I thought we'd compete well with App St the first time around, and we did. I thought our explosive tendencies on offense would force App to take some chances in the air, and they did. (One resulted in a turnover, several resulted in PBU and a couple ended with awful PI calls). I think if we can start fast and put pressure on Zach Thomas to throw the ball, there's a chance we can run them out of their own building. Furthermore, I trust our staff to exploit the Mountaineers' deficiencies this second time around.
We've also added some KEY pieces back to our puzzle, offensively and defensively. Namely, Chauncey Manac. Did some research and found some pretty interesting stats.
With a healthy Manac in conference games: 25.4 Points Per Game/170.6 rushing yards per game.
Without Manac: 33.2 PPG / 261.6 RPG
Big differences there, and they are extremely relevant differences, as App St will try to beat us in the trenches and on the ground (especially considering the weather). Having Manac is a major deal. I would also add that Ferrod Gardner has taken a more significant role since the App St game, and IMO is one of the best athletes we have on that side of the ball.
Offensively, we add Chase Rogers, who gives you a true intermediate passing threat in the middle of the field. We have not had that the entire year. Will Napier trust Andre to exploit that matchup? IDK. App St linebackers are athletic and safeties are opportunistic. But just having the option is going to help us tremendously. I think the threat of the slip screen and the seam fly will neutralize the LBs in the run game, if we choose to test them.
Truth be told, Nunez had his worst game of the season at App St. I expect a marked improvement Saturday. I think he's ready for redemption at The Rock, and I think he'll be ready to play.
I'm not going to tip toe around it... Cajuns Win Saturday.