LSC Live Scoreboard (with Live Stats)
MIAA Scoreboard
D2 Scoreboard
LSC Scoop Audio and Video Links for each team
Game Notes
Abilene Christian*
Angelo State
Eastern New Mexico*
Midwestern State*
Tarleton State*
Texas A&M-Kingsville*
West Texas A&M*
Central Oklahoma
East Central (none)
Northeastern State (none yet)
Southeastern Oklahoma*
Southwestern Oklahoma
Texas A&M-Commerce (none yet)
ACU needs offense to step up vs. A&M-Kingsville
The Abilene Christian offense did something last week no other Wildcats football team had done since 2001 — and that’s fail to score a touchdown. The Wildcats managed just two field goals in a 13-6 loss to Tarleton State in Stephenville, dropping their second straight Lone Star Conference game.
It certainly was a low point for Ken Collums, ACU’s fifth-year offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach. Since Collums and head coach Chris Thomsen took over the program in 2005, the Wildcats had averaged 41.5 points a game going into this season.
ACU preview: Resurgent Kingsville big challenge for 'Cats
What’s riding on this game: Kingsville shares the Lone Star Conference lead with Tarleton State with two games left in conference play. The Javelinas haven’t won the title since nabbing a fourth-straight in 2004. Kingsville has won more LSC titles (26) than any other football team in the league. ACU, the defending LSC champs, is a game back, tied with Angelo State and Midwestern for second place. More importantly, both teams probably must win their last two games to make the playoffs. Kingsville is ranked No. 5 in the NCAA Super Regional Four poll and ACU is No. 7. The top six advance in the final poll advance to the playoffs. ACU also had Midwestern State, ranked No. 4 in the region, left on the schedule, so they still control their own fate.
Playoff berth on line as Javelinas meet Abilene Christian
.KINGSVILLE — The prize package is still wrapped and sitting a couple of weeks down the road. But there will be some bloodied hopes and mangled dreams before the Lone Star Conference football championship is awarded and the door to the NCAA Division II playoffs is opened.
“The playoffs have begun for a lot of people,” Texas A&M-Kingsville coach Bo Atterberry deadpanned.
COLLEGE FOOTBALL: ASU seniors to leave on a winning note
SAN ANGELO, Texas — Nine Angelo State University seniors will play their final game at San Angelo Stadium tonight when the Rams host No. 7 Tarleton State.
They will leave with the experience that none of the previous three ASU senior classes had — a winning season. Even if the Rams lose their final two games, they will finish the year with a 6-5 record — one more win than the previous two seasons combined and just two less than the previous three years.
Of the nine seniors, seven of them are defensive players while two play on offense. Here is a little of what each one has contributed to ASU during their tenure.
Mustangs to face Greyhounds' fast-paced offense
Teams in the Lone Star Conference used to hate to have to play Eastern New Mexico because the Greyhounds were the only wishbone team in the conference, which meant extra preparation for an offense you only faced once a year.
Two years later the wishbone is long gone, but that doesn’t mean the Greyhounds are any easier to prepare for.
Kickoff for tonight’s Lone Star Conference South matchup between the Midwestern State Mustangs (7-2, 2-2) and the Greyhounds (2-7, 0-5) is set for 8 p.m. in Greyhound Stadium at Blackwater Draw.
The Maroon & White Zone
Analysis, statistics, strategies, quotes and numbers about tonight's Lone Star Conference game between West Texas A&M (4-5 overall, 3-2 in the LSC South) at Northeastern State (2-7, 2-2 in the LSC North), 7 p.m., Doc Wadley Stadium, Tahlequah, Okla.
Keith Miller
Coach Speak
Saturday, October 31, 2009
Friday, October 30, 2009
10/30 LSC Round Up
Tarleton’s decade of winning began with Whitten
With winning seasons every year during the 21st century, Tarleton State has been a team to be reckoned with not only in the Lone Star Conference but in Division II. It wasn’t always that way.
The Texans move to Division II in the 1990s was hardly without bumps in the road. That was until Todd Whitten came back to Stephenville. After compiling a 21-42-1 record in the last six seasons of the 20th century, including 5-5 during 1996 with Whitten as the head coach, Tarleton turned to Whitten again. The Texans were rewarded with a 40-18 slate during 2000-2004 that included LSC North Division titles in 2002 and 2003, and top-20 final rankings from 2001-2003.
Whitten is now the head coach at Sam Houston State. where the former record-setting Southland Conference quarterback has brought his offensive wizardry to guide a high-octane Bearkats attack. In 2006-20007, SHSU had back-to-back 1,000-yard rushers for the first time in school history. During that time, Rhett Bomar was the university’s all-time passing and total offense leader.
Injuries force Texas A&M-Kingsville defense to dig deep into the roster
The roots of the phrase remain fuzzy. But the controversial political connotations fueled by Hillary Clinton’s book aside, there is a parallel from the axiom to football.
It takes more than 22 to field a football team. Never has that been more evident than with Texas A&M-Kingsville in the last few weeks, especially on the defensive side of the ball.
Hampered by injuries that have either shelved some starters or limited their playing time, the Javelinas had to reach into the reserve pile for assistance. So far the backups have come through.
Tarleton, ASU both in must-win mode
Tarleton State picked up arguably its biggest win since the 2001 playoffs by knocking off Abilene Christian last week.But that victory won’t mean nearly as much if the Texans don’t win both their remaining two games against Angelo State and West Texas A&M.
With winning seasons every year during the 21st century, Tarleton State has been a team to be reckoned with not only in the Lone Star Conference but in Division II. It wasn’t always that way.
The Texans move to Division II in the 1990s was hardly without bumps in the road. That was until Todd Whitten came back to Stephenville. After compiling a 21-42-1 record in the last six seasons of the 20th century, including 5-5 during 1996 with Whitten as the head coach, Tarleton turned to Whitten again. The Texans were rewarded with a 40-18 slate during 2000-2004 that included LSC North Division titles in 2002 and 2003, and top-20 final rankings from 2001-2003.
Whitten is now the head coach at Sam Houston State. where the former record-setting Southland Conference quarterback has brought his offensive wizardry to guide a high-octane Bearkats attack. In 2006-20007, SHSU had back-to-back 1,000-yard rushers for the first time in school history. During that time, Rhett Bomar was the university’s all-time passing and total offense leader.
Injuries force Texas A&M-Kingsville defense to dig deep into the roster
The roots of the phrase remain fuzzy. But the controversial political connotations fueled by Hillary Clinton’s book aside, there is a parallel from the axiom to football.
It takes more than 22 to field a football team. Never has that been more evident than with Texas A&M-Kingsville in the last few weeks, especially on the defensive side of the ball.
Hampered by injuries that have either shelved some starters or limited their playing time, the Javelinas had to reach into the reserve pile for assistance. So far the backups have come through.
Tarleton, ASU both in must-win mode
Tarleton State picked up arguably its biggest win since the 2001 playoffs by knocking off Abilene Christian last week.But that victory won’t mean nearly as much if the Texans don’t win both their remaining two games against Angelo State and West Texas A&M.
Thursday, October 29, 2009
The Race is (Still) On – Women’s Soccer
Now we’re down to the last weekend of conference play. All we’ve managed to accomplish in the past week is to eliminate one team from a chance at the conference tournament. You do you have love a conference that is so competitive that even down to the last week it is unclear who will win the conference regular season, host the tourney or even make the tourney field. The only problem with that is that it does wreak havoc with having LSC teams ranked nationally when the conference leaders are defeated by conference members in the bottom half of the standings.
The aforementioned surprises continue. The weekend featured an
We’re not brave enough this week to try and guess what might happen - let’s just set the stage for the weekend and let it happen.
Blow the whistle and touch the ball – we can’t wait !
LSC Roundup 10/29
ASU Midweek – Surging Texans arrive on a roll
SAN ANGELO, Texas — In the jumbled mess that the Lone Star Conference South Division has become, the No. 7 Tarleton State University football team finds itself right where it expected to be when the season began.
After opening divisional play with a loss to now-No. 9 Texas A&M-Kingsville, the Texans have won three straight including wins against ranked opponents Midwestern State three weeks ago and former No. 1 Abilene Christian last Saturday.
“ACU did a tremendous job,” TSU coach Sam McElroy said. “They got after us on the defensive side of the ball. We were fortunate to hit one big play. Sometimes in a game like this, that’s what it comes down to. A classic Tarleton-ACU game.”
Flemming leads WT's resurgence
A big chunk of the West Texas A&M offense was missing the first six games when senior running back Keithon Flemming went down with a dislocated left elbow in the team's final scrimmage in August.
The Buffs skidded to a 1-5 record, and could have finished the season with all the enthusiasm of a coaches' midweek film session. But rather than taking the rest of the season off, the Buffs have reeled off three straight wins - all coming since Flemming's return Oct. 10 - and could claim a share of the Lone Star Conference South Division title
A&M-Commerce heads into LSC North showdown
Texas A&M University-Commerce’s Lions have had an extra week to prepare for their Lone Star Conference North Division showdown with Southeastern Oklahoma State University.The battle for first place kicks off at 2 p.m. on Saturday at Paul Laird Field in Durant, Okla.
The two teams are tied for first place in the LSC North at 3-0.While the Lions were taking Saturday off with an open date, the Savage Storm was beating Northeastern State 45-36 at Tahlequah, Okla. Quarterback Justin Pitrucha had a big game for the Savage Storm, throwing for 362 yards and six touchdowns. Pitrucha, a 6-1, 195-pound junior from Hebron, was 29-of-38 with one interception.
SAN ANGELO, Texas — In the jumbled mess that the Lone Star Conference South Division has become, the No. 7 Tarleton State University football team finds itself right where it expected to be when the season began.
After opening divisional play with a loss to now-No. 9 Texas A&M-Kingsville, the Texans have won three straight including wins against ranked opponents Midwestern State three weeks ago and former No. 1 Abilene Christian last Saturday.
“ACU did a tremendous job,” TSU coach Sam McElroy said. “They got after us on the defensive side of the ball. We were fortunate to hit one big play. Sometimes in a game like this, that’s what it comes down to. A classic Tarleton-ACU game.”
Flemming leads WT's resurgence
A big chunk of the West Texas A&M offense was missing the first six games when senior running back Keithon Flemming went down with a dislocated left elbow in the team's final scrimmage in August.
The Buffs skidded to a 1-5 record, and could have finished the season with all the enthusiasm of a coaches' midweek film session. But rather than taking the rest of the season off, the Buffs have reeled off three straight wins - all coming since Flemming's return Oct. 10 - and could claim a share of the Lone Star Conference South Division title
A&M-Commerce heads into LSC North showdown
Texas A&M University-Commerce’s Lions have had an extra week to prepare for their Lone Star Conference North Division showdown with Southeastern Oklahoma State University.The battle for first place kicks off at 2 p.m. on Saturday at Paul Laird Field in Durant, Okla.
The two teams are tied for first place in the LSC North at 3-0.While the Lions were taking Saturday off with an open date, the Savage Storm was beating Northeastern State 45-36 at Tahlequah, Okla. Quarterback Justin Pitrucha had a big game for the Savage Storm, throwing for 362 yards and six touchdowns. Pitrucha, a 6-1, 195-pound junior from Hebron, was 29-of-38 with one interception.
LSC Scoop Game Previews - Week 10
We only hit 4 of 6 last week, giving us a 52-16 record for the season.
Last Week's Games
Midwestern State 43, Central Oklahoma 16
The Bronchos kept it close for a while, trailing just 23-14 at the half, but the Mustangs pulled away in the second half for a comfortable win. Zack Eskridge was impressive once again, hitting 15-20 passes for 339 yards and 3 touchdowns. Andy Tanner was once again his favorite target, catching 4 passes for 118 yards and 2 touchdowns. The Mustangs moved up to number 4 in the NCAA regional poll.
West Texas A&M 43, Angelo State 15
Winners of their last three games, the Buffaloes are playing their best ball of the season, and possibly the best of any LSC team. Taylor Harris threw for 414 yards with 2 TDs and no interceptions, with Stephen Burton and Tyson Williams combining for 15 receptions, 335 yards and both TDs. Keithon Flemming chipped in with 117 all-purpose yards and 2 rushing TDs. Angelo State fell to 6-3 on the season, and clings to playoff hopes by a thread.
Southwestern Oklahoma 14, East Central 13
After three quarters, the Tigers looked to have this game under control - leading 13-0 and outgaining the Bulldogs by a 241-154 margin. But Southwestern Oklahoma turned things around, shutting down ECU's offense, and exploding for 184 yards in the fourth quarter, topped off by a 19 yard TD pass from Steve Day to Johnathan Haggerty as time expired.
Southeastern Oklahoma 45, Northeastern State 35
Justin Pitrucha threw for 362 yards and 6 touchdowns, as the Savage Storm outlasted Northeastern State. Daniel Nichols caught 14 passes for 185 and 2 TDs, while Michael Goodlow and Baylen Laury also had 2 TD receptions each. NSU's Kenny Davis threw for 251 yards and 3 TDs, and rushed for 65 yards and another TD for the Riverhawks.
Texas A&M Kingsville 38, Eastern New Mexico 31
The Javelinas rushed out to a 28-7 lead midway through the second quarter, and held off Eastern New Mexico. The Greyhounds twice pulled to within a TD in the fourth quarter, but TAMK answered with a 32 yard TD run the first time, and was able to run out the clock after ENMU made it a 38-31 game with 3:24 to play. Fred Winborn rushed for 263 yards (breaking Johnny Bailey's TAMK record) and 3 TDs to lead the way. J. J. Harp returned from a one game suspension, throwing for 324 yards and 3 TDs, but had an interception returned for a TD in the first quarter.
Tarleton 13, Abilene Christian 6
Defense afficianados had to love this game. The Texans limited ACU to just 257 yards, got 3 turnovers, forced 9 punts and held the Wildcats to just two field goals. The Wildcat defense was even better for most of the night, holding the Texans to just 188 total yards, including a negative 11 rushing. But the Wildcats did have one bad play on defense - a 75 yard TD pass from Scott Grantham to Jahmeel Hobson - and that was the difference in the game.
This Week's Matchups
#5 West Texas A&M at #10 Northeastern State - Mismatch of the Week
No doubt about it, the Buffs are hot. After scoring more than 30 points just once in the first 6 weeks of the season, WT has topped that mark the past three games. The defense has also stepped up their game, giving up just 20 points a game over the past three weeks, to teams that are all averaging over 30 points per game. Meanwhile the Riverhawks offense has come alive lately, averaging 34.5 points and 377.5 yards per game the past two weeks (compared to 13 points and 240 yards per game the first 7 weeks). Too bad for them that they are playing a much tougher team this week. WT in a rout 48-21.
#11 Central Oklahoma at #13 East Central
2009 has been a disappointing season for both of these teams. For the Tigers, the prospect of a winless season looms large after dropping a last second decision to Southwestern Oklahoma last week. For the Bronchos, a 2-7 record was certainly not expected, especially with UCO riding a 7 game winning streak and national rankings coming into the season. Both defenses are down at the bottom of the LSC, but UCO's offense is middle of the pack, and that should be good enough this week. UCO 24-10.
#1 Midwestern State at #9 Eastern New Mexico
West Texas A&M may be the hottest team in the LSC right now...or maybe not. That honor could just as easily go to the Mustangs, who were the last team to beat WT. A week after giving Texas A&M-Kingsville their only loss, MSU soundly defeated Central Oklahoma. Zack Eskridge is quietly having an All-American type season at QB. His 73.3% completion rate would be a new LSC record and his 191.6 efficiency rating is higher than any in recent memory. The MSU defense has been stellar, allowing 20 or more points just twice this year and holding teams to single digit points in 5 of their 9 games this year. The Greyhounds offense could provide a challenge, as they have scored at least 20 points in every game this year. The defense however has allowed 30 or more points in 7 straight games, and just once have held a team to less than 28. Both quarterbacks should set single season team records for passing yards in this game. MSU in a blowout 42-17.
Oklahoma Panhandle State at #12 Southwestern Oklahoma
OPSU has played just three D2 teams this year, losing all three including a blowout by Truman State. On the other hand, the Bulldogs have had their best games that past three weeks, including their first win of the season. Steve Day surpassed the 7,000 yard mark last weekend while Johnathan Haggerty now has over 2,500 receiving yards. SWO gets win number two, 28-14
#8 Texas A&M-Commerce at #7 Southeastern Oklahoma
What do you make of the Lions? Are they a team on the rise, just barely missing out on beating Abilene Christian and Texas A&M-Kingsville? Or, are they lucky to be challenging for the LSC North title, needing second half comebacks to beat Central Oklahoma, Northeastern State and East Central? Southeastern has been more consistent in divisional games, taking first half leads and holding off the opponents to win somewhat comfortably. The second quarter has been especially productive, with SOSU owning a 48-7 scoring advantage. Justin Pitrucha has had a hot hand, throwing for over 1,000 yards and 13 TDs the last three weeks. He needs 212 yards passing to reach 6,000 for his career, while Daniel Nichols is 237 yards and 2 TDs behind Romar Crenshaw's team records. Pitrucha's hot hand and the Savage Storm's consistency should be enough. SOSU 35-21.
#2 Tarleton State at #6 Angelo State
The Texan's loss to Texas A&M-Kingsville may have been a blessing in disguise. Since that game, Tarleton has been playing lights out, knocking off two ranked teams and holding ENMU to a season low 20 points. Last week, the defense kept the team in the game long enough for special teams and the offense to make big plays and upset the #9 ACU Wildcats. That defense is #2 in the LSC in both yards and points allowed and is tops in passing yards given up. The red zone defense has been especially stellar, allowing just 6 TDs and 5 FGs in 21 opportunities - again the best in the LSC. They will have their hands full, with an Angelo State offense scoring 30 points and gaining 405 yards per game. Junior Josh Neiswander is averaging 276 yards passing per game, and has 21 TDs with only 7 interceptions. He is 131 yards from breaking Trey Weishuhn's single season record for passing yards. He has the only LSC receiving combo with 700+ yards receiving each in Dakarai Pecikonis and V'Keon Lacy.
On the flip side, the Angelo defense has sprung some leaks lately, giving up 111 points the past three games. Calvin Fance has 14 sacks on the season. Tarleton's offense has made big plays at the right time - two fourth down conversions against MSU in the drive that tied the game, and last week's 75 yard game winning TD pass.
The Rams may be the most improved team in the LSC, but Tarleton is playing better ball right now, TSU 28-21.
Game of the Year (Part V)
#3 Texas A&M-Kingsville at #4 Abilene Christian
Neither team is playing their best ball right now. In the past five weeks, the Javelinas were soundly beaten by Midwestern State and survived four close calls. Meanwhile, the Wildcats have dropped the last two games and are in danger of missing the playoffs with any more losses.
How they stack up
Scoring offense - ACU 31.3, TAMK 31.2
Scoring defense - ACU 16.7, TAMK 21.7
Rushing offense - TAMK 191.7, ACU 185.1
Rushing defense - ACU 34.3, TAMK 110.0
Passing offense - TAMK 242.3, ACU 202.9
Pass efficiency offense - ACU 121.1, TAMK 131.5
Passing defense - TAMK 213.8, ACU 223.2
Pass efficiency defense - ACU 107.0, TAMK 121.0
Total Offense - TAMK 434.0, ACU 388.0
Total Defense - ACU 257.6, TAMK 323.8
For ACU, its been the defense that has been consitent. They have allowed more than 300 yards or 14 points just twice all season. The run defense has been especiall stellar, with only one team breaking the century mark - and Angelo got 81 of their 101 on their final drive with the game out of reach. For the season, teams are averaging just 34.3 yards per game and 1.4 per carry. So not able to run the ball, teams have been attempting almost 39 passes and have gained 223 yards per game. Only Eastern New Mexico and West Texas A&M have topped 300 yards and 5 times, ACU has held opponents to under 200. Tony Harp (team leading 49 tackles), Fred Thompson (11.5 TFL, 5 sacks) and Aston Whiteside (11.5 TFL, 7.5 sacks) lead the defense. The offense however has hit some speed bumps the last two weeks, averaging just 278 yards and 13.5 points. The passing game has really been off, with redshirt freshman Mitchell Gale completing just 30-66 passes for 304 yards, 0 TDs and 4 interceptions. The running game picked up the slack against WT, gaining 189 yards, but Tarleton stuffed them, giving up just 63 yards with the longest run an 11 yarder. For the season, ACU is averaging 185 yards per game, good for second in the LSC behind the Javelinas. Darryl Richardson has 833 yards and 13 TDs, while Reggie Brown has 557 yards and 5 TDs. ACU likes to spread the ball around to several receivers - 8 players have at least 11 receptions.
There should certainly be a playoff atmosphere at this game, especially with the cold truth that the loser could miss out on the NCAA playoffs depending on what happens around the rest of the region. For the Javelinas to win, they will need to be able to do what no one else has this year - run the ball against the nation's top run defense. For Abilene, the key is to do what Midwestern State did to TAMK - get ahead early and not let them back within striking distance. They have the running game and defense to do that, but must get better play from the QB position. Flip a coin in this one - Javelinas win yet another nail biter 24-21.
Last Week's Games
Midwestern State 43, Central Oklahoma 16
The Bronchos kept it close for a while, trailing just 23-14 at the half, but the Mustangs pulled away in the second half for a comfortable win. Zack Eskridge was impressive once again, hitting 15-20 passes for 339 yards and 3 touchdowns. Andy Tanner was once again his favorite target, catching 4 passes for 118 yards and 2 touchdowns. The Mustangs moved up to number 4 in the NCAA regional poll.
West Texas A&M 43, Angelo State 15
Winners of their last three games, the Buffaloes are playing their best ball of the season, and possibly the best of any LSC team. Taylor Harris threw for 414 yards with 2 TDs and no interceptions, with Stephen Burton and Tyson Williams combining for 15 receptions, 335 yards and both TDs. Keithon Flemming chipped in with 117 all-purpose yards and 2 rushing TDs. Angelo State fell to 6-3 on the season, and clings to playoff hopes by a thread.
Southwestern Oklahoma 14, East Central 13
After three quarters, the Tigers looked to have this game under control - leading 13-0 and outgaining the Bulldogs by a 241-154 margin. But Southwestern Oklahoma turned things around, shutting down ECU's offense, and exploding for 184 yards in the fourth quarter, topped off by a 19 yard TD pass from Steve Day to Johnathan Haggerty as time expired.
Southeastern Oklahoma 45, Northeastern State 35
Justin Pitrucha threw for 362 yards and 6 touchdowns, as the Savage Storm outlasted Northeastern State. Daniel Nichols caught 14 passes for 185 and 2 TDs, while Michael Goodlow and Baylen Laury also had 2 TD receptions each. NSU's Kenny Davis threw for 251 yards and 3 TDs, and rushed for 65 yards and another TD for the Riverhawks.
Texas A&M Kingsville 38, Eastern New Mexico 31
The Javelinas rushed out to a 28-7 lead midway through the second quarter, and held off Eastern New Mexico. The Greyhounds twice pulled to within a TD in the fourth quarter, but TAMK answered with a 32 yard TD run the first time, and was able to run out the clock after ENMU made it a 38-31 game with 3:24 to play. Fred Winborn rushed for 263 yards (breaking Johnny Bailey's TAMK record) and 3 TDs to lead the way. J. J. Harp returned from a one game suspension, throwing for 324 yards and 3 TDs, but had an interception returned for a TD in the first quarter.
Tarleton 13, Abilene Christian 6
Defense afficianados had to love this game. The Texans limited ACU to just 257 yards, got 3 turnovers, forced 9 punts and held the Wildcats to just two field goals. The Wildcat defense was even better for most of the night, holding the Texans to just 188 total yards, including a negative 11 rushing. But the Wildcats did have one bad play on defense - a 75 yard TD pass from Scott Grantham to Jahmeel Hobson - and that was the difference in the game.
This Week's Matchups
#5 West Texas A&M at #10 Northeastern State - Mismatch of the Week
No doubt about it, the Buffs are hot. After scoring more than 30 points just once in the first 6 weeks of the season, WT has topped that mark the past three games. The defense has also stepped up their game, giving up just 20 points a game over the past three weeks, to teams that are all averaging over 30 points per game. Meanwhile the Riverhawks offense has come alive lately, averaging 34.5 points and 377.5 yards per game the past two weeks (compared to 13 points and 240 yards per game the first 7 weeks). Too bad for them that they are playing a much tougher team this week. WT in a rout 48-21.
#11 Central Oklahoma at #13 East Central
2009 has been a disappointing season for both of these teams. For the Tigers, the prospect of a winless season looms large after dropping a last second decision to Southwestern Oklahoma last week. For the Bronchos, a 2-7 record was certainly not expected, especially with UCO riding a 7 game winning streak and national rankings coming into the season. Both defenses are down at the bottom of the LSC, but UCO's offense is middle of the pack, and that should be good enough this week. UCO 24-10.
#1 Midwestern State at #9 Eastern New Mexico
West Texas A&M may be the hottest team in the LSC right now...or maybe not. That honor could just as easily go to the Mustangs, who were the last team to beat WT. A week after giving Texas A&M-Kingsville their only loss, MSU soundly defeated Central Oklahoma. Zack Eskridge is quietly having an All-American type season at QB. His 73.3% completion rate would be a new LSC record and his 191.6 efficiency rating is higher than any in recent memory. The MSU defense has been stellar, allowing 20 or more points just twice this year and holding teams to single digit points in 5 of their 9 games this year. The Greyhounds offense could provide a challenge, as they have scored at least 20 points in every game this year. The defense however has allowed 30 or more points in 7 straight games, and just once have held a team to less than 28. Both quarterbacks should set single season team records for passing yards in this game. MSU in a blowout 42-17.
Oklahoma Panhandle State at #12 Southwestern Oklahoma
OPSU has played just three D2 teams this year, losing all three including a blowout by Truman State. On the other hand, the Bulldogs have had their best games that past three weeks, including their first win of the season. Steve Day surpassed the 7,000 yard mark last weekend while Johnathan Haggerty now has over 2,500 receiving yards. SWO gets win number two, 28-14
#8 Texas A&M-Commerce at #7 Southeastern Oklahoma
What do you make of the Lions? Are they a team on the rise, just barely missing out on beating Abilene Christian and Texas A&M-Kingsville? Or, are they lucky to be challenging for the LSC North title, needing second half comebacks to beat Central Oklahoma, Northeastern State and East Central? Southeastern has been more consistent in divisional games, taking first half leads and holding off the opponents to win somewhat comfortably. The second quarter has been especially productive, with SOSU owning a 48-7 scoring advantage. Justin Pitrucha has had a hot hand, throwing for over 1,000 yards and 13 TDs the last three weeks. He needs 212 yards passing to reach 6,000 for his career, while Daniel Nichols is 237 yards and 2 TDs behind Romar Crenshaw's team records. Pitrucha's hot hand and the Savage Storm's consistency should be enough. SOSU 35-21.
#2 Tarleton State at #6 Angelo State
The Texan's loss to Texas A&M-Kingsville may have been a blessing in disguise. Since that game, Tarleton has been playing lights out, knocking off two ranked teams and holding ENMU to a season low 20 points. Last week, the defense kept the team in the game long enough for special teams and the offense to make big plays and upset the #9 ACU Wildcats. That defense is #2 in the LSC in both yards and points allowed and is tops in passing yards given up. The red zone defense has been especially stellar, allowing just 6 TDs and 5 FGs in 21 opportunities - again the best in the LSC. They will have their hands full, with an Angelo State offense scoring 30 points and gaining 405 yards per game. Junior Josh Neiswander is averaging 276 yards passing per game, and has 21 TDs with only 7 interceptions. He is 131 yards from breaking Trey Weishuhn's single season record for passing yards. He has the only LSC receiving combo with 700+ yards receiving each in Dakarai Pecikonis and V'Keon Lacy.
On the flip side, the Angelo defense has sprung some leaks lately, giving up 111 points the past three games. Calvin Fance has 14 sacks on the season. Tarleton's offense has made big plays at the right time - two fourth down conversions against MSU in the drive that tied the game, and last week's 75 yard game winning TD pass.
The Rams may be the most improved team in the LSC, but Tarleton is playing better ball right now, TSU 28-21.
Game of the Year (Part V)
#3 Texas A&M-Kingsville at #4 Abilene Christian
Neither team is playing their best ball right now. In the past five weeks, the Javelinas were soundly beaten by Midwestern State and survived four close calls. Meanwhile, the Wildcats have dropped the last two games and are in danger of missing the playoffs with any more losses.
How they stack up
Scoring offense - ACU 31.3, TAMK 31.2
Scoring defense - ACU 16.7, TAMK 21.7
Rushing offense - TAMK 191.7, ACU 185.1
Rushing defense - ACU 34.3, TAMK 110.0
Passing offense - TAMK 242.3, ACU 202.9
Pass efficiency offense - ACU 121.1, TAMK 131.5
Passing defense - TAMK 213.8, ACU 223.2
Pass efficiency defense - ACU 107.0, TAMK 121.0
Total Offense - TAMK 434.0, ACU 388.0
Total Defense - ACU 257.6, TAMK 323.8
The TAMK offense has gotten consistent results this year, scoring at least 28 points in all but 2 games. The running game leads the LSC with 192 yards per game, with a low of 122. Fred Winborn has emerged as the top threat, with 594 yards and 6 TDs over the past four weeks. Billy Garza has not been consistent this year. While he has thrown 13 TD passes for the season, he has been shut out in 3 of the last 5 games. He does spread the ball around - seven Javelinas have 12 or more catches and eight different players have TD catches. The defense has struggled a bit, giving up over 30 points the past three weeks, after not allowing more than 20 the first six weeks. They have gotten turnovers at opportune times this season helping them win several games. DeIra Glover is the leading tackler with 62 and has 2 interceptions, both of which he has returned for TDs. Jeff Edwards (5.5 TFL, 3 Ints) and Matt Romig (9.5 TFL, 6 sacks) have also come up with big plays during the season.
For ACU, its been the defense that has been consitent. They have allowed more than 300 yards or 14 points just twice all season. The run defense has been especiall stellar, with only one team breaking the century mark - and Angelo got 81 of their 101 on their final drive with the game out of reach. For the season, teams are averaging just 34.3 yards per game and 1.4 per carry. So not able to run the ball, teams have been attempting almost 39 passes and have gained 223 yards per game. Only Eastern New Mexico and West Texas A&M have topped 300 yards and 5 times, ACU has held opponents to under 200. Tony Harp (team leading 49 tackles), Fred Thompson (11.5 TFL, 5 sacks) and Aston Whiteside (11.5 TFL, 7.5 sacks) lead the defense. The offense however has hit some speed bumps the last two weeks, averaging just 278 yards and 13.5 points. The passing game has really been off, with redshirt freshman Mitchell Gale completing just 30-66 passes for 304 yards, 0 TDs and 4 interceptions. The running game picked up the slack against WT, gaining 189 yards, but Tarleton stuffed them, giving up just 63 yards with the longest run an 11 yarder. For the season, ACU is averaging 185 yards per game, good for second in the LSC behind the Javelinas. Darryl Richardson has 833 yards and 13 TDs, while Reggie Brown has 557 yards and 5 TDs. ACU likes to spread the ball around to several receivers - 8 players have at least 11 receptions.
There should certainly be a playoff atmosphere at this game, especially with the cold truth that the loser could miss out on the NCAA playoffs depending on what happens around the rest of the region. For the Javelinas to win, they will need to be able to do what no one else has this year - run the ball against the nation's top run defense. For Abilene, the key is to do what Midwestern State did to TAMK - get ahead early and not let them back within striking distance. They have the running game and defense to do that, but must get better play from the QB position. Flip a coin in this one - Javelinas win yet another nail biter 24-21.
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Women’s Soccer Update Oct 28th
LSC Player of the Week awards went to :
Offensive – Meagan Lasley A&M Commerce
Defensive – Alli Miller
GK – Nori Morgan ( for the second week in a row)
National Rankings of LSC interest (NSCAA poll)
#9
#15 U Incarnate Word (#16)
#19 St Edwards (#7)
Regional Rankings (NCAA poll)
1 St Edwards
2 WT A&M
3 Truman
4 U Incarnate Word
5 Nebraska-Omaha
6
7 Central OK
8 Midwestern
9 Central MO
10 Northwest MO St
Regional Rankings (NSCAA poll)
1 WT A&M
2 U Incarnate Word
3 St Edwards
4 Truman
5 Nebraska-Omaha
6 Central OK
7 Midwestern
8 Northwest MO St
9
10 Central MO
This weeks results
West Texas A&M defeated
Next up is a trip down I-40 for face NSU and ECU.
A&M Commerce rescheduled the Friday match with ECU for Tuesday to escape the weather (?). Sunday the Lions pounced on NSU 4-1, scoring two in each half. The rescheduled game was moved from the soccer pitch to the football stadium due to still wet conditions, and the Tigers yielded to the Lions 5-0. Commerce stands at 5-3 in conference play with road matches with
This weekend the Bronchos are at home against Commerce and TWU.
Midwestern scored an 84th minute goal to earn a 1-0 win at SWOSU. The Bulldogs packed the back and were outshot 25-7 in the contest. On Sunday two first half goals and stout defending by
Currently Midwestern sits at 5-3 in conference play and face
ECU traveled to TWU on Sunday but were turned away in a 3-0 defeat. The rescheduled and relocated match with Commerce was played Tuesday and resulted in a 5-0 defeat.
The Tigers conference record is 2-6 and they are reduced to playing the spoiler role with ENM and
TWU notched a couple of wins to keep their tourney chances alive with a 2-0 win over NSU on Friday. The match was equal in shots, corners and saves, but two second period goals provided the margin for the Pioneers. Against ECU on Sunday a 19-12 shot advantage produced a 3-0 shutout victory to move TWU to 5-3 in conference play. TWU leaves the friendly confines of their home pitch to try SWOSU and
ENM began the weekend by deflating the conference leader
NSU tried TWU on Friday and came away short, on the wrong end of a 2-0 result. Sunday in Commerce a 4-1 defeat resulted in a match that featured 31 fouls and 3 cards.
The Riverhawks fall to
SWOSU put up a valiant effort against Midwestern at home before surrendering an 84th minute goal for the 1-0 loss. The Bulldogs stand at 3-5 in conference matches. This weekend TWU and Commerce visit to complete the regular season.
LSC Roundup 10-28
MSU men tabbed as LSC South favorites
Lone Star Conference coaches, sports information directors and selected media have a forecast for Midwestern State’s first-year coach Grant McCasland — instant success. The Mustangs, who were picked first on 13 of 21 ballots, are the favorites to repeat as Lone Star Conference South Division champions after going 25-7 last season which included a trip to the South Central Regionals for the fourth time since the school made the jump to NCAA Division II in 1995.
Midwestern State was picked to finish sixth in this same poll last season. MSU, who has claimed two league championships and advanced to the national postseason over the past three years, return three starters and a total of eight lettermen from last year’s squad that fell to Central Missouri in the regional semifinals.
But much has changed.
Mustangs men's soccer team No. 10 in nation
Midwestern State maintained its No. 2 position in the South Central Region Tuesday when the NCAA Division II Men’s Soccer Committee released its weekly rankings. Top-ranked teams advance to the NCAA Division II postseason when the final regular season rankings are published Nov. 3.
The top two teams from the South Central Region and top two sides from the Central Region will meet at the site of the Central Region’s top team on the weekend of Nov. 13.
MSU (11-1-3) also moved ahead one spot to No. 10 in the latest National Soccer Coaches’ Association of America/adidas national poll.
Lone Star Conference coaches, sports information directors and selected media have a forecast for Midwestern State’s first-year coach Grant McCasland — instant success. The Mustangs, who were picked first on 13 of 21 ballots, are the favorites to repeat as Lone Star Conference South Division champions after going 25-7 last season which included a trip to the South Central Regionals for the fourth time since the school made the jump to NCAA Division II in 1995.
Midwestern State was picked to finish sixth in this same poll last season. MSU, who has claimed two league championships and advanced to the national postseason over the past three years, return three starters and a total of eight lettermen from last year’s squad that fell to Central Missouri in the regional semifinals.
But much has changed.
Mustangs men's soccer team No. 10 in nation
Midwestern State maintained its No. 2 position in the South Central Region Tuesday when the NCAA Division II Men’s Soccer Committee released its weekly rankings. Top-ranked teams advance to the NCAA Division II postseason when the final regular season rankings are published Nov. 3.
The top two teams from the South Central Region and top two sides from the Central Region will meet at the site of the Central Region’s top team on the weekend of Nov. 13.
MSU (11-1-3) also moved ahead one spot to No. 10 in the latest National Soccer Coaches’ Association of America/adidas national poll.
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
LSC Afternoon Update 10-27
UCO, MSU men's basketball preseason favorites
Central Oklahoma and Midwestern State are the favorites according to the Lone Star Conference men's basketball preseason polls announced Tuesday. Both teams won the divisional titles last season as the Bronchos claimed their second-straight North Division crown, while the Mustangs won the South Division and league championship titles. The LSC has 14 teams set to play this season and the league races should be as competitive as ever. Action begins on November 15.
Two Lone Star Conference men's basketball standouts were honored as the league's Preseason Players of the Year for 2009-10, as announced by the league office on Tuesday. Texas A&M-Commerce senior forward Justin Wilkerson was tabbed as the North Division Preseason Player of the Year, while Angelo State senior forward Shavar Burch earned the South Division accolade.
The league's preseason awards were selected by a vote of conference head coaches and sports information directors, in addition to several media representatives from the throughout the region.
Wilkerson received six of the 19 votes in the North, while Burch was the choice on six of the 20 ballots submitted in the South. Wilkerson, a transfer to the Lions, made appearances in 28 games for East Central last season, averaging 11.2 points and 9.8 rebounds per game. His 9.8 rebounds per game led the Tigers and ranked third in the LSC. In North Division games, he averaged a double-double and led the league with 12.3 rebounds per game.
Burch started 27 games for the Rams in 2008-09, averaging 28 minutes per game. His 7.1 rebounds per game led ASU, while his 11.9 points per game ranked third on the team.
1. Central Oklahoma (18 first place votes) 138
2. Texas A&M Commerce (2) 113
3. Cameron 81
4. Southwestern Oklahoma 80
5. Northeastern State 79
6. Southeastern Oklahoma 37
7. East Central 32
1. Midwestern State (13) 125
2. Angelo State (5) 111
3. Tarleton State (2) 104
4. West Texas A&M 92
5. Texas A&M-Kingsville (1) 82
6. Abilene Christian 48
7. Eastern New Mexico 26
Women's Basketball: UCO, WTAMU preseason picks
Central Oklahoma is favored to win the North Division, while West Texas A&M is the top pick in the South Division as the annual Lone Star Conference women's basketball preseason polls were announced on Tuesday. The Bronchos won their second straight North Division title in 2009, while the Lady Buffs have claimed four-consecutive South Division crowns and the last two conference championships.
Southeastern Oklahoma senior forward Destiny Brown and Abilene Christian senior forward Jamie Meyer were tabbed as Lone Star Conference Preseason Players of the Year for 2009-10, as announced by the conference office on Tuesday. Brown was named the LSC North Division Preseason Player of the year, while Meyer earned the South Division honor. The preseason awards were selected by a vote of LSC head coaches and sports information directors, plus media representatives from throughout the region.
SE's Brown was a nearly unanimous selection, earning 18 of the 20 ballots in the North. Savage Storm teammate Jasmine Hughey and Texas Woman's Jessica Durr each picked up one of the remaining votes. ACU's Meyer was the choice on seven of the 21 votes submitted in the South, while Angelo State's Camille Perkins received six, West Texas A&M's Joni Unruh earned five, and Tarleton State's JoAnne Jones collected the final three. Brown was an All-LSC North Division first-team, LSC All-Tournament team and Daktronics All-South Central Region second-team selection last season, guiding SE to its third NCAA regional tournament appearance, and leading the team in blocks, scoring, rebounding, and 3-point percentage. Her 16.2 points per game were third in the LSC, while her 11.5 rebounding average was second in the league and her .451 3-point percentage led the conference.
Meyer earned All-LSC South Division first-team honors last season, helping ACU to the NCAA regional tournament, averaging 14 points per game and leading the Wildcats in free throw and 3-point percentage. Her .814 free throw percentage was second in the conference, and her .420 3-point percentage was sixth. Meyer has appeared in all 87 games in her first three seasons for the Wildcats.
1. Central Oklahoma (17) 164
2. Southeastern Oklahoma (2) 138
3. Northeastern State (2) 125
4. Texas A&M Commerce 100
5. Texas Womans 97
6. East Central 56
7. Southwestern Oklahoma 40
8. Cameron 36
1. West Texas A&M (9) 124
2. Tarleton State (4) 110
3. Abilene Christian (4) 108
4. Angelo State (2) 93
5. Texas A&M Kingsville (2) 80
6. Midwestern State 45
7. Eastern New Mexico 28
Lone Star Conference Volleyball weekly release (10/27/09)
League play continues as teams compete for spot in LSC Championship
Two weeks of Lone Star Conference play remain as teams compete for one of eight spots in the LSC Championship to be played November 12-14 at the No. 1 seed. West Texas A&M, Texas A&M-Kingsville, Abilene Christian, Angelo State and Texas A&M-Commerce were each unbeaten in league action last week.
LSC Volleyball Players of the Week
OFFENSIVE
Laura Prinsen, West Texas A&M, Sr., RH, Spring, Texas/Klein Collins HS
In their four wins last week, Prinsen led the Lady Buffs in kills with 56, averaging 3.73 kills per set. She also contributed 10 assists, 34 digs, and 15 blocks, including two solo blocks. She tallied double-digit kills in all four matches with her best being against LCU with 20 kills and a .240 hitting percentage. Prinsen also reached a new career milestone in digs with 1,023.
Zuela Adom, Central Oklahoma, Jr., OH, Euless, Texas/Trinity HS
Adom had a terrific week as UCO went 1-2 with a pair of heartbreaking five-set losses. The junior outside hitter collected 73 kills on the week, averaging 5.21 kills a game and 24.3 a match while hitting a stellar .283. She had 25 kills in a five-set loss to Newman, 21 in a five-set loss to Texas A&M-Commerce and a career-high 27 in a four-set road win over Texas Woman’s.
DEFENSIVE
Lauren Flynn, Texas A&M-Commerce, Sr., L, Deer Park, Texas/Deer Park HS
Recorded 40 digs, averaging 8.0 per set in the Lions’ five set win over Central Oklahoma. It is the second time in 2009 that she had over 40 digs in a match. She followed that up with an 18-dig effort against SWOSU and had only her fourth kill to go along with a service ace in the straight set victory over the Bulldogs.
Katie Coleman, Angelo State, Fr., MB, San Antonio, Texas/Johnson HS
Coleman was huge in ASU’s three-game sweep of Midwestern State Sunday, ending the match with 10 kills and a season-best nine blocks. Coleman averaged 1.33 blocks per set this week as the ‘Belles picked up two key LSC wins to move into third place in the league. She also had five kills, two blocks and an ace in a five-game win over Cameron Thursday.
SETTER
Katie Rickwartz, West Texas A&M, Sr., S, Canyon, Texas/Canyon HS
Rickwartz continues her leadership as the Lady Buffs’ setter, leading the team to four wins last week. She recorded 181 total assists, averaging 12.0 assists per set. She also contributed three services aces, 44 digs, and three block assists. Rickwartz also tallied two more double-double outings with double-digit assists and digs. Against LCU, she recorded 61 assists, nearly reaching her career high of 70 assists set in 2007. Rickwartz also contributed 12 setter dump kills.”
Perla Faudoa, Texas A&M-Commerce, Sr., S, Juarez, Mexico/Frank Phillips College
Recorded 58 assists in the five-set win over Central Oklahoma to go along with two service aces and four kills. Against SWOSU, she had 29 assists and four kills and two block assists in the win.
Central Oklahoma and Midwestern State are the favorites according to the Lone Star Conference men's basketball preseason polls announced Tuesday. Both teams won the divisional titles last season as the Bronchos claimed their second-straight North Division crown, while the Mustangs won the South Division and league championship titles. The LSC has 14 teams set to play this season and the league races should be as competitive as ever. Action begins on November 15.
Two Lone Star Conference men's basketball standouts were honored as the league's Preseason Players of the Year for 2009-10, as announced by the league office on Tuesday. Texas A&M-Commerce senior forward Justin Wilkerson was tabbed as the North Division Preseason Player of the Year, while Angelo State senior forward Shavar Burch earned the South Division accolade.
The league's preseason awards were selected by a vote of conference head coaches and sports information directors, in addition to several media representatives from the throughout the region.
Wilkerson received six of the 19 votes in the North, while Burch was the choice on six of the 20 ballots submitted in the South. Wilkerson, a transfer to the Lions, made appearances in 28 games for East Central last season, averaging 11.2 points and 9.8 rebounds per game. His 9.8 rebounds per game led the Tigers and ranked third in the LSC. In North Division games, he averaged a double-double and led the league with 12.3 rebounds per game.
Burch started 27 games for the Rams in 2008-09, averaging 28 minutes per game. His 7.1 rebounds per game led ASU, while his 11.9 points per game ranked third on the team.
1. Central Oklahoma (18 first place votes) 138
2. Texas A&M Commerce (2) 113
3. Cameron 81
4. Southwestern Oklahoma 80
5. Northeastern State 79
6. Southeastern Oklahoma 37
7. East Central 32
1. Midwestern State (13) 125
2. Angelo State (5) 111
3. Tarleton State (2) 104
4. West Texas A&M 92
5. Texas A&M-Kingsville (1) 82
6. Abilene Christian 48
7. Eastern New Mexico 26
Women's Basketball: UCO, WTAMU preseason picks
Central Oklahoma is favored to win the North Division, while West Texas A&M is the top pick in the South Division as the annual Lone Star Conference women's basketball preseason polls were announced on Tuesday. The Bronchos won their second straight North Division title in 2009, while the Lady Buffs have claimed four-consecutive South Division crowns and the last two conference championships.
Southeastern Oklahoma senior forward Destiny Brown and Abilene Christian senior forward Jamie Meyer were tabbed as Lone Star Conference Preseason Players of the Year for 2009-10, as announced by the conference office on Tuesday. Brown was named the LSC North Division Preseason Player of the year, while Meyer earned the South Division honor. The preseason awards were selected by a vote of LSC head coaches and sports information directors, plus media representatives from throughout the region.
SE's Brown was a nearly unanimous selection, earning 18 of the 20 ballots in the North. Savage Storm teammate Jasmine Hughey and Texas Woman's Jessica Durr each picked up one of the remaining votes. ACU's Meyer was the choice on seven of the 21 votes submitted in the South, while Angelo State's Camille Perkins received six, West Texas A&M's Joni Unruh earned five, and Tarleton State's JoAnne Jones collected the final three. Brown was an All-LSC North Division first-team, LSC All-Tournament team and Daktronics All-South Central Region second-team selection last season, guiding SE to its third NCAA regional tournament appearance, and leading the team in blocks, scoring, rebounding, and 3-point percentage. Her 16.2 points per game were third in the LSC, while her 11.5 rebounding average was second in the league and her .451 3-point percentage led the conference.
Meyer earned All-LSC South Division first-team honors last season, helping ACU to the NCAA regional tournament, averaging 14 points per game and leading the Wildcats in free throw and 3-point percentage. Her .814 free throw percentage was second in the conference, and her .420 3-point percentage was sixth. Meyer has appeared in all 87 games in her first three seasons for the Wildcats.
1. Central Oklahoma (17) 164
2. Southeastern Oklahoma (2) 138
3. Northeastern State (2) 125
4. Texas A&M Commerce 100
5. Texas Womans 97
6. East Central 56
7. Southwestern Oklahoma 40
8. Cameron 36
1. West Texas A&M (9) 124
2. Tarleton State (4) 110
3. Abilene Christian (4) 108
4. Angelo State (2) 93
5. Texas A&M Kingsville (2) 80
6. Midwestern State 45
7. Eastern New Mexico 28
Lone Star Conference Volleyball weekly release (10/27/09)
League play continues as teams compete for spot in LSC Championship
Two weeks of Lone Star Conference play remain as teams compete for one of eight spots in the LSC Championship to be played November 12-14 at the No. 1 seed. West Texas A&M, Texas A&M-Kingsville, Abilene Christian, Angelo State and Texas A&M-Commerce were each unbeaten in league action last week.
LSC Volleyball Players of the Week
OFFENSIVE
Laura Prinsen, West Texas A&M, Sr., RH, Spring, Texas/Klein Collins HS
In their four wins last week, Prinsen led the Lady Buffs in kills with 56, averaging 3.73 kills per set. She also contributed 10 assists, 34 digs, and 15 blocks, including two solo blocks. She tallied double-digit kills in all four matches with her best being against LCU with 20 kills and a .240 hitting percentage. Prinsen also reached a new career milestone in digs with 1,023.
Zuela Adom, Central Oklahoma, Jr., OH, Euless, Texas/Trinity HS
Adom had a terrific week as UCO went 1-2 with a pair of heartbreaking five-set losses. The junior outside hitter collected 73 kills on the week, averaging 5.21 kills a game and 24.3 a match while hitting a stellar .283. She had 25 kills in a five-set loss to Newman, 21 in a five-set loss to Texas A&M-Commerce and a career-high 27 in a four-set road win over Texas Woman’s.
DEFENSIVE
Lauren Flynn, Texas A&M-Commerce, Sr., L, Deer Park, Texas/Deer Park HS
Recorded 40 digs, averaging 8.0 per set in the Lions’ five set win over Central Oklahoma. It is the second time in 2009 that she had over 40 digs in a match. She followed that up with an 18-dig effort against SWOSU and had only her fourth kill to go along with a service ace in the straight set victory over the Bulldogs.
Katie Coleman, Angelo State, Fr., MB, San Antonio, Texas/Johnson HS
Coleman was huge in ASU’s three-game sweep of Midwestern State Sunday, ending the match with 10 kills and a season-best nine blocks. Coleman averaged 1.33 blocks per set this week as the ‘Belles picked up two key LSC wins to move into third place in the league. She also had five kills, two blocks and an ace in a five-game win over Cameron Thursday.
SETTER
Katie Rickwartz, West Texas A&M, Sr., S, Canyon, Texas/Canyon HS
Rickwartz continues her leadership as the Lady Buffs’ setter, leading the team to four wins last week. She recorded 181 total assists, averaging 12.0 assists per set. She also contributed three services aces, 44 digs, and three block assists. Rickwartz also tallied two more double-double outings with double-digit assists and digs. Against LCU, she recorded 61 assists, nearly reaching her career high of 70 assists set in 2007. Rickwartz also contributed 12 setter dump kills.”
Perla Faudoa, Texas A&M-Commerce, Sr., S, Juarez, Mexico/Frank Phillips College
Recorded 58 assists in the five-set win over Central Oklahoma to go along with two service aces and four kills. Against SWOSU, she had 29 assists and four kills and two block assists in the win.
LSC Roundup 10-27
D2football.com Top 25 Media Poll
1 North Alabama 9-0
2 Central Washington 9-0
3 Northwest Missouri 8-1
4 Minnesota State 9-0
5 Minnesota-Duluth 8-1
6 Grand Valley 8-1
7 Tarleton State 8-1
8 Nebraska-Kearney 8-1
9 Texas A&M-Kingsville 8-1
10 Bloomsburg 8-1
11 Carson-Newman 7-2
12 Saginaw Valley 7-2
13 Abilene Christian 7-2
14 California 7-2
15 Tuskegee 6-2
16 Albany State 7-1
17 Missouri Western 7-2
18 Central Missouri 7-2
19 Charleston 8-1
20 Midwestern State 7-2
21 UNC Pembroke 7-1
22 West Liberty 8-1
23 Hillsdale 7-2
24 Washburn 6-3
25 Edinboro 7-2
MSU is up to No. 4 in Super Regional
Midwestern State moved up two more spots to fourth in Super Region Four Monday when the NCAA Division II National Football Committee released its latest rankings. The Mustangs improved to 7-2 with a 43-16 win over Central Oklahoma Saturday night at Memorial Stadium and have now won their last two contests.
The rankings determine postseason seeding as the top six teams in each of the four super regions advance to the NCAA Division II playoffs.
ACU still has hopes for playoffs
The Abilene Christian University football team’s playoff hopes aren’t dead just yet. The Wildcats, who lost their second straight game on Saturday, dropped from No. 4 to No. 7 in the NCAA Super Regional Four poll released on Monday.
The top six teams in the final region poll on Nov. 9 advance to the Division II playoffs. So that puts ACU on the outside looking in at the moment. But the Wildcats (7-2) still control their destiny, since they still play two teams ranked ahead of them in the region poll, beginning with Texas A&M-Kingsville on Saturday at Shotwell Stadium. Kingsville (8-1) is ranked No. 5 in the region, while Midwestern State (7-2) is No. 4. ACU plays Midwestern State in the regular-season finale on Nov. 5 in Wichita Falls.
Washburn key to Tarleton State's success
Tarleton State senior center Dustin Washburn was nowhere near ready to go home Saturday night after the Texans’ 13-6 win over Abilene Christian. After all, he had plenty of more hugs to give.
The Abilene Cooper graduate was not through savoring the No. 11 Texans’ thrilling victory over the ninth-ranked Wildcats that greatly enhanced TSU’s hopes of making the NCAA Division II playoffs for the first time since 2003.
“This win sets us up pretty big right now,” Washburn said in the joyous Texans locker room. “We’re sitting right where we need to be.”
nsu's safety net
To say that junior safety Nick Dobler stepped into big shoes at the safety position would be a big understatement.
Dobler came into the 2009 season as the player who would be replacing Broderick Mondy. Mondy finished his career with trophy case full of achievements including being a three-time all-conference selection and LSC Defensive Back of the Year Award winner last season. Despite the high standards at the safety position, Dobler has performed well in the first nine games this season. He is fourth on the team in tackles with 57 and second in interceptions with two.
“He’s really picked it up and done a great job,” said NSU assistant coach Matt Hodgson. “It’s been a pretty good transition.”
Lady Buffs remain No. 6 in volleyball poll
The West Texas A&M Lady Buffs remained at No. 6 in the American Volleyball Coaches Association Division II top 25 poll, released Monday. The Lady Buffs (26-3, 10-0 Lone Star Conference) won four matches last week, including a five-game victory over rival Lubbock Christian, another nonconference match with Incarnate Word and two LSC matches with Southeasern Oklahoma and East Central.
The Lady Buffs play three matches this week - two conference contests on the road against Tarleton State and Texas A&M-Kingsville on Thursday and Saturday, with a match at St. Edward's in Austin on Friday.
Cross Country: LSC announces honors
The Lone Star Conference recognized twenty student-athletes and two head coaches as league officials announced the annual cross country all-conference honors. The announcement comes following the LSC Cross Country Championships on October 24. ACU reigned in the men's eight kilometer race for the 19th consecutive year, while MSU prevailed for its second straight league title on the women's six kilometer course.
All-conference honors are given to those runners who finish among the top 10 individually at the conference meet, while additional awards are presented for Coach of the Year and Freshman of the Year in both the men's and women's divisions. ACU's Sam Burroughs and MSU's Koby Styles earned men's and women's Coach of the Year acclaim after guiding their respective teams to conference titles. Freshman of the Year honors went to ACU's Colby Delbene and West Texas A&M's Aries Bazaldua. The coaching honors were selected by a vote of all the LSC head coaches, while the freshman awards went to the top freshman finishers at the league championships.
The Wildcats Sang won the men's individual title to headline the all-conference list. He was joined by teammates Cleophas Tanui and Delbene on the All-LSC list. Gerzain Valenzuela and Jared McNeil guided Tarleton State to a second-place finish to earn All-LSC honors. Cameron's men, who finished fourth, were led by All-LSC performers Julius Korir, Josh Stewart and Mohamed Khelalfa, while East Central's Jim Sutrick and Texas A&M-Commerce's Tyler Tyndell also received recognition.
On the women's side, MSU's Sydnee Cole claimed the women's individual title to lead the Mustangs to the team crown. Brittney Heath and Emeline Crutcher paced Angelo State in second place to pick up All-LSC acclaim. ECU's Sarah Reihart and Hayley Jennings earned All-LSC honors as the Tigers finished third in the team standings. Also receiving recognition were Texas A&M-Kingsville's Erica Alvarado, WT's Bazaldua, ACU's Chloe Susset, TSU's Vanessa Elizondo and Southwestern Oklahoma's Chelsey Dillon.
MEN'S ALL-CONFERENCE PERFORMERS
Amos Sang, ACU Jr
Cleophas Tanui, ACU Sr
Julius Korir, Cameron So
Gerzain Valenzuela, Tarleton So
Colby Delbene, ACU Fr
Jim Sutrick, ECU Jr
Tyler Tyndell, TAMC Sr
Josh Stewart, Cameron Sr
Jared McNeil, Tarleton Jr
Mohamed Khelalfa, Cameron Jr
WOMEN'S ALL-CONFERENCE PERFORMERS
Sydnee Cole, MSU Jr
Erica Alvarado, TAMK Sr
Aries Bazaldua, WTAM Fr
Brittney Heath ASU, Sr
Sarah Reihart, ECU Sr
Chloe Susset, ACU Fr
Vanessa Elizondo, Tarleton So
Emeline Crutcher, ASU Fr
Hayley Jennings, ECU Fr
Chelsey Dillon, SWO Fr
1 North Alabama 9-0
2 Central Washington 9-0
3 Northwest Missouri 8-1
4 Minnesota State 9-0
5 Minnesota-Duluth 8-1
6 Grand Valley 8-1
7 Tarleton State 8-1
8 Nebraska-Kearney 8-1
9 Texas A&M-Kingsville 8-1
10 Bloomsburg 8-1
11 Carson-Newman 7-2
12 Saginaw Valley 7-2
13 Abilene Christian 7-2
14 California 7-2
15 Tuskegee 6-2
16 Albany State 7-1
17 Missouri Western 7-2
18 Central Missouri 7-2
19 Charleston 8-1
20 Midwestern State 7-2
21 UNC Pembroke 7-1
22 West Liberty 8-1
23 Hillsdale 7-2
24 Washburn 6-3
25 Edinboro 7-2
MSU is up to No. 4 in Super Regional
Midwestern State moved up two more spots to fourth in Super Region Four Monday when the NCAA Division II National Football Committee released its latest rankings. The Mustangs improved to 7-2 with a 43-16 win over Central Oklahoma Saturday night at Memorial Stadium and have now won their last two contests.
The rankings determine postseason seeding as the top six teams in each of the four super regions advance to the NCAA Division II playoffs.
ACU still has hopes for playoffs
The Abilene Christian University football team’s playoff hopes aren’t dead just yet. The Wildcats, who lost their second straight game on Saturday, dropped from No. 4 to No. 7 in the NCAA Super Regional Four poll released on Monday.
The top six teams in the final region poll on Nov. 9 advance to the Division II playoffs. So that puts ACU on the outside looking in at the moment. But the Wildcats (7-2) still control their destiny, since they still play two teams ranked ahead of them in the region poll, beginning with Texas A&M-Kingsville on Saturday at Shotwell Stadium. Kingsville (8-1) is ranked No. 5 in the region, while Midwestern State (7-2) is No. 4. ACU plays Midwestern State in the regular-season finale on Nov. 5 in Wichita Falls.
Washburn key to Tarleton State's success
Tarleton State senior center Dustin Washburn was nowhere near ready to go home Saturday night after the Texans’ 13-6 win over Abilene Christian. After all, he had plenty of more hugs to give.
The Abilene Cooper graduate was not through savoring the No. 11 Texans’ thrilling victory over the ninth-ranked Wildcats that greatly enhanced TSU’s hopes of making the NCAA Division II playoffs for the first time since 2003.
“This win sets us up pretty big right now,” Washburn said in the joyous Texans locker room. “We’re sitting right where we need to be.”
nsu's safety net
To say that junior safety Nick Dobler stepped into big shoes at the safety position would be a big understatement.
Dobler came into the 2009 season as the player who would be replacing Broderick Mondy. Mondy finished his career with trophy case full of achievements including being a three-time all-conference selection and LSC Defensive Back of the Year Award winner last season. Despite the high standards at the safety position, Dobler has performed well in the first nine games this season. He is fourth on the team in tackles with 57 and second in interceptions with two.
“He’s really picked it up and done a great job,” said NSU assistant coach Matt Hodgson. “It’s been a pretty good transition.”
Lady Buffs remain No. 6 in volleyball poll
The West Texas A&M Lady Buffs remained at No. 6 in the American Volleyball Coaches Association Division II top 25 poll, released Monday. The Lady Buffs (26-3, 10-0 Lone Star Conference) won four matches last week, including a five-game victory over rival Lubbock Christian, another nonconference match with Incarnate Word and two LSC matches with Southeasern Oklahoma and East Central.
The Lady Buffs play three matches this week - two conference contests on the road against Tarleton State and Texas A&M-Kingsville on Thursday and Saturday, with a match at St. Edward's in Austin on Friday.
Cross Country: LSC announces honors
The Lone Star Conference recognized twenty student-athletes and two head coaches as league officials announced the annual cross country all-conference honors. The announcement comes following the LSC Cross Country Championships on October 24. ACU reigned in the men's eight kilometer race for the 19th consecutive year, while MSU prevailed for its second straight league title on the women's six kilometer course.
All-conference honors are given to those runners who finish among the top 10 individually at the conference meet, while additional awards are presented for Coach of the Year and Freshman of the Year in both the men's and women's divisions. ACU's Sam Burroughs and MSU's Koby Styles earned men's and women's Coach of the Year acclaim after guiding their respective teams to conference titles. Freshman of the Year honors went to ACU's Colby Delbene and West Texas A&M's Aries Bazaldua. The coaching honors were selected by a vote of all the LSC head coaches, while the freshman awards went to the top freshman finishers at the league championships.
The Wildcats Sang won the men's individual title to headline the all-conference list. He was joined by teammates Cleophas Tanui and Delbene on the All-LSC list. Gerzain Valenzuela and Jared McNeil guided Tarleton State to a second-place finish to earn All-LSC honors. Cameron's men, who finished fourth, were led by All-LSC performers Julius Korir, Josh Stewart and Mohamed Khelalfa, while East Central's Jim Sutrick and Texas A&M-Commerce's Tyler Tyndell also received recognition.
On the women's side, MSU's Sydnee Cole claimed the women's individual title to lead the Mustangs to the team crown. Brittney Heath and Emeline Crutcher paced Angelo State in second place to pick up All-LSC acclaim. ECU's Sarah Reihart and Hayley Jennings earned All-LSC honors as the Tigers finished third in the team standings. Also receiving recognition were Texas A&M-Kingsville's Erica Alvarado, WT's Bazaldua, ACU's Chloe Susset, TSU's Vanessa Elizondo and Southwestern Oklahoma's Chelsey Dillon.
MEN'S ALL-CONFERENCE PERFORMERS
Amos Sang, ACU Jr
Cleophas Tanui, ACU Sr
Julius Korir, Cameron So
Gerzain Valenzuela, Tarleton So
Colby Delbene, ACU Fr
Jim Sutrick, ECU Jr
Tyler Tyndell, TAMC Sr
Josh Stewart, Cameron Sr
Jared McNeil, Tarleton Jr
Mohamed Khelalfa, Cameron Jr
WOMEN'S ALL-CONFERENCE PERFORMERS
Sydnee Cole, MSU Jr
Erica Alvarado, TAMK Sr
Aries Bazaldua, WTAM Fr
Brittney Heath ASU, Sr
Sarah Reihart, ECU Sr
Chloe Susset, ACU Fr
Vanessa Elizondo, Tarleton So
Emeline Crutcher, ASU Fr
Hayley Jennings, ECU Fr
Chelsey Dillon, SWO Fr
Monday, October 26, 2009
Regional Rankings, AFCA Poll and LSC Weekly Football Release
Super Region Four Rankings
1. Central Washington
2. Northwest Missouri
3. Missouri Western
4. Midwestern State
5. Texas A&M-Kingsville
6. Tarleton State
7. Abilene Christian
8. Washburn
9. Central Missouri
10. Angelo State
AFCA Coaches Poll
1. Central Washington
2. Northwest Missouri
3. Missouri Western
4. Midwestern State
5. Texas A&M-Kingsville
6. Tarleton State
7. Abilene Christian
8. Washburn
9. Central Missouri
10. Angelo State
AFCA Coaches Poll
- North Alabama (LW 1)
- Central Washington (2)
- Northwest Missouri (4)
- Minnesota State (5)
- Grand Valley State (6)
- Minnesota Duluth (7)
- Tarleton State (11)
- Nebraska-Kearney (14)
- Texas A&M-Kingsville (14)
- Bloomsburg (3)
- North Carolina-Pembroke (15)
- West Liberty (18)
- Midwestern State (17)
- Albany State (8)
- Abilene Christian (9)
- Tuskegee (19)
- Charleston (10)
- Carson-Newman (20)
- Central Missouri (21)
- California PA (24)
- Edinboro (23)
- Hillsdale (25)
- Missouri Western (12)
- Saginaw Valley (NR)
- Bentley (NR)
Receiving Votes - Washburn
Lone Star Conference Football weekly release (10/26/09)
LSC Football Blitz
All 13 Lone Star Conference teams are in action during week 10 with five divisional, one crossover game and one non-conference game scheduled.
Divisional play continued last week with Southeastern Oklahoma and Southwestern Oklahoma recording wins in the North Division, while Texas A&M-Kingsville, Tarleton State and West Texas A&M prevailed in the South. Midwestern State won the only crossover game to improve the South’s record to 21-2 in crossover contests.
Now two teams - TSU and TAMUK - have one loss in both South Division and LSC play. Tarleton plays at ASU, while TAMUK is at ACU this week.
In week eight the LSC had four quarterbacks throw for 300-plus yards, seven receivers and two rushers over the century mark and 16 double-digit tacklers. Top performances included:
Passing: 414, Taylor Harris (30-39-0), WTAMU vs ASU
Rushing: 37-263, Fred Winborn, TAMUK vs ENMU
Receiving: 14-185, Daniel Nichols, SE vs NSU
Tackles: 17, Texavier Henry, ENMU vs TSU
Players of the Week
NORTH OFFENSIVE
Justin Pitrucha, Southeastern Oklahoma, Jr., QB, Carrollton, Texas/Hebron HS
Pitrucha turned in a career and record breaking day in leading Southeastern to a 45-35 win over Northeastern State. He completed 29-of-38 passes for 362 yards and six touchdowns. The six scores set a school record for passing TD’s in a game and is one shy of the LSC mark. His 364 yards passing is the seventh best yardage total in SE history and also marks his third-straight 300-yard passing game.
NORTH DEFENSIVE
Noe Lopez, Southeastern Oklahoma, Sr., LB, Dallas, Texas/Irving-Nimitz HS
Lopez led the Southeastern defense to a 45-35 win over Northeastern State. Lopez paced the squad with nine tackles, including one for a loss. He also added a fumble recovery on the first play after NSU recovered an onside kick, helping SE to hold off the Riverhawk rally.
NORTH SPECIAL TEAMS
Jerome Hewitt, Southeastern Oklahoma, Sr., KR, Gainesville, Texas/Gainesville HS
Hewitt continued to be a threat in the return game as he helped Southeastern to a 45-35 win over Northeastern State. He returned five punts on the day, racking up 113 yards, including a long return of 73 yards. He averaged 22.6 yards per punt return. NSU only kicked him the ball twice on kickoffs, but he still made the most of his opportunities. He totalled 78 yards on those returns, including one for 62, averaging 39 yards per return.
SOUTH OFFENSIVE
Fred Winborn, Texas A&M-Kingsville, Jr., RB, N. Hollywood, Calif./Grant HS
Winborn etched his name into the Javelina record books on Saturday night with one of the best individual performances in school history. He carried the ball 37 times for a school record 263 yards and three touchdowns. He passed three-time Harlon Hill award winner Johnny Bailey late in the fourth quarter on a 32-yard touchdown run that gave him 255 yards, one more than Bailey had against West Texas A&M on October 31, 1987.
SOUTH DEFENSIVE
Matt Knicky, Tarleton State, So., LB, Cedar Park, Texas/Cedar Park HS
Knicky led the Texan defense with 14 total tackles as No. 11 Tarleton downed No. 9 Abilene Christian Saturday, 13-6. Knicky had three solo and 11 assisted stops for the Texans. The sophomore recorded one sack for seven yards which helped to stall the final scoring attempt by the Wildcats in the waning moments of the game. Knicky had two and a half tackles for a loss of minus-nine yards. Knicky has led the Texan defense in tackles five times this season.
SOUTH SPECIAL TEAMS
Devin Guinn, Tarleton State, Sr., WR/KR, Cedar Hill, Texas/Cedar Hill HS
Guinn helped to lead the No. 11 Tarleton Texans to a 13-6 win over No. 9 Abilene Christian Saturday thanks to a 57-yard punt return for a touchdown. The Texan put Tarleton on the board for its first time with 14:14 remaining in the fourth quarter. The return tied the score at six points apiece.
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