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Game Notes
Abilene Christian*
Tarleton State*
Northwest Missouri
Central Washington
For ACU, road to longer season goes through Northwest again
Abilene Christian has become one of the better football programs in Division II — reaching the playoffs for the fourth consecutive year, including two straight trips to the second round.
Now, the Wildcats have a chance to knock off one of the country’s best Division II football programs in Northwest Missouri State University when it really matters — in the playoffs. That’s something ACU failed to do last season in its quest to win its first NCAA football title — or any national title since winning the NAIA crown in 1977.
And if ACU is to finally win that title and join that elite status like Northwest Missouri State or Grand Valley State, then they’ll have to finally beat one of those teams to get there.
“For us to turn that corner, sooner or later you’ve got to go through them,” ACU coach Chris Thomsen said. “That’s where we are again two years in a row. That’s where we want to be. We just hope to be able to figure it out.”
ACU preview: Wildcats face Northwest hurdle again
What’s riding on this game: Winner advances to play Tarleton State-Central Washington winner in third round of NCAA Division II playoffs on Nov. 28. If ACU wins, the Wildcats would play at either Tarleton State or Central Washington. If Northwest wins, then it would play at Central Washington or host Tarleton State.
Central Washington goes on the defensive this year
This season, the No. 1-ranked Wildcats have put more focus on stopping other teams than outscoring them.
Walking off the field a year ago after a 49-42 loss to West Texas A&M in the first round of the Division II playoffs, Central Washington coach Blaine Bennett knew the Wildcats needed a dramatic makeover.
When Central's record-breaking offense couldn't score enough points to mask its defensive flaws, Bennett, the former quarterback coach who groomed Kyle Orton at Purdue, became intent on forging a championship-caliber defense.
"Everybody wants to talk about the offensive player of the year and [former CWU quarterback] Mike Reilly breaking all of Jon Kitna's records and Johnny Spevak catching 20 touchdowns and 14,000 yards and 95 catches, but the bottom line is defense wins championships," Bennett said. "Certainly you have to have a good offense and you have to have very good special teams, but defense wins championships.
"If you can keep the game close, your offense is always taking the field with a chance to win. We knew we were close, but we had to make some changes."
Showing posts with label abilene texas. Show all posts
Showing posts with label abilene texas. Show all posts
Saturday, November 21, 2009
Thursday, November 19, 2009
Game Previews - NCAA Playoffs Week 2
It will be hard to top the opening week of the 2009 NCAA Football playoffs, but Abilene Christian and Tarleton State will give it their best shots.
Last weekend, ACU returned the opening kickoff for a TD, turned two Midwestern State turnovers into 10 points and held off the Mustangs 24-21. The offense gained just 252 yards on the day, but put most of it together on 3 consecutive scoring drives, which was just enough to overcome the Mustangs. The defense harassed Zack Eskridge all day long, sacking him 8 times.
Meanwhile, Tarleton State outscored Texas A&M-Kingsville 57-56 in double overtime to advance to the second round of the playoffs. Garrett Lindholm hit a 64 yard field goal as time expired to tie the game at 46 all. After the teams traded field goals in the first OT, the Texans found themselves down 7 when Fred Winborn scored his 4th TD of the day. On fourth down, needing to pick up 5 yards, Scott Grantham instead took it all the way in, breaking several tackles along the way. The Texans then went for two, and once again it was Grantham, barely squeaking in.
#16 Abilene Christian at #2 Northwest Missouri
A rematch of this season's season opener and last year's Super Region 4 final. The Wildcats won the season opener 19-14 with a strong defensive effort. ACU's first 9 points came by way of a safety and a 42 yard fumble recovery and the defense held NWMSU to just 230 yards and one offensive TD. The Wildcat offense was not able to must much either, just 164 total yards and one TD, which was set up by an ACU interception. ACU was able to sustain just one drive of more than 35 yards.
The Teams
Since then, Northwest Missouri has reeled off 10 straight wins in dominating fashion. Washburn was the only other team to hold NWMSU to under 30 points, and the only team to keep the Bearcat's margin of victory to single digits. Since facing ACU, NWMSU is averaging 47.6 points and 520 of total offense. Junior QB Blake Bolles has completed 68% of his passes for 3,204 yards, 35 TDs and just 7 Ints. Jake Soy is his favorite receiver, hauling in 61 passes for 1,116 yards and 22 TDs. Should ACU focus too hard on Soy, six other Bearcats have at least 20 catches. LaRon Council is once again the leading rusher, picking up 1,202 yards and 16 TDs in 2009. Up front, juniors Jason Wiseman and Brett Grozinger both garnered first team all-MIAA honors, joining Bolles, Council and Soy.
The defense is always stout in Maryville, as evidenced by 17.8 points and 301 yards allowed per game. Teams have only been able to average 87 yards rushing, but have picked up 214 yards through the air. The team had 22 interceptions, and sacked opposing QBs 35 times during the season. The Bearcats were honored with 4 first team, 2 second team and 4 honorable mention selections to the all-MIAA team on defense.
Abilene Christian has had a tougher time of it since Week One. The Wildcats won their next six games and ascended to the #1 spot in the national polls, but dropped three of the next four games, limping into the playoffs with the #6 seed. The defense has been solid all year, giving up just 18.4 points and 283 yards per game. The running defense has been especially stellar, holding the opposition to just 46 yards per game and 1.7 per carry. Similar to NWMSU, the ACU pass defense has given up yards (236 per game) because teams have not been able to run the ball. Led by Aston Whiteside and Fred Thompson, ACU totalled 41 sacks on the season, while picking off 15 passes.
The offense has sputtered of late, averaging just 22 points per game over the last five weeks. Of course, playing Midwestern State twice, as well as Tarleton State and a rejuvenate West Texas A&M team will slow down almost any offense. Darryl Richardson and Reggie Brown have been a productive duo this year, combining for 1,829 yards and 22 TDs and another 313 receiving yards and 2 more TDs. Redshirt freshman Mithcell Gale continues to be the starter at QB, and has thrown for more than 1,500 yards and 10 TDs while completing 60% of his passes. Edmund Gates is the leading receiver with 41 receptions for 600 yards and 5 TDs.
The Game
A lot of people expected these teams to square off in the playoffs this year, but most probably thought it would be in the regional final next week. Both sport top-notch defenses, but ACU's offense is struggling at the wrong time of the year. The Bearcats offense is hitting on all cylinders right now, and they seem to save their best for the playoffs. NWMSU 38-21.
#12 Tarleton State at #1 Central Washington
Central Washington is the number one team in the nation and the only undefeated D2 remaining. They started the season at #14, but survived a tough five week opening stretch that saw them defeat the defending national champion, Minnesota-Duluth, on the road as well as Mesa State and IAA Idaho State and West Texas A&M at home. The defense has been very stingy, allowing just 11.6 points and 243 yards per game. Ony three teams have scored more than 10 points in a game, with the season high 27 against Humboldt State. The run defense is one of the nation's best holding teams to 61 yards per game. Teams have had to take to the air, and have averaged 181 yards passing. The Wildcats defense has only picked up 23 sacks and 13 interceptions.
The offense has not put up spectacular numbers - 28 points and 354 yards per game. Senior Cole Morgan took over the starting QB spot in week 9 and has passed for 1,000 yards and a 7-2 TD-Int ratio. Freshman Ryan Robertson started the first 8 games, and has thrown for 1,275 yards and 13 TDs. All-American Johnny Spevak is the top receiver with 66 catches for 893 yards and 11 TDs. Randall Eldrige and Bryson Kelly combined for 1,265 yards and 9 TDs rushing.
Despite playing in the LSC South, the Texans are giving up just 20.4 points and 316 yards per game. Teams are passing for 210 yards and rushing for 106 yards per game. Only one team other than TAMK scored more than 28 points against the Texans. Marcus Phillips and Matt Knicky each have 95 tackles to lead the team. Phillips also leads the team in tackles for loss (10.5) and his 3 interceptions is just one behind Brandon Johnson.
Despite being overshadowed by the defense, the offense is averaging 33.3 points and 404 yards per game. Evan Robertson and Roderick Smith have combined for 1,649 yards and 16 TDs on the ground. Last week's hero, Scott Grantham has quietly passed for 2,793 yards and 19 TDs. Devin Guinn and Jahmeel Hobson are easily the top targets - they have 123 of the team's 199 receptions, 1,961 of the team's 2,966 yards, and 15 of the 20 passing TDs.
The Game
Central Washington proved themselves to be a top team with the tough schedule early in the season. But since then they have faced the conference counterparts Humboldt State, Dixie State and Western Oregon two times each, so it is unclear on just how battle-tested they will be coming into the game. There is no question that Tarleton has been tested recently, with battles against Abilene Christian, Angelo State, West Texas A&M and Texas A&M-Kingsville in the past four weeks alone. That has left them a bit banged up and there may be a hangover from last week's emotional win in Kingsville. We look for the Texans to overcome a slow start and shock the nation with another close win, TSU 31-28.
Last weekend, ACU returned the opening kickoff for a TD, turned two Midwestern State turnovers into 10 points and held off the Mustangs 24-21. The offense gained just 252 yards on the day, but put most of it together on 3 consecutive scoring drives, which was just enough to overcome the Mustangs. The defense harassed Zack Eskridge all day long, sacking him 8 times.
Meanwhile, Tarleton State outscored Texas A&M-Kingsville 57-56 in double overtime to advance to the second round of the playoffs. Garrett Lindholm hit a 64 yard field goal as time expired to tie the game at 46 all. After the teams traded field goals in the first OT, the Texans found themselves down 7 when Fred Winborn scored his 4th TD of the day. On fourth down, needing to pick up 5 yards, Scott Grantham instead took it all the way in, breaking several tackles along the way. The Texans then went for two, and once again it was Grantham, barely squeaking in.
#16 Abilene Christian at #2 Northwest Missouri
A rematch of this season's season opener and last year's Super Region 4 final. The Wildcats won the season opener 19-14 with a strong defensive effort. ACU's first 9 points came by way of a safety and a 42 yard fumble recovery and the defense held NWMSU to just 230 yards and one offensive TD. The Wildcat offense was not able to must much either, just 164 total yards and one TD, which was set up by an ACU interception. ACU was able to sustain just one drive of more than 35 yards.
The Teams
Since then, Northwest Missouri has reeled off 10 straight wins in dominating fashion. Washburn was the only other team to hold NWMSU to under 30 points, and the only team to keep the Bearcat's margin of victory to single digits. Since facing ACU, NWMSU is averaging 47.6 points and 520 of total offense. Junior QB Blake Bolles has completed 68% of his passes for 3,204 yards, 35 TDs and just 7 Ints. Jake Soy is his favorite receiver, hauling in 61 passes for 1,116 yards and 22 TDs. Should ACU focus too hard on Soy, six other Bearcats have at least 20 catches. LaRon Council is once again the leading rusher, picking up 1,202 yards and 16 TDs in 2009. Up front, juniors Jason Wiseman and Brett Grozinger both garnered first team all-MIAA honors, joining Bolles, Council and Soy.
The defense is always stout in Maryville, as evidenced by 17.8 points and 301 yards allowed per game. Teams have only been able to average 87 yards rushing, but have picked up 214 yards through the air. The team had 22 interceptions, and sacked opposing QBs 35 times during the season. The Bearcats were honored with 4 first team, 2 second team and 4 honorable mention selections to the all-MIAA team on defense.
Abilene Christian has had a tougher time of it since Week One. The Wildcats won their next six games and ascended to the #1 spot in the national polls, but dropped three of the next four games, limping into the playoffs with the #6 seed. The defense has been solid all year, giving up just 18.4 points and 283 yards per game. The running defense has been especially stellar, holding the opposition to just 46 yards per game and 1.7 per carry. Similar to NWMSU, the ACU pass defense has given up yards (236 per game) because teams have not been able to run the ball. Led by Aston Whiteside and Fred Thompson, ACU totalled 41 sacks on the season, while picking off 15 passes.
The offense has sputtered of late, averaging just 22 points per game over the last five weeks. Of course, playing Midwestern State twice, as well as Tarleton State and a rejuvenate West Texas A&M team will slow down almost any offense. Darryl Richardson and Reggie Brown have been a productive duo this year, combining for 1,829 yards and 22 TDs and another 313 receiving yards and 2 more TDs. Redshirt freshman Mithcell Gale continues to be the starter at QB, and has thrown for more than 1,500 yards and 10 TDs while completing 60% of his passes. Edmund Gates is the leading receiver with 41 receptions for 600 yards and 5 TDs.
The Game
A lot of people expected these teams to square off in the playoffs this year, but most probably thought it would be in the regional final next week. Both sport top-notch defenses, but ACU's offense is struggling at the wrong time of the year. The Bearcats offense is hitting on all cylinders right now, and they seem to save their best for the playoffs. NWMSU 38-21.
#12 Tarleton State at #1 Central Washington
Central Washington is the number one team in the nation and the only undefeated D2 remaining. They started the season at #14, but survived a tough five week opening stretch that saw them defeat the defending national champion, Minnesota-Duluth, on the road as well as Mesa State and IAA Idaho State and West Texas A&M at home. The defense has been very stingy, allowing just 11.6 points and 243 yards per game. Ony three teams have scored more than 10 points in a game, with the season high 27 against Humboldt State. The run defense is one of the nation's best holding teams to 61 yards per game. Teams have had to take to the air, and have averaged 181 yards passing. The Wildcats defense has only picked up 23 sacks and 13 interceptions.
The offense has not put up spectacular numbers - 28 points and 354 yards per game. Senior Cole Morgan took over the starting QB spot in week 9 and has passed for 1,000 yards and a 7-2 TD-Int ratio. Freshman Ryan Robertson started the first 8 games, and has thrown for 1,275 yards and 13 TDs. All-American Johnny Spevak is the top receiver with 66 catches for 893 yards and 11 TDs. Randall Eldrige and Bryson Kelly combined for 1,265 yards and 9 TDs rushing.
Despite playing in the LSC South, the Texans are giving up just 20.4 points and 316 yards per game. Teams are passing for 210 yards and rushing for 106 yards per game. Only one team other than TAMK scored more than 28 points against the Texans. Marcus Phillips and Matt Knicky each have 95 tackles to lead the team. Phillips also leads the team in tackles for loss (10.5) and his 3 interceptions is just one behind Brandon Johnson.
Despite being overshadowed by the defense, the offense is averaging 33.3 points and 404 yards per game. Evan Robertson and Roderick Smith have combined for 1,649 yards and 16 TDs on the ground. Last week's hero, Scott Grantham has quietly passed for 2,793 yards and 19 TDs. Devin Guinn and Jahmeel Hobson are easily the top targets - they have 123 of the team's 199 receptions, 1,961 of the team's 2,966 yards, and 15 of the 20 passing TDs.
The Game
Central Washington proved themselves to be a top team with the tough schedule early in the season. But since then they have faced the conference counterparts Humboldt State, Dixie State and Western Oregon two times each, so it is unclear on just how battle-tested they will be coming into the game. There is no question that Tarleton has been tested recently, with battles against Abilene Christian, Angelo State, West Texas A&M and Texas A&M-Kingsville in the past four weeks alone. That has left them a bit banged up and there may be a hangover from last week's emotional win in Kingsville. We look for the Texans to overcome a slow start and shock the nation with another close win, TSU 31-28.
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
LSC Basketball Outlook
The final three were added this morning.
From the conference office, the LSC Basketball Preview Series.
Southwestern Oklahoma
Tarleton State
East Central
West Texas A&M
Texas A&M Commerce
Texas Woman's University
Eastern New Mexico
Central Oklahoma
Angelo State
Southeastern Oklahoma
Texas A&M-Kingsville
Cameron
Midwestern State
Northeastern State
Abilene Christian
From the conference office, the LSC Basketball Preview Series.
Southwestern Oklahoma
Tarleton State
East Central
West Texas A&M
Texas A&M Commerce
Texas Woman's University
Eastern New Mexico
Central Oklahoma
Angelo State
Southeastern Oklahoma
Texas A&M-Kingsville
Cameron
Midwestern State
Northeastern State
Abilene Christian
Thursday, October 29, 2009
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, August 26, 2009
2009 Preview - Abilene Christian
2008 Recap
The 2008 season could not have gotten off to a better start for Abilene Christian. The Wildcats marched into Maryville, Missouri and beat the #3 NMSU Bearcats 44-27, overcoming a 21-7 first quarter deficit. The offense rolled up 516 yards and the defense limited NWMSU to just one scoring drive over the final 3 quarters. The team did not suffer a letdown during conference play, winning their next 9 games, scoring fewer than 42 points just one time, while allowing more than 17 just once as well. The only team to play them within 20 was West Texas A&M in week #8. The teams would meet again in the second round of the playoffs, with ACU winning again, this time 93-68 (see the WT preview for more details). This would set up another rematch, this time with Northwest Missouri.
Both teams scored 4 times in the first half, but for NWMSU it was 4 TDs, while ACU had to settle for 2 FGs and trailed 28-20 at the half. In the second half ACU struck first, to pull within 1 at 28-27. NWMSU would score on their next three drives and their defenes would pick off two ACU passes to take the rematch 45-36.
Offensively, ACU was off the charts in 2008. The Wildcats set an LSC mark by scoring 52.3 points per game. They were also tops in the LSC in total offense (558.8 yds per game), had the #1 rusing offense (235.5 yds per game, 6.8 yds per carry) and the #2 passing offense (323.2 yds per game). Billy Malone led the LSC in passing efficiency (189.7) and threw for 3,213 yds and 36 TDs. His favorite target was once again Johnny Knox (56-1,069 13 TDs), but Edmund Gates , Jonathan Ferguson, and Bernard Scott all did their part as well. Scott topped the 2,000 yard rushing mark for the second time (2,156 yds and 28 TDs), just missing out on his record numbers from 2007. The skill players had the luxury of playing behind 3 first team and 2 second team All LSC South honorees.
Defensively, ACU finished second in the LSC in scoring defense (22.9) and fifth in yards allowed (339.9). (The numbers would have been 17.2 pts and 288 yds per game taking out WTAM, just to be fair like the WT preview). Opponents could muster just 84.9 yards on the ground (second) but through the air gained 255 (ninth). (Again minus WT, that would be 83 rushing and 205 passing). Aston Whiteside had a stellar RS freshman season, with 16 TFL and 9 sacks, while Fred Thompson had 14 TFL and 7.5 sacks from his LB spot. Both return, as does Tony Harp, who had 53 tackles and 4.5 TFL from the secondary.
2009 Outlook
Out with the old
QB Billy Malone - LSC Career leader in almost every category, including passing yards (12,012) and TDs (114), 1st LSC South, and All American
RB Bernard Scott - Single season LSC Rushing leader (2,165 yards, and 35 TDs) 1st LSC South, All American, Harlon Hill Trophy Winner
WR Johnny Knox - 118 receptions, 2,227 yds, 30 TDs in two seasons, 1st LSC South
WR Jonathan Ferguson - 35-573 3 TDs, 2nd LSC South
TE Kendrick Holloway - 21-213 5 TDs, 1st LSC South
OL Sam Collins - 1st LSC South, Gene Upshaw Award Winner
OL Joseph Thompson - 1st LSC South
DL Vantrise Studivant - 25 tackles, 11.5 TFL, 6.5 sacks, 1st LSC South
LB Mike Kern - 65 tackles, 5.5 TFL, 1 Int, 1st LSC South
DB Alex Harbison - 26 tackles, 2 Ints, 6 passes BU, 2nd LSC South (injured)
DB Nick Fellows - 64 tackles, 2 TFL, 2 Ints, 2nd LSC South
K Matt Adams - 13-16 FG, 78-81 PAT, 117 pts, 1st LSC South
Welcome Back
FB Emery Dudensing - 1st LSC South
WR Edmund Gates - 31-716 8 TDs, 1st LSC South
TE Trey Simeone - 1st LSC South
OL Tony Washington - 1st LSC South, All American
OL Trevis Turner - 2nd LSC South
OL Royland Tubbs - 2nd LSC South
DL Aston Whiteside - 30 tackles, 16 TFL, 9 sack, 3 passes BU, 1st LSC South
LB Fred Thompson - 56 tackles, 14 TFL, 7.5 sack, 4 passes BU, 1st LSC South
LB Bryson Lewis - 55 tackles, 4.5 TFL, 2.5 sacks, 3 passes BU, 2nd LSC South
LB Eric Edwards - 56 tackles, 4 TFL, 1.5 sacks, HM LSC South
DB Tony Harp - 53 tackles, 4.5 TFL, 1 Int, 4 passes BU, 1st LSC South
DB Craig Harris - 30 tackles, 3 Int, 5 passes BU, 2nd LSC South
DB Drew Cuffee - 23 tackles, 3 Ints, 5 passes BU, HM LSC South
In with the new
QB Clark Harrell (Tulsa, 2008 redshirt)
RB Daryl Richardson (Cisco JC)
RB Justin Johnson (OU)
RB Reggie Brown (Blinn JC)
WR Dennis Campbell (Rutgers)
WR VJ McElroy (Baylor)
WR Chris Fowler (Angelo State)
WR Terrell Woodall (Laney College)
WR Kendrick Johnson (Kilgore JC)
OL Larry Landry (Memphis/College of the Sequoias)
DL Marvin Jones (Lane College)
DL Mike Jones (Valley CC)
DL James Peters (Texas Southern)
LB Kevin Washington (Notre Dame)
LB Courtney Lane (Tyler JC)
DB Major Culbert (Nebraska)
DB Courtney Williams (Washington State)
K Dale Wallace (Louisiana Tech)
K Spencer Covey (OU)
P Mark Sprague (Blinn JC)
All Conference Candidates
All from Welcome Back list, QB Zach Stewart, QB Clark Harrell, RB Justin Johnson, WR Dennis Campbell, WR Chris Fowler
All American Candidates
OL Tony Washington
OL Trevis Turner
DL Aston Whiteside
LB Fred Thompson
DB Tony Harp
Big Games
Aug 27 #2 Northwest Missouri - rematch of last season's opener and national quarterfinal playoff contest
Oct 17 #12 West Texas A&M
Oct 24 @ Tarleton State
Oct 31 #24 Texas A&M Kingsville
Nov 7 @ Midwestern State
Best Case Scenario
11-0 Replacements for Malone, Scott, Knox and company make for a smooth offensive transition. Defense improves enough to keep winning in playoffs from being dependent on high scoring shootouts.
Worst Case Scenario
7-4 Team struggles with chemistry from so many new faces, offense comes back to earth, still really good, but not ridiculous anymore, while the defense continues to struggle against ranked opponents.
The 2008 season could not have gotten off to a better start for Abilene Christian. The Wildcats marched into Maryville, Missouri and beat the #3 NMSU Bearcats 44-27, overcoming a 21-7 first quarter deficit. The offense rolled up 516 yards and the defense limited NWMSU to just one scoring drive over the final 3 quarters. The team did not suffer a letdown during conference play, winning their next 9 games, scoring fewer than 42 points just one time, while allowing more than 17 just once as well. The only team to play them within 20 was West Texas A&M in week #8. The teams would meet again in the second round of the playoffs, with ACU winning again, this time 93-68 (see the WT preview for more details). This would set up another rematch, this time with Northwest Missouri.
Both teams scored 4 times in the first half, but for NWMSU it was 4 TDs, while ACU had to settle for 2 FGs and trailed 28-20 at the half. In the second half ACU struck first, to pull within 1 at 28-27. NWMSU would score on their next three drives and their defenes would pick off two ACU passes to take the rematch 45-36.
Offensively, ACU was off the charts in 2008. The Wildcats set an LSC mark by scoring 52.3 points per game. They were also tops in the LSC in total offense (558.8 yds per game), had the #1 rusing offense (235.5 yds per game, 6.8 yds per carry) and the #2 passing offense (323.2 yds per game). Billy Malone led the LSC in passing efficiency (189.7) and threw for 3,213 yds and 36 TDs. His favorite target was once again Johnny Knox (56-1,069 13 TDs), but Edmund Gates , Jonathan Ferguson, and Bernard Scott all did their part as well. Scott topped the 2,000 yard rushing mark for the second time (2,156 yds and 28 TDs), just missing out on his record numbers from 2007. The skill players had the luxury of playing behind 3 first team and 2 second team All LSC South honorees.
Defensively, ACU finished second in the LSC in scoring defense (22.9) and fifth in yards allowed (339.9). (The numbers would have been 17.2 pts and 288 yds per game taking out WTAM, just to be fair like the WT preview). Opponents could muster just 84.9 yards on the ground (second) but through the air gained 255 (ninth). (Again minus WT, that would be 83 rushing and 205 passing). Aston Whiteside had a stellar RS freshman season, with 16 TFL and 9 sacks, while Fred Thompson had 14 TFL and 7.5 sacks from his LB spot. Both return, as does Tony Harp, who had 53 tackles and 4.5 TFL from the secondary.
2009 Outlook
Out with the old
QB Billy Malone - LSC Career leader in almost every category, including passing yards (12,012) and TDs (114), 1st LSC South, and All American
RB Bernard Scott - Single season LSC Rushing leader (2,165 yards, and 35 TDs) 1st LSC South, All American, Harlon Hill Trophy Winner
WR Johnny Knox - 118 receptions, 2,227 yds, 30 TDs in two seasons, 1st LSC South
WR Jonathan Ferguson - 35-573 3 TDs, 2nd LSC South
TE Kendrick Holloway - 21-213 5 TDs, 1st LSC South
OL Sam Collins - 1st LSC South, Gene Upshaw Award Winner
OL Joseph Thompson - 1st LSC South
DL Vantrise Studivant - 25 tackles, 11.5 TFL, 6.5 sacks, 1st LSC South
LB Mike Kern - 65 tackles, 5.5 TFL, 1 Int, 1st LSC South
DB Alex Harbison - 26 tackles, 2 Ints, 6 passes BU, 2nd LSC South (injured)
DB Nick Fellows - 64 tackles, 2 TFL, 2 Ints, 2nd LSC South
K Matt Adams - 13-16 FG, 78-81 PAT, 117 pts, 1st LSC South
Welcome Back
FB Emery Dudensing - 1st LSC South
WR Edmund Gates - 31-716 8 TDs, 1st LSC South
TE Trey Simeone - 1st LSC South
OL Tony Washington - 1st LSC South, All American
OL Trevis Turner - 2nd LSC South
OL Royland Tubbs - 2nd LSC South
DL Aston Whiteside - 30 tackles, 16 TFL, 9 sack, 3 passes BU, 1st LSC South
LB Fred Thompson - 56 tackles, 14 TFL, 7.5 sack, 4 passes BU, 1st LSC South
LB Bryson Lewis - 55 tackles, 4.5 TFL, 2.5 sacks, 3 passes BU, 2nd LSC South
LB Eric Edwards - 56 tackles, 4 TFL, 1.5 sacks, HM LSC South
DB Tony Harp - 53 tackles, 4.5 TFL, 1 Int, 4 passes BU, 1st LSC South
DB Craig Harris - 30 tackles, 3 Int, 5 passes BU, 2nd LSC South
DB Drew Cuffee - 23 tackles, 3 Ints, 5 passes BU, HM LSC South
In with the new
QB Clark Harrell (Tulsa, 2008 redshirt)
RB Daryl Richardson (Cisco JC)
RB Justin Johnson (OU)
RB Reggie Brown (Blinn JC)
WR Dennis Campbell (Rutgers)
WR VJ McElroy (Baylor)
WR Chris Fowler (Angelo State)
WR Terrell Woodall (Laney College)
WR Kendrick Johnson (Kilgore JC)
OL Larry Landry (Memphis/College of the Sequoias)
DL Marvin Jones (Lane College)
DL Mike Jones (Valley CC)
DL James Peters (Texas Southern)
LB Kevin Washington (Notre Dame)
LB Courtney Lane (Tyler JC)
DB Major Culbert (Nebraska)
DB Courtney Williams (Washington State)
K Dale Wallace (Louisiana Tech)
K Spencer Covey (OU)
P Mark Sprague (Blinn JC)
All Conference Candidates
All from Welcome Back list, QB Zach Stewart, QB Clark Harrell, RB Justin Johnson, WR Dennis Campbell, WR Chris Fowler
All American Candidates
OL Tony Washington
OL Trevis Turner
DL Aston Whiteside
LB Fred Thompson
DB Tony Harp
Big Games
Aug 27 #2 Northwest Missouri - rematch of last season's opener and national quarterfinal playoff contest
Oct 17 #12 West Texas A&M
Oct 24 @ Tarleton State
Oct 31 #24 Texas A&M Kingsville
Nov 7 @ Midwestern State
Best Case Scenario
11-0 Replacements for Malone, Scott, Knox and company make for a smooth offensive transition. Defense improves enough to keep winning in playoffs from being dependent on high scoring shootouts.
Worst Case Scenario
7-4 Team struggles with chemistry from so many new faces, offense comes back to earth, still really good, but not ridiculous anymore, while the defense continues to struggle against ranked opponents.
Thursday, June 11, 2009
BREAKING NEWS - ACU's Hood resigns
per AcuSports.com
ABILENE -- Abilene Christian University head track and field coach Don D. Hood resigned his post Wednesday to accept a similar position at Brownwood High School.
Hood -- who took over the ACU program in August 2005 -- will be the head track and field and cross country coach at Brownwood. His final day at ACU will be July 17.
"I want to express my appreciation to Coach Hood for his service to our program while at ACU and wish he and his family the best as he moves into his new role at Brownwood High School," ACU director of athletics Jared Mosley said. "He has continued to build on the rich track and field history we have experienced at ACU and I know he will do well in serving the student-athletes and community at Brownwood."
ACU's Hood riding off to Brownwood
Don D. Hood's prayers have been answered.
The Abilene Christian University track and field coach finally found a job that will allow him to spend more time with his family. Hood announced Wednesday that he will be stepping down July 17 to become the track and cross country coach at Brownwood High School.
"Honestly, for about four or five years, I've been struggling with balancing the profession and the fatherhood and being a husband," Hood said. "I've been praying really hard that it would work out here, that we could stay here and I could still do what I felt like I needed to do as a husband. Boy, a few weeks ago, Bob Shipley called me down at Brownwood and said, 'Hey, I've got a deal for you.'
"For me, it's just an answer to prayer. I've got three girls, the oldest is 13, with five years left on my house, and I just don't want to miss what I'd have to miss if I stayed here and did this job right. I just don't feel like I can do both right."
Hood and his wife, Rachel, have three daughters -- Victoria Rose, 13, Julianne Renee, 11, and Annabeth Dawn, 6.
------------------------
The ACU track teams were penalized by the NCAA earlier this school year for several infractions. The teams, along with the football team, were put on probation for two years. Hood said none that played into his decision to step down. He doesn't expect the penalties will hurt the track teams either.
"I don't think it will make any difference," he said. "I think we weathered the first year of it, and you can see the light at the end of the tunnel here. I think it's going to be a great situation to walk into, actually."
ABILENE -- Abilene Christian University head track and field coach Don D. Hood resigned his post Wednesday to accept a similar position at Brownwood High School.
Hood -- who took over the ACU program in August 2005 -- will be the head track and field and cross country coach at Brownwood. His final day at ACU will be July 17.
"I want to express my appreciation to Coach Hood for his service to our program while at ACU and wish he and his family the best as he moves into his new role at Brownwood High School," ACU director of athletics Jared Mosley said. "He has continued to build on the rich track and field history we have experienced at ACU and I know he will do well in serving the student-athletes and community at Brownwood."
ACU's Hood riding off to Brownwood
Don D. Hood's prayers have been answered.
The Abilene Christian University track and field coach finally found a job that will allow him to spend more time with his family. Hood announced Wednesday that he will be stepping down July 17 to become the track and cross country coach at Brownwood High School.
"Honestly, for about four or five years, I've been struggling with balancing the profession and the fatherhood and being a husband," Hood said. "I've been praying really hard that it would work out here, that we could stay here and I could still do what I felt like I needed to do as a husband. Boy, a few weeks ago, Bob Shipley called me down at Brownwood and said, 'Hey, I've got a deal for you.'
"For me, it's just an answer to prayer. I've got three girls, the oldest is 13, with five years left on my house, and I just don't want to miss what I'd have to miss if I stayed here and did this job right. I just don't feel like I can do both right."
Hood and his wife, Rachel, have three daughters -- Victoria Rose, 13, Julianne Renee, 11, and Annabeth Dawn, 6.
------------------------
The ACU track teams were penalized by the NCAA earlier this school year for several infractions. The teams, along with the football team, were put on probation for two years. Hood said none that played into his decision to step down. He doesn't expect the penalties will hurt the track teams either.
"I don't think it will make any difference," he said. "I think we weathered the first year of it, and you can see the light at the end of the tunnel here. I think it's going to be a great situation to walk into, actually."
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
Afternoon Update
This won't help their SOS any...
ACU adds Fort Lewis for 2009
ACU director of athletics Jared Mosley announced Tuesday that the Wildcats have added Fort Lewis College to the 2009 football schedule, filling ACU's open date and giving it an 11-game schedule.
The Wildcats and Skyhawks will play on Saturday, Sept. 5, at Shotwell Stadium with a 6 p.m. kickoff. The Wildcats will not return the game in 2010 as the schools signed just a one-year contract. Fort Lewis had a game to fill after Northern Arizona dropped the Skyhawks from its schedule.
The Skyhawks are part of the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference and finished 2-9 in 2008. The Skyhawks are just 3-18 in the last two seasons and have only scored 209 combined points, including 111 last season when they averaged 10.1 points per game.
So far, so good
When Tim McCarty talks about the positives from his first spring camp as East Central University’s head football coach since 2005, he uses words like “enthusiasm”, “intensity”, “effort”, “hustle” and “attitude”.
Depth and talent? We’ll see.
“There has been a very, very good enthusiasm and high intensity — that’s one thing you’re looking for, and we’ve seen that kind of effort and self-motivation,” said McCarty, who inherited a team that went 3-8 in 2008 and a program that won just eight games in three seasons under former coach Kurt Nichols. “Defensively, I’ve been pleased this spring, especially this last week. You can see the kids are starting to understand how they should fit in their area and understanding technique, and there’s been a general hustle and getting to the ball with an attitude.
“There’s still plenty of work for our staff to do,” McCarty noted. “We’re chewing at the bit to put the pieces together. I don’t think anybody sits back and say ‘we’ve got what we want’. We’re pleased with effort and enthusiasm, but we have a lot of work to do in the talent department.”
ACU adds Fort Lewis for 2009
ACU director of athletics Jared Mosley announced Tuesday that the Wildcats have added Fort Lewis College to the 2009 football schedule, filling ACU's open date and giving it an 11-game schedule.
The Wildcats and Skyhawks will play on Saturday, Sept. 5, at Shotwell Stadium with a 6 p.m. kickoff. The Wildcats will not return the game in 2010 as the schools signed just a one-year contract. Fort Lewis had a game to fill after Northern Arizona dropped the Skyhawks from its schedule.
The Skyhawks are part of the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference and finished 2-9 in 2008. The Skyhawks are just 3-18 in the last two seasons and have only scored 209 combined points, including 111 last season when they averaged 10.1 points per game.
So far, so good
When Tim McCarty talks about the positives from his first spring camp as East Central University’s head football coach since 2005, he uses words like “enthusiasm”, “intensity”, “effort”, “hustle” and “attitude”.
Depth and talent? We’ll see.
“There has been a very, very good enthusiasm and high intensity — that’s one thing you’re looking for, and we’ve seen that kind of effort and self-motivation,” said McCarty, who inherited a team that went 3-8 in 2008 and a program that won just eight games in three seasons under former coach Kurt Nichols. “Defensively, I’ve been pleased this spring, especially this last week. You can see the kids are starting to understand how they should fit in their area and understanding technique, and there’s been a general hustle and getting to the ball with an attitude.
“There’s still plenty of work for our staff to do,” McCarty noted. “We’re chewing at the bit to put the pieces together. I don’t think anybody sits back and say ‘we’ve got what we want’. We’re pleased with effort and enthusiasm, but we have a lot of work to do in the talent department.”
Friday, April 10, 2009
LSC Roundup 4-10
Sparks flying: A&M-Commerce's Jordan selected by Los Angeles in 2009 WNBA Draft
“Give it to Jordan.”
That was the game plan Texas A&M University-Commerce women’s basketball coach Denny Downing used throughout Britney Jordan’s three-year career with the Lions.
The plan paid dividends for both A&M-Commerce and Jordan, as the senior became the first women’s basketball player in program history to be selected into the WNBA as the Los Angeles Sparks picked her 35th overall on Thursday in the league draft.
“It’s an amazing feeling,” said Jordan. “I had a great chapter at A&M-Commerce. This is the beginning of a new chapter.”
“I don’t know if I have enough words to say,” said Downing. “Obviously I’m so happy for Britney and the commitment she made to the program.”
Jordan is just the second player in Lone Star Conference history to be selected in the WNBA Draft after Southeastern Oklahoma State’s Crystal Robinson was chosen by the New York Liberty in 1999.
Walk-on Wildcat
Abilene Christian baseball coach Britt Bonneau knew he had something special in Willie Uechi pretty quickly. It was just a matter of finding the walk-on freshman from San Antonio Marshall a place to play.
"It was pretty obvious this guy needed to be in our lineup somewhere," Bonneau said.
So Uechi (pronounced U-E-chee), a second baseman in high school, played wherever there was a need early on his career at ACU. In fact, he opened the season that first year in right field.
"I hadn't taken any balls in right field all year, so it caught me off guard," Uechi said. "I had to find an outfielder's mitt to play with. But it was fun just getting out there to play. I was happy just to be out there
Related: ACU leads LSC entering final baseball series
Been there, done that
When Justin Brown talks, East Central University’s defensive linemen listen — and not just because he weighs 270 pounds. An unpaid (sort of) assistant on ECU head coach Tim McCarty’s defensive staff this spring, Brown was an All-American defensive end on McCarty’s first Tiger squad back in 2004, and in 2005 he came within one cut of making the season-opening roster with the Indianapolis Colts, who were only a season away from winning their first Super Bowl.
“The way they react is that they can see the results you can get from hard work,” Brown said this week as the Tigers neared the halfway point in their spring camp. “They listen to me because I obviously know what I’m talking about because I’m still out there playing.”
UIW kicks off football with first spring game
Like many of his Incarnate Word defensive brethren, linebacker Dakota Mawyer had waited nearly eight long months to finally hit someone in a setting where points were at stake. The payoff for their patience Wednesday night?
Mawyer and the rest of the defense got to represent the visitor's side of the scoreboard in a 49-23 victory against the offense in the program's first-annual spring game at Benson Stadium. Among those in the lively crowd of 450 were program benefactors Tom and Gayle Benson.
Former Clark running back Jerrell Wilkerson, the city's career rushing leader who is on academic suspension, watched from the sideline but was not in uniform.
Lobos' Templeton to play football at Abilene Christian
While riding from Baton Rouge, La. to Longview on Sunday, Melvin Templeton did some soul searching on where to spend the next four years. His search was over by the time he got home, and it has pointed him to Abilene.
The former Longview football player confirmed his decision on Thursday, signing with Abilene Christian University in the Lobo Coliseum foyer. Templeton chose ACU over Howard Payne, as well as trying to walk on at North Texas, Baylor and Texas A&M. Templeton made his decision while he was returning with several other Longview powerlifters from the American Powerlifting Federation's High School Nationals.
"I had to do some soul searching on the ride home. The decision to go to ACU came over me. It was a subtle feeling," Templeton said. "The college reminds me of Longview High School. It felt like home."
Templeton did not play varsity football until this past fall. Templeton played defensive end, linebacker and was the kickoff return team. Templeton frequently had a size disadvantage playing defensive end, but frustrated opposing offensive linemen anyway by the way he bounced off blocks. Templeton helped the Longview football team to a 13-3 record and the state runner-up finish in Class 4A Division I
ACU neck-and-neck with ASU in softball
The Abilene Christian softball team plays Tarleton State in a three-game Lone Star Conference South Division series, beginning with a doubleheader at 5 p.m. today at Poly Wells Field. Game 3 is noon Saturday. It's ACU's last LSC South series at home.
The Wildcats (31-11 overall, 9-3 LSC South) enter the series a half-game back of Angelo State (34-7, 10-3) for the LSC South lead. Angelo State beat Texas Woman's 11-3 on Thursday in Denton. Should ACU and Angelo State finish the regular season tied, the Rambelles own the tiebreaker after winning the series 2-1 against the Wildcats during the weekend in San Angelo. Tarleton State (22-16, 7-5) is two games back for the second and final LSC South tournament berth.
Lady Buffs enter crucial LSC series
After three years of sub .500 ball, the West Texas A&M softball team has a chance at the postseason. The Lady Buffs are tied for fourth in the Lone Star Conference standings with Texas A&M-Kingsville, with each team having one LSC series left. The top four teams advance to the LSC tournament.
WT gets its final series under way at 1 p.m. today against last place Eastern New Mexico in a doubleheader at Lady Buff Yard. Kingsville has the weekend off from LSC play.
Buffs battle SEOSU to wrap up home slate
West Texas A&M closes out its Lone Star Conference home season this weekend needing to start a winning streak to make a run at the upcoming LSC Tournament. The Buffs open their four-game series today against Southeastern Oklahoma State with a 4 p.m. doubleheader at the Amarillo National Bank Dilla Villa.
The two teams meet at noon Saturday in a doubleheader in the Dilla Villa. WT has 12 LSC games remaining - the final two series on the road at Northeastern State and Eastern New Mexico - and sit in 11th place at 11-21. The top six teams make the tournament, and the Buffs are four games out of sixth place.
ASU dominates at home
Adree Lakey and Culley Jo Dawson are going to have a big hand in how well the Angelo State women's track team does at next month's NCAA Division II Outdoor Track and Field Championships. Thursday at the David Noble Relays, each of them won two events and each either qualified or improved their qualifying marks for the national meet next month at the LeGrand Sports Complex.
Their big days Thursday helped the ASU team to a big day as well. The Rambelles won the meet in dominating fashion over Tarleton State. The ASU men also won the meet, outscoring McMurry.
"We had a lot of personal bests and a lot of season bests," Lakey said. "I think that everybody is comfortable at home and everybody gets good marks here."
David Noble Relays final results
Women
Team standings - 1. Angelo State 273; 2. Tarleton State 90; 3. McMurry 55; 4. Hardin-Simmons 37; 5. Texas State 31; 6. Texas A&M-Commerce, 22.
Men
Team standings - 1. Angelo State 161; 2. McMurry 103; 3. Tarleton State 98; 4. Abilene Christian, 44; 5. Bacone 43; 6. Texas A&M-Commerce 42.
Lady Buff golfers move up in poll
West Texas A&M's Lady Buffs are ranked seventh in this week's NCAA West Region golf poll, moving up one spot from a week ago.
“Give it to Jordan.”
That was the game plan Texas A&M University-Commerce women’s basketball coach Denny Downing used throughout Britney Jordan’s three-year career with the Lions.
The plan paid dividends for both A&M-Commerce and Jordan, as the senior became the first women’s basketball player in program history to be selected into the WNBA as the Los Angeles Sparks picked her 35th overall on Thursday in the league draft.
“It’s an amazing feeling,” said Jordan. “I had a great chapter at A&M-Commerce. This is the beginning of a new chapter.”
“I don’t know if I have enough words to say,” said Downing. “Obviously I’m so happy for Britney and the commitment she made to the program.”
Jordan is just the second player in Lone Star Conference history to be selected in the WNBA Draft after Southeastern Oklahoma State’s Crystal Robinson was chosen by the New York Liberty in 1999.
Walk-on Wildcat
Abilene Christian baseball coach Britt Bonneau knew he had something special in Willie Uechi pretty quickly. It was just a matter of finding the walk-on freshman from San Antonio Marshall a place to play.
"It was pretty obvious this guy needed to be in our lineup somewhere," Bonneau said.
So Uechi (pronounced U-E-chee), a second baseman in high school, played wherever there was a need early on his career at ACU. In fact, he opened the season that first year in right field.
"I hadn't taken any balls in right field all year, so it caught me off guard," Uechi said. "I had to find an outfielder's mitt to play with. But it was fun just getting out there to play. I was happy just to be out there
Related: ACU leads LSC entering final baseball series
Been there, done that
When Justin Brown talks, East Central University’s defensive linemen listen — and not just because he weighs 270 pounds. An unpaid (sort of) assistant on ECU head coach Tim McCarty’s defensive staff this spring, Brown was an All-American defensive end on McCarty’s first Tiger squad back in 2004, and in 2005 he came within one cut of making the season-opening roster with the Indianapolis Colts, who were only a season away from winning their first Super Bowl.
“The way they react is that they can see the results you can get from hard work,” Brown said this week as the Tigers neared the halfway point in their spring camp. “They listen to me because I obviously know what I’m talking about because I’m still out there playing.”
UIW kicks off football with first spring game
Like many of his Incarnate Word defensive brethren, linebacker Dakota Mawyer had waited nearly eight long months to finally hit someone in a setting where points were at stake. The payoff for their patience Wednesday night?
Mawyer and the rest of the defense got to represent the visitor's side of the scoreboard in a 49-23 victory against the offense in the program's first-annual spring game at Benson Stadium. Among those in the lively crowd of 450 were program benefactors Tom and Gayle Benson.
Former Clark running back Jerrell Wilkerson, the city's career rushing leader who is on academic suspension, watched from the sideline but was not in uniform.
Lobos' Templeton to play football at Abilene Christian
While riding from Baton Rouge, La. to Longview on Sunday, Melvin Templeton did some soul searching on where to spend the next four years. His search was over by the time he got home, and it has pointed him to Abilene.
The former Longview football player confirmed his decision on Thursday, signing with Abilene Christian University in the Lobo Coliseum foyer. Templeton chose ACU over Howard Payne, as well as trying to walk on at North Texas, Baylor and Texas A&M. Templeton made his decision while he was returning with several other Longview powerlifters from the American Powerlifting Federation's High School Nationals.
"I had to do some soul searching on the ride home. The decision to go to ACU came over me. It was a subtle feeling," Templeton said. "The college reminds me of Longview High School. It felt like home."
Templeton did not play varsity football until this past fall. Templeton played defensive end, linebacker and was the kickoff return team. Templeton frequently had a size disadvantage playing defensive end, but frustrated opposing offensive linemen anyway by the way he bounced off blocks. Templeton helped the Longview football team to a 13-3 record and the state runner-up finish in Class 4A Division I
ACU neck-and-neck with ASU in softball
The Abilene Christian softball team plays Tarleton State in a three-game Lone Star Conference South Division series, beginning with a doubleheader at 5 p.m. today at Poly Wells Field. Game 3 is noon Saturday. It's ACU's last LSC South series at home.
The Wildcats (31-11 overall, 9-3 LSC South) enter the series a half-game back of Angelo State (34-7, 10-3) for the LSC South lead. Angelo State beat Texas Woman's 11-3 on Thursday in Denton. Should ACU and Angelo State finish the regular season tied, the Rambelles own the tiebreaker after winning the series 2-1 against the Wildcats during the weekend in San Angelo. Tarleton State (22-16, 7-5) is two games back for the second and final LSC South tournament berth.
Lady Buffs enter crucial LSC series
After three years of sub .500 ball, the West Texas A&M softball team has a chance at the postseason. The Lady Buffs are tied for fourth in the Lone Star Conference standings with Texas A&M-Kingsville, with each team having one LSC series left. The top four teams advance to the LSC tournament.
WT gets its final series under way at 1 p.m. today against last place Eastern New Mexico in a doubleheader at Lady Buff Yard. Kingsville has the weekend off from LSC play.
Buffs battle SEOSU to wrap up home slate
West Texas A&M closes out its Lone Star Conference home season this weekend needing to start a winning streak to make a run at the upcoming LSC Tournament. The Buffs open their four-game series today against Southeastern Oklahoma State with a 4 p.m. doubleheader at the Amarillo National Bank Dilla Villa.
The two teams meet at noon Saturday in a doubleheader in the Dilla Villa. WT has 12 LSC games remaining - the final two series on the road at Northeastern State and Eastern New Mexico - and sit in 11th place at 11-21. The top six teams make the tournament, and the Buffs are four games out of sixth place.
ASU dominates at home
Adree Lakey and Culley Jo Dawson are going to have a big hand in how well the Angelo State women's track team does at next month's NCAA Division II Outdoor Track and Field Championships. Thursday at the David Noble Relays, each of them won two events and each either qualified or improved their qualifying marks for the national meet next month at the LeGrand Sports Complex.
Their big days Thursday helped the ASU team to a big day as well. The Rambelles won the meet in dominating fashion over Tarleton State. The ASU men also won the meet, outscoring McMurry.
"We had a lot of personal bests and a lot of season bests," Lakey said. "I think that everybody is comfortable at home and everybody gets good marks here."
David Noble Relays final results
Women
Team standings - 1. Angelo State 273; 2. Tarleton State 90; 3. McMurry 55; 4. Hardin-Simmons 37; 5. Texas State 31; 6. Texas A&M-Commerce, 22.
Men
Team standings - 1. Angelo State 161; 2. McMurry 103; 3. Tarleton State 98; 4. Abilene Christian, 44; 5. Bacone 43; 6. Texas A&M-Commerce 42.
Lady Buff golfers move up in poll
West Texas A&M's Lady Buffs are ranked seventh in this week's NCAA West Region golf poll, moving up one spot from a week ago.
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