My Three Keys To Victory

[MTBoiler]

First, and foremost is the defensive front 7. Can they stop the run. Looking at the depth chart, there is a lot of 'potential' for that group. They are bigger, stronger and faster then last year. Bentley was a beast last year as a true Freshman. Lots of size means they should not get pushed around as much as last year. If that is the case, stopping the run would be a huge plus for our team considering we have two good cover corners.

Second, and on the opposite side of the ball, we have to be able to run the ball. Last year we could not do it well. With a much bigger and more experienced line, we look to be able to run the ball well...but with the inexperience of the rb's this could be a problem. Knox worked hard in the off season by all accounts and looks to be a pretty good back. Even with two talented experienced backs last year this line struggled getting first downs. Running the ball this year to me is the biggest factor for our success.. We do not have a dominate QB or WR. If we can be a top 25 team running the ball, I think we win a lot of games.

Most importantly, QB management. We will need Appleby to come up big from time to time. if he can 'manage' the game, not have to many turn overs, we might have a chance to win some games.

 

[JohnnyDoeBoiler]

Let me comment on your second and third points:

It has been frequently discussed by GBI Staff and the coaches that although Knox and Jones don't have the speed that Hunt and Mostert had, they are better at being more consistent. We may not see the 65+ yard touchdown but we aren't going to see the famine side where the RB's frequently miss holes. Knox and Jones have been applauded at their ability to see the blocking develop and read where they should go CORRECTLY. That alone, in combination with the bigger and experienced line, should produce better numbers rushing the ball. I'm going to say to the tune of 180+ yards average per game this season (157/game last season).

Your third point should be made possible by a better WR's corps along with being fully healthy at that position as well. He isn't going to have to force the issue as much and will be able to make better check down reads to backs and TE's that aren't fully covered by defenders because of a lack of anything beyond 10 yards.

 

[Summy1]

If I was Marshal I would make Purdue have to pass the ball. If they stop our running game then it puts a lot of pressure on Appleby. Like you mentioned Purdue needs to stop the running game of Marshal. It will be a long day if they are able to run the ball.