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Week 6: Sac State @ Southern Utah

SDHornet

SDHornet

Moderator
Staff member
Week 6: Sac State at Southern Utah

The Hornets (3-2, 1-1 BSC) hit the road for the second straight week to face the Southern Utah Thunderbirds (2-3, 1-1 BSC) in Cedar City, Utah. SUU is coming off of a tough loss at home to BSC leader Montana State and will be looking to rebound. Overall SUU is a well balanced team and plays well disciplined football.

Offense
The Thunderbirds have not been nearly as efficient on offense as they have been in recent years, however SUU has (#4) Brad Sorensen leading this offense and he is one of the best QB’s in the FCS. SUU runs a lot of different formations but their bread and butter is operating out of the shotgun with multiple receiver sets. SUU does lineup in some I-formation but they are not nearly effective from this set as they are from the shotgun. SUU has some tall receivers and are led by (#8) Fatu Moala and (#13) Mitch Jessop.

The SUU offensive line has some good size but they have given up 16 sacks this season. Surprisingly SUU struggles to run the ball behind this big OL and their leading rusher is (#40) Brian Wilson who doesn’t have blazing speed but has great hands and is targeted a lot by Sorensen. (#7) Henna Brown is their other running back who has a considerable amount of receiving yards coming out of the backfield as well.

Season Stats/Averages:
  • • Rushing Offense: 88.6 ypg (2.9 ypr),2 TD’s (108th FCS, 11th BSC)
    • Passing Offense: 243.6 ypg (10.6 ypc), 13 TD’s (31st FCS, 6th BSC)
    • Total Offense: 332.2 ypg (4.8 ypp), 15 TD’s, 6 FG’s (76th FCS, 10th BSC)
    • Time of Possession: 31:22
    • Turnovers: 8 (1 Fum, 7 INT’s)
    • Penalties: 33 for 287 yds (57.4 ypg) (4th most BSC)
    • QB: (#4) Brad Sorensen: 115 of 195 for 1,218 yds, 13 TD’s, 7 INT’s
    • WR: (#13) Mitch Jessop: 19 recs for 308 yds, 3 TD’s
    • WR: (#8) Fatu Moala: 26 recs for 251 yds,41 TD’s
    • WR: (#3) Griff McNabb: 13 recs for 115 yds
    • RB: (#40) Brian Wilson: 80 carries for 368 yds, 13 recs for 95 yds, 3 TD’s
    • RB: (#7) Henna Brown: 21 carries for 33 yds, 17 recs for 137 yds, 1 TD
The Hornet defense will need to keep the pressure on Sorensen much like they did to Yost last week if they want to win this one. Sorensen has made quite a few mistakes this season so keeping the pressure up is one way to force some mistakes. SUU is not quite as one dimensional as ISU but they have the size and potential to grind down a defensive front if they need to protect a lead. A key matchup will be how the Hornet linebackers keep a lid on the SUU running backs that are a big component of the SUU passing attack.

Defense
SUU runs the 4-3 and they have a good sized defensive line. This defense has also forced quite a few turnovers and has gotten 14 sacks so far on the season. The SUU secondary is atop the BSC with 6 INT’s. Statistically this isn’t a great SUU defense however they did a solid job of containing the well balanced MSU offense a week ago and there are no glaring weaknesses in what appears to be a well rounded Thunderbird defense.

Season Stats/Averages:
  • • Rushing Defense: 209.0 ypg (5.0 ypr), 11 TD’s (94th FCS, 10th BSC)
    • Passing Defense: 276.0 ypg (13.3 ypc), 8 TD’s (111th FCS, 12th BSC)
    • Total Defense: 485.0 ypg (6.7 ypp), 19 TD’s, 5 FG’s (111th FCS, 12th BSC)
    • Opponent Time of Possession: 28:38
    • Turnovers Forced: 17 (11 Fum, 6 INT)
    • Opponents Penalties: 55 for 202 yds (100.4 ypg)
    • LB: (#35) Zak Browning: 45 tackles, 1.5 TFL’s, 1 sack, 2 BU, 2 PD, 3 FF
    • SS: (#28) Miles Killebrew: 43 tackles, 0.5 TFL’s, 2 BU, 2 PD
    • LB: (#10) Rickey Clark: 39 tackles, 0.5 TFL’s, 1 BU, 1 PD
    • LB: (#5) Namari Flentroy: 35 tackles, 1 TFL’s, 1 sack, 1 BU, 1 PD, 2 FF
    • DE: (#53) James Cowser: 30 tackles, 8.5 TFL’s, 3 sacks, 1 INT, 1 PD, 1 FF
    • CB: (#6) Tyree Mills: 25 tackles, 1 TFL, 1 INT, 2 BU, 3 PD
Given the size up front for SUU, the banged up Hornet OL will have their work cut out for them if they want to open up some running lanes. I don’t think a one dimensional performance will get it done for the Hornets this week. The Hornets are going to have to keep the SUU defense honest and that means that Safron is going to have to be accurate and get the passing game going. A tough game on the road should be a good indication of where this Hornet offense stands heading into the back stretch of the season.

Special Teams
SUU is in the top quadrant of the BSC in kickoff returns and near the bottom in punt returns. SUU has solid kickoff coverage and their kickers look more than capable of delivering when called upon. SUU has allowed a punt return for a touchdown so there may be some holes there.

Season Stats/Averages:
  • • K: (#95) Colton Cook: 6/8 FG’s (long of 49 yds), 17/17 PAT’s
    • P: (#13) Brock Miller: 33 punts for 1,413 yds (42.8 ypp), 2 TB’s, 10 FC’s, 14 I-20
    • KR: (#82) Josh Smith: 19 kr’s for 437 yds (23.0 ypr), 1 TD
    • PR: (#3) Griff McNabb: 4 pr’s for 16 yds (4.0 ypr)
    • Kick Coverage: Allowed 361 yds on 17 returns (21.2 ypr), 1 TD allowed
    • Punt Coverage: Allowed 143 yds on 10 returns (14.3 ypr)
SUU has taken a kick return for a touchdown so they have the capability to take advantage of mistakes on special teams. The Hornets will need to continue their solid play and not give up easy points on special teams. Both teams look evenly match on special teams.

Intangibles
I’m not sure if SUU is short any key players due to injury but they are coming into this one off of a physical game against MSU. SUU did have new turf installed on their field in the offseason so footing should not be an issue. Elevation will be an issue but the Hornets have already played multiple games well above sea level so far this season so they should be ready for it.

If the Hornets want to make this season a special one they need to win this game. A tough win on the road against a respectable opponent like SUU would put this program back on people’s radar. However for whatever reasons the Hornets struggle mightily in the state of Utah. I have a hard time seeing the Hornets come out on top in this one so long as Sorensen is still flaunting a Thunderbird jersey.

Go Hornets!

Game Info
 
Sounds like our Passing game isn't much different...after 5 games
Games Rating Comp-Att-Int-% Yds TD Long Yds game
Brad Sorensen 5 126.9 115-194-7 59.3 1218 13 48 243.6
Garrett Safron 5 135.5 100-162-6 61.7 1172 10 74 234.4

Argument can be made the Safron has been better this year, based on the teams we have played. Coach Petterson has brought the SUU spin to our offense, basically a lot of short stuff with YAC.

Difference will be the running game and the play of the "Bg Uglies" up front on offense....on defense Coach Parker will need to mix up coverage and find ways to bring some pressure....JMO
 
I like where you are going with this but I disagree. Stats by week:

Week 1
  • • Safron @ NMSU: 23/35, 308 yds, 2 TD’s, 1 INT
    • Sorensen @ USU: 12/31, 153 yds, 1 INT
Week 2
  • • Safron @ Colorado: 25/37, 312 yds, 2 TD’s, 0 INT’s
    • Sorensen @ Cal: 31/45, 292 yds, 4 TD’s, 1 INT
Week 3
  • • Safron vs UNC: 16/30, 177 yds, 2 TD’s, 1 INT
    • Sorensen vs NMHlds: 23/39, 366 yds, 1 TD, 1 INT
Week 4
  • • Safron vs UND: 19/33, 163 yds, 1 TD, 2 INT’s
    • Sorensen @ PSU: 27/36, 311 yds, 4 TD’s, 1 INT
Week 5
  • • Safron @ ISU: 17/27, 202 yds, 3 TD’s, 2 INT’s
    • Sorensen vs MSU: 25/47, 250 yds, 2 TD’s, 1 INT

Sorensen has been a lot more consistent on a weekly basis. Aside from a bad week 1, Sorensen never dipped below 250 yards and 53.2% completions and never had more INT’s than TD’s. Compared to Safron who has struggled against lesser completion (yes UNC, UND, and ISU is possibly the weakest defenses in a back-to-back-to-back stretch any QB could wish for) who has yet to come even close to matching his season high of 312 yds obtained in week 2 or his 71.4% completion percentage in week 1.

It’s clear that there is consistency seen in Sorensen compared against a steady deterioration by Safron. IMO Safron should have much better numbers given the weak defenses he has seen over the past 3 weeks hence my cause for concern about his development…or lack thereof. Safron needs to get his sh!t together or he will only looks worse when we start playing better defenses. Safron has a significant amount of playing time under his belt, it’s time to see some significant improvement.
 
Aaaahhhh...fun conversation....Comments are below.

P.S the only stat that ever matters in the end is the W-L column.

SDHornet said:
I like where you are going with this but I disagree. Stats by week:

Week 1 - We have to agree that Safron outplayed him here? At least stat wise. Competition was comprable. I know USU is having a good year, but it is the WAC.
  • • Safron @ NMSU: 23/35, 308 yds, 2 TD’s, 1 INT
    • Sorensen @ USU: 12/31, 153 yds, 1 INT
Week 2 - Again competition and stats are comprable...CAL may only get 2 wins this year (Tedfords what happened?, sounds like CAL, Col and WSU will be holding up the bottom)
  • • Safron @ Colorado: 25/37, 312 yds, 2 TD’s, 0 INT’s
    • Sorensen @ Cal: 31/45, 292 yds, 4 TD’s, 1 INT
Week 3 - So here is where I start to disagree...NMHIds (DII) SUU should be running the ball down their throats because of size mismatches up front. We would have, just like we did the againt UND. Sounds like Safron and the O did what they needed to do to win. Sounds like SUU may have some issues in this area...see ISU rushing recap :D
  • • Safron vs UNC: 16/30, 177 yds, 2 TD’s, 1 INT
    • Sorensen vs NMHlds: 23/39, 366 yds, 1 TD, 1 INT
Week 4 - OK we sucked hairy bean bags here...not saying Sorenson was lights out though...they were playing PSU which may have the worst D in the BSC...(you don't fire your DC this early unless they are having big issues)
  • • Safron vs UND: 19/33, 163 yds, 1 TD, 2 INT’s
    • Sorensen @ PSU: 27/36, 311 yds, 4 TD’s, 1 INT
Week 5 - Call this one a draw and percentages and TD to INT ratio is comprable...plus we won :thumb:
  • • Safron @ ISU: 17/27, 202 yds, 3 TD’s, 2 INT’s
    • Sorensen vs MSU: 25/47, 250 yds, 2 TD’s, 1 INT

Sorensen has been a lot more consistent on a weekly basis. Aside from a bad week 1, Sorensen never dipped below 250 yards and 53.2% completions and never had more INT’s than TD’s. Compared to Safron who has struggled against lesser completion (yes UNC, UND, and ISU is possibly the weakest defenses in a back-to-back-to-back stretch any QB could wish for) who has yet to come even close to matching his season high of 312 yds obtained in week 2 or his 71.4% completion percentage in week 1.

It’s clear that there is consistency seen in Sorensen compared against a steady deterioration by Safron. IMO Safron should have much better numbers given the weak defenses he has seen over the past 3 weeks hence my cause for concern about his development…or lack thereof. Safron needs to get his sh!t together or he will only looks worse when we start playing better defenses. Safron has a significant amount of playing time under his belt, it’s time to see some significant improvement.
Click to expand...

Question is do you want crazy QB stats with a loosing record or efficiant stats with wins? He is still completing over 60% of his passes this year which will only get better over time. I would like to see the TD to INT ratio to be closer 2.5 or 3 to 1 by end of year though...take care of the ball. The reads, accuracy and timing will come with more game experience. Sampling size in this offense has been 5 games. Last years "Pistol Pete" experiment didn't count. :lol:
 
Comments in the quotes:

OldGreen67 said:
Aaaahhhh...fun conversation....Comments are below.

P.S the only stat that ever matters in the end is the W-L column. I agree.

SDHornet said:
I like where you are going with this but I disagree. Stats by week:

Week 1 - We have to agree that Safron outplayed him here? At least stat wise. Competition was comprable. I know USU is having a good year, but it is the WAC. Agreed. This early in the season no telling what will happen. If we had another crack at NMSU we probably pull off a win if we play a mistake free game. It's safe to say USU>>>>NMSU.
  • • Safron @ NMSU: 23/35, 308 yds, 2 TD’s, 1 INT
    • Sorensen @ USU: 12/31, 153 yds, 1 INT
Week 2 - Again competition and stats are comprable...CAL may only get 2 wins this year (Tedfords what happened?, sounds like CAL, Col and WSU will be holding up the bottom) Agree. Safron did enough to win in this one. He made the right reads and made good throws to the right recievers. We have yet to see him play at this level again.
  • • Safron @ Colorado: 25/37, 312 yds, 2 TD’s, 0 INT’s
    • Sorensen @ Cal: 31/45, 292 yds, 4 TD’s, 1 INT
Week 3 - So here is where I start to disagree...NMHIds (DII) SUU should be running the ball down their throats because of size mismatches up front. We would have, just like we did the againt UND. Sounds like Safron and the O did what they needed to do to win. Sounds like SUU may have some issues in this area...see ISU rushing recap :D
Safron didn't do what was needed to win because we didn't win. Maybe play calling factors into this, bottom line is Safron turnovers (fumbles and INT's) took us out of this game.When we had no choice but to go to the pass Safron couldn't throw a good ball. Instead we releied on the RB's to get us into scoring position.
  • • Safron vs UNC: 16/30, 177 yds, 2 TD’s, 1 INT
    • Sorensen vs NMHlds: 23/39, 366 yds, 1 TD, 1 INT
Week 4 - OK we sucked hairy bean bags here...not saying Sorenson was lights out though...they were playing PSU which may have the worst D in the BSC...(you don't fire your DC this early unless they are having big issues)
Sorensen was as close to lights out as you can get. This was a circus game and Sorensen lead his team to victory. SUU was down a TD heading into the 4th qtr. Sorensen had a quick TD to tie the game early in the 4th then lead his team on a 14 play, 69 yd drive for the game winning TD at the end of it. This is the level of execution Safron needs to strive to be at.
  • • Safron vs UND: 19/33, 163 yds, 1 TD, 2 INT’s
    • Sorensen @ PSU: 27/36, 311 yds, 4 TD’s, 1 INT
Week 5 - Call this one a draw and percentages and TD to INT ratio is comprable...plus we won :thumb:
Sorensen 75% vs Safron 62.9% is nowhere near a draw, and Sorensen was facing a defense infinitely better than what Safron was facing. Add in the fact that Safron wasn't needed to win this game where as Sorensen was trying to bing his team back against the best BSC team at this point (meaning MSU was anticipating pass) and its even more impressive that Sorensen completed 3/4 of his passes.
  • • Safron @ ISU: 17/27, 202 yds, 3 TD’s, 2 INT’s
    • Sorensen vs MSU: 25/47, 250 yds, 2 TD’s, 1 INT

Sorensen has been a lot more consistent on a weekly basis. Aside from a bad week 1, Sorensen never dipped below 250 yards and 53.2% completions and never had more INT’s than TD’s. Compared to Safron who has struggled against lesser completion (yes UNC, UND, and ISU is possibly the weakest defenses in a back-to-back-to-back stretch any QB could wish for) who has yet to come even close to matching his season high of 312 yds obtained in week 2 or his 71.4% completion percentage in week 1.

It’s clear that there is consistency seen in Sorensen compared against a steady deterioration by Safron. IMO Safron should have much better numbers given the weak defenses he has seen over the past 3 weeks hence my cause for concern about his development…or lack thereof. Safron needs to get his sh!t together or he will only looks worse when we start playing better defenses. Safron has a significant amount of playing time under his belt, it’s time to see some significant improvement.
Click to expand...

Question is do you want crazy QB stats with a loosing record or efficiant stats with wins? I want both, that is not too much to ask for in Sperbeck's 6th year.He is still completing over 60% of his passes this year which will only get better over time. Safron hasn't shown he is getting better over the past 3 weeks. I would like to see the TD to INT ratio to be closer 2.5 or 3 to 1 by end of year though...take care of the ball. The reads, accuracy and timing will come with more game experience. Sampling size in this offense has been 5 games. Last years "Pistol Pete" experiment didn't count. :lol: Agree. Safron only had a clueless Sperbeck to guide him whereas now he has Peterson who actually has an offensive plan. Still 5 games in and Safron is still looking to turn the corner again.
Click to expand...
 
SDHornet said:
Comments in the quotes:

OldGreen67 said:
Aaaahhhh...fun conversation....Comments are below.

P.S the only stat that ever matters in the end is the W-L column. I agree.

SDHornet said:
I like where you are going with this but I disagree. Stats by week:

Week 1 - We have to agree that Safron outplayed him here? At least stat wise. Competition was comprable. I know USU is having a good year, but it is the WAC. Agreed. This early in the season no telling what will happen. If we had another crack at NMSU we probably pull off a win if we play a mistake free game. It's safe to say USU>>>>NMSU.
  • • Safron @ NMSU: 23/35, 308 yds, 2 TD’s, 1 INT
    • Sorensen @ USU: 12/31, 153 yds, 1 INT
Week 2 - Again competition and stats are comprable...CAL may only get 2 wins this year (Tedfords what happened?, sounds like CAL, Col and WSU will be holding up the bottom) Agree. Safron did enough to win in this one. He made the right reads and made good throws to the right recievers. We have yet to see him play at this level again.
  • • Safron @ Colorado: 25/37, 312 yds, 2 TD’s, 0 INT’s
    • Sorensen @ Cal: 31/45, 292 yds, 4 TD’s, 1 INT
Week 3 - So here is where I start to disagree...NMHIds (DII) SUU should be running the ball down their throats because of size mismatches up front. We would have, just like we did the againt UND. Sounds like Safron and the O did what they needed to do to win. Sounds like SUU may have some issues in this area...see ISU rushing recap :D
Safron didn't do what was needed to win because we didn't win. Maybe play calling factors into this, bottom line is Safron turnovers (fumbles and INT's) took us out of this game.When we had no choice but to go to the pass Safron couldn't throw a good ball. Instead we releied on the RB's to get us into scoring position.
  • • Safron vs UNC: 16/30, 177 yds, 2 TD’s, 1 INT
    • Sorensen vs NMHlds: 23/39, 366 yds, 1 TD, 1 INT
Week 4 - OK we sucked hairy bean bags here...not saying Sorenson was lights out though...they were playing PSU which may have the worst D in the BSC...(you don't fire your DC this early unless they are having big issues)
Sorensen was as close to lights out as you can get. This was a circus game and Sorensen lead his team to victory. SUU was down a TD heading into the 4th qtr. Sorensen had a quick TD to tie the game early in the 4th then lead his team on a 14 play, 69 yd drive for the game winning TD at the end of it. This is the level of execution Safron needs to strive to be at.
  • • Safron vs UND: 19/33, 163 yds, 1 TD, 2 INT’s
    • Sorensen @ PSU: 27/36, 311 yds, 4 TD’s, 1 INT
Week 5 - Call this one a draw and percentages and TD to INT ratio is comprable...plus we won :thumb:
Sorensen 75% vs Safron 62.9% is nowhere near a draw, and Sorensen was facing a defense infinitely better than what Safron was facing. Add in the fact that Safron wasn't needed to win this game where as Sorensen was trying to bing his team back against the best BSC team at this point (meaning MSU was anticipating pass) and its even more impressive that Sorensen completed 3/4 of his passes.
  • • Safron @ ISU: 17/27, 202 yds, 3 TD’s, 2 INT’s
    • Sorensen vs MSU: 25/47, 250 yds, 2 TD’s, 1 INT

Sorensen has been a lot more consistent on a weekly basis. Aside from a bad week 1, Sorensen never dipped below 250 yards and 53.2% completions and never had more INT’s than TD’s. Compared to Safron who has struggled against lesser completion (yes UNC, UND, and ISU is possibly the weakest defenses in a back-to-back-to-back stretch any QB could wish for) who has yet to come even close to matching his season high of 312 yds obtained in week 2 or his 71.4% completion percentage in week 1.

It’s clear that there is consistency seen in Sorensen compared against a steady deterioration by Safron. IMO Safron should have much better numbers given the weak defenses he has seen over the past 3 weeks hence my cause for concern about his development…or lack thereof. Safron needs to get his sh!t together or he will only looks worse when we start playing better defenses. Safron has a significant amount of playing time under his belt, it’s time to see some significant improvement.
Click to expand...

Question is do you want crazy QB stats with a loosing record or efficiant stats with wins? I want both, that is not too much to ask for in Sperbeck's 6th year.He is still completing over 60% of his passes this year which will only get better over time. Safron hasn't shown he is getting better over the past 3 weeks. I would like to see the TD to INT ratio to be closer 2.5 or 3 to 1 by end of year though...take care of the ball. The reads, accuracy and timing will come with more game experience. Sampling size in this offense has been 5 games. Last years "Pistol Pete" experiment didn't count. :lol: Agree. Safron only had a clueless Sperbeck to guide him whereas now he has Peterson who actually has an offensive plan. Still 5 games in and Safron is still looking to turn the corner again.
Click to expand...
Click to expand...


I forgot to mention that at this point in their careers I do beleive Sorenson is a better QB than Safron...but their 2012 seasons stats are comprable...

The points I am trying to make are the following:

5 -Safron is a different type of QB...he can run as well...Sorenson is a pass or be sacked QB
4- Safron is getting better (under the new offense) last year over 5 games was 54% completion, about same yardage, but 7 TD's to 5 Int. This year 62% with 10 TD and 6 Int. His estimated totals should be around 2600+ Yd range with 20 TD and 10 INT (hopefully less) I also expect him to be around 350 rushing.
3- Our offense is VERY balanced than in the past and definately more than SUU and many teams we have played
2 - We have Petterson, look what he did for Sorenson while he was there vs what he is doing without him this year?
1 - We are young on offense...I see lots of improvement (as a team)...we improve each week in different areas, hopefully we find a way to merge them all together.
 
Just keep in mind, the SUU game will mark Safron's 11th game. That's one season. I'd say he's doing pretty well at this point in his game experience if you ask me.
 
OldGreen67 said:
I forgot to mention that at this point in their careers I do beleive Sorenson is a better QB than Safron...but their 2012 seasons stats are comprable...

The points I am trying to make are the following:

5 -Safron is a different type of QB...he can run as well...Sorenson is a pass or be sacked QB
4- Safron is getting better (under the new offense) last year over 5 games was 54% completion, about same yardage, but 7 TD's to 5 Int. This year 62% with 10 TD and 6 Int. His estimated totals should be around 2600+ Yd range with 20 TD and 10 INT (hopefully less) I also expect him to be around 350 rushing.
3- Our offense is VERY balanced than in the past and definately more than SUU and many teams we have played
2 - We have Petterson, look what he did for Sorenson while he was there vs what he is doing without him this year?
1 - We are young on offense...I see lots of improvement (as a team)...we improve each week in different areas, hopefully we find a way to merge them all together.
Click to expand...
We’ll see where this goes. Hopefully Safron can step it up and play better. It’s concerning to see him struggle against these weak defenses the past 3 weeks so I’m hesitant to say he is the guy that will get this program over the hump. What we have seen the past few weeks will not get it done against the BSC elite.
 
SDHornet said:
OldGreen67 said:
I forgot to mention that at this point in their careers I do beleive Sorenson is a better QB than Safron...but their 2012 seasons stats are comprable...

The points I am trying to make are the following:

5 -Safron is a different type of QB...he can run as well...Sorenson is a pass or be sacked QB
4- Safron is getting better (under the new offense) last year over 5 games was 54% completion, about same yardage, but 7 TD's to 5 Int. This year 62% with 10 TD and 6 Int. His estimated totals should be around 2600+ Yd range with 20 TD and 10 INT (hopefully less) I also expect him to be around 350 rushing.
3- Our offense is VERY balanced than in the past and definately more than SUU and many teams we have played
2 - We have Petterson, look what he did for Sorenson while he was there vs what he is doing without him this year?
1 - We are young on offense...I see lots of improvement (as a team)...we improve each week in different areas, hopefully we find a way to merge them all together.
Click to expand...
We’ll see where this goes. Hopefully Safron can step it up and play better. It’s concerning to see him struggle against these weak defenses the past 3 weeks so I’m hesitant to say he is the guy that will get this program over the hump. What we have seen the past few weeks will not get it done against the BSC elite.
Click to expand...

Aahhh, but then again would Sorenson be able to lead us to wins?...Not to sure as even with all the nice numbers they put up his team went 6-5 in 2010, 6-5 in 2011 and so far 2-3 this year...

Patience my young friend...like I have been saying this is a young team in all the right spots. This year would be great to be in the 5-7 win area, with the majority coming back for another year or two under this offense... :thumb:
 
OldGreen67 said:
Aahhh, but then again would Sorenson be able to lead us to wins?...Not to sure as even with all the nice numbers they put up his team went 6-5 in 2010, 6-5 in 2011 and so far 2-3 this year...

Patience my young friend...like I have been saying this is a young team in all the right spots. This year would be great to be in the 5-7 win area, with the majority coming back for another year or two under this offense... :thumb:
Click to expand...
My patience is running thin. I hate to sound like a “win now” type but I think most fans are at that point. The “wait ‘til next year” excuse has been used way too many times under Sperbeck. My biggest fear is Safron has already peaked and what we are seeing is what we will get on a weekly basis, all the while Magleby will have lost significant opportunities to get some reps in preparation “for next year”. Like I said, we’ll see how this goes.

BTW any status update on Weaver and some of the other injured Hornets? If we lose any more offensive linemen, we'll be in trouble.
 
Okay, I'll weigh in here...

SD hit the nail on the head. I believe Safron has peaked; sure he'll hopefully mature and start to make better decisions, but he's a known entity at this point.

In my opinion, Safron's numbers are inflated by short dump off passes to RBs in the flat (essentially running plays) and WRs at the line of scrimmage. I've seen him play in-person 4 or 5 times now, and he lacks the physical tools to get the job done. I'll explain...

Safron is athletic, but I can already see a noticeable difference in his running ability since game one. He looks a step slower than he was and like he's showing signs of wear. He's taken some brutal hits; the kid has guts, but you can't sutain that type of play.

His arm is weak and he lacks touch. He's done an OKAY job of hitting his short, simple routes. But, when it comes time for us to attack down the field, I have no confidence that the ball will be delivered with any accuracy. I would wager that on his throws of 25 yards or more this year, that he's got a 50% INT rate. The ball floats in the air and defenders have had their way with Safron's deep passes this year. Also, how many times have we seen Safron throw a ball into the ground on a quick slant or curl? What about throwing a pass as hard as he can to a RB popping out into the flats causing a change of direction or drop?

However, when it comes to the intangibles, I think Safron has the team behind him. He seems like a great kid who works hard and does the most with what he has. I like his competitive spirit and you never see him down on himself or his teammates (see Jason Smith).

All I'm trying to say is that the only reason Mason Magleby isn't the starter right now is because he was hurt when it came to nut cutting time. Safron stepped up and deservedly so, the job has been his. If Magleby is healthy at this point, Safron should be on a short leash. You brought him in for a reason and too talented to just let him ride out his eligibility on the bench. I realize that the backup QB is always the most popular guy on the team, but in the past Sperbeck has gone with the "safe" choice and it cost us games (MBT warmed the bench until he won us the Causeway). We need to see what we've got, especially when Safron has problems...

:twocents:
 
Kadeezy said:
Okay, I'll weigh in here...

SD hit the nail on the head. I believe Safron has peaked; sure he'll hopefully mature and start to make better decisions, but he's a known entity at this point.

In my opinion, Safron's numbers are inflated by short dump off passes to RBs in the flat (essentially running plays) and WRs at the line of scrimmage. I've seen him play in-person 4 or 5 times now, and he lacks the physical tools to get the job done. I'll explain...

Safron is athletic, but I can already see a noticeable difference in his running ability since game one. He looks a step slower than he was and like he's showing signs of wear. He's taken some brutal hits; the kid has guts, but you can't sutain that type of play.

His arm is weak and he lacks touch. He's done an OKAY job of hitting his short, simple routes. But, when it comes time for us to attack down the field, I have no confidence that the ball will be delivered with any accuracy. I would wager that on his throws of 25 yards or more this year, that he's got a 50% INT rate. The ball floats in the air and defenders have had their way with Safron's deep passes this year. Also, how many times have we seen Safron throw a ball into the ground on a quick slant or curl? What about throwing a pass as hard as he can to a RB popping out into the flats causing a change of direction or drop?

However, when it comes to the intangibles, I think Safron has the team behind him. He seems like a great kid who works hard and does the most with what he has. I like his competitive spirit and you never see him down on himself or his teammates (see Jason Smith).

All I'm trying to say is that the only reason Mason Magleby isn't the starter right now is because he was hurt when it came to nut cutting time. Safron stepped up and deservedly so, the job has been his. If Magleby is healthy at this point, Safron should be on a short leash. You brought him in for a reason and too talented to just let him ride out his eligibility on the bench. I realize that the backup QB is always the most popular guy on the team, but in the past Sperbeck has gone with the "safe" choice and it cost us games (MBT warmed the bench until he won us the Causeway). We need to see what we've got, especially when Safron has problems...

:twocents:
Click to expand...
:clap:
 
Kadeezy said:
Okay, I'll weigh in here...

SD hit the nail on the head. I believe Safron has peaked; sure he'll hopefully mature and start to make better decisions, but he's a known entity at this point.

In my opinion, Safron's numbers are inflated by short dump off passes to RBs in the flat (essentially running plays) and WRs at the line of scrimmage. I've seen him play in-person 4 or 5 times now, and he lacks the physical tools to get the job done. I'll explain...

Safron is athletic, but I can already see a noticeable difference in his running ability since game one. He looks a step slower than he was and like he's showing signs of wear. He's taken some brutal hits; the kid has guts, but you can't sutain that type of play.

His arm is weak and he lacks touch. He's done an OKAY job of hitting his short, simple routes. But, when it comes time for us to attack down the field, I have no confidence that the ball will be delivered with any accuracy. I would wager that on his throws of 25 yards or more this year, that he's got a 50% INT rate. The ball floats in the air and defenders have had their way with Safron's deep passes this year. Also, how many times have we seen Safron throw a ball into the ground on a quick slant or curl? What about throwing a pass as hard as he can to a RB popping out into the flats causing a change of direction or drop?

However, when it comes to the intangibles, I think Safron has the team behind him. He seems like a great kid who works hard and does the most with what he has. I like his competitive spirit and you never see him down on himself or his teammates (see Jason Smith).

All I'm trying to say is that the only reason Mason Magleby isn't the starter right now is because he was hurt when it came to nut cutting time. Safron stepped up and deservedly so, the job has been his. If Magleby is healthy at this point, Safron should be on a short leash. You brought him in for a reason and too talented to just let him ride out his eligibility on the bench. I realize that the backup QB is always the most popular guy on the team, but in the past Sperbeck has gone with the "safe" choice and it cost us games (MBT warmed the bench until he won us the Causeway). We need to see what we've got, especially when Safron has problems...

:twocents:
Click to expand...


Nice response...and I agree with most of it...well some of it :lol:

I personally don't think he (Safron) has peaked yet, though I do agree with some of limitations you pointed out. Arm strength down field is one of them, but I don't beleive his mobility has gone down, just that the play calling has shifted from QB zone reads to give it to the RB's and let them do their things.

As for growth, he has already shown it...reads are getting better (compared to last year, along with completion percentage, TD to INT ratio and YPG. His reads will only get better with experience in this offense and working with his WR's. You can win alot of games with YAC long as you complete the pass...Sorenson does the same thing in SUU, he throws alot of short crossing routes and lets the WR's run in space, its the same offensive theory Petterson brought here. Difference is when SUU needs to go deep Sorenson has been better at making plays and reads...again I think both of our QB's will do this in time.

As for 50% INT on deep passes.....LOL...please pass your beer to me....

As for Magleby, I am glad he is finally healthy, nothing makes players better than competition.
 
Hornetsports Preview:

McMahonPreviewHeader12.jpg


http://www.hornetsports.com/sports/football/release.asp?release_id=10678
 
SD....just wanted to say great job with your recaps and next opponents reports...

As for injury report...from what I know.

1 OL and 1 DL left ISU banged up, but uncertain yet whether they are going this week. WR Carter, was out last week (broken bone in foot during practice). Originally they estimated 2-4 weeks out, but he is trying to come back this week. If he can go 100% I expect him to be in, but if one of the tires is a little low, then expect #10 Dotson to get the start again, with Norrise backing him up in the slot.

Still praying for JB...
 
Thanks.

I figured something was wrong with Carter since I didn’t hear his name called that much. Broken bone sounds pretty serious, not sure if putting him out there if he is less than 100% is even worthwhile. We have depth at WR, but I don’t think any of the other WR’s is as dynamic as Carter. Like you said (#10) Dotson has gotten some reps this season so hopefully he can step up his game this week. Fortunately it looks like we have capable kick and punt returners in McCowan and Norrise so that shouldn’t be an issue if Carter misses a few games.

The announcers said (#51) Avery White left at half time due to an ankle injury. We have some depth at DE but we are getting a little thin now. Assuming White can’t go, this means more reps for (#90) Cowger, (#94) Eskew, and (#35) Totty with (#49) Mazza probably being that 4th guy on the rotation. We have a few others listed on the roster that I assume are redshirting, but I don’t think it would be worth burning their redshirts at this point.

If (#65) Weaver can’t go at LT then (#76) Hanson and (#61) Milanovic will be the starting tackles. Hanson has seen some playing time but I think Milanovic has been getting more reps as of late. This would also mean we will have 2 redshirt freshmen starting at both tackle spots.

Any word on (#29) Beale? If he can’t go, I assume (#3) Dijon Washington gets the start again at FS.
 
Next time you're able to watch a good feed, focus on Milanovic at right tackle. He's a RS Freshman with just a few years of playing football under his belt so he's raw. But you will see flashes of brilliance that will make you say "holy crap, he's playing on Sundays" on occasion.

Interesting story too...

http://sacstatesports.com/2012/09/28/milanovic-becoming-a-leader-in-his-second-season/" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;
 
Prediction:

I’m not feeling this one. The Hornets always struggle in the Mormon state. Also SUU had a respectable defensive showing a week ago against a good MSU offense and this Thunderbird defense is more balanced and a lot better than the one’s the Hornets have faced the past few weeks. I think our defense will keep us in this one early but as much as I want Safron to get it together, I think his struggles continue and his lack of accuracy and effectiveness down the field takes its toll. I hope I’m wrong, 35-20 SUU. :|
 
Not to be overly dramatic, but I actually see this game as quite the turning point in Sperbeck's tenure. Will he break the Sac State trdition of losing in the Mormon state? Can we ever live up to expectation and surprise a BIG SKY TEAM on the road? It's disappointing when I can only think of two statement games to the Big Sky in the last 3 years or so. Last year vs. UM and a couple years ago on the road at NAU.

We absolutely have to finish 4-2 for playoff consideration at this point (7 DI wins - Including one over a BCS FBS does it, I hope). I think it can be done, but this is a game we need to win with EWU, CPU, and MSU still on the schedule.

Unfortunately, I think we lose this game and it's same ol, same ol' for the Hornets in 2012.


Best Case
@NMSU - L
@CU - W
UNC - W
UND - L
@ISU - W
@SUU - W
WSU - W
@EWU - L
CPU - W
MSU - L
@UCD - W

7-4 (5-3 BSC)


Kadeezy's Case

@NMSU - L
@CU - W
UNC - W
UND - L
@ISU - W
@SUU - L
WSU - W
@EWU - L
CPU - L
MSU - L
@UCD - W

5-6 (3-5 BSC)
 
[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KuStsFW4EmQ[/youtube]

SUU is not a powerhouse the Hornets have a good chance of coming home with a victory what's with all of the negative waves.
 
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