Western Illinois @ Sam Houston State - Game Thread

[TexasTerror]

Western Illinois Leathernecks @ Sam Houston State Bearkats
Thurs, Sept. 3 · 6 p.m · Bowers Stadium

Television: SLC TV Network (view local listings)
Live Video (Free): SLC Now (Southland.org)

Audio:
SHSU: http://www.gobearkats.com or http://www.ksam1017.com
WIU: https://www.wiu.com/live

Releases
SHSU: Not available as of post time
WIU: Not available as of post time

Team Web Site:
SHSU: http://www.gobearkats.com/SportSelect.dbml?DB_OEM_ID=19900&KEY=&SPID=11345&SPSID=92955
WIU: http://www.wiuathletics.com/SportSelect.dbml?DB_OEM_ID=12000&KEY=&SPID=4963&SPSID=50026

Team Fan Sites:
SHSU: http://www.katfans.com/
WIU: http://www.leathernecknation.com/

Game Day Weather Information:
http://www.wunderground.com/sports/CFB/hometeam/Sam_Houston_State:Bearkats.html

[TexasTerror]

Some related info...

Joseph Named SHSU Starting QB...

http://www.championshipsubdivisionnews.com/index.php/2009/08/26/shsu-announces-blake-joseph-as-starting?blog=2#more5478

Most recent WIU link...

Ten days to game one of Leatherneck football season
http://www.wiuathletics.com/ViewArticle.dbml?DB_OEM_ID=12000&ATCLID=204780637

[PantherRob82]

can't believe I'm saying this.....Go necks!

[TexasTerror]

can't believe I'm saying this.....Go necks!

Hey now - you got to support your conference!

Even some Demons fans, who have acknowledged their strong dislike for the SHSU program are rooting for us... xthumbsupx

[Panther88]

I'll be attending this game. Go BEARKATS!

[leatherneck177]

Looking forward to the game! Also looking forward to see how the offense and defense look without Donaldson and Williams.

[DG Cowboy]

The SLC needs for Sam to win this game. The Gateway and SLC will be in the running for a second AQ, and this could be a tie-breaker.

[TexasTerror]

The SLC needs for Sam to win this game. The Gateway and SLC will be in the running for a second AQ, and this could be a tie-breaker.

What do you mean second AQ? Do you mean the SLC and the MVFC will be looking for a second bid (aka at-large) into the playoffs? I think the MVFC will be possibly looking for a third! Here's to the SLC getting two teams into the playoffs for the first time since '05!


I'll be attending this game. Go BEARKATS!

A shame you are not attending a SHSU-PV game this year. xoopsx

[DG Cowboy]

Oops! My first post and I make not one, but two, errors. I will write "At-large" and "MVFC" 50 times.

And we still need for Sam to win the game when I'm finished. :>)

[leatherneck177]

How do you guys usually draw for your home opener? What is your average attendace for home games? I think I saw that your place holds around 12,000?

Thoughts on the program this year? How was your run defense last year? I can promise you that the Necks will run the ball at least 30-35 times.

[TexasTerror]

How do you guys usually draw for your home opener? What is your average attendace for home games? I think I saw that your place holds around 12,000?

SHSU will probably draw about 8-9k for games. Thursday nights are hit and miss, especially since you are not going to bring in alums.

At SHSU, basketball is the "premier" student sport. You get 10% of the student body at games once SLC play rolls around and school starts. A SHSU employee, now at TXST, used to say that there's schools that wish they could do that.


Thoughts on the program this year? How was your run defense last year? I can promise you that the Necks will run the ball at least 30-35 times.

Two factors you need to remember - the SLC is more of a "pass happy" league and SHSU has a new defensive coordinator (former NWST head coach Scott Stoker). You can look at last year, but I do not think it would be a fair assessment based on those two factors. Our rush defense was in the 50-60 range if I am not mistaken a year ago amongst FCS.

As far as the program, many faithful will tell you that our head coach's job is on the line. They brought in some very season vets as far as coaches go (Stoker among them) and that will be interesting. There's a renewed focus on special teams - something that became a program staple until the current HC took over. Our kicking game will be much better and that cost us one or two games last season, so that won't hurt.

Biggest questions will be how does the defense improve? And what we get out of our offense with Blake Joseph now the QB?

[TexasTerror]

Been informed that KTBU in Houston will not be televising the game due to a conflict...

This is exactly why the Southland Conference made 'SLC Now' free. They ran into a few too many issues with all the local markets (including 55 which has HS games and the Houston Dynamo).

We should be thankful that at the very least, the SLC realized this issue and addressed it.

[TexasTerror]

For those who have tried to register and get asked for credit card info...

From Todd Lamb in the SLC office...


It is a glitch we're to get fixed with JumpTV after it started asking
for CC info earlier this week. Please assure your friends it will be
free all season.

[TheRiver]

Originally Posted by leatherneck177
How do you guys usually draw for your home opener? What is your average attendace for home games? I think I saw that your place holds around 12,000?


There will be maybe 2,000 to 5,000 there at the most. There is not much talk about Football around town this year.

[centexguy]

Why is the season opener on a Thursday night? To me that sounds like a sure way to kill attendance. If this is being done for TV I could understand if the money and the publicity outweighs what you lose in attendance, but I doubt a Thursday night SLC game would draw many TV viewers. It's not even being shown in Houston and that's where most of SHSU's alumni are at. A small crowd for a season opener on a Thursday night just doesn't seem right for a college football game.

[TexasTerror]

There will be maybe 2,000 to 5,000 there at the most. There is not much talk about Football around town this year.

You kidding me? As long as it does not rain, there'll be at least 7,000 people there. SHSU does not dip under 5,000 for a game unless the weather is in the pits.


Why is the season opener on a Thursday night? To me that sounds like a sure way to kill attendance.

And the game was a Thursday game before TV. SHSU typically opens up on Thursday nights if it is a home game. That's just how it goes...

[TexasTerror]

Game advance from SHSU...

http://www.gobearkats.com/ViewArticle.dbml?DB_OEM_ID=19900&ATCLID=204784219

[TexasTerror]

SHSU Game Notes posted...includes updated two-deep.

https://www.nmnathletics.com//pdf5/639467.pdf?ATCLID=204784219&SPSID=92955&SPID=11345&DB_OEM_ID=19900

[leatherneck177]

Leatherneck game notes:

http://www.nmnathletics.com/fls/12000/gamenotes/football/2009/Game%201_SHS.pdf?SPID=4963&DB_OEM_ID=12000

[TexasTerror]

Leatherneck game notes:

http://www.nmnathletics.com/fls/12000/gamenotes/football/2009/Game%201_SHS.pdf?SPID=4963&DB_OEM_ID=12000

Thanks!

Article on WIU QB...


Junior quarterback Matt Barr will be entering his third season as a starter for the Leathernecks this Thursday against Sam Houston State.

He will certainly be focused on leading the 'Necks to a better season this fall after going 6-5 last year.

Barr finished last season with 1,347 passing yards, nine touchdowns and five interceptions.


http://media.www.westerncourier.com/media/storage/paper650/news/2009/08/31/Sports/Barr-Rises.To.The.Challenge-3759806.shtml

[TexasTerror]

Several true freshmen playing roles for WIU...


MACOMB, Ill. -- Don Patterson said, back when he announced Western Illinois University's 2009 recruiting class, there would be plenty of opportunities for the incoming freshmen to step into roles right away with the Leathernecks.

The first depth chart of the season shows that.

Two freshmen -- cornerback Kieron James and kicker Brian Egan -- will start Thursday's season opener at Sam Houston State. A third true freshman, running back D'Anthony Joboam, is No. 2 on the depth chart.

And the depth chart doesn't show that some additional freshmen will play roles on special teams.

http://www.thehawkeye.com/Story/WIU-football-083109

[leatherneck177]

This is very true about the freshmen starters. I am not sure what to think about this. Does it mean we have poor depth or ability at those positions or does it mean we have some talented freshmen? I hope it is the second one, although only time will tell.

I am excited to see what both teams have to offer on Thursday night! It seems as though the Bearkats will be returning a lot of experience on both sides of the ball.

[TexasTerror]

Complete list of where and how to watch the game...looks like Illinois has a few places to catch the game and that FCS will be running it on tape delay Friday. And don't forget FREE online coverage on the SLC web site!

http://www.southland.org/ViewArticle.dbml?temp_site=NO&DB_OEM_ID=18400&ATCLID=204785476

[leatherneck177]

Article from the student paper today:

http://media.www.westerncourier.com/media/storage/paper650/news/2009/09/02/Sports/necks.Travel.To.Texas.For.Season.Opener-3761503.shtml

[Cap'n Cat]

WIU 30
SHSU 11

[katstrapper]

WIU 30
SHSU 11



CC...
I dont know that WIU scores 30 on Kat D. Stoker's troops should be ready to go. Offense is a different story. There is no way Kats will lead SLC in total offense or tops in scoring this year.

Many will say I am being a pessimist. I call it reality. I hate to say it, but I hope this season is a subpar one. Whitten needs to go.....

[TexasTerror]

Leathernecks hit the road for season opener

http://www.macombjournal.com/sports/x1750347228/Leathernecks-hit-the-road-for-season-opener

[leatherneck177]

WIU 30
SHSU 11

I'm not sure if you're trying to jinx us or what? It is strange seeing you pick the Necks.

[MSUBear42]

Wish it was Missouri State instead of WIU playing you guys...

[TexasTerror]

Wish it was Missouri State instead of WIU playing you guys...

Better be back-to-back games in Huntsville this year and next, if that the case! xwhistlex

[Pantherpower]

Go Leathernecks!! Don't shart yourselves like the Sycamores did against mighty Quincy....xoopsx

[Cap'n Cat]

Wish it was Missouri State instead of WIU playing you guys...


Briggs. Sweet stadium only gets better.

xnodx

[TexasTerror]

Game Day Articles from the SHSU end...

HUNTSVILLE ITEM

‘Things are starting to click’ for Kats
http://www.itemonline.com/sports/local_story_246002008.html?keyword=topstory

HOUSTONIAN
Questions and Answers with the Western Illinois: Western Courier Sports Editor Bill Welt discusses the Leathernecks and their season out looks. As well as how they match up against the Bearkats.
http://media.www.houstonianonline.com/media/storage/paper229/news/2009/09/03/Sports/Questions.And.Answers.With.The.Western.Illinois-3762164.shtml

Welcome to the Bear-cave: Sports writer Mike Silva discusses the look and feel of a new season with the Bearkat football team
http://media.www.houstonianonline.com/media/storage/paper229/news/2009/09/03/Sports/Welcome.To.The.BearCave-3762174.shtml

[TexasTerror]

WIU-SHSU is apparently in a weather delay, according to SLC NOW.

Go figure...reports were of some rain and lightning from the tailgate area. Will post when we hear something...

[TexasTerror]

Scheduled kickoff time is 6:35 p.m. due to the lightning delay.

SLC NOW broadcast has started.

[TSUalum05]

Scheduled kickoff time is 6:35 p.m. due to the lightning delay.

SLC NOW broadcast has started.

It says its being shown in Houston but its not 635 just yet but right now The Cosby Show is on in Houston. I'll keep checking after 635pm.

[TexasTerror]

TSUAlum, make sure you are watching Channel 51.

Video started at 6 p.m. An update was given and they said they would be back on the local affiliates at 6:30 p.m.

[TSUalum05]

TSUAlum, make sure you are watching Channel 51.

Video started at 6 p.m. An update was given and they said they would be back on the local affiliates at 6:30 p.m.

The Cosby show is on Channel 51.

[TSUalum05]

Its on. I'm going to check the game out periodically. Great night for a sports fan with NFL, Lincecum and Pedro playing baseball, SEC Vs. ACC football, SHSU v. WIU.

[TexasTerror]

Video is back on...

Going through the motions of a typical pre-game. They're saying the crowd is not too bad despite the weather. As always, cameras focused on visiting side...

[TSUalum05]

Picture quality is not good and Blake Joseph has some linebacker shoulder pads on.

I'm ready to see BJ and the rest of the Kats.

[TexasTerror]

WIU defers. SHSU will take the first kick.

[TexasTerror]

Kats run the ball three times...two of the times were broken plays and Joseph picked 3, 4 yards each time. A 5-yard illegal motion penalty hurts. WIU gets the ball around the 23, 24 on the punt.

[txphi592]

Looks like there is a whole 3,000 fans in the stands...

[McNeese75]

Blake had happy feet that first possession but I'm sure he will settle down.

[JohnStOnge]

Well, the Southland TV thing might be free but I can't get it to work. When I had to pay for it last year it worked.

[TexasTerror]

Looks like there is a whole 3,000 fans in the stands...

Home side looks relatively empty. I bet they still put the attendance at 5600 at the very least. Those storms must have driven off the crowd, because this is pretty bad, even for a Thursday night.

[TexasTerror]

Several true freshmen starting defensively. WIU had a nice 40 yard play to get into Bearkat Kountry. We'll see if they can score, D needs to step up.


Well, the Southland TV thing might be free but I can't get it to work. When I had to pay for it last year it worked.

Works here. I haven't had problems what so ever. May be on your end...

[TexasTerror]

WIU is right outside the red zone, just picked up a first down...

WIU offensive line is having a field day, outside of the one play where Will Henry introduced himself to the backfield. Leathernecks are going to be tough to stop if they can't be stopped down the middle tonight...

[TexasTerror]

FB runs in from seven yards out...WIU is up 7-0 at the 7:28 mark of the first quarter...

[eaglesrthe1]

Well, the Southland TV thing might be free but I can't get it to work. When I had to pay for it last year it worked.

Working for me.

[TexasTerror]

And the Bearkat offense gets going - 21 yards on option to Aston.

This is un-Katlike! That's four plays, four runs.

Alright - there's a pass. Jakes Lebens.

[McNeese75]

Aston has his game face on. Looks good xthumbsupx

[TexasTerror]

Aston is looking good. A 14-yard pick up this go around. 3 carries, 38 yards.

And Aston hauls in a 25 yard catch. Okay, this is going to be fun! Kats in the red zone.

[catbob]

How big is Aston? Looks good.

[TexasTerror]

So, which team is going to be able to stop the run first? WIU sure hasn't (first drive had two busted up plays that became runs) and in SHSU's one attempt against the Leathernecks, they haven't.

ASTON TD!

SHSU 7-7 WIU, 3:59 1Q

6 CARRIES, 54 YARDS!

[JohnStOnge]

This Southland TV thing is really frosting me. Seriously, they ought to make it so that there is a maximum likelihood that anybody can watch it.

[McNeese75]

Nice

[TexasTerror]

Interesting to note Antonio is the new kicker...the incumbent is the #4 top scorer in SHSU history, who was entering his senior year.

FUMBLE! VICTOR CARMICHAEL TOUCHDOWN!

[McNeese75]

This Southland TV thing is really frosting me. Seriously, they ought to make it so that there is a maximum likelihood that anybody can watch it.

What is your cable provider there? Sure you have it on the right channel? :D

[TexasTerror]

This Southland TV thing is really frosting me. Seriously, they ought to make it so that there is a maximum likelihood that anybody can watch it.

What's wrong with it? I'm having no problems watching SLC NOW and the SLC has done a great job in securing the contest for the Houston market after a bit of a snafu with 55 not being available.

Everyone else seems to be watching it fine - any complaints? Let me know, I'll pass on.

[TexasTerror]

Defense has come alive in these last few plays...

Did Stoker just need to get a feel? The fumble. Then next to plays of nothing and WIU calls a timeout. I'm already getting worked up over these true freshmen making great plays.

[TexasTerror]

Lebens catches, get the first down and WIU comes up with the ball. Lebens was on top of the defender, so they lucked out...

WIU takes over at the SH35.

[TexasTerror]

End of 1st Quarter - SHSU 14-7 WIU

Leathernecks in the red zone.

[JohnStOnge]

What is your cable provider there? Sure you have it on the right channel? :D

I'm trying to watch it on the internet. The test video works fine but I can't get to the game. When I try it just kind of freezes up. It goes to the media player window but I can't make anything happen.

[JohnStOnge]

Ok. Finally got it to work. Have no idea as to what I did differently. Just kept trying over and over.

[TexasTerror]

True freshman Robert Shaw breaks up 4th and goal from the 1!

Kats stop WIU at the goal line on four consecutive plays. Great job D!

[TXST TLG8]

HORRIBLE play call on 4th down

[TexasTerror]

Rough field position after the D comes through...

Kats punt it away and WIU starts anew at the SH49.

[TexasTerror]

Barr throws a 49 yd TD pass...

8:40 2Q, 14-14

[Cap'n Cat]

Go get 'em, Necks!!!


xnodxxnodxxnodxxnodxxnodxxnodxxnodxxbowxxbowxxbowx xbowx

[TexasTerror]

Penalty negates 18 yd Joseph pick-up. Joseph throws a nice pass, gets those yards back and Aston runs for a first down a few plays later.

Spelled 'Rhet' Bomar and Josh 'McCowan'. Come on guys! Let's have a professional broadcast.

[TexasTerror]

Joseph has happy feet again...

Joseph gets a sizable pickup, only for another fumble. Color guy says he's being careless with the football on the run...

[JohnStOnge]

Sam Houston's new QB does look good. Some mistakes but good double threat.

[bobcathusband]

Doesn't look like many in the stands there at Bowers stadium. I wonder why SH always does these openers on Thursday nights. It's a killer for attendance.

[TexasTerror]

WIU misses a kick to the left. Tied at 14 with 15 seconds left in the second quarter.

[TexasTerror]

Doesn't look like many in the stands there at Bowers stadium. I wonder why SH always does these openers on Thursday nights. It's a killer for attendance.

SHSU got impacted by the weather. The game was delayed 30 minutes at the start and weather always kills the crowds, whether the game be on Thursday or Saturday.

The lowest attended games I went to were in the rain. Both of those probably had 2500 bodies in the crowd. Looks fine now, but with TV available, the rain washed the crowd away.

[TexasTerror]

Kats kneel.

HALFTIME.

SHSU 14-14 WIU

[TexasTerror]

Not sure about you guys, but I love the commercial where they have the kids with the "student-athlete cards" and they brag about which student-athletes turned professionals they have.

[TexasTerror]

Gibbs has 18 carries for 46 yards. He got most of those during the opening drive. He's really gone nowhere after that one.

Aston has 10 carries for 75 yards plus 2 receps for 25.

[TexasTerror]

Fake handoff opens up a huge passing play by Barr to his TE, dead ball personal foul makes it a bit less painful...WIU at SH26

[McNeese75]

WIU recievers are making Stoker's DB's look bad right now.

[TexasTerror]

26 yard touchdown pass after the penalty...

WIU 21-14 SHSU 14:09 2Q

[strike00]

Go Necks!!!!!

[bobcathusband]

Sam Houston showing them some real SLC defense.

[TexasTerror]

12 carries, 103 yards for Aston...

Kats are really keeping it to the ground and it's not hurting.

Travis Watson is down. He's a solid offensive lineman for SHSU. Color guy says it looks like he got rolled. Freshman checking in...

[TexasTerror]

Poullard takes over at RB, let Aston have a breather and the Kats inside the 10.

Aston back in - TOUCHDOWN! Two touchdowns for Aston.

Antonio kick - GOOD!

21-21, 11:54 3Q

[McNeese75]

Aston is a load tonight xnodx

[McNeese75]

Great play by Chris Brown xhurrayx

[TexasTerror]

"What can Brown do for you"...

TOUCHDOWN! 64-YARD INT!

28-21, SHSU over WIU with 10:17 3Q...

Scott Stoker is pumped. He's all over the place!

[McNeese75]

Damn, that passing game is on for the Necks

[ValleyChamp]

Who is this Sam Houston guy you speak of?

[TexasTerror]

Senatus continues to put a hurting on the Kats...10 catches, 235 yds.

28-28, 3:55 3Q

[TxState_GO_CATS!]

good ol' southland defense!

[McNeese75]

Joseph with his 3rd (counting early one that rolled out of bounds) fumble tonight :(

[TexasTerror]

I like the change of pace running by Chris Poullard when Aston comes out.

And now we're seeing some good receiving - nice catch Madkins. Lebens and Madkins are both tall guys and Joseph can go high to them.

[bobcathusband]

Damn, that passing game is on for the Necks

SH is not even making it hard though.

[TexasTerror]

End of the 3rd quarter - 28-28.

[McNeese75]

Senatus is a really nice receiver and will be on the Peyton list after tonight, xlolx (along with Barr the QB)

[TexasTerror]

35-28, 14:19 4Q - WIU on top

[TxState_GO_CATS!]

Senatus is a really nice receiver and will be on the Peyton list after tonight, xlolx

xlolxxthumbsupx

[JohnStOnge]

I think there's a pretty good chance that Sam Houston's defense isn't too good. Two defensive scores but, still...

[McNeese75]

I think there's a pretty good chance that Sam Houston's defense isn't too good. Two defensive scores but, still...

I would say they Scott Stoker still has a little work to do with them. That secondary reminds me of the Bobcats in 2007 :Dxpeacex

[TexasTerror]

Between the goal line stop and the two takeaways for TDs - the defense is the reason SHSU is in the game, because the offense has several giveaways...

Joseph could use some more time in the offense. He's learning this week and he's a student of the game. I got faith that he'll progress...

[TxState_GO_CATS!]

I would say they Scott Stoker still has a little work to do with them. That secondary reminds me of the Bobcats in 2007 :Dxpeacex

ugh...i'm gonna vomit. xeekx thanks for bringin that up.

[MSUBear42]

Better be back-to-back games in Huntsville this year and next, if that the case! xwhistlex

Not our fault you guys like to schedule games during Hurricanes!

[McNeese75]

ugh...i'm gonna vomit. xeekx thanks for bringin that up.

xlolx, well I can think about our 2004 secondary and join ya xsmhx

[TxState_GO_CATS!]

Between the goal line stop and the two takeaways for TDs - the defense is the reason SHSU is in the game, because the offense has several giveaways...

Joseph could use some more time in the offense. He's learning this week and he's a student of the game. I got faith that he'll progress...

haha, terror, you're a TRIP. FIRST, you try to convince everyone that since WIU lost donaldson (their all-world RB to graduation) and had alot of freshmen playing, they were not a threat offensively.

their QB has almost 400 yards (a QB who was FIGHTING for the starting QB job of a predominately running team...) and ONE of their receivers may end up with 250+. PLUS, they've done their share of running it down your throats too!!!

but keep thinking your "defense is the reason you're in the game." in a sense, yes...two defensive tds. other than that, the defense looks like they have no clue what's going on.

but keep thinkin that they're good. xthumbsupx

[BEAR]

Can I see this on the SLC website?

[TexasTerror]

All the freshmen...they'll grow up.

And TXST's secondary of 2007? Couldn't you expand that a little more when it comes to the Bobcats secondary?

[TexasTerror]

their QB has almost 400 yards (a QB who was FIGHTING for the starting QB job of a predominately running team...) and ONE of their receivers may end up with 250+. PLUS, they've done their share of running it down your throats too!!!

QB and RB (a converted FB) are not freshmen...Gibbs was at about 3.2 ypc for a good while into the third quarter and that was after the impressive first drive...


but keep thinking your "defense is the reason you're in the game." in a sense, yes...two defensive tds. other than that, the defense looks like they have no clue what's going on.

And the goal line stand and until this drive and excluding the first, stopping the running game.


but keep thinkin that they're good. xthumbsupx

They're not good! They are doing more for us than our offense... xnonono2x

[JohnStOnge]

Oh come ON! Play SOME pass defense!

[TxState_GO_CATS!]

another long pitch-n-catch barr to senatus...'Necks threatening again.

295 yrds receiving.

[McNeese75]

Can I see this on the SLC website?

Ask John SO, he is watching on the internet

[bobcathusband]

Yikes...even as bad as our defense was in 2007 I don't think we allowed a 300 yard receiver. I think Barden had about 200 yards against us when we played Cal Poly that year.

[BEAR]

Is it on TV?

[McNeese75]

Is it on TV?

Sure, Channel 74 :D

[McNeese75]

Missed FG could be big for the Kats

[TxState_GO_CATS!]

Is it on TV?

go to the southland website (www.southland.org)

or just go here and register:

https://www.nmnathletics.com//flexReg/doReg.dbml?DB_OEM_ID=18400


from there, after downloading the necessary plugin, you can view the game

hurry! ready set go!

[TexasTerror]

WIU kicker misses again...

SHSU is still in this game, down seven points. If we can score on this next drive while taking some time off the clock, I'll be a happy camper..

[TexasTerror]

Nice pass Poullard to Joseph...a little role-reversal.

And goes down on the next play...wonder if Watson got back. Sounded like he was done earlier...

[BEAR]

Got it. Said it was a premium package but then sent me to it. xthumbsupx

[TexasTerror]

WIU gets the ball, can put this game to bed or give SHSU another chance...

Stoker's bunch needs to put on the brakes.

[TexasTerror]

Big 3rd down stop for Kats...

3:23 left, Kats down a score...

[BEAR]

This was my prediction earlier from the SLC prediction thread:


Western Illinois vs Sam Houston State (9/3) - WI pulls the win. SHSU has nothing in the tank to offer! Maybe spring ball found some good ones but I can't imagine they will have the needed chemistry this early. WI by 7

Not bad so far! xlolx

[slycat]

SHSU is living up to the SLC hype of no defense.

[McNeese75]

Got it. Said it was a premium package but then sent me to it. xthumbsupx

Per the Southland website:

In Little Rock, Ark., the game will be tape delayed on KARZ-TV Thursday at 10 p.m.

[TexasTerror]

Joseph scrambles for a huge first down...on third down.

They are criticizing his ball-handling. You'd think we were talking basketball, but they are dead on.

[TexasTerror]

Nearly INTed...looked like an INT on the replay. Well, first blown call of the night. Made it this far.

[McNeese75]

Come on Kats!!!!

[BEAR]

I'm watching it live.

[MSUBear42]

Is it on TV?

channelsufing.net, it's on there now.

[TexasTerror]

On fourth down...

COMPLETE. 40 yard line...running out of time, let's go!

[TexasTerror]

Timeout.

1:25 left. Madkins helmet was not working for him and SLC-TV sideline reporter says this is the third time today that a helmt issue has occured.

[BEAR]

only 1 timeout left

[TexasTerror]

First down.

46 seconds left. Chains moving.

[TexasTerror]

Aston at the 21. 8 yard gain.

28 seconds on clock. Timeout. 2nd and 2 when we come back.

Kats down 7.

[TexasTerror]

Down at the 1 yard line. Madkins with catch. Cannon fires - DOH!

[McNeese75]

Good pass and catch to the 1

[TxState_GO_CATS!]

touchdown? i thought he was in...

[BEAR]

OT

[TexasTerror]

Last timeout. 21 seconds left.

Half a foot from tying the game at 35. Let's go Kats!

[McNeese75]

GIVE THE DAMN BALL TO ASTON xmadx

[TexasTerror]

Joseph, hold on to the darn ball!

Just punch it in!

[McNeese75]

You have to be kidding me xeyebrowx

ok now you have more room, throw the ball up again xlolx

[TxState_GO_CATS!]

what the hell r u doing SHSU?!?!?!?!?!?

[BEAR]

Wow..the curse continues...

[TexasTerror]

Wow...all sorts of issues.

False start, offense.

Two seconds left. All comes down to one final play.

[BEAR]

2 seconds...just send out everyone to receive..lol

[slycat]

xeekxxeekxxeekxxeekx

[TexasTerror]

Should have punched it in.

Timeout, WIU. They were scrambling to get into position. No more timeouts.

[BEAR]

Here is where we see what the Kats are made of. xthumbsupx

[McNeese75]

12th man comes through in the clutch

[MaximumBobcat]

fail

[TxState_GO_CATS!]

omg.

[TexasTerror]

Unbelievable...

Chalk it up to bad play-calling. Offsides on the defense! Hold that thought!

[TexasTerror]

How many lives do the Kats have? Not enough...game over.

[MaximumBobcat]

double fail.

[slycat]

It feels like TWs job is on the line

[BEAR]

Wow....just wow...xeekx

[TxState_GO_CATS!]

double fail.

hahaxlolx

what a good/bad game. can it be both?

[McNeese75]

Not the best pass (too low) and a little quick.

Oh well, its easy to call from the armchair. I thought the Kats looked good in areas and not so good in others but its the first game and they will improve. I just really hate that they let an OOC game slip away like that.

[McNeese75]

hahaxlolx

what a good/bad game. can it be both?

xrolleyesx You better have a little sympathy ( I certainly do xnodx). If the Cats slip and slide Saturday night TT is going to be on yall like stink on ....... :D

[MaximumBobcat]

my take on shsu from this game: aston is crazy good. joseph has a good arm, but mostly a mediocre qb. shsu secondary is young and vulnerable. probably another losing season in the slc.

[TxState_GO_CATS!]

xrolleyesx You better have a little sympathy ( I certainly do xnodx). If the Cats slip and slide Saturday night TT is going to be on yall like stink on ....... :D

we owe him. i'd say we're even now.

and i was sincere. i enjoyed watching the game. was pulling for shsu cuz they're in our league...was hoping for OT...thought the guy got in the endzone on the catch.

oh well.

[slycat]

xrolleyesx You better have a little sympathy ( I certainly do xnodx). If the Cats slip and slide Saturday night TT is going to be on yall like stink on ....... :D

Even if they won he would. I'm sure he will if its close.

Better luck to the SLC on Saturday.

[McNeese75]

we owe him one. i'd say we're even now.

and i was sincere. i enjoyed watching the game. was pulling for shsu cuz they're in our league...was hoping for OT...thought the guy got in the endzone on the catch.

oh well.

:) I'm just stirring the pot, don't mind me

[McNeese75]

my take on shsu from this game: aston is crazy good. joseph has a good arm, but mostly a mediocre qb. shsu secondary is young and vulnerable. probably another losing season in the slc.

Sounds reasonable. I think their pass D is going to have to get better. There is no way they will be able to blitz, etc and get to the SLC QB's without getting shredded downfield even worse than they were tonight.

[TexasTerror]

my take on shsu from this game: aston is crazy good. joseph has a good arm, but mostly a mediocre qb. shsu secondary is young and vulnerable. probably another losing season in the slc.

Accurate on Aston.

I'm still not convinced on Joseph being "mediocre". Made some smart moves, had bad ball-handling. Was relatively accurate and had a few plays in which he made something out of nothing. Still is new to the playbook and the system..

Right on with the secondary! Secondary is extremely young. Saw some flashes of bright stuff to come, but they are young and did have troubles with giving up the big play.

[TexasTerror]

Even if they won he would. I'm sure he will if its close.

I am figuring it will be close! I will be so tired on Saturday night when I finally get a chance to view your score, I won't even give you guys crap til Sunday, maybe Monday. I got work all day Saturday!


Better luck to the SLC on Saturday.

Shouldn't be too hard with all FBS and sub-Div I games. What about good luck on Friday? UCA plays Friday in Hawaii! ;)

[TexasTerror]

Game breakdown...let me know what you think of what I feel is a fair assessment...

1) Aston is great. Poullard provides a nice change of pace. I think the running game will get even better when the passing game comes around.

2) Joseph needs to handle the ball better, was pretty accurate and gave SHSU a chance to win. Still learning the system, playbook. Made some things out of nothing, especially early.

3) Secondary is young. A few flashes, but could be in for a long season in this area. I did not realize how many freshmen we were starting - woah! Good thing is that we have Stoker, who knows a thing or two about this area.

4) Speaking of Stoker, he was fired up. That Brown INT and Carmichael fumble recovery - both for TDs - made him a happy camper.

5) Lost Watson, one of our stalwarts on the line. Waiting to hear the status update.

6) Kicking game is MUCH improved! Thank goodness...

7) Mismanagement at the end of the game (play-calling and time). Pat on KatFans.com will tlk about kneeling with 15 seconds and 75 yards at the end of the first half. That's a wash to me. I'm also curious about the helmet issues that were brought up by the SLC sideline reporter, as that cost a timeout there.

LAST THREE GAMES.
THREE LOSSES.
Two games by SIX points totals (three each).
Another by SIX inches.

[katstrapper]

James Aston is a beast. Could have a big year this year.

Kat fans can spin it however they want. All I look at is that WIU scored 35 points and had 537 yds offense. Defense got their azzes kicked.

Blake Joseph is not the answer at QB, but there is no one else so he has to be it for 2009.

Kats will be 3-8 at best. Whitten should be gone NOW!!!!!!!

One thing i learned tonight, WIU really is a "middle of the road" team.xlolx

[lionsrking2]

Sounds reasonable. I think their pass D is going to have to get better. There is no way they will be able to blitz, etc and get to the SLC QB's without getting shredded downfield even worse than they were tonight.

Sam doesn't have enough team speed to play that style of defense...they're better off playing soft zone, make their opponents drive the field and hope they bog down.

[TexasTerror]

Huntsville Item post-game report...with the quote below from Blake Joseph...


“I don’t feel like they really beat us, we beat ourselves. It was a heartbreaker.”

http://www.itemonline.com/sports/local_story_247011021.html?keyword=secondarystory

[Houndawg]

Huntsville Item post-game report...with the quote below from Blake Joseph...



http://www.itemonline.com/sports/local_story_247011021.html?keyword=secondarystory

xrolleyesx What a pin-head. Just gave up 500+ yards to a pretty average team but "beat ourselves".

[3rd Coast Tiger]

xrolleyesx What a pin-head. Just gave up 500+ yards to a pretty average team but "beat ourselves".

xlolx

[WIUFan]

Beat ourselves? xeyebrowx

C'mon folks, SHSU got 14 points directly off of turnovers and WIU missed two easy chip shot field goals. SHSU was VERY fortunate to be in the position they were in at the end of the game. To say WIU is just an average team at this point is a bit of a mischaracterization. The announcers kept refering to WIUs strong and experienced offensive line. This was strange because only one person on the O-Line was a full-season starter a year ago. O-Line was one of my main areas of concern going into the season, and all and all they did pretty well.

I am worried because defense is supposed to be our strong suit this year, and they looked a bit sloppy at times. The offsense is supposed to be lacking without Donaldson and experience in the offensive line, but the offense did a great job (yes I know the SHSU secondary is inexperienced), and the defense did well enough and is going to have better performances.

WIU totally dominated the box score. If anyone would have "beat themselves" here it would have been WIU if they had lost. Maybe WIU is a middle of the road team. We will find out a lot when NDSU plays SHSU and WIU goes to FBS Nothern Illinois. I'll save my judgement for later.

[3rd Coast Tiger]

WIU totally dominated the box score. If anyone would have "beat themselves" here it would have been WIU if they had lost. Maybe WIU is a middle of the road team. We will find out a lot when NDSU plays SHSU and WIU goes to FBS Nothern Illinois. I'll save my judgement for later.


Speaking of boxscore, I didn't see the attendance. Do you know what it was?

[PantherRob82]

I'll also agree that WIU looked "middle of the road" last night. Every year seems to be "the comeback year" for WIU, but I'm not seeing it. Passing game looked better, but it seemed like the SHSU defense was a lot of that. WIU run game wasn't as good as last year, but they lost Donaldson.

[katstrapper]

xrolleyesx What a pin-head. Just gave up 500+ yards to a pretty average team but "beat ourselves".


xthumbsupx you hit the nail on the pin head. Joseph doesnt need to be quoted.

Kats lose next week and it is going to be a long season...

[gokats85]

xthumbsupx you hit the nail on the pin head. Joseph doesnt need to be quoted.

Kats lose next week and it is going to be a long season...

...and a day closer to Todd Whitten's departure!xpeacex

[slycat]

Speaking of boxscore, I didn't see the attendance. Do you know what it was?

6035. xeekx

Thursday TV game kills.

[gokats85]

6035. xeekx

Thursday TV game kills.

...along with "Happy Hour"!:D

[TexasTerror]

And the weather...

6035 is pretty good considering there was a weather delay and storms throughout tailgating. Surprised it was that much.