predict the record

[eaglesfootball]

all homerism aside, I'm interested in seeing what you all think. at first glance, it looks like this could be another rebuilding type year. we have a brutal schedule combined with big questions at QB and O line. What do you think? personally, I am going with an optimistic 7-4.

 

[KJEagle]

I went with 6-5, with road losses to WSU, NDSU, NAU, and Cal Poly, and a home loss to Montana. I think we're still probably a year away from getting back into the top two to three teams in the Big Sky, unfortunately. Too many unknowns. From what I have seen so far, 2017 will be the year we take back the Big Sky.

 

[Hambone]

Losses against WSU and NDSU are basically a given, so it will all depend on how we do in the 50/50 type games against teams like Cal Poly, PSU, and MSU. I see 8-3 as the absolute best case scenario, with 4-7 the worst case. Whoever the QB ends up being, I think our passing attack (Kupp and friends) and an improved defense will be good enough to keep us in a lot of games, and maybe even win one or two that we shouldn't be favored in. However, the unfavorable schedule combined with ? in key positions probably keeps us around 6-5 and the middle of the pack in the conference. If we can run the ball marginally better than last season, maybe we finish better than that.

 

[EWURanger]

Hey folks, haven't posted in a while. I deliberately took a break this off-season for various reasons, but now that the season is getting closer and activity on the board is picking back up, it's time to chime in. So, here goes.

I guess I'm not quite ready to share in all the doom and gloom discussion quite yet. Yes, the schedule is probably the toughest we've had in quite a while, but here's a few things to consider:

1) The O-Line will take some time to "gel", but there is a lot of talent recruited there over the last couple of years...and Coach Best IS one of the best. The first couple of games might be a little tough to watch, but I'm guessing by game 3 or 4 we'll start to see a pretty good product on the field.

2) Although we've yet to settle on a starting QB, I'm quite confident that any 3 of the guys we have would compete for a starting spot on any other team in the conference. This is, after all, EWU. Good QB's is kind of our thing. I'm really excited to see what Coach Taylor brings to the offense. If his past experience is any indication, good things are coming.

3) Show me a better receiver than Kupp, or a better overall receiving corps in the FCS. Bourne will be a second team, all-conference type of player, and we get a deep threat back with Shaw, assuming he's fully recovered by the start of fall camp. Sblendorio will be another great receiver in the slot, and with a little more confidence and maturity, Grady and Webster could also be key players. Also keep an eye on Jayson Williams from Tacoma. Remember, we beat out Montana and quite a few other schools for some of these players.

4) We will absolutely be bigger, and more physical along the defensive line. Ebukam will be one of the league's better pass rushers, and look for Keenan Williams come into his own this season.

5) LB Corps will be SOLID.

6) Don't dismiss the effect that a 6-5 season has on this program. I am willing to bet that the players have worked that much harder this off-season. I have heard the work ethic of the players this summer compared to 2010.

7) Did I mention Cooper Kupp?

8) Beau Baldwin. Enough said.

9) Don't ever underestimate the excellence, tradition, and history of the program. Don't ever under-estimate Eastern Washington football.

Looking forward to another exciting season. Call me a homer, I'm going with 8-3.

 

[FormerEag]

11-0. Every year.

 

[Rjones61]

I honestly think we take a beating. Lots if injuries, lots of young mistakes, lots to look forward to next year. I would love to eat my crow, though.

 

[clawman1]

Hey folks, haven't posted in a while. I deliberately took a break this off-season for various reasons, but now that the season is getting closer and activity on the board is picking back up, it's time to chime in. So, here goes.

I guess I'm not quite ready to share in all the doom and gloom discussion quite yet. Yes, the schedule is probably the toughest we've had in quite a while, but here's a few things to consider:

1) The O-Line will take some time to "gel", but there is a lot of talent recruited there over the last couple of years...and Coach Best IS one of the best. The first couple of games might be a little tough to watch, but I'm guessing by game 3 or 4 we'll start to see a pretty good product on the field.

2) Although we've yet to settle on a starting QB, I'm quite confident that any 3 of the guys we have would compete for a starting spot on any other team in the conference. This is, after all, EWU. Good QB's is kind of our thing. I'm really excited to see what Coach Taylor brings to the offense. If his past experience is any indication, good things are coming.

3) Show me a better receiver than Kupp, or a better overall receiving corps in the FCS. Bourne will be a second team, all-conference type of player, and we get a deep threat back with Shaw, assuming he's fully recovered by the start of fall camp. Sblendorio will be another great receiver in the slot, and with a little more confidence and maturity, Grady and Webster could also be key players. Also keep an eye on Jayson Williams from Tacoma. Remember, we beat out Montana and quite a few other schools for some of these players.

4) We will absolutely be bigger, and more physical along the defensive line. Ebukam will be one of the league's better pass rushers, and look for Keenan Williams come into his own this season.

5) LB Corps will be SOLID.

6) Don't dismiss the effect that a 6-5 season has on this program. I am willing to bet that the players have worked that much harder this off-season. I have heard the work ethic of the players this summer compared to 2010.

7) Did I mention Cooper Kupp?

8) Beau Baldwin. Enough said.

9) Don't ever underestimate the excellence, tradition, and history of the program. Don't ever under-estimate Eastern Washington football.

Looking forward to another exciting season. Call me a homer, I'm going with 8-3.

Ranger;
SOLD!!

 

[LDopaPDX]

This is a hard one to predict, but I think the board members have it about right. 70% at this moment have us either barely in or barely out of the playoffs. IMO, everything hinges on September. We must get to 2-2 or I don't think we'll have a prayer at being any better than 6-5. The schedule is just absurd this year... Our AD does us no favors whatsoever.

 

[ewueagle2010]

One rough season and people have forgotten a lot of good in the program! Yes, we know the schedule is tough and I agree. However, this team relishes that. This team is loaded with talent!

Mark it down now.. the guys will likely start 0-2 and then haul off a lot of wins! 8-3 is my prediction with that 3rd loss coming somewhere in conference play. Possibly @ Cal Poly or Portland State. I don't think this team loses at home.

 

[Obzerver]

I'm calculating my prediction through massive research/formulas/interviews/analytical conceptualization and a +/- system of coin tossing. To finalize I need feedback; 1) Will we have a 1,000 yard rusher(or rush for 1,800 yards compared to 1377 last season) 2) Will our defense finish in the top five or six in the BSC(compared to 12th last season)?

9-2 if yes on 1 and 2 (and a championship game)
8-3 if yes on 2 and no on 1 (and a run to the semi)
8-3 if yes on 1 and no on 2 but close (and a qtr, final game)
7-4 if no on 1 and no on 2 but close on both (make playoffs)
6-5 if not even close on 1 and 2 (home lickin nuts)

 

[GoldenEagle]

I’m holding my prediction till after the scrimmage this Saturday. However, after what I saw at the Saturday morning practice I think this is a strong team. Also, I am not at all worried about the offensive line.

 

[EdubU10]

L @Washington State
L @North Dakota State
W Northern Iowa
L @Northern Arizona
W UC Davis
W Northern Colorado
W @Montana State
W Montana
W @Cal Poly
W Idaho State
L @Portland State

 

[Rafter_Reese]

Hey folks, haven't posted in a while. I deliberately took a break this off-season for various reasons, but now that the season is getting closer and activity on the board is picking back up, it's time to chime in. So, here goes.

I guess I'm not quite ready to share in all the doom and gloom discussion quite yet. Yes, the schedule is probably the toughest we've had in quite a while, but here's a few things to consider:

1) The O-Line will take some time to "gel", but there is a lot of talent recruited there over the last couple of years...and Coach Best IS one of the best. The first couple of games might be a little tough to watch, but I'm guessing by game 3 or 4 we'll start to see a pretty good product on the field.

2) Although we've yet to settle on a starting QB, I'm quite confident that any 3 of the guys we have would compete for a starting spot on any other team in the conference. This is, after all, EWU. Good QB's is kind of our thing. I'm really excited to see what Coach Taylor brings to the offense. If his past experience is any indication, good things are coming.

3) Show me a better receiver than Kupp, or a better overall receiving corps in the FCS. Bourne will be a second team, all-conference type of player, and we get a deep threat back with Shaw, assuming he's fully recovered by the start of fall camp. Sblendorio will be another great receiver in the slot, and with a little more confidence and maturity, Grady and Webster could also be key players. Also keep an eye on Jayson Williams from Tacoma. Remember, we beat out Montana and quite a few other schools for some of these players.

4) We will absolutely be bigger, and more physical along the defensive line. Ebukam will be one of the league's better pass rushers, and look for Keenan Williams come into his own this season.

5) LB Corps will be SOLID.

6) Don't dismiss the effect that a 6-5 season has on this program. I am willing to bet that the players have worked that much harder this off-season. I have heard the work ethic of the players this summer compared to 2010.

7) Did I mention Cooper Kupp?

8) Beau Baldwin. Enough said.

9) Don't ever underestimate the excellence, tradition, and history of the program. Don't ever under-estimate Eastern Washington football.

Looking forward to another exciting season. Call me a homer, I'm going with 8-3.

8-3 is more than realistic in my opinion. Let's not forget, the difference between an 8-3 season vs a 7-4 season usually comes down to a missed kick (by either team) or something of the like. It takes a little bit of luck to sneak in that extra win sometimes. It's not necessarily a "talent" thing all of the time. The talent is there to go 8-3 but we will need a little luck along the way.

go eags!

 

[clawman1]

We always focus on the players but forget the guys that make those players the best they can be. With the strong nucleolus of great coaches we had the addition of Troy Taylor - passing game coordinator, QB coach and Eti Ena- Defense Front Coordinator and defensive ends coach the team will continue to grow and develop.
I am looking for our offense to be as wide open and vibrant as in the past and the defense to take giant steps forward.
Go Eagles

 

[kalm]

Hey folks, haven't posted in a while. I deliberately took a break this off-season for various reasons, but now that the season is getting closer and activity on the board is picking back up, it's time to chime in. So, here goes.

I guess I'm not quite ready to share in all the doom and gloom discussion quite yet. Yes, the schedule is probably the toughest we've had in quite a while, but here's a few things to consider:

1) The O-Line will take some time to "gel", but there is a lot of talent recruited there over the last couple of years...and Coach Best IS one of the best. The first couple of games might be a little tough to watch, but I'm guessing by game 3 or 4 we'll start to see a pretty good product on the field.

2) Although we've yet to settle on a starting QB, I'm quite confident that any 3 of the guys we have would compete for a starting spot on any other team in the conference. This is, after all, EWU. Good QB's is kind of our thing. I'm really excited to see what Coach Taylor brings to the offense. If his past experience is any indication, good things are coming.

3) Show me a better receiver than Kupp, or a better overall receiving corps in the FCS. Bourne will be a second team, all-conference type of player, and we get a deep threat back with Shaw, assuming he's fully recovered by the start of fall camp. Sblendorio will be another great receiver in the slot, and with a little more confidence and maturity, Grady and Webster could also be key players. Also keep an eye on Jayson Williams from Tacoma. Remember, we beat out Montana and quite a few other schools for some of these players.

4) We will absolutely be bigger, and more physical along the defensive line. Ebukam will be one of the league's better pass rushers, and look for Keenan Williams come into his own this season.

5) LB Corps will be SOLID.

6) Don't dismiss the effect that a 6-5 season has on this program. I am willing to bet that the players have worked that much harder this off-season. I have heard the work ethic of the players this summer compared to 2010.

7) Did I mention Cooper Kupp?

8) Beau Baldwin. Enough said.

9) Don't ever underestimate the excellence, tradition, and history of the program. Don't ever under-estimate Eastern Washington football.

Looking forward to another exciting season. Call me a homer, I'm going with 8-3.

This is good stuff right here. :nod:

I don't like predicting records but I think 7-4 is the over/under and I don't think for a second that 9-2 or even 10-1 is unrealistic given solid oline, defense, and QB play.

 

[clawman1]

This is a hard one to predict, but I think the board members have it about right. 70% at this moment have us either barely in or barely out of the playoffs. IMO, everything hinges on September. We must get to 2-2 or I don't think we'll have a prayer at being any better than 6-5. The schedule is just absurd this year... Our AD does us no favors whatsoever.

http://www.spokesman.com/stories/2016/aug/18/eastern-players-and-coaches-embrace-a-tough-septem/?utm_source=custom_newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=newsletter
"Stop whining, because the Eagles players and coaches aren’t about to complain. As coach Beau Baldwin says, “It’s a chance for us to do special things.”"
“When I sit down with (athletic director) Bill Chaves and talk about the games we have the opportunity to play, we get excited about putting ourselves on that stage and in that challenging moment,” Baldwin said.

 

[Obzerver]

clawman..."Stop whining, because the Eagles players and coaches aren’t about to complain. As coach Beau Baldwin says, “It’s a chance for us to do special things.”"

I believe the stop whining part is not a Baldwin quote but a Jim Allen quote. Baldwins comment are great coaches speak...what else is he going to say?

And I'm not gonna stop whining cause I don't have to...

*I love Jim Allen.

 

[clawman1]

clawman..."Stop whining, because the Eagles players and coaches aren’t about to complain. As coach Beau Baldwin says, “It’s a chance for us to do special things.”"

I believe the stop whining part is not a Baldwin quote but a Jim Allen quote. Baldwins comment are great coaches speak...what else is he going to say?

And I'm not gonna stop whining cause I don't have to...

*I love Jim Allen.

It is a quote by the Jim. Notice the quotes in my original post.

 

[ewueagle2010]

The schedule is what it is. Most of us complaining about the schedule would probably say they would like to trade one of the MVFC games for a home game against a D2 school. If that were the case, we'd be in no better shape with a win there because you still need 7 d1 wins for the playoffs. One could argue this opportunity gives the team another chance for that 7th win.

Bottom line, embrace it for what it is. This team needs to go 2-2 in the first 4 to even prove they're a playoff team. UNI is a home game and NAU needs some payback.

 

[LDopaPDX]

The schedule is what it is. Most of us complaining about the schedule would probably say they would like to trade one of the MVFC games for a home game against a D2 school. If that were the case, we'd be in no better shape with a win there because you still need 7 d1 wins for the playoffs. One could argue this opportunity gives the team another chance for that 7th win.

Bottom line, embrace it for what it is. This team needs to go 2-2 in the first 4 to even prove they're a playoff team. UNI is a home game and NAU needs some payback.

Common misconception, you do not need 7 d1 wins to make the playoffs. Eastern has even proved that before, once making the playoffs with 6 d1 wins as an at-large. That was, at one time, considered a preferred status to have 7 d1 wins, but it has never been a mandatory. However, even the playoff committee restated that and said the determining factor is strength of schedule. Even if you replaced the roadie with NDSU with St. Francis, we still have rock-solid strength of schedule.