Round of eight: Towson @ E. Illinois

[kdinva]

Watch this be a 12-10 slugfest. xpeacex

[UIWWildthing]

First to 60 wins? :)

[Bisonator]

Interesting match up.

[CPrice91]

Watch this be a 12-10 slugfest. xpeacex


Beat me to it xlolx. Clearly looking at a baseball score.

[TigerFen]

Watch this be a 12-10 slugfest. xpeacex

If it's a 12-10 slugfest, I will be shocked. I think this is more 28-21 type of game. Towson has a better defense than people think especially in the secondary. This team held Fordham to a touchdown in the second half. If they put together a full game like that on defense, it could be a long day for Eastern Illinois.

[eiupantherfan94]

I'm worried about Terrance West. Run defense is one of the weaker aspects of the Panthers but they did pretty well vs. T-State. Nonetheless, this should be a good game.

[caribbeanhen]

If it's a 12-10 slugfest, I will be shocked. I think this is more 28-21 type of game. Towson has a better defense than people think especially in the secondary. This team held Fordham to a touchdown in the second half. If they put together a full game like that on defense, it could be a long day for Eastern Illinois.

Towson secondary looked like the weakness of the team to me, E Ill should have a field day, and they will need one...

[Big_Fan]

EIU wins going away.

[TigerFen]

Towson secondary looked like the weakness of the team to me, E Ill should have a field day, and they will need one...

They nearly picked off several Nebrich passes yesterday including one in the end zone. This will probably still be an offense battle with who gets the most turnovers to take possessions away from the other team will win this game.

[Cocky]

Towson has their hands full as does anyone who draws EIU.

[DoubleH]

Towson's D has yet to put a full major-mistake-free 60 minutes together. Now would be a great time to start.

[colonelblitz]

EIU wins going away. plus 1

[Bison Fan in NW MN]

Interesting match up for sure.

Towson's defense will probably have to have their game of the year to win this one.

[LoneStar]

Looks like 15 mph wind with sleet and snow, if this is the case advantage to the power running team. Towson is built for inclement weather how about EIU? Looks like they rely on the passing attack?

[PanthersBlue]

Looks like 15 mph wind with sleet and snow, if this is the case advantage to the power running team. Towson is built for inclement weather how about EIU? Looks like they rely on the passing attack?

EIU can move the ball on the ground. Shepard Little.

[MTfan4life]

Looks like 15 mph wind with sleet and snow, if this is the case advantage to the power running team. Towson is built for inclement weather how about EIU? Looks like they rely on the passing attack?

Eastern Ill ran for 313 yards and passed for 240 against Tennessee State. The most rushing yards any other opponent gained on TSU this season was 176. They had a similar game as Eastern Washington. Two Payton finalist quarterbacks being overshadowed by their underrated running backs. Also, Eastern's defense has been much better this season than they have been in the past couple years. Only three teams scored higher than their average against EIU. One of those was FBS Northern Illinois. You can't look at just their passing game when you're judging how the Panthers will perform.

[State Line Liquors]

Third downs for Towson will decide the game. EIU's defense is statistically excellent on 3rd down & Towson's O is one of the best on 3rd down. No outcome here is going to surprise me as this is a very evenly matched game from what I can gather.

[Bisonator]

Looking forward to watching this game on Friday night. Hope it's a great game and showcase for the FCS. Good luck to both teams!

[andy7171]

On the National Stage, this will be the deciding factor in whether or not T-West returns for his senior season.

[bluehenbillk]

You guys see the line on this one? Biggest on the board: EIU (-15.5)

[UNHWildcat18]

In all honesty (not that I can vouch for ours in anyway) but EIU's stadium blows... For a game on ESPN2 for national television the game would look 100x better at a packed Johnny Unitas stadium than a packed O'Brien stadium. Wish this game was at Towson but oh well.

[Fordham]

On the National Stage, this will be the deciding factor in whether or not T-West returns for his senior season.

Where is he rumored to go now if he declares?

Good luck this week, Towson!!!

[grkerber87]

In all honesty (not that I can vouch for ours in anyway) but EIU's stadium blows... For a game on ESPN2 for national television the game would look 100x better at a packed Johnny Unitas stadium than a packed O'Brien stadium. Wish this game was at Towson but oh well.

Attendance has been disappointing at home games, as well, especially given how good and fun to watch this team is this year. Maybe the fact the O'Brien Stadium looks like a high school field in a lot of ways. Although, I think they plan on getting a new stadium at some point in the near-ish future. Whether it happens or not is another question.
I'm guessing there will be a lot of people though because they know ESPN2 will be there.

Either way, this should be a fun game. I know a lot has been said about the EIU defense stopping the run and what not, but I've actually been super impressed by these Panthers on D this year. Very underrated squad. Had the starters been playing in the 4th quarter of more games, I think we're looking at 4 or 5 games giving up 10 points or less. For a unit that is on the field so much due to the speed of the offense, that is pretty darn good.

I don't know much about Towson but I think with the ground game they have, it will be a closer one.

[Winindy]

If it's snowin', we're throwin'. Power running with no traction is tough. But I think the snow is supposed to start late in the 2nd half. I think it could be a close one, but I'm taking the home team by 6.

[DoubleH]

Interesting match up for sure.

Towson's defense will probably have to have their game of the year to win this one.

That's the thing about this tem. This defense, from a personnel standpoint, is absolutely capable of playing dominant defensive football, but tons of mistakes all year long (by both coaches and players) have held them back. In round 3 of the playoffs, you pretty much are who you are, but if they can somehow play mostly mistake-free defense...

[eiupantherfan94]

. Maybe the fact the O'Brien Stadium looks like a high school field in a lot of ways. Although, I think they plan on getting a new stadium at some point in the near-ish future. Whether it happens or not is another question.



But-but-but the ivy and trees on the North end of the stadium look amazing in the fall :P
Anyway, I don't know if the new stadium is going to happen or not. I mean there's plenty of space for it, and it's sorely needed (how many tracks are around football fields nowadays). For anyone curious about how it would look, here's a rendering.

http://i1.ytimg.com/vi/lV7yPd4c_HM/maxresdefault.jpg

Also, here's the ambitious upgrading plan that athletics has put forward.

http://www.eiupanthers.com/custompages/BluePrint/EIU%20Athletics%20Master%20Plan%202010-10-01_FINALprinting.pdf

[Big_Fan]

In all honesty (not that I can vouch for ours in anyway) but EIU's stadium blows... For a game on ESPN2 for national television the game would look 100x better at a packed Johnny Unitas stadium than a packed O'Brien stadium. Wish this game was at Towson but oh well.

I feel you... wish EW was coming to Jax State... Nice green prescription turf and a beautiful, modern stadium with more people.

[FordhamFan]

Like many said before, Towson certainly has the personnel to hinder a lot of EIU's offensive plans. But I don't know, after watching Fordham kind of figure them out for periods of time last week, I think EIU can most definitely put points on the board. But like every football game, the turnovers are key. Towson will pound you and if you don't take advantage of your time with the ball, they will.

I have only seen EIU play once, so obviously everything I say needs to be taken with a grain of salt, but I think they win this won by maybe 10. Towson's D is too mistake prone and against EIU, I just don't see them escaping a few mistakes. Also doubt Athens will play as well as he did last week. That kid showed up last week, he'll have to do the same again to beat the Panthers me thinks.

[mamberso]

No offense to Towson, but I will be surprised if EIU goes down in this one. I am telling you, they are on a different level. Great offense. Very good defense. Tempo, tempo, tempo. The only weakness I spotted in the two games I watched (v. Tennessee St, v. JSU), was their kicking game. They should always go for two point conversions...I will put it that way.

[grkerber87]

No offense to Towson, but I will be surprised if EIU goes down in this one. I am telling you, they are on a different level. Great offense. Very good defense. Tempo, tempo, tempo. The only weakness I spotted in the two games I watched (v. Tennessee St, v. JSU), was their kicking game. They should always go for two point conversions...I will put it that way.

I agree on the kicking. That was the only reason the SIU game went to OT and a major part of the loss to NIU.

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[SIUSalukiFan]

I agree on the kicking. That was the only reason the SIU game went to OT and a major part of the loss to NIU.

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Maybe SIU rolling up 503 yards of offense and missing three field goals itself had just a bit to do with the game going to overtime?

Don't be a douche. You have a great team so don't minimize opponents ... especially the one FCS team that should have beat you.

[grkerber87]

Maybe SIU rolling up 503 yards of offense and missing three field goals itself had just a bit to do with the game going to overtime?

Don't be a douche. You have a great team so don't minimize opponents ... especially the one FCS team that should have beat you.

Whoa. Sorry I didn't mean to come off as dismissive. I just meant that we missed a FG with 2 seconds left that would have won it beforehand. Not trying to say anything bad about SIU.

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[SIUSalukiFan]

Whoa. Sorry I didn't mean to come off as dismissive. I just meant that we missed a FG with 2 seconds left that would have won it beforehand. Not trying to say anything bad about SIU.

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You guys are absolutely fantastic. After the beat down you threw on us in 2012 we were pretty disappointed not to have got you this year ... and we had chances we blew, too.

Sorry for the short fuse.

[grkerber87]

You guys are absolutely fantastic. After the beat down you threw on us in 2012 we were pretty disappointed not to have got you this year ... and we had chances we blew, too.

Sorry for the short fuse.

Absolutely. My point was more about our scary kicking game than it was about SIU.

No worries!

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[PanthersBlue]

Looks like the forecast has the snow/wintery mix holding off till late Friday night.

[Sycamore62]

Absolutely. My point was more about our scary kicking game than it was about SIU.

No worries!

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On the other hand, that onside kick vs NIU helped EIU pour it on at the beginning of the game. 21-0 and NIU had ran 3 plays and a punt. I think they were in shock for a lot of the game.

[grkerber87]

True,
The field goal unit is shaky at best, I guess is the better way to put it.
Berra is 6-16 on the year for FGs and has missed 12 extra points. Lots of blocked FGs and PATs included.

Fortunately, the offense is good enough to make it less of a concern, but we're getting to the point in the year that games might/will be closer.

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[Sycamore62]

True,
The field goal unit is shaky at best, I guess is the better way to put it.
Berra is 6-16 on the year for FGs and has missed 12 extra points. Lots of blocked FGs and PATs included.

Fortunately, the offense is good enough to make it less of a concern, but we're getting to the point in the year that games might/will be closer.

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You know, i was thinkin, maybe when a kicker gets that many kicks per game it wears him out. ive changed my mind on this.

[DoubleH]

True,
The field goal unit is shaky at best, I guess is the better way to put it.
Berra is 6-16 on the year for FGs and has missed 12 extra points. Lots of blocked FGs and PATs included.



Wow, and I thought our kicking game has struggled some... That is terrible.

[grkerber87]

Wow, and I thought our kicking game has struggled some... That is terrible.

Gotta be a confidence thing. Had a kick blocked every game the first 5 games and is probably just rushing himself now . He was 12-13 last year with 4 missed PATs. Not automatic but should be better than he's been this year. What better time to get back on track, right?

[andy7171]

Gotta be a confidence thing. Had a kick blocked every game the first 5 games and is probably just rushing himself now . He was 12-13 last year with 4 missed PATs. Not automatic but should be better than he's been this year. What better time to get back on track, right?

Blocked kicks aren't always on the kicker. Blocking for an extra point is ridiculously easy.

[Sycamore62]

Blocked kicks aren't always on the kicker. Blocking for an extra point is ridiculously easy.

THis is true. Ive seen MISSED extra points. This kind of surprises me since Babers was the Special Teams Coordinator at Baylor. Sometimes guys get that title for the resume though.

[TigerFen]

I think the three to five inches of snow makes this a closer people than the podcast or Sports Network Think it is. This is the type of ground and pound type of weather that Towson could pull the upset on. 28-21 Tigers tonight and here's hoping it's a good game.

[Bison Fan in NW MN]

I think the three to five inches of snow makes this a closer people than the podcast or Sports Network Think it is. This is the type of ground and pound type of weather that Towson could pull the upset on. 28-21 Tigers tonight and here's hoping it's a good game.


If the weather is crap that will definitely help the running game for Towson.

Looking forward to watching this match up.

[Sycamore62]

Does anyone know how the field turf will play with snow? I've never been on it in that situation and the turf that was around in the mid 90's was fancy indoor/outdoor carpet. I'm wondering if it will be slick.

[grkerber87]

Does anyone know how the field turf will play with snow? I've never been on it in that situation and the turf that was around in the mid 90's was fancy indoor/outdoor carpet. I'm wondering if it will be slick.

I don't think it gets any more slick than regular grass turf. I could be wrong though.

I'm so ready for this game. It's gonna be awesome

[TTUEagles]

THis is true. Ive seen MISSED extra points. This kind of surprises me since Babers was the Special Teams Coordinator at Baylor. Sometimes guys get that title for the resume though.

"Special Teams Coordinator" is usually just about organizing the practice time, film studies of ST, and getting personell in order. Rarely, in college, do they work on-much less know ANYTHING- about the skills of kicking, punting, snapping, etc. Most specialists get their instruction from camps, etc., in the offseason. Sometimes, the kicker just isn't very good, sometimes the holder isn't either. Holding for placement attempts is more significant than most people realize.

[Hammerhead]

EWU has a similar setup with a small set of stands across from the press box which are more likely to be on TV and they also have a track around the field.


Attendance has been disappointing at home games, as well, especially given how good and fun to watch this team is this year. Maybe the fact the O'Brien Stadium looks like a high school field in a lot of ways. Although, I think they plan on getting a new stadium at some point in the near-ish future. Whether it happens or not is another question.
I'm guessing there will be a lot of people though because they know ESPN2 will be there.

[TU Tiger Town]

Snow starting at 5 p.m., hopefully accumulates, should give the Tigers a little boost. We'll need to get a few more take aways than last week to come out on top though. I'm expecting it to be closer than some a predicting.

[UIWWildthing]

Snow starting at 5 p.m., hopefully accumulates, should give the Tigers a little boost. We'll need to get a few more take aways than last week to come out on top though. I'm expecting it to be closer than some a predicting.
The way people are talking I'm not even sure why the Tigers are showing up, the game's already over :)

[Winindy]

I'm sure you guys in Baltimore watched the Vikings/Ravens game last Sunday. Maybe you didn't. But in that game, the snow didn't help the rushing game at all. With snow on the ground, there wasn't much traction for the RBs to get any momentum going. The passing game was more effective with snow on the field turf. In the 2nd half, they cleared the field pretty well, and things started opening up in the running games a bit. We always used "If it's snowing, we're throwing".

[MR. CHICKEN]

SNOW DIDN'T BOTHERAH……MCCOY…IN PHILLY…….AWQ!

[hebmskebm]

I won't link to it of course, but Skip Bayless just wrote a column the other day lamenting how football is not​ meant to be played in the snow. In other news, Skip Bayless remains the friggin worst.

[Screamin_Eagle174]

This is going to be a good game. I'd love to see EWU play either, and although EIU/EWU would be very exciting, I think Towson pulls the "upset" here. Good luck to both teams.

[ursus arctos horribilis]

This is going to be a good game. I'd love to see EWU play either, and although EIU/EWU would be very exciting, I think Towson pulls the "upset" here. Good luck to both teams.

If EWU gets by JSU I agree that either of those matchups would be really interesting to see. As will both of the games to set that next matchup...gonna be good stuff.

[TU Tiger Town]

The way people are talking I'm not even sure why the Tigers are showing up, the game's already over :)

Knowing the history of the program I can't exactly blame them. It seems from many board comments that outside of other CAA fans not many people here have seen Towson play (ever?) so we're sort of an unknown quantity at this point, but I'll be happy to show them tonight xtroublex


I'm sure you guys in Baltimore watched the Vikings/Ravens game last Sunday. Maybe you didn't. But in that game, the snow didn't help the rushing game at all. With snow on the ground, there wasn't much traction for the RBs to get any momentum going. The passing game was more effective with snow on the field turf. In the 2nd half, they cleared the field pretty well, and things started opening up in the running games a bit. We always used "If it's snowing, we're throwing".

This is true, but (for whatever reason) the game was low scoring until the last 2 minutes, at which point that strange scoring burst I will consider to be an anomaly. Either way if we can keep it a relatively low scoring game I think it helps TU.

[Big_Fan]

Snow can really wreak havoc with a running team. In 1989 we ran the wishbone, and scored over 400 points. We beat Troy State 38-3 and beat NDSU in the playoffs. We beat Mississippi College 23-3 at their place in the regular season, and were rematched against them in the D2 title game and lost 0-3. It was like playing football on a slip-n-slide.

Snow does not favor a running team.

[F'N Hawks]

So how is the weather in Charleston? Snow started yet?

[Sycamore62]

So how is the weather in Charleston? Snow started yet?

its probably 30 min away tops. they are cancelling all the after school events due to it. I assume all the grocery stores are out of milk and bread.

[Sycamore62]

correction. looks like some ice is about to hit real soon then rain. it was 34 when i went by the stadium about 30min ago

[F'N Hawks]

Keep us updated whether it's going to affect anything!

[Sycamore62]

Little windy out of the west. Nothing that should affect the game. It was spitting rain and snow. Nothing to speak of really

[Cocky]

its probably 30 min away tops. they are cancelling all the after school events due to it. I assume all the grocery stores are out of milk and bread.

i thought it was a southern thing.

[Sycamore62]

i thought it was a southern thing.

Oh God no! End of the world every time. Just glad it's not the first of the month on a Friday too. Walmart would be empty

[Sycamore62]

Ok looks like snow is here to stay. The previously clear areas on my driveway are now snow covered. It's melting on the roads and the temp has got to the point that I am down to 0% going to the game from 3%. If I could post a pic I could but I don't think I could figure it out.

Ill be be away for a while. I have to run to walmart to get bread and milk. And maybe some smokes. You never know.

[NDSUSR]

Go Towson!!! I have a few bucks on you guys! See, NDSU has a little love for Towson.

[Go Lehigh TU Owl]

Can't wait to watch this one! I think both teams are really good. EIU has that extra gear though....

[caribbeanhen]

I'm thinking EIU big over Towson

[Skyhawk71]

pic.twitter.com/33jDKYYfWr from OVC Ball

18679

[Sycamore62]

I just measured 1/2 inch of new snow.

[Lehigh Football Nation]

Can't wait for this Snow Bowl to happen on Friday night primetime. I think Towson finds the secret to slowing down EIU's offense - bad weather! :D

[BisonFan02]

Watch party at BWW north in Fargo....be there! :D

[Mr. C]

Can't wait for this Snow Bowl to happen on Friday night primetime. I think Towson finds the secret to slowing down EIU's offense - bad weather! :D
Here at O'Brien Stadium, crews are working to clear the field as the snow has let up a bit. But The Weather Channel is calling for five to eight inches of snow and the field was completely covered when we arrived about a half-hour ago.

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I'm thinking EIU big over Towson
Why? Because Delaware beat Towson?

[Sycamore62]

Does anyone know of a game that West tore up a solid defense?

[Mr. C]

This is going to be a good game. I'd love to see EWU play either, and although EIU/EWU would be very exciting, I think Towson pulls the "upset" here. Good luck to both teams.
You and I actually agree for once. Hoping to see the Tabasco Turf in person next weekend.

[FargoBison]

Does anyone know of a game that West tore up a solid defense?

157 yards and 2 TDs vs William and Mary is pretty decent.

[Sycamore62]

157 yards and 2 TDs vs William and Mary is pretty decent.
Thanks. It was gonna take me till game time to find enough stats to figure this out.

[Mr. C]

Does anyone know of a game that West tore up a solid defense?
West had 157 against a great William & Mary defense this season. He had 153 against the Tribe last year and 79 against LSU isn't anything to sneeze at either. His 183 yards against Maine as a freshman was pretty impressive, too.

Like it, or not, most coaches I've talked in FCS and most scouts think West is head and shoulder better than any running back in FCS.

[Mr. C]

Can't wait for this Snow Bowl to happen on Friday night primetime. I think Towson finds the secret to slowing down EIU's offense - bad weather! :D
I told someone coming into the stadium that I was ready to suit up and play tonight. That's how much I love snow games. My last snow game was Western Illinois at Appalachian State in the 2010 second round. My favorite snow game (which I watched on TV) was the Western Illinois-Colgate Snow Bowl in the 2003 quarterfinals. Absolutely awesome game.

[Sycamore62]

West had 157 against a great William & Mary defense this season. He had 153 against the Tribe last year and 79 against LSU isn't anything to sneeze at either. His 183 yards against Maine as a freshman was pretty impressive, too.

Like it, or not, most coaches I've talked in FCS and most scouts think West is head and shoulder better than any running back in FCS.

I just saw he didn't have a lot of yards last week (no disrespect intended). He looks like a beast. I watched the espn3 highlights but didn't have time to watch the last game.

Im im a little disappointed that there isn't a preface show on espn2. Not even a little 15 minute preview

[Sycamore62]

I told someone coming into the stadium that I was ready to suit up and play tonight. That's how much I love snow games. My last snow game was Western Illinois at Appalachian State in the 2010 second round. My favorite snow game (which I watched on TV) was the Western Illinois-Colgate Snow Bowl in the 2003 quarterfinals. Absolutely awesome game.

I was thinking the same thing. My last was 1997 @ UNI. seemed like a foot of snow fell the night before/day of. Only time in 5 years I was glad they had a dome

[Mr. C]

Some EIU players just came out on the field in shorts and short-sleave t-shirts.

[Mr. C]

The pre-game meal tonight in the O'Brien Stadium press box is roast beef sandwiches with chips and giant cookies.

[dwtime]

West had 157 against a great William & Mary defense this season. He had 153 against the Tribe last year and 79 against LSU isn't anything to sneeze at either. His 183 yards against Maine as a freshman was pretty impressive, too.

Like it, or not, most coaches I've talked in FCS and most scouts think West is head and shoulder better than any running back in FCS.

West is a beast, can't he be a senior please?

[Sycamore62]

From coachingsearch.com:

FAU: College coaches around the nation are wondering why the process at FAU has moved so slowly considering the job opened during the season. Keep an eye on Eastern Illinois head coach Dino Babers, who withdrew from the Eastern Michigan search earlier in the week. Eastern Illinois plays in the FCS playoffs tonight on ESPN2 against Towson at 8pm ET.

[Mr. C]

West is a beast, can't he be a senior please?
Hopefully, he comes back for his senior season. West is fun to watch.

[Mr. C]

From coachingsearch.com:

FAU: College coaches around the nation are wondering why the process at FAU has moved so slowly considering the job opened during the season. Keep an eye on Eastern Illinois head coach Dino Babers, who withdrew from the Eastern Michigan search earlier in the week. Eastern Illinois plays in the FCS playoffs tonight on ESPN2 against Towson at 8pm ET.
Dino Babers stopped and talked to us when we were waiting for the elevator going to the press box tonight. He seemed genuinely excited for tonight's game. Withdrawing from consideration usually means you didn't get hired. FAU is almost as bad a job as EMU, but with better players to recruit and better weather. Does anyone remember FAU reaching the FCS semifinals in 2003 before getting popped by Colgate?

[dwtime]

Hopefully, he comes back for his senior season. West is fun to watch.

I reluctantly agree, and we don't play Towson next year. Whew! xthumbsupx

[Mr. C]

This is the first snow game in Towson's 45-year football history. Folks at Eastern Illinois can't remember a snow game either.

[Mr. C]

Eastern Illinois is heading back to the locker room with 21 minutes left before kickoff. The Panthers got hearty cheers from about 200 fans in the stands.

[Mr. C]

Towson is off the field as well and we are waiting for the EIU band to play the national anthem.

[TU Tiger Town]

West is a beast, can't he be a senior please?

Don't give him any ideas!!


I reluctantly agree, and we don't play Towson next year. Whew! xthumbsupx

Well hopefully next weekend? xrotatehx


And before I go downstairs to consume some nice Maryland beer, GO TIGERS!!

[Mr. C]

It looks like the snow is changing more into something like freezing rain now and is picking up in intensity.

[Bison Fan in NW MN]

It looks like the snow is changing more into something like freezing rain now and is picking up in intensity.


Is it windy?

[Mr. C]

The anthem is done and we are seven minutes from kickoff.

[Twentysix]

is the link still dead for anyone else? Will NFL kickoff just be playing the game?

[Twentysix]

NFL kickoff is playing the game now on espn3.

[tomq04]

LETS GET READY TO FOOTBALL!

[Sycamore62]

Is it windy?

A little

[Mr. C]

Is it windy?
Not very much wind, compared to 20 miles per hour at the walk-through on Thursday.

[Bison Fan in NW MN]

Weather keeping fans away it looks like on TV.

[Mr. C]

Towson won the coin toss and deferred to the second half. EIU will get the ball first.

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Maybe about a thousand fans now.

[Twentysix]

Is it windy?

31.3 F 11.5 mph wind.

They have a weather station on campus.

http://www.wunderground.com/weatherstation/WXDailyHistory.asp?ID=KILCHARL2

[Mr. C]

D.J. Soven's kickoff dies at the 20 and is returned to the 24.

[Sycamore62]

I just walked out my door. The rain is cold and annoying.

[Mr. C]

Taylor Duncan is stuffed and looses his helmet. Pass to Lora to the 32. First down rush to the 37.

[Sycamore62]

And now my directv just went out I assume due to the rain on the way

[Bison Fan in NW MN]

Fast pace for EIU

[Mr. C]

Shovel pass to Little to the 43.

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Hitch pass to Drake for a 1st down at the 48. Drake with a catch at the TU 37.

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Shovel pass to Little to the 35.

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Gober lines up offsides for EIU. Minus five to the 40.

[Twentysix]

Towson has a DLineman that looks hurt. :\

[Mr. C]

Nice tackle on a Little screen to the 35. Lewis with the tackle. DT Arnold Farmer is down for Towson on the play. He is helped off.

[UIWWildthing]

Towson has a DLineman that looks hurt. :\
Arnold Farmer, one of their better D-linemen

[Mr. C]

Tunnel screen to Lora, good tackle. 4th and 5 from the 32.

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Lora with a sliding 1st down catch at the 26.

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Duncan run for 2.

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Great pass breakup by Jordan Love on Drake in the end zone. 3rd and 8.

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Draw play for Duncan, who gets outside to the 19. 1st down catch at the 10 for Drake.

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Complete to the 3. Duncan rush for zero. 3rd and 3.

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Slant to Lora for the TD for Eastern Illinois

- - - Updated - - -

Eastern Illinois 7, Towson 0, 10:13 left in the first period

[McNeese72]

Fast pace for EIU

I haven't seen EIU play yet this season. Their offense reminds me of SFA. Of course, SFA doesn't play defense at all.

Doc

[UIWWildthing]

This will be a long night...

[Mr. C]

17 plays, 76 yards, 4:47 on the scoring drive

- - - Updated - - -


This will be a long night...
Towson will make adjustments. There were some chances where EIU converted on third and fourth.

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Towson has given up the first score in eight of the past 10 games.

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The ball blows off the kicking tee before Berra's kick.

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Love with a return of a very short kick to the TU 31.

- - - Updated - - -

Play action from Athens to Dessenberg is underthrown.

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West gets to the corner for five on 2nd down. 3rd and 5.

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Bad spot on the play. Direct snap to West is stopped on the wildcat formation at the 35.

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Punt time, to near the sideline where Lora grabs it at the EIU 37.

- - - Updated - - -

8:45 remaining in the quarter on the TV time out.

[SIUSalukiFan]

If it was noted before I apologize but Eastern Illinois has now scored a TD on its opening drive 11 times this year.

[Mr. C]

Garoppolo to LePak for 6 to the 44. First down run to the 48, LePak with a catch at the TU 47.

- - - Updated - - -

Deep post complete to Drake for 36 yards to the TU 11.

- - - Updated - - -

Duncan run to the 6. 2nd and 5.

[Go Lehigh TU Owl]

EIU's offense is silly. Towson is completely helpless....

[Mr. C]

Garoppolo braks two tackles and scrambles for a 6-yard TD.

- - - Updated - - -

Eastern Illinois 14, Towson 0, 7:18 left in the first period.

[UIWWildthing]

Very ugly start for the Tigers. Being down is bad, but dowen 2 scores to this offense is extremely tough.

[Squealofthepig]

Weather keeping fans away it looks like on TV.

Yeah, there's a lot of freezing rain in the area playing havoc with secondary streets. AGSer Tanagriz's parents will miss this game, and it will be the first EIU game they've missed all year (home and away).

[knucklehead]

Man, I want an EIU vs NDSU National Championship! Please. Jimmy G is something special.

[Mr. C]

Another short kick and Love returns it to the TU 34.

Lora set the career receiving yardage mark for the OVC on the last drive.

Towson gets four on 1st down from West.

[Pard4Life]

Wow... first time seeing Garoppolo this year and he is definitely NFL material... not trying to parrot the announcers but he has a solid throwing motion.

[Mr. C]

West breaks tackles to the TU 48.

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Sweep for West to the 38.

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Victor's first carry to the 35.

- - - Updated - - -

Draw play and a big hit on Victor to the 34. 3rd and 5.

- - - Updated - - -

West runs outside to the 32. Late hit with give Towson a first down. Right call.

[dwtime]

Good call that was a late hit

[Mr. C]

Ball at the EIU 16. Play action and Athens runs to the 18.

[Big_Fan]

Good call that was a late hit


You are blind....both feet were in bounds.

[Mr. C]

False start on Jake Schunke for Towson. 2nd and 16 from the 22.

- - - Updated - - -

Victor breaks tackles to the outside and gets to the 11.

- - - Updated - - -

West on a stretch play to near the 7, 4th and 2.

[dwtime]

You are blind....both feet were in bounds.

Well hello to you too. xcoffeex

[Mr. C]

West is stopped at the 9 as EIU gets penetration on the left side of Towson's line.

[Twentysix]

This one's over.

Maybe Towsons DBs will learn to run in the snow and make it a game... it sure isn't looking good though.

[UIWWildthing]

If EIU scores on this drive, that's ballgame.

[Mr. C]

You are blind....both feet were in bounds.
Clueless if you don't think that was a late hit.

- - - Updated - - -


If EIU scores on this drive, that's ballgame.
Not with Towson's ability to score points. There is 2:15 left in the first period.

[Southern Bison]

Towson D better show up to play or this game is over before halftime.

[Big_Fan]

Clueless if you don't think that was a late hit.

The announcer on ESPN must be clueless too... He didn't think it was either.

Just backed it up and watched the replay again on HD... both feet in bounds, no whistle, forward progress had not stopped.

It won't matter, EIU will blow them out.

[Mr. C]

This one's over.

Maybe Towsons DBs will learn to run in the snow and make it a game... it sure isn't looking good though.
And one of the favorite Bison trolls stops in.

[Lehigh Football Nation]

Snow affecting West's lateral movement but Ambrose still calls that on 4th down?

[Mr. C]

The announcer on ESPN must be clueless too... He didn't think it was either.
It was pretty clear from the press box.

[UIWWildthing]

Clueless if you don't think that was a late hit.

- - - Updated - - -


Not with Towson's ability to score points. There is 2:15 left in the first period.
I know Towson can score, but their D needs to make stops.

[Go Lehigh TU Owl]

I think it's nearly impossible to win being this one-dimensional against EIU.Towson should have passed it...

[OleGriz]

No way that was a late hit. Unnecessary roughness maybe. He was completely in bounds when he was hit.

[Mr. C]

Snow affecting West's lateral movement but Ambrose still calls that on 4th down?
Most of West's runs have been to the outside. Just a missed block.

Pass to Lora to the 18. Rush for Little to the 20 for the 1st down.

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Little run to the 24 and Lora with a catch at the 28. 3rd and 2.

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Lora bubble screen to the 39.

[Big_Fan]

It was pretty clear from the press box.

I bet it was clearer on HD with a camera zoomed in during the slow motion replay...but I am guessing here.

[Mr. C]

Little sweep is contained at the 39. 2nd and 10.

- - - Updated - - -

First quarter ends

Eastern Illinois 14, Towson 0

[Twentysix]

And one of the favorite Bison trolls stops in.

It means so much that you like me!

[Lehigh Football Nation]

Jimmy G with an incredible amount of confidence out there.

[Mr. C]

I bet it was clearer on HD with a camera zoomed in during the slow motion replay...but I am guessing here.
Every post makes you sound more like a homer.

- - - Updated - - -


Jimmy G with an incredible amount of confidence out there.
Towson hasn't been able to get much pressure on Garoppolo.

[Bison56]

No way that was a late hit. Unnecessary roughness maybe. He was completely in bounds when he was hit.
I agree but i think the refs saw it as he pushed him down though he didnt it just looked that way in real time.

[Cocky]

Not a late hit

[FargoBison]

I bet it was clearer on HD with a camera zoomed in during the slow motion replay...but I am guessing here.

It was the right call. That extra shove a few yards out of bounds got him the flag.

[NDSUSR]

Not a late hit

Didnt matter anyway.

[Mr. C]

174 to 50 total offense edge for Eastern Illinois after one period. 29 plays to 13.

[Cocky]

Remember Big Fan your from the lowly OVC your opinion doesn't matter.

[BisonBohl]

Was hoping for a better game, thanks for showing up Towson...

[Mr. C]

Garoppolo evades a sack with a ridiculous throw for an incompletion.

- - - Updated - - -

Nice tackle on a swing pass to Little to the 42. Fourth down and punt time.

[Lehigh Football Nation]

They needed that stop bad.

[Mr. C]

Dowling fair catch at the TU 28.

[UIWWildthing]

Huge stop for the Tigers, need to convert from it

[Mr. C]

Stretch play and West breaks it for 47 yards to the EIU 25.

- - - Updated - - -

Victor is smashed after a one-yard gain.

[Lehigh Football Nation]

Watching Jimmy G's footwork reminds me of John Fourcade's tap-dancing for the Saints back in the day.

[Bison56]

Huge play for Towson they needed that. Lets see if it gets them rolling.

[Mr. C]

Waggle is well defended and almost intercepted. 3rd and 9.

[No_Skill]

Has Towson completed a pass?

[Mr. C]

Connor Frazier on the QB draw to the EIU 10. EIU came with a blitz and jumped offsides.

[Bison56]

1st and goal Towson.

[Cocky]

Has Towson completed a pass?
I would keep running

[UIWWildthing]

Touchdown T-WEST!!!

[Mr. C]

Huge hole for West to score his 35th TD of the season. Four behind Delaware's Omar Cuff.

[Tribe93]

West will play in the NFL next year.

[Lehigh Football Nation]

We have a ballgame. Great offensive play calling.

[FargoBison]

West is a beast.

[Twentysix]

Way to go Towson! Make it a game!

[BisonBohl]

Was hoping for a better game, thanks for showing up Towson...

Love speaking too soon! Game on!!!

[Mr. C]

Eastern Illinois 14, Towson 7, 12:40 left

Game on

[dwtime]

I repeat myself, West is a beast.

[Go Lehigh TU Owl]

Maybe Towson does have a shot if they can't pass....

[Lehigh Football Nation]

Note to EIU defenders: Arm tackling won't take down West.

[Mr. C]

Has Towson completed a pass?
Towson has only thrown two passes.

[centennial]

Jimmy looks good in the snow. I am hoping towson takes eiu out.

[dwtime]

Way to go Towson! Make it a game!

I'm with you, cold snowy Friday night here in Indiana. I'm looking for a game too.

[Bill]

Oh my. (think Dick Endberg there!)

Getting good here!

[Sycamore62]

I repeat myself, West is a beast.

Clearly not human

what the hell was that pass that was almost picked? Looked like Lamar on revenge of the nerds throwing the javelin.

[Southern Bison]

Good defensive stop and ensuing drive by Towson...a couple more like that and we may have an upset!

[FargoBison]

If I had Payton vote it would go to West.

[Mr. C]

Squib kick is returned to the EIU 30.

- - - Updated - - -

Garopplo scrambles and slides at the 34.

- - - Updated - - -

Tye Snith with a great pass breakup on the deep fly.

[Lehigh Football Nation]

Towson smart to squib and avoid a return. Maybe they watched the Eagles/Lions last weekend and saw how important special teams are in the snow.

[caribbeanhen]

Good defensive stop and ensuing drive by Towson...a couple more like that and we may have an upset!

we might have a ballgame brewing, but in the end I just don't think Towson will be able to score fast enough to keep up

[Mr. C]

Clear out and LePek gets 14 on a catch. Garoppolo drops a snap and loses 7 as he covers up on the snap.

[FargoBison]

Towson needs to create some EIU turnovers...

[dwtime]

Clearly not human

what the hell was that pass that was almost picked? Looked like Lamar on revenge of the nerds throwing the javelin.

But did he have Lamar's limp wristed throwing style? xlolx

[Mr. C]

Duncan to the TU 47. Lora holds on for a first down at the TU 43.

[NoDak 4 Ever]

I just started watching but the EIU guys seem really dickish after the plays. Am I imagining that?

[Mr. C]

JG evades another sack. Throw away. Impressed with Garoppolo's feet. 3rd down pass to Gober. 4th and 2.

[Bison56]

Towson needs to tackle better.

[Twentysix]

I just started watching but the EIU guys seem really dickish after the plays. Am I imagining that?

Haven't noticed.

[Mr. C]

First time I've seen Garoppolo get out of rhythm on the 4th down incompletion. Towson ball at the TU 37. 9:46 left in the first half.

[Southern Bison]

Another defensive stop by Towson...Garapallo is appearing to have trouble handling the ball as the game goes on.

[Lehigh Football Nation]

EIU has a great game plan but as the weather gets colder I wonder if they'll be able to keep it up.

[Sycamore62]

But did he have Lamar's limp wristed throwing style? xlolx

Yes. But towson does not have a engineering dept so there are no master's of aerodynamics to design a football for it.

[centennial]

I just started watching but the EIU guys seem really dickish after the plays. Am I imagining that?
Nope. I agree.
Throwing is becoming hard. We'll see how jimmy does.

[Mr. C]

Towson needs to tackle better.
Tackling has been good on everyone but Garoppolo. That should tell you something.

[Cocky]

On a clean field:
first to 100 wins

[NoDak 4 Ever]

Haven't noticed.

A bunch of dudes got in West's face after the TD.

[Sycamore62]

That poor bastard is going to be in the hospital with hypothermia

[Mr. C]

West shows his strength with an off-tackle run for 7 to the 44.

[NoDak 4 Ever]

If West gets going, EIU is in trouble.

[Sycamore62]

A bunch of dudes got in West's face after the TD.

Probably asking for tickets to watch him next year on Sundays

[Twentysix]

That poor bastard is going to be in the hospital with hypothermia

It's not that cold and they have blankets.

[Mr. C]

Waggle the other way and Athens get his first completion for a 1st down to the 47. Run to the EIU 49.

[Tribal]

EIU should go ahead and try to tackle around West's legs...hugging his torso isn't going to cut it.

[dwtime]

Yes. But towson does not have a engineering dept so there are no master's of aerodynamics to design a football for it.

:D

[Mr. C]

West has his 11th 100-yard game of the season. Victor squirts to the 45. 3rd and 2.

[Sycamore62]

I just started watching but the EIU guys seem really dickish after the plays. Am I imagining that?

I always think so except when it's indiana state

[Mr. C]

From the power-I West smashes to the EIU 41.

[Sycamore62]

West looks like a snow plow

[Bison56]

Wow that could have been really bad.

[NoDak 4 Ever]

The weather is going to take JG out of this one. Especially when his D can't get off the field.

[Mr. C]

Athens spins away unbelievably and saves a big sack. West makes a great effort for the catch but it is incomplete.

[Mr. C]

Illegal hands to the face on the DB on the receiver and roughing the passer calls on EIU. Towson first down at the 26. Almost intercepted on the Athens pass.

[Lehigh Football Nation]

West looked like he had his toe in bounds?

[Bison56]

Just run the ball.

[FargoBison]

EIU's rush defense is bad....of course that has been proved over and over again by good rushing teams so no shocker there.

[Lehigh Football Nation]

Beautiful footwork on Victors run

[NoDak 4 Ever]

Wait, it's only 32 degrees? They all look like they're dying.

[Mr. C]

Victor turns the corner on a draw to the EIU 4. Time out EIU. The referee just announced that Eastern Washington was calling the time out to a chorus of boos.

[Go Lehigh TU Owl]

#93 for EIU is acting like a punk. Should have gotten another penalty...

[Twentysix]

Wait, it's only 32 degrees? They all look like they're dying.

Yeap, if it was 1.5F warmer, it would be raining.

[dwtime]

Maybe its because I'm comparing to Garoppolo but to me Athens looks terrible tonight, thank goodness Towson has a running game.

[Mr. C]

West hit at the 4.

[Franks Tanks]

Wait, it's only 32 degrees? They all look like they're dying.

Oh shut up, you guys play in a basketball arena.

[Southern Bison]

Nope. I agree.
Throwing is becoming hard. We'll see how jimmy does.

I think the weather could actually make Jimmy G a smaller factor. Anyone remember the weather during last year's EIU @ SDSU playoff game?

[centennial]

EIU is playing like a bunch of punks. Even though it's only 32.. The snow has to be slippery. Jg might struggle to grip the ball.

[BisonBohl]

The lack of kicking games for both teams is going to eventually cost them in the playoffs.

[Mr. C]

A nice wrinkle on a formation and Frazier wildcats it in for the tying score.

[UIWWildthing]

And we are TIED!

[BisonBohl]

Oh shut up, you guys play in a basketball arena.


Actually its terrible for basketball, one of the worst venues for a basketball game you can find.

[Mr. C]

Frazier with a great hold to save a bad snap and Evangelista knocks through a tough extra point.

Towson 14, Eastern Illinois 14, 6:21 left in the second period.

[unhfan1]

CAA baby!

[Mr. C]

It is now 28 plays for 170 yards for Towson and 41 plays for 210 for EIU.

Towson with 167 yards on the ground.

[Tribal]

Should be a tie game in a second.

Towson was the worst team in the CAA in terms of turnovers (not TO margin) with 31...16 fumbles and 15 INTs. Their QB has made some ill-advised passes and they're lucky EIU didn't pull them in. I wouldn't be surprised if TOs become a major factor as fingers freeze and the football hardens.

[Gil Dobie]

Can EIU keep up with the momentum change?

[Mr. C]

Squibber to the 32 for EIU, despite some dead-ball action.

- - - Updated - - -

The kickoff return is under review after a fumble.

[Gil Dobie]

Lot of FBS transfers being mentioned.

[UIWWildthing]

They blew the whistle on that return, why are they reviewing?

[BisonBohl]

Seems like both teams like to do a lot of talking after the plays...

[Go Lehigh TU Owl]

Lot of FBS transfers being mentioned.

I agree! I'm not a big fan of that style...

[Mr. C]

Ruling on the field stands. imagine that.

[dwtime]

Whistle blows, ball is dead.