Teams who could challenge NDSU and why.

[BigHouseClosedEnd]

Admittedly, I haven't seen much of NDSU but I don't think there's a National Championship contender in the CAA. Given the diversity of their offense, I'd probably peg UNH slightly ahead of Nova.

[smilo]

Are you serious? Diversity of their offense? Villanova has one of the most diverse offenses I've ever seen. A dominant 3-headed monster (Gary Underwood's numbers are just out of this world) at HB and a dual threat QB with a hopefully playoff-healthy TE who may have a shot at the NFL and 6 legitimate wide receivers led by likely all-Colonial selection Poppy Livers and joined by Clay Horne who has improved so much since game 1, a serious deep threat in Kevin Gulyas, an incredible blocker-receiver combo in Mike Burke, Lincoln Collins who always come up with a catch when we need one, and end-around/pitch out specialist Aaron Wells (who I am still waiting to break out, but I have full faith in him with Talley at the helm - trying to unexpectedly replace JAR). Villanova's offense is plenty diverse.

[KPSUL]

Admittedly, I haven't seen much of NDSU but I don't think there's a National Championship contender in the CAA. Given the diversity of their offense, I'd probably peg UNH slightly ahead of Nova.

Championship favorite? No. Contenders? Yes. In addition to Nova and UNH, I'd include Richmond and W&M in that group. I don't discount W&M just because of the game in Durham. Any team can have an off game and they've gotten better each game since. The UNH game could have gone either way for RU - I was there and felt the momentum shifting back and forth all game. The CAA may not have the depth of some previous seasons, but the top four teams all have the ability to win playoff games.

[FargoBison]

Bison fans I remember rolling GSU in the playoffs in 2011 but then it was a different story in 2012. Might want to chill a bit on this we'll slaughter every non-MVFC team stuff.

It was the reality last year, this team still hasn't shown that kind of consistency yet.

[BigHouseClosedEnd]

Championship favorite? No. Contenders? Yes. In addition to Nova and UNH, I'd include Richmond and W&M in that group. I don't discount W&M just because of the game in Durham. Any team can have an off game and they've gotten better each game since. The UNH game could have gone either way for RU - I was there and felt the momentum shifting back and forth all game. The CAA may not have the depth of some previous seasons, but the top four teams all have the ability to win playoff games.

Fair enough.

I think Richmond is good enough to win a game or two in the playoffs but the quarterfinals is probably their ceiling.

UNH showed alot of grit in the game down here in September, particularly after the starting QB got knocked out. UNH can probably get to the Semifinals.

Villanova is going to be a handful this weekend for us but they have the appearance of a team that peaked in mid September. In particular, they allowed a pretty modest WM offense to march up and down the field against them last Saturday. I'm sure that comment will generate more butt hurt from the VU fan.

I think the jury is still out on WM. I think the Tribe is good enough to sneak into the playoffs and perhaps win an opening weekend game but they lack the quarterbacking to get beyond the 2nd weekend.

Hopefully one of the MV teams can knock off NDSU. I don't see us doing it.

[TennBison]

Hey don't be an asshole,last time I checked you haven't watched all of the UNH games, we are better this year than last year, our defense is improving not that they are good enough to wistand the bison. Also why do you think nova is that much better than UNH? We cruised over W&M and they barely got by and let a MEAC team stay around for 3 quarters this week. One more point playing in the Fargo dome is ridiculous, 130 decibel on every play for the other team, I'm not trying to complain that it's unfair and I'm not saying we would win outside of it because I doubt it. Stop being an asshole, we get it NDSU is far above any fcs team. Doesn't mean you have to laugh at all the other teams. Yeah UNH got their asses handed to them so did everyone else last year. Everyone probably will this year. Everyone is just speculating who could actually give them a decent game for a while I doubt anyone thinks these teams has a real shot...
We don't reach 130 decibels, it's more like 110. If you think the Fargodome is unfair, then why is it that the Bison actually have a better record on the road starting with the 2011 season(undefeated on the road and two losses at home). By the way, I'm not laughing at ALL the other teams, just at the fact that UNH fans think that a team getting their asses handed to them has a realistic shot a year later (most of your team is still around from last year). Your offense didn't score a point until 29 seconds to go and that was against our 3rd stringers in garbage time. And for the record, I predicted during the off season NDSU would lose 1-2 games during the regular season, and I still think someone can take a game from us. So I am not all high and mighty on NDSU and I don't look at all the other teams like they are lowly. And wow, you faced two rank/good opponents this year, so far all but two of NDSU's opponents have been ranked in the FCS. And the FBS team we beat...they took out Toledo who pummeled UNH. And the biggest factor in the game last year that for sure carries over to this year unless you have a new strength coach is UNH"s conditioning, by the end of the second quarter UNH defense was huffing and puffing like they just competed in the Iron Man marathon (and how would I know, I sat right behind their bench). We even out conditioned Iowa St, and Kansas St last year for that matter.

[TennBison]

Several wins better than at this point in the season, haven't lost an FCS game yet. Wins over two quality conference opponents, W&M at home, Richmond on the road. The last 4 wins have been with the #2 QB playing, the starter is injured but there is very little difference between the two of them. They are more consistent and confident as a team. I don't know how they would do against NDSU, but I would say they are a better team this year. Actually, I didn't mention UNH in this thread. I was just to responding to BisonTenn's juvenile comments. In retrospect I shouldn't have, I suspect Tenn refers to his age when he started posting two years ago.
I started posting 5+ years ago, but started this account because I wanted to change my name.

[NoDak 4 Ever]

I started posting 5+ years ago, but started this account because I wanted to change my name.

Don't sweat him, he's even newer.

[TennBison]

Bison fans I remember rolling GSU in the playoffs in 2011 but then it was a different story in 2012. Might want to chill a bit on this we'll slaughter every non-MVFC team stuff.

It was the reality last year, this team still hasn't shown that kind of consistency yet.
Knowing that no one play decides a game, or that one player wins/loses it either, if you had to pick a situation like that it was the penalty on J Champion when he hit the punter in the GSU end zone that gave them a new set of downs for the go ahead score. Otherwise NDSU has the ball at the GSU 35 and the lead. GSU got somewhat better than the year before, but not as if they made a quantum leap.

[Southern Bison]

TennBison, you gotta relax a bit. One key difference between UNH's 2013 & '14 teams is that the '13 team snuck into the playoffs with wins over JMU, Albany, & Maine to finish the regular season at 7-4.

This year's UNH team has thr playoff experience of last year and it shows in their current status. If they make it back to the FD, I expect a more prepared Wildcat team to handle the noise and the Bison...a la GaSo 2012 vs. 2011.

[Jason Svoboda]

If the offensive and defensive lines play like they did against us a couple weeks ago, very few teams can. No slight against any of the big boys in FCS, Most lower level FBS schools and quite a few P5 schools would have left Fargo with a loss.

[Bisonoline]

There is some real stupid commentary from NDSU fans in this thread.xthumbsdownxxnonox

[word]

I just read this whole thread.....wow. I'm sure glad the bandwagon fans are chirping in. Have some class.

[Southern Bison]

I just read this whole thread.....wow. I'm sure glad the bandwagon fans are chirping in. Have some class.
No kidding...it's like Bisonville in here.

[Mattymc727]

We don't reach 130 decibels, it's more like 110. If you think the Fargodome is unfair, then why is it that the Bison actually have a better record on the road starting with the 2011 season(undefeated on the road and two losses at home). By the way, I'm not laughing at ALL the other teams, just at the fact that UNH fans think that a team getting their asses handed to them has a realistic shot a year later (most of your team is still around from last year). Your offense didn't score a point until 29 seconds to go and that was against our 3rd stringers in garbage time. And for the record, I predicted during the off season NDSU would lose 1-2 games during the regular season, and I still think someone can take a game from us. So I am not all high and mighty on NDSU and I don't look at all the other teams like they are lowly. And wow, you faced two rank/good opponents this year, so far all but two of NDSU's opponents have been ranked in the FCS. And the FBS team we beat...they took out Toledo who pummeled UNH. And the biggest factor in the game last year that for sure carries over to this year unless you have a new strength coach is UNH"s conditioning, by the end of the second quarter UNH defense was huffing and puffing like they just competed in the Iron Man marathon (and how would I know, I sat right behind their bench). We even out conditioned Iowa St, and Kansas St last year for that matter.

UNH didnt really get pummeled by Toledo. UNH was up 14 points early, down 2 at the half, and was down a touchdown by the end of the third qtr. UNH ran out of gas by the fourth and we were all really disappointed with their effort too, but that happens in the first game of the season. Since that game UNH has looked real sharp.

As for the better road record? The Bison have lost like 3 times in 5 years, they just happen to be choke jobs at home. Playing at home is a real advantage, and trying to argue against that sounds pretty dumb.

[semobison]

On any given Saturday there are plenty of teams capable of beating the Bison. If you are talking probability, the percentage goes down.

[Daved]

On any given Saturday there are plenty of teams capable of beating the Bison. If you are talking probability, the percentage goes down.You just hit the nail on the head!

[dudeitsaid]

On any given Saturday there are plenty of teams capable of beating the Bison. If you are talking probability, the percentage goes down.
27 pages in, we get the most common sense response to the thread title. Well stated!

[Professor Chaos]

27 pages in, we get the most common sense response to the thread title. Well stated!
I pretty much said the same thing on page 3 (http://www.anygivensaturday.com/showthread.php?162550-Teams-who-could-challenge-NDSU-and-why&p=2163696&viewfull=1#post2163696). It won't take long before the brash dick-swinging and failed attempts at humor drown out any common sense that tries to infiltrate this thread.

[GoAgs72]

NDSU is great but eventually all of the mighty fall. It has happened to all sports teams at all levels. However, right now it will be tough to beat the Bison unless they get done in by injury or over-confidence.

[dudeitsaid]

NDSU is great but eventually all of the mighty fall. It has happened to all sports teams at all levels. However, right now it will be tough to beat the Bison unless they get done in by injury or over-confidence.
So, in other words, the only team that could challenge NDSU is NDSU! :p

[dudeitsaid]

I pretty much said the same thing on page 3 (http://www.anygivensaturday.com/showthread.php?162550-Teams-who-could-challenge-NDSU-and-why&p=2163696&viewfull=1#post2163696). It won't take long before the brash dick-swinging and failed attempts at humor drown out any common sense that tries to infiltrate this thread.
Hey Prof! Stop trying to steal Semobison's thunder! Pun intended!

Dangit, another failed attempt at humor. Sorry 'bout that...

[Big_Fan]

On any given Saturday there are plenty of teams capable of beating the Bison. If you are talking probability, the percentage goes down.


I would agree with that statement.

The reason I think Jax State stands as good of a chance as anyone, is the combination of a dominant DL, and an explosive offense.

We still have question marks in the secondary, but our front 7 are good enough to make a QB miserable. That has been evident this season... when we held teams well under there passing average, it was our DL and LB corp bringing heat that caused it, not our DB's ability to cover. Our secondary has improved, and apart from the anomaly against TSU in the mud, they have been solid since the first few games. Even in the slip and slide game against TSU, we had 4 picks... still they are probably the weak link on our team.

Against NDSU we would have to weather the storm. Our defense has been outstanding at making adjustments in-game. Murray State was picking us apart in the first half, but they couldn't find the 50 yard line in the second half.

NDSU has a freakishly good defense for a FCS school. Our offense thrives on finding weak spots and exploiting them. That would be a chess match.

I don't know that we will beat NDSU if we meet in the playoffs, but I feel like we can. We might not win a 10 game series, but on any given Saturday, it could be interesting.

[parr90]

NDSU is on the most impressive run FCS has ever seen. Yes App won 3 in a row, but they were beaten in the regular season. NDSU is just dominating good teams. Who is out there this year that will give them a run? Will it happen in the regular season or playoffs. To me, it looks like it will take a team to out Bison the Bison (Bucknell?). Meaning a team will have to be very physical on both sides of the ball, but also have a dual threat on offense. Villanova jumps out at me, not sure anyone else can pull it off at this point.

Very impressive! Will they get 6? I wonder what will happen once NDST does finally lose. Are they a program that will continue to be successful or when they end this run will they become average over the next few years? I think they do a good jub recruiting "Football Players" in a very difficult place to recruit.

[UNIFanSince1983]

Very impressive! Will they get 6? I wonder what will happen once NDST does finally lose. Are they a program that will continue to be successful or when they end this run will they become average over the next few years? I think they do a good jub recruiting "Football Players" in a very difficult place to recruit.

If they are down they won't be down long. They have proven that over and over again.

[Big_Fan]

If they are down they won't be down long. They have proven that over and over again.

Yeah... NDSU amazes me. It is hard to believe that they are the same team that we beat in the D2 playoffs all those years ago.

[TennBison]

UNH didnt really get pummeled by Toledo. UNH was up 14 points early, down 2 at the half, and was down a touchdown by the end of the third qtr. UNH ran out of gas by the fourth and we were all really disappointed with their effort too, but that happens in the first game of the season. Since that game UNH has looked real sharp.

As for the better road record? The Bison have lost like 3 times in 5 years, they just happen to be choke jobs at home. Playing at home is a real advantage, and trying to argue against that sounds pretty dumb.
Last time I checked a game was 60 minutes, so the fact that you were up at one point and then lost it at the end has no bearing on the fact that you got blown out score wise(nice try at a moral victory). NDSU was down by two scores to Iowa St and scored 34 unanswered points. FYI, the Bison have lost 7 times in the last 5 years, but only twice in the last four. And show me where at any point did I mention that playing in the Fargodome was a disadvantage. I believe quite the opposite. And if you think that 2 losses at home during 3 1/2 years to date is a choke job why don't you fill us in on your teams home record during that same time frame.

[NDSUSR]

I dont think he had bad intentions with the "choke" comment. Just sayin....

[Thumper 76]

Honestly I would say SDSU ha the best shot to knock off the Bison at home just due to the fact it's a rivalry and most of the Marker games are tough. Outside that I doubt an OOC team knocks them out in e Fargodome just because it's such a different environment from anything else in FCS as far as Crazy domes go and SDSU plays an almost carbon copy style, just to a lesser degree obviously. Their road win streak being known, I definitely feel the best chance to ko them is when they are on the road.

[Bison56]

Last time I checked a game was 60 minutes, so the fact that you were up at one point and then lost it at the end has no bearing on the fact that you got blown out score wise(nice try at a moral victory). NDSU was down by two scores to Iowa St and scored 34 unanswered points. FYI, the Bison have lost 7 times in the last 5 years, but only twice in the last four. And show me where at any point did I mention that playing in the Fargodome was a disadvantage. I believe quite the opposite. And if you think that 2 losses at home during 3 1/2 years to date is a choke job why don't you fill us in on your teams home record during that same time frame.
Calm down bud xcoolx

[frozennorth]

I think they do a good jub recruiting "Football Players" in a very difficult place to recruit.this is probably the #1 misconception about ndsu. No FBS competition, a bunch of states with no fcs schools (wi, mn, ne, ks). Fargo is solid. Minnesota hilariously underrecruits it's own state.

They have a dream setup.

[BisonFan02]

this is probably the #1 misconception about ndsu. No FBS competition, a bunch of states with no fcs schools (wi, mn, ne, ks). Fargo is solid. Minnesota hilariously underrecruits it's own state.

They have a dream setup.

This. What gets forgotten is the fact that MN, WI, NE, etc. have 1 FBS program and ZERO FCS programs in their states....and these "P5" programs feel the need to recruit all of that southern speed into their programs. xlolx Guys like Emanuel, Dudzik, Deluca, and recent recruits Urzendowski and Stick out of Nebraska are likely overlooked FBS guys that end up on NDSU's roster.

[frozennorth]

Blllargggle. Mispost

[BisonFan02]

Blllargggle. Mispost

http://stream1.gifsoup.com/webroot/animatedgifs/1036566_o.gif

[Mattymc727]

Last time I checked a game was 60 minutes, so the fact that you were up at one point and then lost it at the end has no bearing on the fact that you got blown out score wise(nice try at a moral victory). NDSU was down by two scores to Iowa St and scored 34 unanswered points. FYI, the Bison have lost 7 times in the last 5 years, but only twice in the last four. And show me where at any point did I mention that playing in the Fargodome was a disadvantage. I believe quite the opposite. And if you think that 2 losses at home during 3 1/2 years to date is a choke job why don't you fill us in on your teams home record during that same time frame.

OK, UNH's home record since 2007 is 37-4 and are 28-2 in their last 30....

[AmsterBison]

OK, UNH's home record since 2007 is 37-4 and are 28-2 in their last 30....

Might be even better than that. I show:


Query7
TeamId
Pct
Record


New Hampshire
0.9048
38-4


Harvard
0.8974
35-4


Montana
0.8772
50-7


Liberty
0.8511
40-7


North Dakota State
0.8333
45-9


Eastern Washington
0.8298
39-8


Sam Houston State
0.8298
39-8


Drake
0.8261
38-8


Jacksonville State
0.8205
32-7


Jacksonville (FL)
0.8205
32-7

[BisonBacker]

This. What gets forgotten is the fact that MN, WI, NE, etc. have 1 FBS program and ZERO FCS programs in their states....and these "P5" programs feel the need to recruit all of that southern speed into their programs. xlolx Guys like Emanuel, Dudzik, Deluca, and recent recruits Urzendowski and Stick out of Nebraska are likely overlooked FBS guys that end up on NDSU's roster.

Stick was not overlooked by FBS schools. He had an offer to go to Rutgers I believe it was and he chose NDSU. Didn't hurt that his teammate Urzendowski was coming to Fargo either but still. It may not be common for a guy to go the FCS route when he has FBS offers but it happens.

[Mattymc727]

Might be even better than that. I show:



TeamId
Pct
Record


New Hampshire
0.9048
38-4


Harvard
0.8974
35-4


Montana
0.8772
50-7


Liberty
0.8511
40-7


North Dakota State
0.8333
45-9


Eastern Washington
0.8298
39-8


Sam Houston State
0.8298
39-8


Drake
0.8261
38-8


Jacksonville State
0.8205
32-7


Jacksonville (FL)
0.8205
32-7




Haha youre right! I didnt count this past Saturdays scare against SBU.

[BisonFan02]

Stick was not overlooked by FBS schools. He had an offer to go to Rutgers I believe it was and he chose NDSU. Didn't hurt that his teammate Urzendowski was coming to Fargo either but still. It may not be common for a guy to go the FCS route when he has FBS offers but it happens.

Rutgers came in late. Stick should be in Lincoln, but I believe Nebraska went after a QB from Florida in that recruit class (Darlington I believe). The point about not getting enough FBS looks due to the local programs still stands.

[Bison56]

Stick was not overlooked by FBS schools. He had an offer to go to Rutgers I believe it was and he chose NDSU. Didn't hurt that his teammate Urzendowski was coming to Fargo either but still. It may not be common for a guy to go the FCS route when he has FBS offers but it happens.

Closer to home and having a friend with you makes a difference sometimes.

[NoDak 4 Ever]

Rutgers came in late. Stick should be in Lincoln, but I believe Nebraska went after a QB from Florida in that recruit class (Darlington I believe). The point about not getting enough FBS looks due to the local programs still stands.

I think the important thing this illustrates is there are only so many roster spots and there will always be a kid out there that can be on a FBS roster but either gets overlooked or finds something compelling about a special program like NDSU.

[Mattymc727]

I think the important thing this illustrates is there are only so many roster spots and there will always be a kid out there that can be on a FBS roster but either gets overlooked or finds something compelling about a special program like NDSU.

The key for programs isnt really just finding raw talent, but getting kids that fit what you do perfectly. A lot of these FCS kids are an inch too small or a tenth of a second too slow for the local FBS schools to look at them, but beyond that they are great football players at strong programs.

[tomq04]

EWU has picked up a couple of kids (each year) in the last 2 years that had offers from WSU and Idaho, I suspect there comes a point of asking themselves do they want to warm the bench on a losing squad, or play their hearts out and lose in the Semi's at home.

[Bisonator]

EWU has picked up a couple of kids (each year) in the last 2 years that had offers from WSU and Idaho, I suspect there comes a point of asking themselves do they want to warm the bench on a losing squad, or play their hearts out and lose in the Semi's at home.

xlolx

[Beachdude]

The key for programs isnt really just finding raw talent, but getting kids that fit what you do perfectly. A lot of these FCS kids are an inch too small or a tenth of a second too slow for the local FBS schools to look at them, but beyond that they are great football players at strong programs.

I totally agree. That is an important factor that Coach Moglia has used to his advantage so far at CCU, and is working really well.

[Southern Bison]

The key for programs isnt really just finding raw talent, but getting kids that fit what you do perfectly. A lot of these FCS kids are an inch too small or a tenth of a second too slow for the local FBS schools to look at them, but beyond that they are great football players at strong programs.

That right there puts that chip on the kids' shoulders about the FBS. I believe that's what has been a part of the past 5 matchups vs. FBS schools for the Bison is how many of the guys feel that they are as good, if not better, than their opposite number at that FBS school. Best part is that they've proven it over and over again.

[NDSUSR]

I totally agree. That is an important factor that Coach Moglia has used to his advantage so far at CCU, and is working really well.
It should, since he has based his philosophy on NDSU/Bohl's prototype. :)

[Hammerhead]

Very impressive! Will they get 6? I wonder what will happen once NDST does finally lose. Are they a program that will continue to be successful or when they end this run will they become average over the next few years? I think they do a good jub recruiting "Football Players" in a very difficult place to recruit.

NDSU has only had 3 losing season since 1964 and has one of the highest winning percentages in all of college football over that same timespan. I think we'll be OK if we don't 4-peat. Even in our transition years when we were not eligible for the playoffs, NDSU managed to recruit good enough players to have a 0.795 winning pct. those four years.

[344Johnson]

Honestly.. A lot of the guys who don't get recruited to play FBS and do really well in FCS probably would never get to play at FBS schools... My theory is that the reason they do well is because they go the FCS route.

How good would Dudzik or Emanuel or those guys be if they didn't get to play until they were a junior or senior if at all...

[Bisonoline]

Honestly.. A lot of the guys who don't get recruited to play FBS and do really well in FCS probably would never get to play at FBS schools... My theory is that the reason they do well is because they go the FCS route.

How good would Dudzik or Emanuel or those guys be if they didn't get to play until they were a junior or senior if at all...

Fact you can only offer so many scholarships at the FBS or FCS levels. Just because some didn't get offered at the FBS level doesn't mean that they couldnt have played at that level and played well.

Do you sit up all night thinking this stupid crap up?

[X-Factor]

Honestly.. A lot of the guys who don't get recruited to play FBS and do really well in FCS probably would never get to play at FBS schools... My theory is that the reason they do well is because they go the FCS route.

How good would Dudzik or Emanuel or those guys be if they didn't get to play until they were a junior or senior if at all...
Wrong. Bison have proven with no doubt that they have talent across the board similar to the big boys. Emanual, Dudzik, Heagle would have started at the same point in their career at most FBS.

[TennBison]

This. What gets forgotten is the fact that MN, WI, NE, etc. have 1 FBS program and ZERO FCS programs in their states....and these "P5" programs feel the need to recruit all of that southern speed into their programs. xlolx Guys like Emanuel, Dudzik, Deluca, and recent recruits Urzendowski and Stick out of Nebraska are likely overlooked FBS guys that end up on NDSU's roster.
I second that. But don't underestimate NDSU's ability to recruit from even further away, and the fact that they can quite often take kids right out of SD as well. ND is pretty much our pick but there are those loyal to UND.

[TennBison]

Wrong. Bison have proven with no doubt that they have talent across the board similar to the big boys. Emanual, Dudzik, Heagle would have started at the same point in their career at most FBS.

I think his point was that at the FBS level they would not have had any playing time until about a year later than they did. And getting into games or starting when they did at NDSU has made them more seasoned earlier than they would have been at the FBS level.

[bisonboone11]

UND. Just think about it, a rivalry gets players extra jacked up, and UND's offense is bad, but our defense is a lot improved. I think UND could actually hang with the Bison.
Bump :rolleyes:

[thebootfitter]

The Jackrabbits challenged for a couple quarters for sure. I think there are more than a handful of teams in the FCS that could probably do that.

Four quarters? We'll see. If UNI makes good use of DJ and can get some decent QB play and offensive line play, they just might be the team that has the best shot this regular season.

[Theee Catrabbit]

The Jackrabbits challenged for a couple quarters for sure. I think there are more than a handful of teams in the FCS that could probably do that.

Four quarters? We'll see. If UNI makes good use of DJ and can get some decent QB play and offensive line play, they just might be the team that has the best shot this regular season.

We challenged for 3 quarters, Sir. xbawlingx

[NDSUSR]

We challenged for 3 quarters, Sir. xbawlingx

I would say 2. NDSU had the ball almost the entire 3rd.

[Bisonator]

It was 20-17 early in the 4th so I'd say 3.

[thebootfitter]

It was 20-17 early in the 4th so I'd say 3.
You could certainly make that argument. I'd listen. That's why I said something like "two quarters for sure."

However, regardless of what the scoreboard said early in the fourth, it was pretty clear that the momentum was favoring the Bison. Given how the trenches were being won, I don't think you could say they were really being challenged at that point.

Two quarters for sure. Three is questionable, but you might get some folks to agree.

[Longhorn]

A 3pt. edge entering the 4th, and you honestly think that mighty lead is "questionable" as to whether it equates to being challenged for three quarters? xrotatehx

Well, I guess you'll just have to add me to the long list "folks" who disagree with your arrogant premise.

[gotts]

The game was clearly over when Stig called for the bomb on 4 & 1 instead of letting Zenner grind it out for a yard.

[NoDak 4 Ever]

A 3pt. edge entering the 4th, and you honestly think that mighty lead is "questionable" as to whether it equates to being challenged for three quarters? xrotatehx

Well, I guess you'll just have to add me to the long list "folks" who disagree with your arrogant premise.

They started the 2nd half with a 88 yard 6 minute drive in which they outmuscled them. The game was pretty much over after that. As soon as NDSU got the lead in the second half, their rabbit was cooked.

[Bison Fan in NW MN]

They started the 2nd half with a 88 yard 6 minute drive in which they outmuscled them. The game was pretty much over after that. As soon as NDSU got the lead in the second half, their rabbit was cooked.


I guess that is a "moral" victory for SDSU? Hang for 3 quarters.


Funny thing is that when NDSU loses, which they will some time, all these "lurkers" that are waiting in the weeds will jump in with their bull**it on the demise of the Bison. I, for one, am enjoying this run that "our" team is on right now.....winning 52 of 54 games now. This probably will not be seen again.

The fun part of yesterday's game was what you just pointed out. At the start of the 2nd half, the Jacks knew exactly what was coming because they had 8-9 guys in the box trying to stop the run and they could not stop it. That is what makes this team so fun to watch. Teams know what is coming but cannot stop it from happening.

SDSU played a good game. But.....football is 60 minutes, not 30 or 40 or 50.

Looking forward to the UNI on Saturday.

[Bison Fan in NW MN]

The game was clearly over when Stig called for the bomb on 4 & 1 instead of letting Zenner grind it out for a yard.


Definitely a head scratcher of a call....xeyebrowx

[stevdock]

The game was clearly over when Stig called for the bomb on 4 & 1 instead of letting Zenner grind it out for a yard.

Considering their WR was open and would have scored if not for being overthrown by 1/2 a yard, I think it was a very nice call. It just didn't work. SDSU did show the world how to move the ball on us with their short to medium crossing routes and slants. Now is someone going to be accurate and patient enough to be able to do it. If they score on the 4th and 1 and take away the two INT's they have a great chance at winning that game.

[Bison Fan in NW MN]

Considering their WR was open and would have scored if not for being overthrown by 1/2 a yard, I think it was a very nice call. It just didn't work. SDSU did show the world how to move the ball on us with their short to medium crossing routes and slants. Now is someone going to be accurate and patient enough to be able to do it. If they score on the 4th and 1 and take away the two INT's they have a great chance at winning that game.


Short to medium crossing routes and slants work against just about any kind of defense. The Tampa-2 is nothing spectacular but having players know their assignments and playing gap sound fundamentals is what makes this Bison defense so effective.

Agree to disagree on that 4th and 1 bomb. ZZ should be able to get 1/2 yard 99% of the time.

[FargoBison]

Giving it to ZZ would have been not the right call, I think maybe I would have tried a shorter pass but there is no denying that what was called was open.

NDSU's defense is damn good against the run and on 4th and 1 they are keying on it. Zenner doesn't exactly have a ton of success against NDSU either.

[IBleedYellow]

I believe that Stig called the perfect call on 4th and 1. Zenner has been stopped multiple times (I believe) on 4th and 1 against other teams and NDSU over his career, just happened last week or the week before as well. NDSU was keying in on that and if Sumner was on, that's 7 points and NDSU fans are pissed calling it a genius playcall.

[Lehigh'98]

Why not just a simple play action TE stick or RB wheel route? I dont think they needed to bomb it out on 4th down. Percentages not in your favor.

[Gil Dobie]

UNI this week was one of the games most NDSU fans were concerned about prior to the season. UNI win over ISUR has not lessened the concern for Bison fans. Hopefully it's a great game for both squads.

[Bison Fan in NW MN]

I believe that Stig called the perfect call on 4th and 1. Zenner has been stopped multiple times (I believe) on 4th and 1 against other teams and NDSU over his career, just happened last week or the week before as well. NDSU was keying in on that and if Sumner was on, that's 7 points and NDSU fans are pissed calling it a genius playcall.


A lot of you guys think it was a great call. ZZ had 96 yards yesterday and a 1/2 yard is a higher % play then a long bomb...

Agree to disagree.

On to UNI...xthumbsupx

[thebootfitter]

A 3pt. edge entering the 4th, and you honestly think that mighty lead is "questionable" as to whether it equates to being challenged for three quarters? xrotatehx

Well, I guess you'll just have to add me to the long list "folks" who disagree with your arrogant premise.
Did you see the game?

[Thumper 76]

Why not just a simple play action TE stick or RB wheel route? I dont think they needed to bomb it out on 4th down. Percentages not in your favor.

When you are at your rivals place who have won 33 in a row now you gotta go for the win in spots like that, not sit back and be conservative. Pass is accurate and goes for a TD its a game changer. When you're at your rivals place like that you go for the throat if you have a chance, and if you miss then you miss. I'd rather lose being aggressive than lose from being over conservative.

[NDSUSR]

I believe that Stig called the perfect call on 4th and 1. Zenner has been stopped multiple times (I believe) on 4th and 1 against other teams and NDSU over his career, just happened last week or the week before as well. NDSU was keying in on that and if Sumner was on, that's 7 points and NDSU fans are pissed calling it a genius playcall.

So when Polasek calls for a pass on 4th and 1 instead of running Frazier, Crockett or Morlock you wont bitch? Lol, yeah right.
It was a shyte call. Give it to ZZ and get the 1st down, then try 3 long shot passes if you want.

[NDSUSR]

Did you see the game?

Its obvious he did not.

[NDSUSR]

When you are at your rivals place who have won 33 in a row now you gotta go for the win in spots like that, not sit back and be conservative. Pass is accurate and goes for a TD its a game changer. When you're at your rivals place like that you go for the throat if you have a chance, and if you miss then you miss. I'd rather lose being aggressive than lose from being over conservative.

You just described the exact reason why SDSU lost this game. As soon as Stig decided to start "going for it" you got crushed. NDSU pounded it out and won. I dont understand why other teams cant see the simplicity.

[IBleedYellow]

So when Polasek calls for a pass on 4th and 1 instead of running Frazier, Crockett or Morlock you wont bitch? Lol, yeah right.
It was a shyte call. Give it to ZZ and get the 1st down, then try 3 long shot passes if you want.
Damn straight I'd complain. But I believe that we have the superior offensive line and can easily get one yard with our QB keeping the football. Each situation is different and Thumper alluded to it...they were at their rivals house and were attempting to go for the jugular in a close game. I believe that NDSU had yet to be in a situation was here they need to do that.

Sent from a TI-83+ Calculator

[Jackal]

You just described the exact reason why SDSU lost this game. As soon as Stig decided to start "going for it" you got crushed. NDSU pounded it out and won. I dont understand why other teams cant see the simplicity.
Exactly. That wasn't the time or place to "go for it". Zenner had been running tough,allow him to get what was less than a yd. If the Bison stop him fine,but don't beat yourself. Down by 3,get the yd. and extend the drive. NDSU took that gaffe and just mud-stomped the Jacks .

[FargoBison]

So when Polasek calls for a pass on 4th and 1 instead of running Frazier, Crockett or Morlock you wont bitch? Lol, yeah right.
It was a shyte call. Give it to ZZ and get the 1st down, then try 3 long shot passes if you want.

SDSU's defense isn't close to NDSU's defense. The play call was money, just not the execution.

[Go Lehigh TU Owl]

I still think it's going to be UNH, Richmond or 'Nova from the CAA. UNH is freaking nasty this year and I'm not going to take a away too much from the 'Nova-UR game yesterday.

I don't see anyone going to Fargo and beating the Bison. If the Bison lose it will be in Frisco on a neutral field this year.....

[FargoBison]

I still think it's going to be UNH, Richmond or 'Nova from the CAA. UNH is freaking nasty this year and I'm not going to take a away too much from the 'Nova-UR game yesterday.

I don't see anyone going to Fargo and beating the Bison. If the Bison lose it will be in Frisco on a neutral field this year.....

I think UNH would benefit a lot from playing NDSU last year, I would definitely expect a better game if the two played again.

[UNH Fanboi]

I think UNH would benefit a lot from playing NDSU last year, I would definitely expect a better game if the two played again.

I think we are a much more complete team than last year, and seeing NDSU once before helps too. But I think NDSU is still a very healthy favorite against UNH and everyone else. In order to win, we would need to play our A+ game vs NDSU's B- game. I think it would have to be in Frisco too. The best chance for NDSU losing in Fargo is another MVFC team.

[Daved]

We challenged for 3 quarters, Sir. xbawlingxI believe Western Illinois challenged for 3 quarters also.

[ALPHAGRIZ1]

Cal Poly, based on athletic ability and depth only.

[BisonFan02]

http://bisonmedia.areavoices.com/files/2014/11/TOP10.jpg

[Theee Catrabbit]

I believe Western Illinois challenged for 3 quarters also.

That's why my smiley face was crying.......

[AmsterBison]

Cal Poly, based on athletic ability and depth only.

That and NDSU has had some real battles with option teams in the past. I can think of several teams I'd rather see on the opposite side of the bracket.

UNI is always a battle. They've got some future NFL guys who can change a game too (Xavier Williams and David Johnson, for example.) After that, we'll see.

[Sycamore62]

Ironically the last team to beat you had a 33 game losing streak

not at the same time