Keys to the Game
Will WVU match Marshall's energy?
Yes. WVU came out energized and ready to play, and Marshall never sniffed an iota of momentum. This game had it all: chest bumping, high fives, big hits, and touchdown celebrations. The body language was there, the attitude was there, the Mountaineers respected their opponent.
Will the 3-4 defense pan out?
It's still too early to say, but it didn't impress. Marshall moved the ball easily, and were able to put up 34 points and over 500 yards of offense. The defense had some highlights, including a few demoralizing big hits and turnovers, but overall the secondary appeared soft, and the pass rush inefficient. There are a lot of young players still learning a new scheme, so hopefully things solidify to help make the defense more of an asset for the team.
Will there be a run game?
More than could have ever been expected. Alston and Buie were dubbed "Thunder and Lightning", as the two shredded the Herd defense and created more balance for the Air Raid offense of the 'Eers. If the running game continues to develop throughout the season, this offense could prove to be particularly problematic for Big 12 teams who have a history of difficulty with strong, physical running backs. Not to mention, the run sets up the...well, you know the rest.
What is Marshall up to?
Not much, except improved QB play and great special teams. The offense did appear to be more spread out, but it didn't translate to much. The 34 points appeared to be more of a result of WVU's up-tempo approach, and trouble transitioning to the 3-4 defense. That said, Marshall should do very well this year against all other teams on their schedule.
Game day Predictions
Prediction:
Marshall comes out with more energy than WVU to start the game and gets on the scoreboard first, 7-0. Geno opens up a little rusty as far as timing with receivers is concerned. The first quarter ends with Marshall ahead 10-3, and fans start to get restless.
Midway through the 2nd quarter WVU gets on track and never looks back. The defense shows some promise, making a few key stops and forcing a fumble and interception. By the end of the 3rd quarter the game is controlled by WVU, 38-13. WVU wins the final installment of the Friends of Coal Bowl, and moves on to their bye-week before facing JMU at Fed-Ex Field, dreams of Big 12 championships dancing in their heads.
Final: WVU 48, Marshall 24
Actual:
No one told WVU that the Orange Bowl was over, and the Mountaineers kept scoring until the scoreboard showed 69, eerily reminiscent of that 70-33 decision that defined the program over the past 8 months. But this time was different. The Orange Bowl was a culmination of Clemson's collapse and all the right things happening at the right times. Against Marshall, it was pure offensive domination.
Final: WVU 69, Marshall 34
Grades:
Offense: A+
The offense looked as good as it ever has, and maybe even better. Thanks to a brutal running game combining both power and finesse, the offense appeared balanced, and quite frankly unstoppable. If this is what the 'Eers look like in game one, things could get ugly for JMU and Maryland after the bye week.
Defense: C-
As impressive as the offense was, the defense was that disappointing. Giving up over 500 yards and 34 points can't make the new defensive staff happy. It's also worrisome as WVU transitions into a conference known for powerful offenses. Their motto is EAT: effort, attitude, turnovers. They had all of those, but still came up short. What's missing? Three-and-outs. The defense needs to focus on getting the other team off the field, and keeping the ball in Geno's hands.
Special Teams: C
Other than getting a punt blocked and missing a PAT, there's not much to discuss. Hopefully the team scores on more possessions than it needs to punt.
And just like that, faster than you can say "Tavon Austin", the first WVU football game of the 2012 football season has come and gone. The team has an early bye week next, and then it's JMU at FedEx Field in Landover, MD. Let's see if the defense and special teams can get on track and make this team one for the record books.
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