. Air Force will run all over the Eagles and burden Eastern Washington with an 0-2 start. Final Score: Air Force 35, Eastern Washington 14
Weber State (0-1) at UTEP (0-1), 9:05
The Wildcats get to face former head coach Mike Price in his second game as the UTEP head man. Unfortunately for Weber, the move up to I-A brought Price more money and more talent. The Miners got beat up pretty good in a 41-9 loss to Arizona State, and Price will be in search of his first win at the helm. When Price coached Weber State in the 80's, the Wildcats lost twice to UTEP. The third time won't be the charm for Weber State. Final Score: UTEP 44, Weber State 20
Sam Houston State (1-0) at Southwest Missouri State (1-0), 7:00
Southwest Missouri State running back Cody Pratt and Sam Houston State quarterback Dustin Long have shown what I-A transfers can mean to a program. Pratt, who had 1,233 yards a year ago, led all of I-AA with 217 yards rushing last week as SMS held off Drake, 31-26. Long received Southland Conference Player of the Week honors in his first game last week, passing for 231 yards and three touchdowns. The Southland posted wins against the Big Sky and SWAC a week ago, and Sam Houston will add a Gateway member to the list. Final Score: Sam Houston State 35, SMS 24
Indiana State (0-1) at Eastern Illinois (0-0), 7:00
Eight teams are going to be rooting hard for the Panthers here. The entire Ohio Valley Conference could use a win here to get on the board in the OVC/Gateway challenge series. Last year, the Gateway went 8-0 and Southern Illinois started this season's challenge by blasting Southeast Missouri. The Panthers are at least as good as the Sycamores, and with the homefield advantage should be able to end the OVC losing skid. Final Score: Eastern Illinois 24, Indiana State 21
Texas Southern (0-1) at Alabama State (1-0), 8:00
Texas Southern did the unthinkable and the unacceptable last week: it lost to Prairie View. To be fair, this is not the same Prairie View team that earned the No. 1 spot on ESPN's "Worst 25 teams of all-time" list. But when you tell someone that Prairie View won, eyebrows get raised. The going gets tougher for the Tigers this week, as Alabama State looked solid in a 27-12 win against Howard. The Hornets should roll again. Final Score: Alabama State 31, Texas Southern 10
Bethune-Cookman (0-0) at Arkansas Pine Bluff (1-0), 7:30
The Golden Lions posted a 42-point second half and pasted Mississippi Valley State, 49-17, in the opener a week ago. Arkansas Pine-Bluff looked good in that contest, but that was a battle between two poor teams. Bethune-Cookman will always be competitive under Alvin Wyatt, but they do have the disadvantage of playing the first game of the season after last week's contest with Savannah State was postponed. The Wildcats get the kinks worked out and come away with the victory. Final Score: Bethune-Cookman 34, Arkansas Pine-Bluff 21
Gardner-Webb (0-1) at Morgan State (1-0), 6:00
Gardner-Webb lost, 32-26, to an average team from the Ohio Valley Conference in week one. This week, the Bulldogs take on what should be an average to slightly above average team in the MEAC. For the Big South to considered seriously as a conference, someone has to start winning these games consistently. The Bears of Morgan State have enough firepower to score on Gardner-Webb, and will foil the Big South's chance for a quality win again. Final Score: Morgan State 38, Gardner-Webb 27
GOOD GAMES
No. 19 New Hampshire (1-0) at Rutgers (1-0), 1:00
The Wildcats and Scarlet Knights both posted significant wins for the program a week ago, so this could amount to the classic letdown game for both teams. New Hampshire found a way to win without No. 1 quarterback Mike Granieri against then top-ranked Delaware, but will have to go on without Granieri for now. Rutgers is actually not the punchline for jokes anymore, and scored a huge win for the program with a 19-14 triumph against Michigan State. The Scarlet Knights will probably have trouble getting up for New Hampshire early, but have more than enough talent to fend off the Wildcats. Final Score: Rutgers 38, New Hampshire 14
No. 18 Northeastern (1-0) at Navy (1-0), 1:30
For this contest, I'll make not only a prediction but a guarantee. Northeastern will not win 71-0, and will not hold Navy to 18 yards of rushing. The Huskies step up in class from Cheyney to Northeastern is like going from middle school right to college. Navy ran all over Duke for 301 yards in the opener, and the Midshipmen's ground game promises to bring fits for Northeastern's defense as well. The Huskies might be able to hang in for a little while, but Navy is too talented in the end. Final Score: Navy 31, Northeastern 20
Nicholls State (1-0) at Western Carolina (1-0), 4:00
Both teams posted significant wins for different reasons in the opener. The Colonels overcame the firing of head coach Daryl Daye and banded together to throttle a pretty good Eastern Washington team, 37-14. The Catamounts didn't play such a worthy opponent with West Virginia State, but put up a school- record 77 points in an overwhelming victory. Western Carolina will be better in the Southern this season, and Nicholls State won't be playing on the same emotion that they used a week ago. The Catamounts take the game in a nailbiter. Final Score: Western Carolina 27, Nicholls State 24
Florida International (0-0) at Youngstown State (1-0), 5:00
There are two ways to look at Youngstown State's 35-13 win against Slippery Rock last week. The Penguins looked terrible in the first half, going into the break down 6-0 with only 56 yards of total offense. In the second half, Youngstown State looked like a different team with 21 unanswered points in under seven minutes in the third quarter. Youngstown will need to play a more complete game against the Panthers, but the Penguins have the advantage of home field and the Panthers' practices have been cut short due to Hurricane Frances. Those factors will help propel the Penguins to the win. Final Score: Youngstown State 31, Florida International 24
North Carolina A & T (1-0) at Alcorn State (1-0), 7:00
Both teams won the opener, but each had to come away from the game with a different feeling about the way they played. The Aggies struggled against N.C. Central in the Aggie-Eagle Classic and needed a 50-yard field goal as time expired to come away with the victory. Alcorn State beat Grambling with a strong defensive effort and effective game by quarterback Donald Carrie, who could be a breakout star in 2004. The Braves have won six straight dating back to last season, and will extend the streak to seven with a win here. Final Score: Alcorn State 28, NC A & T 20
Grambling State (0-1) at Alabama A & M (0-1), 7:30
In their worst dreams, neither team could have envisioned the way the 2004 season started. Grambling State was already on its way to a surprisingly big loss at home to Alcorn State before Bruce Eugene went down with an injury. When Eugene got hurt in the third quarter, and now is out for the season, the Tigers first loss didn't seem so important anymore. Alabama A & M was blasted, 42-7, by Tennessee State in the opener. In the process, the Bulldogs allowed over 200 yards rushing to TSU running back Charles Anthony. The walls appear to be caving in at Grambling, with a true freshman at quarterback and a pair of receivers out with injury. But the program has a strong history and character, and the players will be motivated enough to win without Eugene here. Final Score: Grambling State 27, Alabama A & M 17
Howard (0-1) at Hampton (1-0), 6:00
Hampton's Joe Taylor won his 100th game as head coach of the Pirates against Jackson State last week, and moved his overall record at Hampton to a staggering 100-39-1. The Pirates' running game rolled up yardage behind Jelani Clement and a strong offensive line. The rushing totals are not a good sign for a Howard defense that allowed 170 yards on the ground in a loss to Alabama State. Taylor faces his alma mater, Western Illinois, next weekend in a big game for the Pirates. Hampton should have an unblemished record entering the contest. Final Score: Hampton 31, Howard 17
No. 21 Northwestern State (0-1) at Jackson State (0-1), 7:00
The Demons had by far the most disappointing loss of any I-AA team facing a I-A last week. Northwestern State had troubles in the kicking game, lost three fumbles and threw an interception in a 14-7 loss to UL-Lafayette. The Demons outgained the Ragin' Cajuns by nearly 60 yards, and running back Derrick Johnese picked up 126 yards on the ground. Jackson State has a long way to go to return to the glory days of the past, but it is the Tigers' home opener and that should provide for some extra incentive to keep it close. Northwestern State's talent edge, however, will be too much to overcome. Final Score: Northwestern State 35, Jackson State 21
No. 3 Wofford (0-0) at South Carolina State (1-0), 7:00
The Terriers face a potential trap game at South Carolina State. Wofford has not seen game action yet this season, and has a road trip to Georgia Southern on tap for next week. If they get caught looking ahead, the Bulldogs could pose a threat. South Carolina State romped over Benedict, 51-0, in the opener and only lost 7-6 at home against the Terriers in 2002. With all that information aside, Wofford has the better line, better running game, and better defense. Coach Mike Ayers will have his team ready to go and the physical advantage the Terriers enjoy will carry them to victory. Final Score: Wofford 30, South Carolina State 13
Cal Poly (1-0) at Idaho State (0-1), 8:05
In a game between two teams unofficially ranked No. 30 and No. 31 in the Sports Network poll, the winner will knock on the door of the top 25 while the loser falls further down the "others receiving votes" category. It's hard to judge the teams based on last week, as Cal Poly rolled over DII Humboldt State and Idaho State fell behind 38-0 before making it respectable in a 38-21 loss to San Diego State. In what should be a shootout, Cal Poly has a slight edge on defense while Idaho State holds a bit of an edge on offense. Idaho State came back to win, 38-31, a year ago to effectively end any hopes the Mustangs had for a playoff berth. Cal Poly will exact some payback here and become the second Great West team to win at a Big Sky opponent in as many weeks. Final Score: Cal Poly 38, Idaho State 31
Hofstra (1-0) at No. 2 Montana (1-0), 3:05
There are some reasons for hope for the Pride. In 2000, Hofstra made the trip to Missoula and upended the Grizzlies, 10-9. Hofstra also looked good in a 45-0 win against Albany as quarterback Bobby Seck threw for 424 yards. Now, back to reality. The teams have went in different directions since 2000, and Albany is a Mid-Major. Montana has a great balance between run and pass, with weapons at all the skill positions. The Grizzlies defense will make it a lot tougher for Seck to have time in the pocket and find receivers. The season-ending injury to wide receiver Marques Colston won't help matters for Hofstra in this one, and the Griz have a possible No. 1 ranking on the line with Southern Illinois facing a I-A team. Hofstra could hang in for a little while but the outcome should be decided by the start of the fourth quarter. Final Score: Montana 38, Hofstra 14
No. 5 Furman (1-0) at Samford (1-1), 7:00
Like their local rival Wofford, the Paladins face a game they should be able to win but won't come easy. With Ingle Martin at quarterback, Furman's offense is drastically upgraded from a season ago and the defense is just as good if not better than last season's stellar unit. But the game is on the road, and the Bulldogs trio of quarterback Ray Nelson, wide receiver Efrem Hill, and defensive back Cortland Finnegan can make things difficult on the best teams. Furman has the edge in talent and should prevail, but they'll have to sweat a bit to come out with the victory. Final Score: Furman 24, Samford 17
Southeastern Louisiana (1-0) at No. 6 McNeese State (1-0)
In case anyone needed a reminder about the Cowboys' ability, McNeese sent a message to the rest of the Southland with a 35-17 win at Southern a week ago. The Cowboys might not be as good as last year, but the cupboard isn't bare either. The Cowboys beat Southeastern Louisiana, 58-20, a year ago by running all over the Lions' suspect defense and getting after quarterback Martin Hankins all day. Hankins has the ability to become something special, and with Hal Mumme has the head coach Southeastern Louisiana's offense is sure to have some firepower. But in year two of the re-establishment of the program, the Lions' roster does not come close to matching the overall talent of McNeese. Hankins better bring his running shoes because he will be hounded again. Final Score: McNeese State 52, Southeastern Louisiana 27
Towson (1-0) at No. 7 Delaware (0-1), 7:00
Sometimes you ask for what you get. The Tigers wanted the tougher competition of the Atlantic 10, and do they ever open with a challenging contest. Delaware might not be as good as last year's national championship team, but they certainly should show better than last week's effort in a 24-21 loss to New Hampshire. Delaware's loss ended a 10-game home winning streak, and the Blue Hens should start working on a new streak this week. With last week's loss to motivate them, Delaware handles Towson with ease. Final Score: Delaware 45, Towson 13
MARQUEE MATCHUPS
No. 1 Southern Illinois (1-0) at Northern Illinois (0-1), 4:05
The Salukis are ranked No. 1 in a weekly poll for the first time since winning the national championship in 1983. That season was also the last time Southern Illinois defeated a I-A school, so the Salukis could follow a successful pattern with a win here. Actually, Southern Illinois would probably finish in the middle or a bit higher if they competed in the MAC. The Salukis boast one of the best backfields in the nation, and the rest of the roster is more than capable of beating schools like Akron, Kent State and Ohio on a regular basis. However, Northern Illinois is not one of those mid-level MAC opponents. The Huskies finished 10-2 a season ago and boasted wins over Maryland, Alabama and Iowa State on their way to finishing No.26 in the final poll. Northern Illinois fell in a close game to Maryland last Saturday, and faces Iowa State next week. If they don't take the Salukis seriously, Southern Illinois could be primed for an upset. Even if Northern Illinois plays a great game, the Salukis have enough talent to make this one tight right up to the end. Southern Illinois will represent I-AA well, but lose in a close one. Final Score: Northern Illinois 24, Southern Illinois 21
No. 23 Northern Colorado (1-0) at No. 17 Maine (0-1), 6:00
Both of these teams deserve plenty of credit for scheduling good opposition out of the conference. Maine lost to Montana last week, and Northern Colorado plays the Grizzlies later in the season. Maine played a solid road game at Montana, but penalties and a late interception doomed chances of a mild upset. With games remaining at Mississippi State Delaware, and Massachusetts, the Black Bears need this win badly or the only way to the playoffs may be to win the A-10 title. Northern Colorado won't be going to the playoffs this season, but it could still cause some havoc along the way. The Bears were 9-2 a year ago and are the class of the Great West. However, UNC will have to improve on last week's performance against North Dakota State. The Bears were outgained by nearly 200 yards in the game and nearly blew a 15-0 lead at home. Maine should be pumped for the home opener, and has the edge in talent as well. The Black Bears take the win by a couple touchdowns. Final Score: Maine 31, Northern Colorado 17
No. 20 Eastern Kentucky (0-0) at No. 24 Appalachian State (0-1), 2:00
Neither team exactly has a whole lot of momentum coming in. Eastern Kentucky has yet to play a game, and Appalachian State got pounded in a 53-7 loss at Wyoming. For Eastern Kentucky, it's probably a good idea that last week was a bye considering a three-game stretch against Appalachian State, Western Kentucky and Jacksonville State to begin the season. The Colonels pounded Appalachian State, 35-7, a year ago so the Mountaineers will be looking for some revenge. The best matchup will come when EKU has the ball, as its wide- open passing offense faces a high-caliber Mountaineers secondary. The Mountaineers might need the win a little more, considering the Southern Conference will be much tougher to win than the Ohio Valley. The home field advantage helps, but right now I'm just not convinced that Appalachian State's running game can get the job done. Head coach Jerry Moore will have to wait one more game for his 150th win, and the Mountaineers will be off to an uncommon 0-2 start. Final Score: Eastern Kentucky 31, Appalachian State 28
No. 13 Northern Arizona (0-1) at No. 15 Stephen F. Austin (1-0), 8:00
Both of these "Lumberjacks" play a challenging non-conference schedule, so each team could use a victory here. Though Stephen F. Austin won and Northern Arizona lost a week ago, the Lumberjacks from Arizona were probably more pleased with their performance. Northern Arizona held Arizona to just a touchdown into the fourth quarter before falling, 21-3. Jason Murrietta struggled against the Wildcats defense, but he'll likely have a bounce back game here. Running back Derek Farmer went for 132 yards in his first game with Stephen F. Austin, but the 30-14 win over Henderson State was not as overwhelming as expected. Both teams have a star at quarterback and running back, and the rest of the rosters square up comparably. The only clear separation between the two is the home field for Stephen F. Austin, so the Lumberjacks from Nacogdoches are the pick. Final Score: Stephen F. Austin 20, Northern Arizona 17
No. 8 Villanova (1-0) at No. 22 Lehigh (1-0), 1:00
The Wildcats and the Mountain Hawks each have plenty of questions after the first game. Villanova appeared to be on its way to an easy win over Bucknell until the offense gave the ball away on three second half possessions. The Bison came back from a 20-0 deficit to cut Villanova's lead to 20-14, and literally came within inches of taking a lead on the Wildcats. Lehigh had to overcome offensive struggles of its own in a 25-2 win against Mid-Major Stony Brook. Lehigh moved the ball on the ground in the second half and pulled away, but the offensive effort left plenty to be desired. Both Villanova's Marvin Burroughs and Lehigh's Mark Borda are under pressure to perform, especially early in the season. Both quarterbacks unseated last year's incumbent in fall practice, and now have to prove themselves on the field. Burroughs had a better first outing than Borda, but both had a mixed bag of good plays and ineffectiveness. I saw Villanova's defense firsthand, and came away extremely impressed. Something tells me that, by the end of the year, the offense will catch up a bit and the Wildcats will be a team to avoid come playoff time. Villanova has more speed and talent on both sides of the ball, and would probably win a series between the two pretty easily. But the Brown and White know how perfect they must be out-of-conference if they need an at-large playoff berth, and will play with motivation to prove themselves in this game. Lehigh finds a way to score just enough points, and pulls off the upset in a close contest. Final Score: Lehigh 14, Villanova 13
GAME OF THE WEEK
No. 4 Colgate (0-0) at No. 14 Massachusetts (1-0), 6:00
For a team that made the national championship game last season, the Raiders still have plenty of doubters out there. People say they won because of the snow and cold, and the real Colgate showed up in the title game against Delaware. The Raiders have their first shot to prove people wrong with a matchup at one of the teams they beat in that playoff run. Colgate still has Walter Payton Award winner Jamaal Branch, quarterback Chris Brown, and wide receiver Luke Graham so the offense shouldn't lose a step. The defense will be solid again, and Colgate does have an 18-game regular season winning streak coming in. Of course, Massachusetts would like nothing better than to get some revenge and end that streak. Even though it was against a weak Delaware State team, quarterback Tim Day's 17-for-19 performance a week ago shows that all is not lost with the graduation of Jeff Krohn. The Minutemen know they won't get by with 20 penalties against Colgate, so discipline will be a key. The Raiders are playing their first game, and they may struggle a bit to get their feet wet at the beginning. But Colgate has the better roster, and the offense will put up enough points to get past the Minutemen. I'll be in attendance at this game, so Minutemen fans will know where to go to let me hear about it if I'm wrong. Final Score: Colgate 31, Massachusetts 21
Mid-Major Game of the Week: No. 7 Morehead State (0-1) at No. 2 Dayton (1-0)
The Eagles and the Flyers are still considered the top two programs in the Pioneer for good reason. However, both have plenty of question marks early in 2004 with major losses on the offensive side of the ball. Dayton has quarterback Brandon Staley and not much else back on offense, but the unit still moved fine in a 38-9 win over Tiffin to open the season. The Eagles went down, 28-7, to Coastal Carolina in the first contest and fell four spots in the rankings. The Flyers have been a step or two ahead of the Eagles the past few years, and that should also be the case this weekend. Final Score: Dayton 27, Morehead State 14
Griz Football Spring Game Highlights - 4/10/26
Friday, May 01
Griz Football Spring Practice - 3/2/26
Monday, March 30
Griz Football Spring Preview Press Conference
Monday, March 30
Griz Football Winter Condo - 2/20/26
Monday, March 30
