The unofficial online home for fans of the Western Michigan University Broncos. Part of Collegiate Sports Nation (CSN).

As an insider to the program let me tell you I was blown away by how well the OL did today. I think that effort shows that this may be the best rushing team in the country besides the option only teams like Army, Ga Tech, etc.

However also don't extrapolate and think just because we played close with USC, we'll blow everyone else out. This team won't be able to do that because aside from Anton catching 10-15 yard intermediate routes, there is not a consistent passing threat nor is there one I have seen in practice when I was able to make it out.

So I expect a similar 27-21 game next week vs Michigan state and unless teams part the Red Sea like Ohio did 2 years ago, Broncos will probably stay between the 24-30 point total much of the year. Hopefully the D can clamp down on opponents so it's comfortable in the 4th but don't freak out if we're only up on teams like Ball state 24-14 late.

Hopefully Coach Lester can recruit a big time receiver because we've seen the previous 4 years what it can mean to be able to know you can pick up a 3rd and 7 with confidence.

We need to give the inexperienced QB and receivers time to develop. Still have 11 games to play. Growth will come.

(09-03-2017 07:45 AM)Potro Wrote:  We need to give the inexperienced QB and receivers time to develop. Still have 11 games to play. Growth will come.

Wassink is talented and will only get better. Hard to have new Soph QB come in such high level game. If had 5 or 6 starts under his belt it would have been a different game. Maybe a different outcome if Terrell and Davis were still around. Defense gave a great effort. Beat Sparty!

Here's the thing... and I agree with you in general that we aren't the type of team to blow teams out anymore... but one thing I did notice is that although our OL did a terrific job overall, the pocket was still collapsing around Wassink fairly quickly. That's not a knock on our OL but rather a testament to the type of players/athletes USC has on the D-line.

We aren't going to see guys like that the rest of the year. I suspect Wassink will have more time and more space to operate in, thus allowing our WR's another 1-2 seconds to get open.

(09-03-2017 07:28 AM)Wmufan715 Wrote:  As an insider to the program let me tell you I was blown away by how well the OL did today. I think that effort shows that this may be the best rushing team in the country besides the option only teams like Army, Ga Tech, etc.

However also don't extrapolate and think just because we played close with USC, we'll blow everyone else out. This team won't be able to do that because aside from Anton catching 10-15 yard intermediate routes, there is not a consistent passing threat nor is there one I have seen in practice when I was able to make it out.

So I expect a similar 27-21 game next week vs Michigan state and unless teams part the Red Sea like Ohio did 2 years ago, Broncos will probably stay between the 24-30 point total much of the year. Hopefully the D can clamp down on opponents so it's comfortable in the 4th but don't freak out if we're only up on teams like Ball state 24-14 late.

Hopefully Coach Lester can recruit a big time receiver because we've seen the previous 4 years what it can mean to be able to know you can pick up a 3rd and 7 with confidence.

I know that I am going to get killed for this but I aam not sure Wassink is the answer at qb. I know it was only 1 game and he showed some grit and effort. However I just didn't see enough arm talent there.

I hope I am wrong but great effort from the team and a great job coaching. We imposed pur will on the ground against an excellent team. I have seen a lot of upsets in my time watching cfb most of the time the underdog gets lucky and converts on every opportunity they have over the 50. Rarely do you see a heavy underdog do what we did yesterday even though we lost.

What Wassink lacks in "arm talent" he makes up for in game management, decision-making, and intangibles. He reminds me a lot of Terrell as a sophomore to be honest. Great potential.

(09-03-2017 07:28 AM)Wmufan715 Wrote:  This team won't be able to do that because aside from Anton catching 10-15 yard intermediate routes, there is not a consistent passing threat nor is there one I have seen in practice when I was able to make it out.

Why not send Dee on Jordan White-type routes? Especially the quick WR Screen?

Our back will get killer YAC out of the backfield as well.

Basically run the same offense USC ran yesterday; would be effective.

I don't think you can properly assess a new QB, in a newly implemented system, with all new targets in a matchup on the road against a #4 ranked opponent. We faced a front 7 of players that were highly coveted recruits nationally. The fact that the time to set up and throw was short is not a surprise and it's the most skilled secondary we'll face all season. So to expect anyone to dissect that is unreasonable and even a 200yds 2TD type game would be superhuman given these circumstances. How would other MAC QBs fared? Even the most experienced would have had a tough time matching Wassinks stat line. The INT was not on him. Had we played down to an opponent like a Rhode Island then I would be somewhat skeptical but still reserve judgement. How was Terell thought of after his first game?

As someone had posted earlier in the week undoubtedly they have to keep the playbook condensed until the chemistry builds and everyone learns their roles.

Oh look! Another "insider to the program" on this board!

(09-03-2017 07:28 AM)Wmufan715 Wrote:  As an insider to the program let me tell you I was blown away by how well the OL did today. I think that effort shows that this may be the best rushing team in the country besides the option only teams like Army, Ga Tech, etc.

However also don't extrapolate and think just because we played close with USC, we'll blow everyone else out. This team won't be able to do that because aside from Anton catching 10-15 yard intermediate routes, there is not a consistent passing threat nor is there one I have seen in practice when I was able to make it out.

So I expect a similar 27-21 game next week vs Michigan state and unless teams part the Red Sea like Ohio did 2 years ago, Broncos will probably stay between the 24-30 point total much of the year. Hopefully the D can clamp down on opponents so it's comfortable in the 4th but don't freak out if we're only up on teams like Ball state 24-14 late.

Hopefully Coach Lester can recruit a big time receiver because we've seen the previous 4 years what it can mean to be able to know you can pick up a 3rd and 7 with confidence.

Firstly, great effort by the Broncos. Big boost for the MAC and the program. Going forward, Wassink is going to have to prove he can carry the offense because defenses will start to stack the box for the run. From the amount I saw, USC stayed in a very base defense. Its almost a p5 arrogance thing to not be "forced" into altering their defense to your offense. Conversley, BC at times had 10 defenders on the line vs the Huskies friday night, but Graham carries the weight of the world on his every pass and missed all the big opportunities to make BC pay for the aggression. They knew Graham has no deep ball and likes short, safe passes and they took that, along with the run, away.

It will be very interesting to see how MSU defense game plans and if Wassink can rise up to it. IF so, WMU will be really hard to stop.

(09-03-2017 08:44 AM)WMUlaxer97 Wrote:  I don't think you can properly assess a new QB, in a newly implemented system, with all new targets in a matchup on the road against a #4 ranked opponent. We faced a front 7 of players that were highly coveted recruits nationally. The fact that the time to set up and throw was short is not a surprise and it's the most skilled secondary we'll face all season. So to expect anyone to dissect that is unreasonable and even a 200yds 2TD type game would be superhuman given these circumstances. How would other MAC QBs fared? Even the most experienced would have had a tough time matching Wassinks stat line. The INT was not on him. Had we played down to an opponent like a Rhode Island then I would be somewhat skeptical but still reserve judgement. How was Terell thought of after his first game?

As someone had posted earlier in the week undoubtedly they have to keep the playbook condensed until the chemistry builds and everyone learns their roles.

I am not saying he is going to bad or basing it off the stat line. Imo he just missed a lot of throws that even for his first start I think he could have made. He had glimpses of promise and showed he can definitely do it with his feet and toughness.

I hope I am wrong but the missed throws got me a little pessimistic on him. One positive other than hos running is I thought he wasn't staring recievers down. I just need to see the ability to throw the 15 yard out accurately.

(09-03-2017 09:52 AM)broncofan1 Wrote:  Oh look! Another "insider to the program" on this board!

"As an insider"

(09-03-2017 10:07 AM)rsswmu Wrote:  

(09-03-2017 08:44 AM)WMUlaxer97 Wrote:  I don't think you can properly assess a new QB, in a newly implemented system, with all new targets in a matchup on the road against a #4 ranked opponent. We faced a front 7 of players that were highly coveted recruits nationally. The fact that the time to set up and throw was short is not a surprise and it's the most skilled secondary we'll face all season. So to expect anyone to dissect that is unreasonable and even a 200yds 2TD type game would be superhuman given these circumstances. How would other MAC QBs fared? Even the most experienced would have had a tough time matching Wassinks stat line. The INT was not on him. Had we played down to an opponent like a Rhode Island then I would be somewhat skeptical but still reserve judgement. How was Terell thought of after his first game?

As someone had posted earlier in the week undoubtedly they have to keep the playbook condensed until the chemistry builds and everyone learns their roles.

I am not saying he is going to bad or basing it off the stat line. Imo he just missed a lot of throws that even for his first start I think he could have made. He had glimpses of promise and showed he can definitely do it with his feet and toughness.

I hope I am wrong but the missed throws got me a little pessimistic on him. One positive other than hos running is I thought he wasn't staring recievers down. I just need to see the ability to throw the 15 yard out accurately.

Lest we forget... Brand new QB playing his first college game, and first game in 2+ years, going up against a nationally ranked team (that destroyed the BiG10 champion last time out).

I'm not going to be critical of his performance under these circumstances.

(09-03-2017 07:28 AM)Wmufan715 Wrote:  As an insider to the program let me tell you I was blown away by how well the OL did today. I think that effort shows that this may be the best rushing team in the country besides the option only teams like Army, Ga Tech, etc.

However also don't extrapolate and think just because we played close with USC, we'll blow everyone else out. This team won't be able to do that because aside from Anton catching 10-15 yard intermediate routes, there is not a consistent passing threat nor is there one I have seen in practice when I was able to make it out.

So I expect a similar 27-21 game next week vs Michigan state and unless teams part the Red Sea like Ohio did 2 years ago, Broncos will probably stay between the 24-30 point total much of the year. Hopefully the D can clamp down on opponents so it's comfortable in the 4th but don't freak out if we're only up on teams like Ball state 24-14 late.

Hopefully Coach Lester can recruit a big time receiver because we've seen the previous 4 years what it can mean to be able to know you can pick up a 3rd and 7 with confidence.

"As an insider"

WWPJD

(09-03-2017 08:22 AM)Hoekjeness Wrote:  What Wassink lacks in "arm talent" he makes up for in game management, decision-making, and intangibles. He reminds me a lot of Terrell as a sophomore to be honest. Great potential.

Well said. Zach was no world beater at arm strength as a freshman, he developed over his years as a Bronco. He is still no world beater as a passer, BUT HE DOESN'T MAKE FOOLISH MISTAKES.

That's how we won out last season, interceptions are absolute killers. They can turn a game in so many ways. By limiting turnovers last season we took a good team and elevated it into a championship team.

Chukes needs to work on his anticipation of the snap, 5 yards here and there all adds up in a close contest.

(09-03-2017 11:30 AM)BroncoPhilly Wrote:  

(09-03-2017 08:22 AM)Hoekjeness Wrote:  What Wassink lacks in "arm talent" he makes up for in game management, decision-making, and intangibles. He reminds me a lot of Terrell as a sophomore to be honest. Great potential.

Well said. Zach was no world beater at arm strength as a freshman, he developed over his years as a Bronco. He is still no world beater as a passer, BUT HE DOESN'T MAKE FOOLISH MISTAKES.

That's how we won out last season, interceptions are absolute killers. They can turn a game in so many ways. By limiting turnovers last season we took a good team and elevated it into a championship team.

Chukes needs to work on his anticipation of the snap, 5 yards here and there all adds up in a close contest.

Welcome back BroncoPhilly.

(09-03-2017 10:30 AM)Chipdip2 Wrote:  

(09-03-2017 07:28 AM)Wmufan715 Wrote:  As an insider to the program let me tell you I was blown away by how well the OL did today. I think that effort shows that this may be the best rushing team in the country besides the option only teams like Army, Ga Tech, etc.

However also don't extrapolate and think just because we played close with USC, we'll blow everyone else out. This team won't be able to do that because aside from Anton catching 10-15 yard intermediate routes, there is not a consistent passing threat nor is there one I have seen in practice when I was able to make it out.

So I expect a similar 27-21 game next week vs Michigan state and unless teams part the Red Sea like Ohio did 2 years ago, Broncos will probably stay between the 24-30 point total much of the year. Hopefully the D can clamp down on opponents so it's comfortable in the 4th but don't freak out if we're only up on teams like Ball state 24-14 late.

Hopefully Coach Lester can recruit a big time receiver because we've seen the previous 4 years what it can mean to be able to know you can pick up a 3rd and 7 with confidence.

"As an insider"

WWPJD

What constitutes being a program insider? Maybe it's the amount of your donation to the Gary Fund?

(09-03-2017 11:30 AM)BroncoPhilly Wrote:  

(09-03-2017 08:22 AM)Hoekjeness Wrote:  What Wassink lacks in "arm talent" he makes up for in game management, decision-making, and intangibles. He reminds me a lot of Terrell as a sophomore to be honest. Great potential.

Well said. Zach was no world beater at arm strength as a freshman, he developed over his years as a Bronco. He is still no world beater as a passer, BUT HE DOESN'T MAKE FOOLISH MISTAKES.

That's how we won out last season, interceptions are absolute killers. They can turn a game in so many ways. By limiting turnovers last season we took a good team and elevated it into a championship team.

Chukes needs to work on his anticipation of the snap, 5 yards here and there all adds up in a close contest.

Chukes has been jumping offsides since his freshmen year. I guarantee you the NFL scouts are aware. Needs to clean it up cause he's trying to make bank on 2nd round money.

(09-03-2017 11:52 AM)WesternSkillet Wrote:  

(09-03-2017 11:30 AM)BroncoPhilly Wrote:  

(09-03-2017 08:22 AM)Hoekjeness Wrote:  What Wassink lacks in "arm talent" he makes up for in game management, decision-making, and intangibles. He reminds me a lot of Terrell as a sophomore to be honest. Great potential.

Well said. Zach was no world beater at arm strength as a freshman, he developed over his years as a Bronco. He is still no world beater as a passer, BUT HE DOESN'T MAKE FOOLISH MISTAKES.

That's how we won out last season, interceptions are absolute killers. They can turn a game in so many ways. By limiting turnovers last season we took a good team and elevated it into a championship team.

Chukes needs to work on his anticipation of the snap, 5 yards here and there all adds up in a close contest.

Welcome back BroncoPhilly.

Thanks Skillet, it's been a challenging year. Good to be back.

(09-03-2017 02:32 PM)Chipdip2 Wrote:  

(09-03-2017 11:30 AM)BroncoPhilly Wrote:  

(09-03-2017 08:22 AM)Hoekjeness Wrote:  What Wassink lacks in "arm talent" he makes up for in game management, decision-making, and intangibles. He reminds me a lot of Terrell as a sophomore to be honest. Great potential.

Well said. Zach was no world beater at arm strength as a freshman, he developed over his years as a Bronco. He is still no world beater as a passer, BUT HE DOESN'T MAKE FOOLISH MISTAKES.

That's how we won out last season, interceptions are absolute killers. They can turn a game in so many ways. By limiting turnovers last season we took a good team and elevated it into a championship team.

Chukes needs to work on his anticipation of the snap, 5 yards here and there all adds up in a close contest.

Chukes has been jumping offsides since his freshmen year. I guarantee you the NFL scouts are aware. Needs to clean it up cause he's trying to make bank on 2nd round money.

So true. But then Moton committed the same offense many times and cleaned it up his senior year. When it's THEIR MONEY on the line they focus.

How you doing, Dip? Hopefully things are on the upswing for you.