Game 3 - Morgan State at Akron

[g-mann17]

Don't know what you saw, but I saw a secondary that still got beat far too many times.

Kicker and DB are our two most disappointing positions currently.

We held them to 6 points and 200 yards and you think the DB's got beat too many times. It's laughable the extent people will go to be negative.

The only negatives in this game were the penalties and the kickoff coverage. Nail both of those down and the final is 66-0.

[Dr Z]

Thank you coach Bowden. Great marketing yesterday! That is what will draw fans...exciting games.

[Zipsrifle]

We held them to 6 points and 200 yards and you think the DB's got beat too many times. It's laughable the extent people will go to be negative.

The only negatives in this game were the penalties and the kickoff coverage. Nail both of those down and the final is 66-0.

Well, from my standpoint there is a lot we need to work on. I think we just had more talent than they did. First, this year we can actually catch a football, our guys go up and GET IT AND catch with their hands! Last year we didn't catch anything! (Interestingly enough, isn't Ianello the Receivers Coach at Kansas??? Genius!). Second, DW has had success with some deep passes, but it's not like he is hitting our guys in stride, they usually have to stop. My fear is that once we get a team with a decent backfield he's going to be throwing a few picks on the deep ball. With the short passes, I think he is pretty darn accurate.

I did see our DB's get beat a few times and either the ball was too long or the guy just dropped it. Don't get me wrong, we weren't horrible, but we're not awesome either, we'll get burned a few times this season. Still, I think we're better than last season. I can think of at least one instance where our DB swatted down a pass that I was sure was going to be a TD for them.

I have no illusions that we're going to contend in the conference this season, but I see some momentum being built. Give this thing a few years and then we can start talking about contending.

[K92]

We held them to 6 points and 200 yards and you think the DB's got beat too many times. It's laughable the extent people will go to be negative.

The only negatives in this game were the penalties and the kickoff coverage. Nail both of those down and the final is 66-0.

Totally agree. Any complaints beyond those is nit picking, but I would add one more...don't throw the fade to the corner of the end zone if its not there.

Great day. Everyone sitting in my section was smiling, laughing, having fun, high giving, thoroughly enjoying themselves. I wish all the people who I dragged to Akron the last couple of years to watch bad football could have been there to share in a wonderful day.

[Captain Kangaroo]

Could it be that we underestimated Ianello? Maybe he was the "great recruiter" everyone said he was once hired, but he didn't have the football sense to translate talent on the field?

Most times when someone writes LOL, they really didn't laugh out loud. This line elicited a big belly-laugh from me.

Ianello's idea of a great QB was Clayton Moore. Bowden's was Dalton Williams. I'll stop there.

[GP1]

Great day for the Zips yesterday!!!! They did exactly what they should do against a I-AA team and then some. They went above and beyond the call of duty and I'm so very excited about the attitude of the players in putting out a performance like yesterday. Great job Zips!

[ctmjbowes@sbcglobal.net]

Most times when someone writes LOL, they really didn't laugh out loud. This line elicited a big belly-laugh from me.

Ianello's idea of a great QB was Clayton Moore. Bowden's was Dalton Williams. I'll stop there.

The point of my earlier post though was that Bowden is turning this thing around with many of the same players who were SO bad the last couple of years playing for Ianello. We can dismiss this win as much as we'd like but there were zero predictable wins in the last few years. Yesterday was a big deal, especially when coupled with the game against FIU.

I'm amazed at what Bowden is doing with these kids. It was only a year or two ago that I remember an offense that almost literally couldn't throw, to receivers who almost literally couldn't catch. I'll never forget being at a game two or three years ago, watching Jeremy LaFrance (who, I hate to say was the best receiver we had at the time) clowning around on the sideline while the team was being decimated on the field of play. I was pissed that he, along with others on the team, were so cavalier while being beaten so badly. It was endemic in those days and part of what left me with such a bad taste about the whole program then. No way in hell would we see that with Terry in charge. Bottom line is that it's amazing to me that many of these kids, who looked like such losers in the past couple of seasons are becoming, shall I say it, impressive in short order.

Lastly, who recruited Pohl? In checking the box again, he threw 3 TDs yesterday too. Was Ianello the guy who recruited him? He may be a good one too. I hope so, since Williams only has this year to play.

[g-mann17]

The point of my earlier post though was that Bowden is turning this thing around with many of the same players who were SO bad the last couple of years playing for Ianello. We can dismiss this win as much as we'd like but there were zero predictable wins in the last few years. Yesterday was a big deal, especially when coupled with the game against FIU.

I'm amazed at what Bowden is doing with these kids. It was only a year or two ago that I remember an offense that almost literally couldn't throw, to receivers who almost literally couldn't catch. I'll never forget being at a game two or three years ago, watching Jeremy LaFrance (who, I hate to say was the best receiver we had at the time) clowning around on the sideline while the team was being decimated on the field of play. I was pissed that he, along with others on the team, were so cavalier while being beaten so badly. It was endemic in those days and part of what left me with such a bad taste about the whole program then. No way in hell would we see that with Terry in charge. Bottom line is that it's amazing to me that many of these kids, who looked like such losers in the past couple of seasons are becoming, shall I say it, impressive in short order.

Lastly, who recruited Pohl? In checking the box again, he threw 3 TDs yesterday too. Was Ianello the guy who recruited him? He may be a good one too. I hope so, since Williams only has this year to play.

Pohl was Ianello's big get a couple of years ago.

[johnnyzip84]

While I absolutely LOVE the style of play and much of the execution I am seeing on the field at this point, I'm not going to place too much emphasis on the records broken, etc. But I agree with Dr Z that the fast-paced, fun-to-watch, offense simply HAS to be an advantage when battling for offensive talent on the recruiting trails. And I said it after the UCF game and I'm even more convinced now. If DW13 continues to play to this level, he WILL set several records come MAC play.

I want to highlight something that is less tangible than yardage totals, but probably more important. It's related to STZ's LaFrance sideline memory. I'm not sure if there is a specific word to define the quality in a leader that enables him/her to somehow get the entire organization moving in the same direction, but Coach Bowden clearly has "it".

I noticed an interesting exchange on the sidelines immediately after Andrew Pratt's 1st collegiate TD. One of the 1st individuals to zero in on him for congratulations was #40, Austin Bailey the one-time Zip starting FB who is now pitching in admirably as a back-up defensive tackle of all positions. If you recall, Austin started at FB in Ianello's 1st season, and while he was more of a role player he actually displayed some ability as a check-down reciever out of the backfield at times. Now that the spread in up and running, Austin's chances of scoring TD's at UA are pretty much over. You might even excuse the guy for not being overly excited to watch this "rookie" doing something on the field he will likely not have another chance to accomplish in his career. Nevertheless, there was Austin celebrating and congratulating Andrew with as much excitement and enthusiasm as he could muster after that score. Coach clearly has all the oars pulling in the same direction.

[Hilltopper]

While I absolutely LOVE the style of play and much of the execution I am seeing on the field at this point, I'm not going to place too much emphasis on the records broken, etc. But I agree with Dr Z that the fast-paced, fun-to-watch, offense simply HAS to be an advantage when battling for offensive talent on the recruiting trails. And I said it after the UCF game and I'm even more convinced now. If DW13 continues to play to this level, he WILL set several records come MAC play.

I want to highlight something that is less tangible than yardage totals, but probably more important. It's related to STZ's LaFrance sideline memory. I'm not sure if there is a specific word to define the quality in a leader that enables him/her to somehow get the entire organization moving in the same direction, but Coach Bowden clearly has "it".

I noticed an interesting exchange on the sidelines immediately after Andrew Pratt's 1st collegiate TD. One of the 1st individuals to zero in on him for congratulations was #40, Austin Bailey the one-time Zip starting FB who is now pitching in admirably as a back-up defensive tackle of all positions. If you recall, Austin started at FB in Ianello's 1st season, and while he was more of a role player he actually displayed some ability as a check-down reciever out of the backfield at times. Now that the spread in up and running, Austin's chances of scoring TD's at UA are pretty much over. You might even excuse the guy for not being overly excited to watch this "rookie" doing something on the field he will likely not have another chance to accomplish in his career. Nevertheless, there was Austin celebrating and congratulating Andrew with as much excitement and enthusiasm as he could muster after that score. Coach clearly has all the oars pulling in the same direction.

+1 I think they all BELIEVE!

[K92]

Some thoughts:

1. Offense overall looked great, especially in the sense of being prepared with the game plan, knowing what to do and when.

2. I was surprised how often they lined up in the pistol with JC7. Quite often.

3. Conor Hundley runs hard. Continue to be impressed with this true freshman.

4. As I said in another thread, the WR corps look to be interchangeable and productive. Some pretty nice depth here, but Marquelo Suel continues to stand out to me.

5. Pughsley is a beast.

6. I didn't realize that when Horner enters the game, JD Griggs slides inside.

7. Defensive backs are playing at a wholly different level than last year. They have definitely come a long way.

8. Although the defense is thin, they seem to like to hit. Especially Justin March when be gets the chance.

9. Jamel Turner played a little bit on kickoff special teams, but mostly sat by himself on the bench. Still looking forward to seeing him participating more.

10. It looks like Zach Paul is capable of kicking the ball into the end zone. That is what he should try to do everytime. I don't think they ever stopped a return inside the 25.

Looking forward to see how they look against the Vols. It was 56-14 versus UCF. Do they narrow that gap in Knoxville?

[K92]

Hustle Belt Article

Short, but good read.

[NewZipsFan]

+1 I think they all BELIEVE!

How about the team and the Pride of Ohio singing the fight song together after the game?? Those kids sang the song like it was the national anthem, or their most revered hymn/prayer... Then broke out into some funky dance and fully embraced the moment. Yes, they all BELIEVE -- they are all "we" guys and not "me" guys. In the post game PC, Dalton continues to be the consummate QB -- praising his line, receivers, coaches, fans, etc.. Chisholm talked about how his coaches are teaching him to be a better RB... The powerade/ice water dunk on Coach Bowden was fantastic... Anyone else notice that Coach Bowden signed his/a hat, and threw it into the band? His father did that for 30+ years... I LOVE tradition... Fight Songs, Alma Maters, Hat Tossing, Ice Water Baths... great, great stuff!

[Ham]

Some thoughts:

1. Offense overall looked great, especially in the sense of being prepared with the game plan, knowing what to do and when.

2. I was surprised how often they lined up in the pistol with JC7. Quite often.

3. Conor Hundley runs hard. Continue to be impressed with this true freshman.

4. As I said in another thread, the WR corps look to be interchangeable and productive. Some pretty nice depth here, but Marquelo Suel continues to stand out to me.

5. Pughsley is a beast.

6. I didn't realize that when Horner enters the game, JD Griggs slides inside.

7. Defensive backs are playing at a wholly different level than last year. They have definitely come a long way.

8. Although the defense is thin, they seem to like to hit. Especially Justin March when be gets the chance.

9. Jamel Turner played a little bit on kickoff special teams, but mostly sat by himself on the bench. Still looking forward to seeing him participating more.

10. It looks like Zach Paul is capable of kicking the ball into the end zone. That is what he should try to do everytime. I don't think they ever stopped a return inside the 25.

Looking forward to see how they look against the Vols. It was 56-14 versus UCF. Do they narrow that gap in Knoxville?

Yes! they have clearly Progressed by leaps and bounds. I think TB took off the Kid Gloves at half time, and they responded big time. Perhaps TB used the right amount of gentle hand to rebuild some confidense, and now he will ramp up his expectations. For some of you guys who see so many problems, why don't you spend some time watching some Sunday football. Don't be too suprised when you see a silly false start or off sides not to mention a blown coverage or reciever who has the football bounce off his hands. I uspect that none of you "half empty" fans have ever actually played the game.

[ziptrumpet87]

NZF, it's actually "Ohio's Pride", but we won't hold that against you since you are new here.

It was a fun game. Wish more would have come to see it though.

[Zips Win!]

Some thoughts:

1. Offense overall looked great, especially in the sense of being prepared with the game plan, knowing what to do and when.

2. I was surprised how often they lined up in the pistol with JC7. Quite often.

3. Conor Hundley runs hard. Continue to be impressed with this true freshman.

4. As I said in another thread, the WR corps look to be interchangeable and productive. Some pretty nice depth here, but Marquelo Suel continues to stand out to me.

5. Pughsley is a beast.

6. I didn't realize that when Horner enters the game, JD Griggs slides inside.

7. Defensive backs are playing at a wholly different level than last year. They have definitely come a long way.

8. Although the defense is thin, they seem to like to hit. Especially Justin March when be gets the chance.

9. Jamel Turner played a little bit on kickoff special teams, but mostly sat by himself on the bench. Still looking forward to seeing him participating more.

10. It looks like Zach Paul is capable of kicking the ball into the end zone. That is what he should try to do everytime. I don't think they ever stopped a return inside the 25.

Looking forward to see how they look against the Vols. It was 56-14 versus UCF. Do they narrow that gap in Knoxville?

Even ESPN noticed our beatdown. At the very end of Sportscenter Saturday evening, our 66-6 was mentioned by one of the anchors...

[Dr Z]

4. As I said in another thread, the WR corps look to be interchangeable and productive. Some pretty nice depth here, but Marquelo Suel continues to stand out to me.

Agreed, loved Suel from day one. It amazes me how many plays Suel stands on the sideline. Bowden sure uses a heavy rotation at WR. I went to the Steelers game yesterday, amazingly Haley does the same with Mike Wallace and Antonio Brown. I was shocked by how many plays they were both standing next to Haley during the game. I'm guessing that this is due to both teams playing an up tempo rhythm-type offense. I would like to see the amount of snaps Suel had vs total offensive snaps. I also noticed Marquelo lined up in the slot a lot on Saturday.

[BIGCEE]

I am the new guy to zip nation, I was in Miami last week , couldn't make it to Akron this week, but I will be in Tennessee

Next week. I'm loving this zip football. See you all there.

GO ZIP'S........

[skip-zip]

How about the team and the Pride of Ohio singing the fight song together after the game?? Those kids sang the song like it was the national anthem, or their most revered hymn/prayer... Then broke out into some funky dance and fully embraced the moment. Yes, they all BELIEVE -- they are all "we" guys and not "me" guys. In the post game PC, Dalton continues to be the consummate QB -- praising his line, receivers, coaches, fans, etc.. Chisholm talked about how his coaches are teaching him to be a better RB... The powerade/ice water dunk on Coach Bowden was fantastic... Anyone else notice that Coach Bowden signed his/a hat, and threw it into the band? His father did that for 30+ years... I LOVE tradition... Fight Songs, Alma Maters, Hat Tossing, Ice Water Baths... great, great stuff!

It's "Ohio's Pride", but we'll give you a break because we know you're new

I love your unbridled optimism. Not many people could get that excited about a I-AA win. I wish you could go out and recruit 1,000 more new fans just like yourself !!

[NewZipsFan]

It's "Ohio's Pride", but we'll give you a break because we know you're new

I love your unbridled optimism. Not many people could get that excited about a I-AA win. I wish you could go out and recruit 1,000 more new fans just like yourself !!

It's my new unofficial mission in life - creating the new generation/breed of Zips fans... One at a time