(08-10-2019 09:26 PM)ODUDJ96 Wrote: Only three weeks out, but it seems appropriate to start the thread. This needs to be a dominate win - just like the last fcs play:cheers:off game. Anything less is extremely disappointment - and Wilder better pack his bags if this is a loss. The opening loss to liberty last year still hurts...but this is Norfolk State. No excuses on opening day in our new stadium.
I am cautiously optimistic about our defense as I am very impressed with Blackwell. Personnel wise, our DBs look good as do our LBs.
If the Dline gels, we should hold NSU to under 14.
What we do on offense will be largely dependent on the OL.
If the offensive line run blocks well, expect Lala and Strong to have a big day, with Robert Washington getting much needed playing time as well.
If the OL is not where it needs to be, the offense will be all about the QB, who will need to both pass and run.
Whether the OL is up to speed or not, I expect to see both Smartt and deWeaver getting plenty of snaps.
While our WRs are still a question mark, I believe that they will be more than adequate vs NSU.
I have heard that we will be OK with the kicking game.
I have no idea about kickoff/punt returns, or coverage of both.
It is otherwise it is too early to look at matchups and schemes.
As noted above, we need to completely dominate on both sides of the ball. If we falter on either, we are in for long and disappointing season.
With that, ODU 48, NSU 10
EDIT: Any closer will be a fail, as NSU is predicted to finish 7th of 9 in the MEAC.