Because I had to work Saturday, I initially missed much of the New Mexico game. Looking at the score, I had to wonder “What went wrong?” I read the Daily Herald’s grades for the game, http://www.heraldextra.com/content/view/284116/163/ and figured I had a good idea of what happened. Then I turned on my DVR and watched the Game.
What Was the Herald Guy Smoking?
I don’t know who writes that review for the Herald, but I don’t ever remember reading a game review that I thought was more off base. Here are a few examples:
Herald Grade: O-Line, C
Really? I mean, New Mexico is famous for coming after you with crazy stunts, lots of disquised coverage, and agressive play. they hardly touched Max all game, and though Harvey didn’t have his usual running lanes, still had enough seams to get 96 yrds rushing. How in heck did they merit a C? Maybe an A-, or I could have even understood a B+, But there was nothing average about their performance.
DH Running Backs, C+
The Lobo’s defense has limited opponent running games. Watching the game, they are quick to the ball and swarm. But Unga had one of the gutsiest performances I have watched. He was working hard and making the most of what was there. And Fui made some awesome lead blocks. I would grade the running backs at no worse than a B
DH Defensive Line C+
The reason given was “A tough game for the D-Line, which lost more battles than it won against New Mexico’s physical running game. When BYU did manage to stop the run, it was the linebackers shooting gaps” Do they not understand that in this defense, the lines job is to engage the O-line and let the linebackers fill the gaps and make the stops? (see Quinn Gooch http://deepshadesofblue.com/unm-post-game-wrap-up/#more-1591 ). They also made some big plays in the game, and ultimately only gave up 3 points. Again, D-line, a solid B
The rest of the Herald Grades were OK. But those three were way off.
Why did the offense Struggle?
I credit the Lobo Defense. Their Corners played tough and, out side of a couple of plays, limited the Cougars yards after the catch. Example, our offense attempted a couple of short throws with runs for yardage on third downs, but the lobos were there to deny the run part and stop those drives. The Lobo offense controlled the clock and limited our offensive opportunities. . But when they needed to, the offense was able to put together enough drives to win the game by 18 points. (Man are we getting spoiled to be upset about that.) Max Hall’s numbers were solid, and Austin Collie had a record setting day in total yardage. Andrew George also had two touchdown catches. It was also good to have Michael Reed back in the lineup with a couple of solid catches. I give the QB & Recievers a B+
Linebackers
I thought they did a good job of keeping the running game in front of them, and not giving up huge plays. Particularly in the second half when they started bringing an outside linebacker behind the line of scrimmage, and catching the back as he hesitated at the line. It did look like there were some times when they got caught over pursuing or trapped on the ends, and gave up some yards. Clawson has a motor (maybe even turbo-charged) and Nixon is always solid, and good for a couple of big plays. I loved the gang tackles an piles on plays. B+
Secondary
I thought the secondary played pretty solid. No big plays down the field. They did look soft and gave a lot of room, but not totally understanding assignments, I am guessing that this was the game plan to position themselves to help with the running game. Not sure if they executed up to Bronco’s expectations, but again, three points given up. Nice tip and pick by Fowler and Tafuna. B
Special Teams
Maybe the best outing for Santiago ever, or at least one of the better ones. Typically made the Lobos go the length of the field and helped us win the battle for field position. Outside of a missed field goal by Sorensen, good outing B+
Great Warm Up
I think this game helped them in their preparation for the TCU game this year. TCU is strong defensively, and likes to run the ball. BYU has liked Thursday night games with TCU. Hope this week’s is the same.
Oct 13th by Jim
