This weekend’s football breakdown
Published Oct 21, 2011
After taking a week off, TCU football will be back in action Saturday when they host New Mexico at Amon Carter Stadium. Here’s a brief breakdown of a few key matchups to look for in tomorrow’s game:
Quarterbacks:
There may not be a single position group where New Mexico can even tie the Frogs. Casey Pachall was added to the Manning Award Watch List, and I expect a big game from the signal caller. The New Mexico secondary couldn’t stop a nose bleed. New Mexico quarterback B.R. Holbrook is not good enough to truly test the TCU secondary. Advantage: TCU
Running backs:
Ed Wesley has given the Frogs a boost since his return from injury. Wesley, Matthew Tucker, Aundre Dean and Waymon James should all get carries in this one since TCU will be up big in the second half. Advantage: TCU
Wide Receivers:
Hopefully the bye week afforded the young receiver core the opportunity to get more comfortable in the offense. I expect Josh Boyce to make a few big plays early on. Skye Dawson has not been as impressive as I thought he would be this season. It’s his turn to have a big game. Deon Long is a shifty player for the Lobos, but he will have to win the game all by himself. Advantage: TCU
Defensive line:
Gary Patterson said Stansly Maponga was the one defender that has played up to expectations this season. D.J. Yendrey needs to step up, but the defensive line is all about depth, and the Frogs will rotate seven on the D-line. It’s time for the D-line to finally dominate a game. This is a great chance for the Frog defense to try for their fist shutout of the year. Advantage: TCU
Linebacker:
Here’s hoping the bye week allowed Tank Carder to get as healthy as he has been all year. Kris Gardner picked off a pass versus San Diego State, and Kenny Cain has filled in well for Tanner Brock. Carmen Messina and Dallas Bollema lead New Mexico in tackles, but TCU’s offensive line will be able to get onto the linebackers all day long. Advantage: TCU
Secondary:
I was very down on the Frogs’ secondary versus San Diego State, but they picked up a little swagger in that game. Jason Verrett-who is quickly becoming TCU’s best boundary corner-picked off a pass, and Johnny Fobbs got one as well. The TCU secondary made San Diego State’s Ryan Lindley look very average. Advantage: TCU
Prediction:
New Mexico is 0-6. They have some pieces to build around, but TCU is faster, stronger and more talented. TCU will run all over the Lobos. TCU’s defense falls just short of pitching its first shutout. TCU wins 38-3.