Monmouth University Football

Saint Francis (Pa.) Scout/Prediction

2009-11-05T17:25:00.002-05:00

SAINT FRANCIS (PA.) SCOUTING REPORT

Offense: The Saint Francis (Pa.) offense ranks eighth in the nine-team Northeast Conference in scoring (17.1 ppg), while ranking last in the league in total offense (253.8 ypg). The Red Flash rank eighth in the conference in both rushing and passing, averaging 109.6 yards per game on the ground and 144.1 yards through the air per contest. SFU has 877 total rushing yards this season, 409 of which came in its last game against Duquesne, a 31-14 win. The Red Flash are led by running back Jude Yearwood, who leads the team with 430 rushing yards and three touchdowns. John Kelly is the team’s leading quarterback, having completed 52.1% of his passes for 1,112 yards and seven TD’s. George Little, last year’s starter, started the team’s last game, however, completing 7-of-11 passes for 36 yards. Antoine Rivera is the team’s, and one of the league’s, leading receivers with 41 catches for 555 yards and four touchdowns. Omar Winston is second on the team with 29 grabs for 192 yards, while Anthony Howze has 14 catches for 117 yards.

Defense: The Red Flash defense is currently tied for sixth in the league, with Duquesne, in points allowed, giving up 26 points per game. However, the unit ranks third in the NEC in total yards allowed, giving up a shade under 300 yards per contest. They lead the NEC, and rank fourth in the nation, in pass defense, giving up 138 yards through the air per game. The Red Flash rank fifth against the run this season, allowing an average of 160.1 yards per game. The defense is paced by a pair of linebackers in Matthew Parker and Scott Lewis, both of whom have started since their freshmen seasons. Parker and Lewis rank first and third in the NEC, and 12th and 15th in the nation, in tackles per game with 10.7 and 10.5 stops per game, respectively. The duo, who are the centerpieces of the SFU 3-4 defensive alignment, have combined for 14.5 tackles for loss, seven pass break-ups, seven QB hurries and six sacks this season as well. Terrence Long leads the team and the NEC with five interceptions in the secondary.

Special Teams: The SFU kicker is Josh Thiel, and he has converted all 16 of his extra point attempts and 6-of-12 field goals this season. He is 2-of-5 on field goals from beyond 40 yards this season, with a long of 45, and has had three kicks blocked this season. Grant Price is the team’s leading punter, averaging 36.8 yards per kick. Kyle Harbridge is the club’s leading kickoff returner, averaging 24.5 yards per return, including an 86-yard touchdown this season. Rivera is the club’s leading punt returner with 54 yards (4.5 ypr).

My take: The Red Flash are a bit of an enigma this week for Monmouth. This team used to play with 3 and 4 wide receivers and throw exclusively, only running the ball when they absolutely had to. They are trying to become more of a balanced team and make a concerned effort to run the football, as evidenced by the fact that half of their rushing yards came last game against Duquesne. They only average 2.9 yards per rush, however. Also, we are not sure who will start at QB for SFU. John Kelly has the overwhelming stats from a passes attempted and completed perspective, but last year's starter, George Little, started last game.

This team also used to play an odd standing defense, when all 11 defenders would stand up near the line of scrimmage in an effort to disguise potential blitz packages. They are a 3-4 team now and feature two very good LB's.

With all of this said, I see Monmouth (4-4) getting over the .500 mark in this game over the Red Flash. Although it isnt easy to play in remote Loretto, Pa., I think the Hawks continue their winning ways and defeat Saint Francis (Pa.) 34-13.

Albany Scouting Report/Prediction

2009-10-22T17:02:00.002-04:00

Albany Scouting Report

Offense: The Albany offense is predicated on a power running game centered on tailback David McCarty. The Great Danes run the ball more than 60% of the time as a team, with 57% of their carries going to McCarty. UAlbany averages 176 rushing yards per game, which ranks second in the league, and McCarty is second in individual rushing (behind MU’s David Sinisi) with 752 yards. McCarty also is tied for the league lead with eight rushing touchdowns. Two other rushers, Justin Gannon and Andrew Smith, both have over 255 yards rushing, and Smith is averaging 7.1 yards per carry. UA is throwing the football this year better than in recent seasons, averaging 167 passing yards per game. QB Vinny Esposito is completing 56.1% of his passes with seven scores this season and his leading receiver is sixth-year senior Tim Bush, who has 37 catches for 535 yards. Two other receivers, Jason Poore and Ryan Kirchner, have at least 13 catches and 142 yards receiving. The Great Danes average 25.3 points per game, which is good enough for fourth in the nine-team league.

Defense: The Great Danes play some of the most consistent defense in the conference year in and year out. This season, they rank first in the league in scoring and rushing defense, allowing 18.7 points and 98.1 rushing yards per game, respectively. Teams have had success throwing the ball against UA, as they give up 211.3 yards per contest and allow their opponents to complete a league-high 61.4% of their passes. Linebacker Justin Brancaccio leads the squad with 60 tackles and also had 5.5 tackles for loss. Linebacker Dave Nicomini, who missed all of last season with an injury, is second on the team with 49 stops and leads the squad with 10 tackles for loss. UAlbany has 54 tackles for loss as a team, including 17 sacks. They have also blocked three kicks this season so far. Last week against Bryant, the Great Danes held the Bulldogs to more than 100 rushing yards below their season average in a 20-17 win. UA has held their last five opponents under 17 points, including a 20-16 comeback win over then-#20 Maine.

Special teams: Herb Glass is the Great Danes kicker and he has connected on 11-of-16 field goals this season, including a 48-yarder. He is a perfect 6-for-6 from between 18-29 yards this season and has made 4-of-7 from between 30-39 yards. Bobby Woods is the team’s punter, and averages 35.7 yards per punt, pinning the opposition inside their 20-yard line five times. Andrew Smith and Emerson Kinsey are the team’s two kickoff returners, averaging 25.2 and 24.8 yards per kick return, respectively. Justin Gannon is the squad’s punt returner, averaging 14.4 yards per return, which leads the conference. UA has only allowed 17 punt return yards this season, and limits their opposition to less than 20 yards per kick return.

My take: This is the game in the Northeast Conference every season. It is tradtionally football played at its purest, with the team that runs the ball and stops the run the most effectively normally winning. The Hawks four straight in the season in the mid-2000's, but UAlbany has won two straight times in the series (and two straight league titles). If the Hawks can corral McCarty and the Great Danes rushing offense, and force Esposito to throw on obvious passing downs, they can be successful. MU must force-feed Sinisi to the Great Danes, try to soften the middle of their defense, and then take some shots in the passing game with QB Kyle Frazier and his receiving corps. If MU can be balanced on offense and solid on defense, they will have a chance in this game. Being that the contest will be played on Monmouth's Homecoming, and knowing what that means as a grad, I think the Hawks will come through with the win at home. Frazier continues to impress as the team's starting QB and tight end Tyler George (my X-factor) takes the next step in the passing game and catches some big passes on bootlegs and in the seam. Sinisi will have a workmanlike day in front of the home crowd, and MU's opportunistic forces Esposito into 3rd and longs and comes up with a few turnovers, while Mike Avent and the special teams return game will give the Hawks the ball in good field position. Monmouth comes away with a shocking 27-23 win at home at Homecoming.

Getting Ready for Albany/Homecoming week....

2009-10-20T16:02:00.002-04:00

So last week's contest with Sacred Heart proved to be a nice tune-up for the Hawks homecoming game against Albany this week. MU played it best 60 minutes of football against the Pioneers, and Kyle Frazier threw the ball better than he ever has in a Monmouth uniform. That will bode will this week against the Great Danes, who have won 17 straight league games. Some tidbits on the Monmouth-Albany series before the full-fledged preview comes out on Thursday:

- The winner of the MU-UAlbany game has won the league title six times in the last seven years, including Monmouth’s championships in 2003, 2004 and 2006.

- In the 11 all-time meetings, four have been decided by a touchdown or less, including one on the last play.

- Monmouth’s first win in the series come back on October 18, 2003, when the Blue and White’s defense led the way to a 10-7 win in West Long Branch.

- MU won the game in 2004, 25-24, after falling behind 14-0 in the first quarter and trailing 21-10 midway through the third quarter.

- Then sophomore quarterback Brian Boland, who would go on to lead MU to three league titles in his four years as the signal caller, engineered a 15-play, 77-yard drive that culminated with Steve Andriola hitting a game-winning 23-yard field goal as time expired to give the Hawks a 25-24 win.

- In 2006, Boland set a Monmouth record for completion percentage, going 17-for-18 passing with 213 yards and added 32 rushing yards in the 19-0 win at Albany, which gave the Hawks the NEC Title.

- The Great Danes have won the last two meetings in the series, and consequently have also won the last two NEC Championships, including last season’s 35-17 win.

- This season’s edition features the two best running backs in the conference in Monmouth’s David Sinisi and Albany’s David McCarty. They rank 1-2 in the NEC in rushing yards and yards per game, while also tying for the league-lead with eight rushing scores.

- The two rivals have combined to win eight league championships in 13 years, and are the two most consistent teams in the league, both within conference play and out of it.

- Last season, the two clubs placed 21 players on the All-NEC First or Second teams.

- The team’s two head coaches, MU’s Kevin Callahan and UA’s Bob Ford, have a combined 320 wins in their respective tenures at the two schools.

Preview and prediction to come on Thursday....

Sacred Heart Scout/Prediction

2009-10-15T14:13:00.002-04:00

First off, let's get the Wagner game out of the way. The Seahawks played very well last week against Monmouth and deserved to win. WC hit for three big plays early (which coach Callahan had said he was worried about happening) and MU never fully recovered. Wagner QB Doscher played very well and was very effective directing the offense, making the necessary deep throws when we had to and he ran for 55 yards and a score.

This week, Monmouth takes on a Sacred Heart squad coming off a 29-7 win over Saint Francis (Pa.) in which they allowed -3 rushing yards. -3!! Below is a scouting report on this week's opponent and my prediction:

Offense: Sacred Heart runs a variation of the ever-popular spread offense, and they try to be surprisingly balanced out of it. They do not run all of their plays out of shotgun, like Colgate did, and they will sometimes line up under center in conventional formations. The Pioneers throw the ball 55% of the time, and rank second in the league in passing offense, averaging 217.4 yards through the air per game. SHU QB Dale Fink is the NEC’s leading passer, completing 59% of his passes for 969 yards with five TD’s and a league-high tying eight interceptions. Fink’s main target is fifth-year senior Steve Tedesco, who has 25 catches for 338 yards and three scores. Three other receivers, Rich Rossi, Tony Patterson and Garry Coles, all have at least 17 catches and 135 yards on the season as well. Coles is also the team’s leading rusher, with 210 yards, while Brian Friedman has rushed for 204 yards and a team-best 6.2 ypc. The Pioneers only average 92 rushing yards per game, however, and score 16.6. points per game, which ranks eighth in the nine-team league.

Defense: The Pioneers run a 3-4 defensive alignment, and rank fifth in the conference in total yards allowed, giving up 337.4 yards per contest. SHU allows 27.2 points per game, which ranks seventh in the league, but after allowing 83 combined points in the season’s first two games, the unit has allowed only 17.6 per contest over the last three. The unit has not been very opportunistic this season as the Pioneers rank last in the league with a -6 turnover margin, forcing a league-low five takeaways. They are coming off a 29-7 win over Saint Francis (Pa.) in which they only allowed 180 total yards, including -3 rushing yards. Chris Mandas leads the unit with 42 tackles, including two for loss, while Justin Embler has 36 stops and a team-high five TFL and three sacks. Brian Flumere has 33 tackles, including three for loss, and the team’s lone interception. They allow their opponents to convert 41% of their third downs, and have also given up red zone scores on 74% of the time.

Special Teams: Matt Fisher is Sacred Heart’s kicker, and he has connected on all three of his field goal attempts this season. He has a long of 28 yards and all of his kicks have come between 20-28 yards. Running back Brian Friedman is also the team’s punter, averaging 37.6 yards per punt this year with seven of his 22 punts landing inside the opponent’s 20. Brett Swider leads the team with 280 kickoff return yards, while Coles’ 29.9 yard average is the squad’s high. He also has a 99-yard return for a TD this season. Cole is also the team’s punt returner, averaging seven yards per return.

My take: Sacred Heart is a better team than its 1-4 overall record shows. They can move the ball with QB Fink and their trio of receivers. Coles is a solid back and Friedman supplies a nice change-of-pace at back with his power. The weather for the weekend looks rainy, but I see a shootout forming in Fairfield, Conn. The Hawks and Pioneers both allow over 24 points per game and I think the offenses will be showcased on Saturday. The rain should affect the predominantly passing Pioneers (a little alliteration for you), and benefit the Hawks' third-ranked NEC rushing attack. MU will make more plays in the end, and Jose Gumbs second week back from injury will be a better one (even though it's hard to improve on winning NEC Defensive Player of the Week honors last week), and MU will squeeze out a 31-27 win.

Wagner Scouting Report/Prediction

2009-10-08T14:01:00.002-04:00

Wagner Scouting Report

Offense: The Seahawks list themselves as a conventional offense formation-wise (2 RB’s, 2 WR’s, TE), but they run the majority of their stuff out of the spread. Wagner, who averages a league-best 33.8 pts. per game, will run very similar stuff to what Colgate and ODU did with multiple-receiver sets and the QB in the shotgun almost exclusively. WC runs the ball two-thirds of the time, and they run a heavy amount of QB-RB zone read, as evidenced by the team’s two leading rushers being RB Dominique Williams and QB Nick Doscher, both freshmen. Williams leads the team, and ranks seventh in the league, with 427 yards on the ground and leads the league with seven rushing TD’s. Doscher ranks second on the team with 186 rushing yds. and five TD’s, while also ranking second on the team with 323 passing yards. Junior QB Tyler Newberry leads the team with 377 yards passing and three TD’s, while also rushing for 76 yards. Lon Woods is the team’s best receiving threat, with 15 catches for 270 yards and two TD’s. Two other receivers, Morgan Mizell and David Crawford, both have over 100 yards receiving this season.

Defense: Wagner is a 4-3 defensive team, and has shown a propensity for giving up big plays. The defense allows a league-high 33.6 points per game, while also surrendering 369.8 yards of total offense per contest. The Seahawks surrender 221.2 rushing yards per game, and they have also given up 42, 59 and 48 points in a game already this season. Sophomore safety Jeremiah Brown leads the team in tackles with 34, and also has 2.5 TFL and a forced fumble. Fellow safety Chaz Legette is second on the team with 30 stops, while nose tackle Joseph Harkins leads the club with six TFL. Wagner does have 31 tackles for loss as a team this year, but only six sacks. The unit, which gives up only 148.6 passing yards per game, does have 22 passes broken up, but only two interceptions. Last week, in the Seahawks first NEC game of the year, they only allowed six points to Bryant, but did give up 340 yards of total offense.

Special Teams: Wagner lists David Lopez, a freshman, as its kicker. He is 0-for-3 on field goals this season, including 0-2 from 20-29 yards outs, but he is a perfect 21-for-21 on extra points. Junior Kyle Muir is the team’s punter, and is averaging 40.7 yards per kick on his 21 attempts. He has put 12 punts inside the opposition’s 20-yard line and has a long of 60 yards this season. Frantz Placide and Lon Woods return kickoffs for Wagner, and each player 240 yards this season for two very good averages (26.7 and 30 ypr, respectively). Placide also has an 89-yard touchdown return to his credit this season. RB Williams leads the team in punt returns with 64 yards and a 10.7 yards per return average.

My take: Wagner has shown the ability to put up points this season, having scored over 40 points on three different occasions, despite being outgained by almost 80 yards per game. The Seahawks have one of the conference's rising stars in Williams and three very dynamic wide receivers, led by Woods. If Monmouth can force WC into third-and-long situations by shutting down the zone-read option game on first and second down, then I think they can be successful. I look for Sinisi to have a typical David afternoon (150 yds. or so) and get in to the end zone a few times. How Frazier handles being the every-series QB will play a huge roll in the game, and as often between these two teams, whoever wins the battle at the line of scrimmage will win the game. I think Wagner will hit a few big plays to its WR's, but in the end, MU's running game and improved defensive play will win out to the tune of a 34-21 Hawks win.

ODU Wrap-up/Bye Week

2009-09-30T16:12:00.002-04:00

First off, thank you Mr. Plautz, I appreciate it. I will say that I didn't see the game being that explosive from a points perspective, but it was a great game to broadcast on the radio with a ton of big plays and the atmosphere down in Norfolk was electric. While my pick was correct from a team and point differential point of view, my 16-14 prediction pailed in comparison to the 31-28 final.

The offense made some major strides against the Monarchs, rolling up a season-high 430 yards of total offense and 259 on the ground. Dave Sinisi was very impressive with a workhorse-like 41 carries and the offensive line paved the way for almost five yards a carry. While we're still awaiting word on the severity of the injury sustained by QB Andrew Mandeville, Kyle Frazier stepped up and helped lead the team to a big road W. Frazier grew up a ton that night and showed MU fans poise and the ability to make plays downfield in the passing game. I was most impressed with his composure in a hostile environment.

Special congrats to Kenny Amsel for picking off his sixth career pass, moving him into a ninth-place tie all-time with Dave Lewis, Steve Covello and Joe Sentipal.

The Hawks are now 2-2 on the season heading in to their bye week. Wagner at home awaits the Hawks on October 10, until then they will heal up some bumps and bruises and gear up for the remainder of league play.

How do you rate the team's performance so far this season?

ODU scout and prediction

2009-09-24T13:51:00.002-04:00

Old Dominion Scouting Report

Offense: Old Dominion lists itself as a “spread” offense, which could mean a variety of things. Some spread teams throw the ball all over the field, others are more balanced and some run exclusively out of it, like Colgate did in the first game. The Monarchs, who average 37.7 points per game, are a relatively balanced team, having run the ball 60% of the time this season, averaging 201.7 yards on the ground. They also throw the ball effectively, averaging 191.7 yards through the air per game this year. ODU is led by dual-threat QB Thomas DeMarco, who leads the team with 189 rushing yards and four TD’s, while also throwing for 496 yards and four more scores. The team’s RB’s, Mario Crawford and Jamar Parham, have been productive, rushing for 174 and 168 yards, respectively. The duo both average at least 5.2 yards per carry and have combined for six touchdowns this season. The Monarchs main receiving threats are Reid Evans and Dorian Jackson. Evans leads the team with 18 grabs for 236 yards while Jackson paces the squad with two touchdowns and 106 receiving threats.

Defense: The Monarchs list themselves as a 4-3 base defensive team on their two-deep. They have played well so far this season, surrendering 21.7 points per game this season. ODU gives up 341.3 total yards per game, including 271.3 passing yards per game. With as much trouble as Old Dominion has had defending the pass, they have been very good against the run, averaging 70 yards per game on the ground and only 2.2 yards per rush. The ODU defense has proven to be especially opportunistic in the season’s first three games, causing 13 turnovers (seven interceptions, six fumbles) for a +9 ratio. Safety Donald Smith and strong side linebacker Mych McJunkins each lead the team with 21 tackles apiece, while Smith has also added two interceptions. Strong safety Craig Wilkins and safety Devon Simmons have also each picked off two passes this season, while Andrew Turner leads the team with 1.5 sacks. The Monarchs as a team have nine sacks, compared to only two for their opponents. Defensive tackle Edmon McClam leads the team with an astounding four blocked kicks this year.

Special Teams: ODU kicker Drew Hareza has had an up and down season, going 5-for-10 on field goals this season. All 10 of his attempts have been from 30 yards and out, as he has gone 4-of-6 from 30-39 yards out and 1-4 from beyond 40 yards. Jonathan Plisco has averaged 43.9 yards per punt this season, pinning the opposition inside the 20-yard line eight times. Mario Crawford leads the team with a 28-yard kickoff return average, going for a long of 76, while TJ Cowart has returned four kickoffs for a 25.2 yard average. Reid Evans is the team’s punt returner, sporting a 3.0 average return per punt.

My take: This game is interesting because while Old Dominion is a first-year program, they have practiced for the last two years and will join the CAA next season. I see this game as very evenly matched, althought the Monarchs are 3-0, they have played two lesser division teams and Jacksonville, a PFL team.

I feel as though MU and ODU will have a back and forth contest, potentially in the rain in southern Virginia on Saturday, with field position and special teams playing a key role. I see ODU stacking the box against Monmouth and RB David Sinisi and forcing the two Hawks QB's, Andrew Mandeville and Kyle Frazier, to make plays in the passing game. If they can, MU will be successful. I think they will to the tune of a hard fought, low-scoring affair, with the Hawks winning 16-14 late.

Duquesne Wrap-up

2009-09-23T14:06:00.002-04:00

While my score prediction was off, I did correctly pick the Hawks against the Dukes, putting my overall record this season at 2-1 (the Hawks are 1-2). MU's defense played very well against the Dukes, displaying an opportunistic (4 forced TO's), bend-but-don't-break (387 yards allowed) unit.

Sinisi did get his 100-yards (122), but he needed 32 carries to get it. I thought Kyle Frazier looked a hair sharper than Andrew Mandeville at QB, but Mandeville threw the day's prettiest ball to Rodney Salomon. Those two will continue to each see time this week against week.

Duquesne Scouting Report/My Prediction

2009-09-17T16:34:00.003-04:00

Offense: The Dukes offense is listed as running “multiple” sets and that is exactly what they do. Duquesne will line up with a fullback and tight end play, and then in a four-wide, shotgun set the next. The versatile offense has not put up very flashy numbers, but it has been very solid in its execution during the first two games this season against very good competition. DU is averaging 385 total yards per game, including a Northeast Conference-high 237.5 passing yards per contest. Much like the Hawks, the Dukes use two QB’s in Kevin Rombach and Michigan State transfer Connor Dixon. Rombach has completed 48.3% of his passes this season for 173 yards with a TD and a pick, while Dixon has connected on 63% of his passes for 302 yards and two TD’s. Another Michigan State transfer, WR Dave Williams, has been both QB’s favorite target with 12 catches for 228 yards and two TD’s. The ground game, which averages almost 150 yards per game, is paced by true freshman Larry McCoy. He has rushed for 226 yards this season on 48 carries, good enough for second in the league.

Defense: Unlike Coastal Carolina, that changed up its defensive fronts seemingly on every play, Duquesne will stick with their base 4-3 defensive alignment. The Dukes have played very well on the defensive side of the ball this year, allowing 289 total yards per game this season. The Dukes have been vulnerable to the opposition’s ground game this season, giving up 208 yards per game and almost five yards per carry. DU only gives up 81 passing yards per game and allows their opponents to complete only 45.2% of their passes. The Dukes have also intercepted four passes and recovered two fumbles this season. Anthony Rhoades leads the team with 17 tackles, while linebacker Nathan Totino is second with 15 stops and two forced fumbles. Duquesne has four sacks and seven passes defended this season, and has only allowed 16.5 points per game this year. The Dukes have also been effective at getting off the field on third downs, allowing opponents to convert only 33% of its third downs.

Special Teams: The Dukes kicker is freshman Eric Duale, who has converted only one-of-three field goals this season. Duale also handles the kickoff duties for the team. They also have a freshman punter in Charlie Leventry, who has punted 10 times for an average of 34.2 yards per kick. He has put half of his punts inside the 20-yard line. Williams also handles the kickoff return chores, averaging 20 yards per return. Willie Milhouse has returned one kick for 42 yards this season. Three players, Williams, Issac Spragg and Justin Melhado have all returned punts this season for a combined average of eight yards per return.

My take: After two weeks of playing teams in higher profile conferences, the Hawks return to the NEC against the Dukes. Duquesne has also played two very good teams, defeating Bucknell and losing to Nicholls State, both teams that run the triple option offense.

I think MU has a favorable match-up this week and should return to their customary balanced offensive production with David Sinisi and QB's Andrew Mandeville and Kyle Frazier. I would look for the Hawks to churn out close to 200 yards on the ground, throwing for another 150 between both QB's. Duquesne QB's Rombach and Dixon are very good also, and WR Williams is a very productive player. The Dukes are a very good team, but I think MU continues to play hard and comes away with a 27-16 win.

Coastal wrap-up

2009-09-15T16:44:00.002-04:00

So I was wrong about the Coastal-Monmouth prediction, which makes me 0-2 on the season, even though I correctly predicted MU would score 17 points. Also, I predicted the Hawks would score 21 at Colgate and they scored 23. Hopefully this week, my score AND prediction will be right on.

Monmouth was right there with Coastal despite being outgained by over 2-to-1 in total yards. The Hawks defense made two key interceptions to set up both TD's and showed some real mettle in the contest.

This week, the Hawks open up league play against Duquesne. I feel MU has a favorable match-up this week, even though the Dukes have played very well this season, beating Bucknell and falling by a touchdown at Nicholls State.

I will have a full preview and prediction up on Thursday, in the meantime, what are your predictions for the game, which is Monmouth's home opener.

Coastal Carolina Scouting Report

2009-09-10T17:13:00.002-04:00

Coastal Carolina Scouting Report

Offense: Coastal Carolina will try to be very close to a 50-50 run-pass team no matter what formation they line up in. The Chants ran it 58% of the time last season, but do have the capability to put up big passing numbers. They will utilize the shotgun, but will also run plays from under center with a fullback. Teams like this, balanced teams that utilize multiple offensive formations, are difficult to defend because of the unknown factor. Last season, the Chants went shotgun, no-huddle against the Hawks and threw the ball for 233 yards. This season, in CCU’s 18-0 loss at FBS-member Kent State last week, they gained 185 yards, only 78 of which came on the ground. Wake Forest transfer QB Zach MacDowall went 12-of-26 passing for 107 yards with an interception and 25 yards rushing against the Golden Flashes last week. Last season he passed was 17-of-26 for 233 yards through the air against the Hawks. True freshman Jeremy Height, who rushed 14 times for 52 yards against Kent State, saw the bulk of the carries last week for Coastal. Junior Marquel Willis led the way with three catches for 37 yards last week for CCU.

Defense: The Chants will play a 4-3 defensive alignment and all three linebackers return this season after seeing extensive time a year ago. Coastal lost last week at Kent State 18-0, but that score is misleading, as the Golden Flashes led at the half only 2-0. CCU held the Flashes to 3.6 yards per carry and intercepted KSU QB Giorgio Morgan twice. Last season, the defensive unit limited MU to 267 total yards when the two squads met in West Long Branch. Safety Dominique Davenport, who had last season cut short by an injury just four games, and corner Josh Norman led CCU with six tackles apiece against Kent State. Last season, Coastal gave up 355 yards per game, including 167.8 yards per game on the ground. CCU did record seven tackles for loss last week and three sacks, so they were able to get pressure on the QB. In the first half against the Golden Flashes, Coastal’s defense forced four punts, record a pick, held KSU on a fourth down attempt and saw the Flashes miss a field goal.

Special Teams: Junior Justin Durham is Coastal Carolina’s kicker, and he missed his only attempt last week, a 43-yarder. He was CCU’s kicker last season as well, converting 9-of-16 field goals and 21-of-25 extra points. Junior Ben Erdman is the Chants punter, and he was a busy man against Kent State, punting eight times for an average of 34.6 yards per kick with a long of 45. Tre Henderson return two kickoffs for 21 yards last week, and he along with Height and DJ McNeill will handle the kickoff returns, with Josh Norman returning punts.

My take: CCU is probably the most talented team the Hawks will face the season. They have speed and size all over the field and present difficult match-ups for MU all over the field. As much as I want to pick the Hawks, I have a hard time predicting a Monmouth win in this spot. I do think the Hawks offense will move the ball and Sinisi will have a solid game, but I see the Chants coming through with a 31-17 win.

Colgate Scouting Report/MU Game Notes/Prediction

2009-09-03T13:21:00.003-04:00

Colgate Scouting Report

Offense: On offense, the ‘gate runs exclusively out of the shotgun, but they are not necessarily a spread offense; they still use basic personnel groupings (multiple backs and a tight end). They will run the all day, as evidenced by the fact they ran it 83% of the time a season ago. The Raiders featured one of the most explosive offenses in the Patriot League a season ago, ranking second in points scored (30.2.ppg) and total offense (416.5 ypg), while pacing the PL and ranking fifth nationally in rushing offense (267.7. ypg). They also led the league in rushing TD’s (35) and averaged 5.1 yards per carry last season. The Raiders did lose the leading rusher in school and Patriot League history in Jordan Scott (5,621 yards), but return their next five leading ball carriers from a season ago. Leading the way is junior dual-threat QB Greg Sullivan, who passed for 1,695 yards and ran for another 898 while accounting for 19 total TD’s last year. Also back is the reigning Patriot League Rookie of the Year Nate Eachus, who ran for 932 yards and 10 touchdowns as a freshman. When they do throw it, Sullivan will look for 6-6 Preseason All-America Pat Simonds (65 catches, 1,136 yds., 9 TD’s).

Defense: Defensively, the Raiders run a 4-3 scheme. They ranked among the lower tier of Patriot League teams, allowing 29.1 points per game (sixth in the PL) and surrendering 378.8 yards per game (last in the league). They allowed a league-high 21 passing TD’s and 23 rushing TD’s a season ago. The ‘gate ranked last in the PL in red zone defense, allowing scores on 84% of its opposition’s possessions and also a league-high 32 touchdowns. The Raiders do return 10 of their 12 leading tacklers from a season ago, led by linebacker Greg Hadley (80 tackles, 3 TFL). Senior strong safety Uzi Idah (62 tackles, 6 TFL, 5 pass break-ups) also returns to lead the secondary. While the Raiders defense did allow the second most points in the PL a season ago, they did generate 18 turnovers.

Special Teams: The Raiders will break in a new placekicker and punter this season in true freshmen Evan Colborne and Evan Goldszak. Colborne will also handle kickoffs this season. In high school, he punted and also kicked, but it will still be high first collegiate action. Goldszak served as team captain in high school and will also make his college debut against Monmouth. Both of the ‘gate’s projected returnmen, John Schademan and Jamar Brown, are also freshmen, making the Raiders specialists a very young unit.

GoMUHawks.com Official Preview: http://www.gomuhawks.com/ViewArticle.dbml?SPSID=67823&SPID=7664&DB_OEM_ID=14300&ATCLID=204784921

My take: I think this Saturday's game will be a classic old-school, smash-mouth football game between two very well-coached teams. The first game of the year is always touch and go and you will probably see more on the fly adjustment the first few weeks of the season than at any other time during the season.

I think MU matches up very well against Colgate on both sides of the ball, but with that being said, this will be a very competitive contest. David Sinisi begins his FCS All-American candidacy with a 100+ yard-effort and I think the defense will do a good job of containing Eachus and Sullivan on the ground. This game could be a very quick one, as both teams will pound the rock on the ground and I don't think we will see many passes.

I think the Hawks make more big plays in the end, win the battle of field position and come home from upstate NY with a 21-14 win.

Game Week....

2009-09-01T13:36:00.002-04:00

The first game of the season is here as the Hawks will venture up to upstate NY to take on Colgate on Saturday. Kickoff is set for 6pm and the game will be broadcast on The Shore Sports Network, FoxSports 1310 AM and WOBM 1160 AM.

I will have a complete Colgate preview up later in the week, in the meantime, I want to know what you think about the first game of the 2009 season here....

John Nalbone is getting some serious love in Miami...

2009-08-25T11:37:00.001-04:00

http://www.thephinsider.com/2009/8/25/1001226/dolphins-depth-chart-bubble-watch

Listed third on the latest depth chart, Nalbone is playing to rave reviews from The Phinsider in Miami.

"John Nalbone is an excellent blocking tight end - at least from what I could tell from the first two preseason games. And I think since the Dolphins and Dan Henning like using two tight end sets, I don't see the Dolphins keeping only two tight ends. Right now, Nalbone has outplayed Joey Haynos. He's consistently caught the ball in camp (and in the team scrimmage a few weeks back) and, like I said, has really impressed me with his blocking ability. I'm officially the founder of the John Nalbone bandwagon - hop on while there's still room. "

First Scrimmage in the books

2009-08-21T16:31:00.004-04:00

The first 2009 preseason scrimmage for the Monmouth University football team is complete, and we learned some things today after the 100-play team activity.

First off, we learned this team is mentally tough, because it was stifling hot outside today, even with the breeze from the ocean. Second, QB Kyle Frazier looked very sharp in operating the first team offense. He can make every throw in the book, and looked good setting up screens, throwing the deep ball and putting touch on passes when he had to. Third, the defensive line played very well, and should anchor that side of the ball.

The highlights of the day were Frazier hitting receiver Darvin Henderson on a third and long, and then hitting tight end Mike Roeder on a beautiful touch pass down the right sideline.

Back-up QB Craig Peterson made some very nice throws, one to rookie WR Mike Plautz and the other to WR Keith McPherson, who made a terrific one-handed grab for a touchdown. The other scoring plays were:

1) a 28-yard TD run from David Sinisi, who went up the middle and bounced outside to find the end zone.

2) The McPherson grab from Peterson.

3) Freshman RB Justin Pandorf scored on a bruising run, bowling over defenders on the way to the end zone.

4) Frazier connected with Rodney Salomon on a seam route up the right hash.

5) K Jake DelVento drilled a 46-yard field goal.

The team will scrimmage again in one week. What are your thoughts from today's scrimmage? How do you rate the QB's performances? How did the defense look?

First Scrimmage Today!!

2009-08-21T10:59:00.002-04:00

The Monmouth football team will have its first of two scrimmages today at 2:00 pm on Kessler Field. Should be good to see how the players are progressing in camp with the Colgate contest two weeks away. These are some things I will take a closer look at today at the scrimmage, which is open to the public:

1) How will the QB battle play out?

Right now, junior Andrew Mandeville and redshirt freshman Kyle Frazier have been taking the first-team snaps. The 5-9 Mandeville, a Raritan High School graduate, is the better runner of the two, while 6-3 Frazier, a Maryland native, is the more polished passer.

2) Who will replace the departed John Nalbone?

The Hawks lost the best tight end in school, and arguably league history, when the Miami Dolphins made Nalbone the first MU player ever drafted. Now, the void to fill his spot is left between returners Mike Roeder, Richard Burd, Tyler George and Chris Luma.

3) With the graduation of Steve Dowens and Chris Kiley, who will step up in the receiving corps?

Right now, the Rodney "Hot Rod" Salomon and Nick Romeo appear to the clear-cut top two receivers. Players in the mix to see the field include Darvin Henderson, Alex Laipple, Ron Lauch, Josh Vallejos ad converted QB Ryan Folsom. How quickly those players grasp the offense all depends on a variety of issues. For Henderson and Vallejoes, it depends on how quickly they grasp the offense. For Lauch, it's if he can stay healthy this season. Laipple has looked good in camp while Folsom is learning a new position.

There will be a report after the scrimmage, so check back later today...

Monmouth Football Now on Shore Sports Network!!

2009-08-21T10:57:00.001-04:00

"The Monmouth University Department of Athletics, in conjunction with its multi-media marketing rights holder Nelligan Sports Marketing, announced a partnership with New Jersey’s Millennium Radio Group to broadcast all of the Hawks’ football games during the 2009 season on The Shore Sports Network, Fox Sports 1310 and 1160 WOBM AM."

This is a huge step forward for the football team and the department as a whole. Matt Harmon and myself will call the action this season.

2009 season is upon us!!

2009-08-19T11:49:00.002-04:00

The 2009 season is rapidly approaching and camp is heating up, literally and figuratively. The squad is in two-a-days now (and for the next two weeks or so) and has its first scrimmage of preseason camp Friday at 2pm.

The Hawks were selected second in the NEC Preseason Poll, as voted on by the league's head coaches. Albany was selected first for the fourth straight season with Central Connecticut State claiming third in the poll ahead of Sacred Heart in fourth and Robert Morris in fifth. Embarking on its second NEC season, Duquesne was chosen sixth while new league member Bryant took seventh. Wagner, in eighth, and Saint Francis (PA), in ninth, round out the preseason selections.

MU's David Sinisi and Shawn Wright landed on the All-NEC Preseason First Team, marking the only two Hawks to claim the honor.

Monmouth-Sacred Heart

2008-11-07T10:49:00.002-05:00

The Hawks take on Sacred Heart on Saturday in a battle for sole possession of second place in the conference. The Pioneers come into the game at 8-1 and 4-1 in the conference, while Monmouth is 5-4 and 4-1 in the NEC.

Sacred Heart has caught the spread fever like most teams in the country, but they are the only NEC team to run a true spread offense. QB Dale Fink will be in the shotgun for the majority of the game and looks to get the ball out of his hands fast and into those of his WR's. RB Evin Jones has almost 1,200 yards on the ground balancing out the Pioneers. Their defense is small, but very opportunistic and tackles well.

This game does mark a contrast in offensive styles, and I think which ever team wins the time of possession battle will come out on top. While SHU runs a spread, they arent a no-huddle, hurry-up offense. That being said, Monmouth can grind it out with David Sinisi and their controlled passing attack. I think Sinisi is in for a big afternoon to bounce back from the Albany game and that the MU defensive backfield should look to play the ball b/c Fink has a penchant for throwing picks,

It is supposed to rain tomorrow, but not be very cold. The rain could have a slight effect on SHU's rhythmic passing game, which helps MU running attack. I think the MU offensive line will impose their will on the smaller SHU front and Sinisi will be in for a big day. The Pioneers will score points, but not as many as the Hawks, and MU will come away with win, 31-23 win.

Monmouth-Albany

2008-11-01T17:52:00.003-04:00

The Hawks led 14-0 today against Albany, but ended up falling 35-17 to the Great Danes. This puts MU's chances at representing the NEC in the Gridiron Classic at very slim as Albany has a one game lead with games at Robert Morris and vs. Wagner while the Hawks have to play Sacred Heart, who they are tied with in second place, and Duquesne. This mark's the second straight season that Albany has topped Monmouth, and the Great Danes now have the inside track towards their second straight league title.

Albany

2008-10-31T18:25:00.003-04:00

This weekend's game with Albany (1:00 pm, WMCX) is the biggest of the season for the Hawks as they take on Albany, who is undefeated in the NEC just as MU is. The contest will be a hard fough, grind it out style game as both teams will run the football. Conversely, both defense do a good job against the run, so it will be interesting to see who can impose their will on the other team.

I believe that MU's David Sinisi and the offensive line will establish tempo and Brett Burke is the difference. The QB from Wall has been nothing but steady in his time under center (or in Monmouth's case, in the Pistol), and I believe the fifth-year senior, as well as MU's linebackers, will determine the outcome of this one. No prediction, because the Hawks have won 5 straight, with most of them not having one, so we're keeping that trend going. I will be back tomorrow night to check in after the game and sort out the entire NEC picture.

Monmouth's Homecoming win over CCSU

2008-10-26T15:07:00.002-04:00

The Hawks defeated Central Connecticut State 30-20 on Homecoming this past Saturday. Monmouth looked especially good in the game as they appeared in control for the majority of the contest. Central took a 6-0 lead early, but MU responded with 27 unanswered points to take control. Walter Payton Award watch list member, awarded to the best player in FCS, David Sinisi had another stellar day with 194 rushign yards and four touchdowns. With those four scores, Sinisi ties former Wagner back Rick Sarille for the all-time conference lead with 300 points.

From my perspective, the Hawks probably could have scored 50 points in the game with how Sinisi was running. TE John Nalbone had a huge first half and then was pretty quiet, but the game was never in doubt after halftime.

With the stretch run coming and Monmouth down to their final three games for the NEC Championship, including this week's HUGE game at Albany, the blog will turn up the coverage and deliver two updates a week before gameday. I'd like to know your thoughts as well as MU makes a push for the league title.

Monmouth-Wagner

2008-10-11T16:35:00.002-04:00

The Hawks won their fourth straight game, and third straight to open NEC play, with a 31-17 win over Wagner on Saturday. MU rushed for 195 yards and Brett Burke was an efficient 23-of-28 on the day completing passes. More on this game to come early this week, but I want to pose the question to you out there, is Monmouth hitting the stride? The Hawks have now scored 30 or more points in each of their last four games, all wins.

I look forward to responses, and I will catch up with everyone early this week.

Monmouth-Saint Francis

2008-10-05T12:33:00.003-04:00

The Hawks are rolling now after winning their third straight, and second consecutive NEC game to open league play, over Saint Francis 42-15 on Saturday. David Sinisi ran for a school-record 247 yards in the game on 32 carries (7.7 ypc!!) and scored four rushing TD's. The funny thing about Sinisi's performance is that he could have probably gained about another 50 yards easily, but with the game well in hand got some time to rest late in the 4th quarter.

The Game Ball (something new I'd like to introduce to the blog) goes to the offensive line, who opened up holes so big in the Red Flash defense that I might have been able to run for about 80 yards on Saturday, and only b/c I run about 8.5 40-yard dash. The o-line continued to get the job done, and all the credit in the world goes to Nick LoCastro, Joe Hurley, Andrew Musick, Shawn Wright and Kevin Sterling up front. Also, tight end John Nalbone, who also had a career-high 91 receiving yards, and RB Marion Easley deserve a lot of credit for their job blocking.

That was the best I have personally seen the Hawks look all season, and if it wasnt for a lull in the second quarter, they probably could have scored 60.

Monmouth-Robert Morris

2008-09-29T10:25:00.003-04:00

The Hawks came home from Western PA with a 34-26 win over Robert Morris. The offense played very well, rolling up 456 yards of total offense in the win. Not to sound like a coach here, but anytime you get a conference road win, it's a good start, and the Hawks are off to a 1-0 start in the league.

Monmouth is now 2-3 on the season and has scored 30 or more points in each of their last two games, both wins.

Robert Morris Scouting Report/Analysis/Prediction

2008-09-26T10:57:00.002-04:00

Robert Morris is 1-2 after beating Morehead State (Phil Simms' alma mater for those Giants fans) and losing to Bucknell and Dayton. The Colonials are coached by the legendary Joe Walton, who like Monmouth’s Kevin Callahan, started the Robert Morris football program from scratch 14 years ago. Walton, the former head man of the New York Jets from 1983-89, has compiled an 87-57-1 in his time in Moon Township. Walton’s teams have won five Northeast Conference championships since the inception of the league in 1996. Walton led the Colonials to back-to-back I-AA Mid-Major National Championships in 1999 and 2000, including going 10-0 in 2000. The 1957 Pittsburgh graduate also spent time with the Pittsburgh Steelers, Washington Redskins and New York Giants in his time in the National Football League.

Offense: Robert Morris runs a pro-style offense and is a very balanced team, sporting almost an exact 50-50 run-pass ratio. The Colonials rank seventh in the eight-team Northeast Conference in scoring, averaging 18.3 points per game. Their seven touchdowns are tied for second to last in the conference along with Albany. They average 381.7 yards of total offense per game, good enough for third in the league. RMU ranks second in the NEC in passing, averaging 262.7 yards through the air per game, but ranks sixth in rushing, averaging 119.0 yards per contest on the ground. The Colonials are led offensively by quarterback Erik Cwalinski, who has completed 48.9% of his passes for 713 yards with three touchdowns and four interceptions. RMU has a very dangerous duo of wide receivers in Sherrod Evers and James O’Quinn, who have combined for 28 catches for 527 yards and three touchdowns. Their leading rusher is Myles Russ, who has gained 293 yards (6.2 ypc) and a touchdown. RMU’s offense has converted 40% of their third down chances this season, but has only converted 4-of-10 chances in the red zone (two TD’s).

Defense: RMU ranks third in the conference in scoring defense, giving up 20.3 points per game and they have allowed the second fewest touchdowns (eight) in the NEC. The Colonials have been stout against the run, allowing 112.7 ypg and only 2.8 yards per attempt. Robert Morris also ranks third in the league in pass defense, surrendering 182.3 yards through the air per contest. The RMU defense is led by sophomore linebacker Alex DiMichele, who leads the NEC with 40 tackles. Adam Lawrence ranks second on the squad with 26 stops. Junior defensive end Mark Szymanski leads the team, and the NEC, with six tackles for loss and is tied with Lawrence for the team lead with 1.5 sacks. Junior strong safety Michael Landers leads the team with two interceptions and also has 1.5 tackles for loss on the season. The Colonials are limiting the opposition to only 34% third down conversions, but have allowed scores on 67% of their opponents red zone trips, including touchdowns on 67% of those scores.

Special Teams: Garrett Clawson is RMU’s kicker, and so far he has converted 2-of-5 field goals and all seven of his extra points. Chris Kozak is their main return specialist, leading the squad with four punt returns for 37 yards (9.2 avg.) and nine kickoff returns for 182 yards (20.2 avg.). Robert Morris does allow 22.7 yards per kick return and 13.9 yards per punt return on the season thus far.

My take on Robert Morris and my prediction:

The Colonials run a lot of NFL-type formations on offense, which is a direct of influence of Walton's extensive time in the league. On defense, RMU is solid and possess a solid D-line and linebacking corps. Their QB Cwalinski is big and not mobile in the sense that he will break big runs, but he is mobile within the pocket and always is looking downfield. RB Russ is a game-breaker, but hasn't had a game where he firmly establishes himself as the game's best runner.

The Hawks and Colonials have had some epic contests, most notably MU's 29-27 win in Moon Township on a last second tipped pass in the end zone three years ago. The Colonials represent the "old guard" of the NEC, even though the league is still fairly young. They have won the conference five times and along with the Hawks and Albany represent the NEC's traditional powers.

I believe weather will be an issue as rain is expected in the Pittsburgh area on Saturday. If that is the case, I believe that it falls in MU's favor because they possess the superior running game and run defense, while Robert Morris would prefer ideal conditions for their passing game. I do think David Sinisi will run for 100 yards again and that Burke will manage the offense well. I would look for TE John Nalbone to have a big afternoon as well. Defensively, I think MU will get after Cwalinksi, even though the QB will put up numbers if the weather allows. After all is said and done, I think the game will be very competitive and come down to special teams and the kicking game, where the Hawks hold the advantage with Fred Weingart. The Hawks control the tempo of the game and I think they outlast Robert Morris in a defensive contest, prevailing 20-17 in another close call with the Colonials.

Monmouth-Bryant

2008-09-20T15:57:00.003-04:00

The Hawks defeated Bryant 30-17 on Saturday afternoon in Rhode Island. MU received a huge day from running back David Sinisi, who ran for 171 yards and two touchdowns. QB Brett Burke also had a great afternoon, completing 13-of-15 passes for 150 yards and a score. Special recognition goes out to WR Steve Dowens, who caught two passes for 75 yards.

This was the first week I did a prediction and did not correctly predict the exact score difference ( I said MU would win 27-16), but I will take the win. Monmouth played well in the game and got a solid win over a good football team in Bryant. I will have my complete scouting report for Robert Morris later in the week.

Meanwhile, enjoy the weekend of football (go Giants) and catch you all soon.

Bryant Scouting Report/Analysis/Prediction

2008-09-19T12:54:00.002-04:00

Bryant is 2-1 after losing to NEC member CCSU 42-35 and beating Division II opponents Southern Connecticut and Merrimack. Marty Fine is in his fifth season at the helm of Bryant, sporting a 29-15 record in his time in Smithfield. Fine, who has led the Bulldogs to at least seven wins in each of the last three seasons, has two Northeast-10 Conference championships and two NCAA playoff appearances to his credit in his four seasons as head coach. The Western New Mexico graduate is leading Bryant into Division I, and eventually the Northeast Conference in 2012, during this transitional period.

Offense: Bryant’s offense is predicated on a power running game; in an age where the spread offense and multiple receiver sets rule, the Bulldogs prefer lining up with a fullback or two-tight end set. They run the ball 64% of the time, and their head coach and playcaller, Marty Fine, is a former offensive lineman who would love to control the line of scrimmage. Bryant averages 31.3 points per game and averages 11 more minutes in time of possession than the opposition. Their primary ball carrier is Jerell Smith, a Howard transfer, who has 444 yards on 75 carries (5.9 ypc) this season to go along with three touchdowns. Smith is averaging 148 yards per game on the ground for a team that averages 192 rushing yards per contest. Jay Graber is the Bulldogs’ quarterback, and he has completed 55.4% of his passes for 497 yards (165.7 ypg) with five touchdowns and four interceptions. Ross Giffune has proven to be Graber’s favorite target with eight catches for 77 yards, but Vinton Smith is their big-play threat with seven grabs for 121 yards (17.3 ypc).

Defense: The Bulldogs give up an average of 28.3 points and 401 yards of total offense per game to their opponents so far this season. While they give up 143.7 yards rushing per game, BU gives up 257.3 yards passing per game so far this year, but does hold opponents to under 50% completions. Bryant’s defense has proven opportunistic this season, forcing 16 turnovers for a +10 margin. Bryce Martins leads the team with 24 tackles while Paul Polomski has 22 tackles to go along with two picks. Defensive back Samad Wagstaff leads the squad with five interceptions and also has two pass break-ups. Don Smith is a versatile defender, stuffing the stat sheet with a team-high 3.5 tackles for loss and two sacks, as well as five quarterback hurries, one pass break-up, one fumble forced and recovered and one blocked kick. The Bulldogs defense only allows opponents to convert 38% of their third down chances as well.

Special Teams: Leading rusher Jerell Smith is also the team’s kickoff return leader with 12 returns for 214 yards (17.8 ypr). Ryan Buckley has also returned a pair of kickoffs for 58 yards for the Bulldogs. Bryant has struggled in the punt return game, as two Bulldogs have combined on five returns for 20 yards. Chris Bird is 4-for-7 kicking, but just 1-of-3 from beyond 40 yards. Brian Donnelly is BU’s punter, and has averaged 35.5 ypp, but has gotten two kicks blocked already this season.

My take on Bryant and my prediction:

The Bulldogs believe in old school, power football and will try to establish the line of scrimmage against MU. Monmouth has been effective against the run this season and their 135.7 rushing yards per game allowed, which is third in the NEC, is slightly misleading. I believe that the Hawks should be able to contain the Bryant running game for the most part, and will force the Bulldogs into some third-and-longs, which they are not built to convert.

The game will be close, but I believe Dave Sinisi, Brett Burke and the Monmouth offense will get things going early and score some points. I think Monmouth plays from ahead in this game, forcing Bryant to abandon their power running game and making them more one-dimensional than they want to be. I think that Sinisi has a big day, around 150 yards rushing and at least one touchdown, and Burke is his normal efficient self. I also like what I’ve seen out of the Monmouth special teams recently, and a few big kick returns set Monmouth up with a short field. The Hawks convert their red-zone chances with TD’s and MU will come away with a 27-16 win.

Week 3 Wrap-up

2008-09-15T09:57:00.003-04:00

As some people have pointed out to me, I didn't make a prediction this past weekend. The reason for that was selfish, I thought my predictions were bad luck and I was trying to shake it up a little; that plan backfired.

Coastal Carolina is a talented team with athletes at every position and I would be shocked if they didn't win the Big South this year. As for the Hawks, it was a rough day, but there were some positives to take away. Nick Romeo had a good day receiving and Jose Gumbs lowered the boom on a few Chanticleers from his safety spot.

This week, MU travels to take on future NEC member Bryant in Rhode Island, their second trip to the Ocean State this year. I will have a full preview and PREDICTION up by Thursday/Friday.

Week 2 Wrap-up

2008-09-10T15:09:00.001-04:00

For the second straight week, my predicted score differential was spot on, but again I picked the wrong team. Maine defeated Monmouth 21-17 on a deflected touchdown pass on a 4th and 21 late in the fourth quarter. While the Hawks did an excellent job on tailback Jhamal Fluellen, defensive end Javon Belcher had a big game for Maine.

MU running back David Sinisi did become the program's all-time leading rusher in the game, eclipsing Chris Reed's previous record. This week, Monmouth takes on Coastal Carolina, who lost to Penn State (66-10) and Colgate (23-19) this season.

I will have my complete scouting report for the Chanticleers (which is, according the CCU media guide, a rooster who rules the barn with cunning and wit) up on Friday along with my prediction.

Maine Scouting Report/Analysis/Prediction

2008-09-05T13:29:00.002-04:00

The Black Bears went 4-7 last season and lost to Iowa 46-3 last week. Jack Cosgrove is entering his 16th season as the head coach of Maine and sports an 80-91 record at the helm of the Black Bears. He began his coaching career as a graduate assistant coach at Maine in 1978 and after stints as the head coach of Stoughton High School in Massachusetts and an offensive assistant at Boston College, he returned to Orono in 1987. He was named Atlantic 10 Coach of the Year in 1996 and 2001 and is tied with Harold Westerman for the most coaching wins all-time at Maine.

Offensive Scouting Report: Maine began their season on the road at Iowa of the BIG TEN on Saturday, losing 46-3. In the game, the Black Bears gained 220 yards of total offense, including 137 on the ground. Preseason All-Colonial Athletic Association running back Jhamal Fluellen gained 104 yards on 21 carries in the contest. Last year, Fluellen gained 1,052 yards and five touchdowns and is the focal point of the Maine offense. Derek Session also gained 21 yards on four carries for UM. The Black Bears struggled throwing the football as quarterback Adam Farkes was 9-22 passing against the Hawkeyes with a pair on interceptions. He threw for 83 yards, 40 of which belong to receiver Michael Brusko. Last season, the Black Bears ranked 11th in the 12-team CAA in scoring offense, averaging 16.9 points per game, but the Black Bears did rank fourth in the CAA in rushing, averaging a shade under 179 yards per game on the ground.

Defensive Scouting Report: Maine’s defense surrendered 457 yards of total offense to Iowa last Saturday, including 212 passing yards and 245 yards on the ground. Preseason CAA Defensive Player of the Year Jovan Belcher, a senior defensive end, led the UM defense with nine tackles, including one for loss. Sophomore linebacker Levi Erwin was second on the team with seven stops. The Black Bears picked off one pass and broke up three others against the Hawkeyes. The Maine defense returns eight starters to last year’s unit which ranked seventh in the CAA in scoring defense, giving up 24.5 points per game. The Black Bears ranked fourth in pass defense in the league (191.1 ypg), fifth in rushing defense (146.0 ypg) and fourth in overall defense. When the UM defense allowed the opposition to reach the red zone, they scored, as they gave up scores on 95.7 % of their chances, including 17 touchdowns.

Special Teams Scouting Report: Maine’s kickoff return team averaged 14.8 yards per return against Iowa, as they brought back five kickoffs for 74 yards. Trevor Coston led the Black Bears with four returns for 52 yards. Brian Harvey hit his only field goal against Iowa, connecting on a 40-yarder. Kash Kiefer is Maine’s punter, hitting seven punts for 279 yards.

My take on Maine and my prediction:

For the second straight week, Monmouth takes on a team from the Colonial Athletic Association. Last season the Hawks and Maine squared off to begin the 2007 campaign, with Monmouth falling to the Black Bears 21-14 in Orono.

Traditionally, Maine is a very strong defensive team that relies on that unit for field position for the offense. The Black Bears are no different this year as they tout Preseason CAA Defensive Player of the Year Javon Belcher at defensive end. They can also run the ball with reigning All-CAA running back Jhamal Fluellen, who last week cracked the century mark. Weather has the potential to affect tomorrow’s game as Hurrican Hanna makes her way up the coast. In bad weather games, the advantage normally goes to the team that can run the ball and stop the run, and to that point both teams can do both of those things well.

If Dave Sinisi can offset what Fluellen produces in the run game, that will be a huge point for the Hawks. Monmouth has the advantage throwing the football, but depending on the severity of the weather, that may not be an issue. At last check, it was supposed to be in the upper 70’s temp. wise with rain and wind expected to be around 15-25 mph. That weather, combined with two teams that can run the ball and do stop the run means we could be looking at a low-scoring affair.
Whoever scores early will have the advantage in this contest. Last week, my score differential of three was correct, and this week, it will also be a close game. I think Monmouth carries their momentum from last week’s strong second half performance into this week’s game, Sinisi has another 100-yard game and the defense contains Fluellen to the tune of a 17-13 Monmouth win.

Week 1 Wrap-up

2008-09-02T11:41:00.000-04:00

Monmouth fell to Rhode Island 27-24 on Saturday in a very competitive game that saw MU fall behind 17-3 at the half but battle all the way back to cut it to three with 1:19 left before an illegal procedure penalty negated John Nalbone’s recovered onside kick.

The Hawks were balanced offensively, gaining 180 yards through the air and 140 on the ground, 138 of which came from Dave Sinisi. The MU defense held Rhode Island to 93 yards rushing, but the Rams passed for 257 yards in their new spread offense under new head coach Darren Rizzi.

Monmouth played very well after halftime, outscoring URI 21-10. Quarterback Brett Burke bounced back from a rough first half to throw a pair of touchdowns after halftime and 10 different receivers (!!!) caught passes. The Hawks played a very good game, and along with Albany, who fell 28-16 at UMASS, did the NEC proud on the opening weekend.

This week, MU hosts Maine, who lost at Iowa 46-3 this past Saturday. I will preview the match-up later this week, and this is the first of two consecutive home games that the Hawks will play against schools that opened up with Football Bowl Subdivision schools (next week they play Coastal Carolina, who lost 66-10 at Penn State).

MU-Rhode Island

2008-08-30T19:34:00.003-04:00

My score prediction difference of three was correct, but my team was not as the Hawks fell 27-24 to Rhode Island today. I will have my complete analysis of the game up on Tuesday, but I'd like to hear from those fans who were in attendance as to how it was in person.

Have a great Jersey Shore Labor Day weekend everyone and I will catch up with you on Tuesday.

Rhode Island Scouting Report/Analysis/Prediction

2008-08-29T10:47:00.000-04:00

Rhode Island went 3-8 in 2007 and let go head coach Tim Stowers last season. Enter Darren Rizzi, former Rutgers assistant, who takes over in his first season as the head coach of the Rams. This is Rizzi’s, a 1992 graduate of Rhode Island, second career head coaching job after leading New Haven from 1999-2001. He was the youngest head coach in the NCAA (28) at the time of his hire at New Haven and he is now the youngest head coach (38) in the Colonial Athletic Association.

Offensive Scouting Report: The Rams finished last season ranked ninth in scoring offense in the CAA, averaging 20.7 ppg. They placed eighth in the 12-team league in total offense (347.9 ypg), finishing last in passing (118.) ypg), but did finish third in rushing (229.9 ypg) in the league. URI also finished 11th in third down conversion percentage (35.3 %) and finished last in red zone offense, scoring 72.2 % of the time (26-36, 20 TD’s). Senior running back Joe Casey led the Rams in rushing with 782 yards in eight games last season (97.8 ypg), but missed the final three games of the year. Rhode Island does return five of their six leading rushers from a season ago. Quarterback Derek Cassidy returns after finishing fourth on the team in rushing (252 yards, five TD’s). He completed 49.7 % of his passes (76-153) for 1,025 yards with five touchdowns and six interceptions. Rhode Island returns their top eight pass catchers from a year ago, led by wide receiver Shawn Leonard (34 catches for 440 yards). Former Monmouth offensive coordinator Mark Fabish is also now quarterbacks coach for URI.

Defensive Scouting Report: The Rhode Island defense finished 11th in their conference in scoring defense (32.7 ppg), allowing 48 touchdowns in 11 games, and total defense, giving up 408.5 yards per game. They placed 10th in pass defense (234.8 ypg) and seventh in rush defense (173.6 ypg), while forcing 23 turnovers last year. The Rams did stiffen when the opposition entered their 20-yard line last season, ranking fifth in red zone defense, allowing scores on 76.5 % of drives (39-51), but they did surrender 33 touchdowns in those chances. Gone is leading tackler LT Brantley and his 76 stops and team-high two forced fumbles, but the Rams return second-leading tackler Matt Hansen and his team-leading 44 solo tackles. URI’s defense did log 28 pass break-ups and 11 interceptions last year, but only sacked opposing quarterbacks 13 times, which placed them 11th in the CAA.

Special Teams Scouting Report: URI’s special teams unit ranked near the bottom of the CAA in most statistical categories in 2007. The Rams ranked ninth in yards per kick return (19.6 avg.) and placed 10th in punting, averaging 29.5 net yards per attempt. Rhode Island ranked last in the league in punt returns (3.8 yards per return) and they converted 9-of-14 field goal opportunities. They did recover 2-of-4 on-side kicks last season to lead the conference. The Rams graduated all-conference punter Bryan Giannecchini, and two unproven underclassmen, Pedro Belinchon and Louis Feinstein, will compete for time at both the kicker and punter positions.

My take on Rhode Island and my prediction:

While Monmouth plays a level up against the Colonial Athletic Association’s Rams, the Hawks are no strangers to defeating teams from quality conferences in the Football Championship Subdivision. MU defeated Fordham 23-9, Colgate 17-12 and Morgan State 26-9 back in 2006 and also defeated Georgetown in both 2003 and 2004. Last season, the Hawks only lost to Maine by a touchdown and also played against Delaware, who played for the FCS Championship last year. This season, the Hawks return 19 of 22 starters this season, including multiple all-conference selections from last year.

Last year, Rhode Island ran the ball exceptionally well, but had a difficult time throwing the football. Monmouth’s defensive strength appears to lie in a very talented defensive backfield and deep linebacker and defensive line corps. The Rams will have the chance to move the football against the Hawks, but look for MU to bend but not break against URI and force field goal chances. The game could be decided by how efficient the MU offense is, because if Rhode Island can run the ball and control the clock, it falls into their favor. If Dave Sinisi has a big day running the football and the MU offensive line controls the line of scrimmage, the Hawks will be able to control the game’s tempo.

I believe Monmouth will be able to control the line and the defense will fly around the football and be fired up to make plays. I see Sinisi having a typical Sinisi day, around 100 yards, and Brett Burke will be his typical efficient self. The game will come down to a few big plays that will swing momentum, and I like the Hawks to be the beneficiaries of those big plays, and pull the upset against the Rams. MU will score a defensive/special teams touchdown and at least one offensive touchdown, in addition to a few Fred Weingart field goals, and win the game 20-17.

Week 1: Rhode Island

2008-08-25T11:47:00.003-04:00

Good morning Monmouth fans, the greatest time of the year is officially upon us, football season is less than a week away!! The Hawks open up the 2008 season against the Colonial Athletic Association's Rhode Island Rams on Saturday, August 30 at 1:00 p.m. in Kingston, R.I. I will have a full game preview up on Friday detailing all aspects of the contest and a complete Rhode Island scouting report as well, so stay tuned.

NEC Preseason Coaches Poll/Monmouth Selected Second

2008-08-12T13:53:00.003-04:00

The Northeast Conference Preseason Coaches Poll was released this morning, and Monmouth was selected second while defending conference champion Albany was picked as the preseason favorite. Both squads each landed six players on the All-NEC Preseason Team as well. The Great Danes do bring back a lot of experience including running back David McCarty, who ran for 1,500+ yards last season and two of the men who paved the way for him on the offensive linemen, Raphael Nguti and Kevin Richards.

The Hawks feature six players on the preseason team, with all of them also making all-league teams a season ago. Running back Dave Sinisi, tight end John Nalbone and offensive linemen Nick LoCastro and Shawn Wright made the squad from the offense, while defensive lineman Kevin Walsh and defensive back Ayo Falae made the team from the D.

Monmouth took two of the available eight first place votes and the Great Danes had five. Preseason third place Central Connecticut State had the lone remaining vote. The rest of the league’s predicted order, according to the head coaches, is Wagner, Duquesne, Robert Morris, Sacred Heart and Saint Francis.

Albany, MU and CCSU appear to be the three strongest teams, but Wagner and Robert Morris should also not be counted out in the mix for the NEC crown. Newcomer Duquesne, who participated in the now-defunct Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference for football a season ago, will have to replace wide receiver Bruce Hocker, but the man throwing him the ball last season, Kevin Rombach, returns as the All-NEC preseason signal caller.

MU returns 19 starters this season and begins the year at Rhode Island on August 30 at 1:00 p.m.

Monmouth University preseason release (from www.GoMUHawks.com)
http://www.gomuhawks.com/ViewArticle.dbml?DB_OEM_ID=14300&ATCLID=1553271

Northeast Conference website release:
http://www.northeastconference.org/News/fball/2008/8/12/FB-Preseasonallconf-08.asp?path=fball

Monday, Aug. 11 practice notes

2008-08-11T17:02:00.003-04:00

I figured we could squeak in a few quick practice updates before tomorrow's NEC Preseason Coaches Poll post.

Some quick notes from Monday's AM practice session:

Fifth-year senior cornerback and co-captain Ayo Falae broke up a pair of passes this morning and picked off a pass. For my money, Falae is the best cornerback in the league. He is a tremendous shutdown corner who will also come up from his position and lay the wood to a ball carrier.

Fellow fifth-year senior wide receiver Steve Dowens, from Middletown South, had a diving catch off a pass from fellow fifth-year quarterback Brett Burke, from Wall, in the morning session. Dowens is a tough wide receiver who is not afraid to go over the middle and is also a valuable blocker on the outside. Burke continues to put the ball where it needs to be for his playmakers to make something happen throughout early camp.

Fifth-year senior tight end John Nalbone snared a one-handed touchdown catch in the AM during drills. Nalbone has great size (6-4, 260) and athleticism and should have a big season in 2008 following three All-NEC seasons, including a First Team nod last year.

Junior defensive back Kenny Amsel blocked two field goals in the morning. Amsel is in the mix in a very talented and deep MU defensive backfield after playing in nine games last season.

In the PM session, freshman wide receiver Darvin Henderson made the catch of the afternoon when he laid out and hauled in a deep ball from fellow newcomer Kyle Frazier. This was my first look at Henderson, who appears to have some talent and speed, while Frazier has looked good throughout camp.

That's all for now, I will be back on Tuesday with all the NEC Preseason Coaches Poll insight and analysis.

Hello Monmouth Fans

2008-08-11T11:40:00.000-04:00

Dear Monmouth University Football Fans,

Welcome to your online home for everything that is the Blue and White for the 2008 season. Here all MU fans have a forum in which to discuss the Hawks, and I will be giving my insight before and after each game. We will kick things off tomorrow when the Northeast Conference Preseason Coaches Poll is unveiled and we find out where the league's head coaches think the Hawks will land in 2008. Thanks for checking out the Monmouth Football blog, Go Hawks!