I’m happy for the win and the 4-0 start (which was expected before the season started). Everyone needs to enjoy the good feelings from this start but I’m not changing my expectations of 6-6 just yet and here’s some of why I feel that way:
1. Level of competition. I’m sorry but as “good” as GSU/ODU’s offense has appeared both are still average or below-average teams.
2. Tendency of the Offense to wait until the first half is over to remember they have a game to play. (Not just last night)
3. Inability to control the Line of Scrimmage. Short of going back and watching the video for all plays I remember quite a lot of times the DL was pushed back 3-4 yards by a very small PCU OL. Presbyterian is awful on offense, I mean putrid.
(sorry for the lack of a table)
PCU @ N.Illinois: RUSH=31-69 yds (AVG. 2.2), PASS=10-18-1 58 yds (YPA=3.2)
PCU vs Furman: RUSH=39-113 yds (AVG. 2.9), PASS=9-18-0 79 yds (YPA=4.4)
PCU @ NCSU: RUSH=45-122 yds (AVG. 2.7), PASS=15-25-0 130 yds (YPA=5.2)
I’m sorry but the Defense still isn’t that good, they’ve just played 2 incredibly bad offenses. I will give them props for doing a good job of scoring defense against those awful offenses.
4. Defense Third Down Efficiency: State’s defense has trouble getting off the field, PERIOD.
PCU @ N.Illinois 1-12 (8%)
PCU vs Furman 5-15 (33%)
PCU @ NCSU 8-17 (47%)
That’s awful 3rd down defense by the pack, especially when they continue to give up the first down on 3rd and long.
Feel good about the win and the 4-0 (We don’t get many opportunities lately) but try to temper that excitement with reality; as much as we’re excited our Offense has improved behind Brissett, the Defense hasn’t and will be exposed starting against FSU.
