View Full Version : Coaching Career Begins at Northern Illinois
lildude39
09-25-2011, 02:09 PM
This is my first time ever doing something like this, so any feedback on how to make it look better would be greatly appreciated. I am playing on Heisman with sliders adjusted. I am strictly coaching. I don't know how to post pictures or anything like that, so that information would be helpful also. Enjoy!
Casey Rice named new Offensive Coordinator at NIU
Casey Rice will join Head Coach Dave Doeren on the sidelines to run the Northern Illinois Huskies offense this upcoming season.
“We’re excited to have Coach Rice join our staff this year.” Coach Doeren stated. “He runs an option offense that was effective at the high school level and put many points on the board. We believe he’ll be a great addition to this football program and bring us many wins and championships.”
Rice was a 2003 graduate of the University of Cincinnati, where he was the quarterback of the Bearcats. After graduating, he went back to his high school in Richwood, OH, and quickly took the North Union Wildcats to the state championship running his unique offense. After 5 succesful seasons, he got his feet wet at the college level as an offensive coordinator for the Division 3 Ohio Northern Polar Bears for 3 years.
“Being contacted by NIU to assist with there offense is a great honor. I’m hoping my expertise and talents will be a positive shot in the arm the Huskies program needs,” stated Rice. “We have a lot of work to do to get these kids running an effective offense, and it starts with our first game against Army.”
NIU opens the season against the Black Knights September 3rd at home for a noon start.
Season Schedule
1. 9/3 Army 12:00
2. 9/10 at Kansas 12:00
3. 9/17 #11 Wisconsin 8:00
4. 9/24 FCS West 7:45
5. 10/1 at Central Michigan 12:00
6. 10/8 Kent State 12:00
7. 10/15 Western Michigan 3:30
8. 10/22 at Buffalo 7:00
9. BYE
10. 11/5 at Toledo 7:00
11. 11/12 at Bowling Green 6:00
12. 11/19 Ball State 8:00
13. 11/26 Eastern Michigan 8:00
14. BYE
Bold denotes MAC Game
lildude39
09-25-2011, 02:40 PM
Army hands Northern Illinois Loss In Season Opener
NIU dropped it’s season opener to the Army Black Knights by a score of 24-10. NIU plays their second game at Kansas. Game summary and stats can be seen below:
1st
2nd
3rd
4th
Total
Army
0
17
0
7
24
NIU
0
3
0
7
10
Army
NIU
Score
24
10
First Downs
17
10
Total Offense
396
185
Rushes-Yards-TD
54-245-2
22-75-1
Comp-Att-TD
9-18-1
9-28-0
Passing Yards
151
110
3rd Down Conv
8-18 (44%)
0-9 (0%)
4th Down Conv
1-1 (100%)
0-1 (0%)
2- Point Conv
0-0 (0%)
0-0 (0%)
Red Zone-TD-FG
5-2-1 (60%)
2-1-1 (100%)
Turnovers
1
1
Fumbles Lost
0
0
Interceptions
1
1
PR Yards
25
40
KR Yards
50
161
Total Yards
471
386
Punt-Average
5-40.4
8-38.4
Penalties-Yards
10-90
5-50
T.O.P.
17:08
14:51
Players of the Game
Army J. Hassin 26 Car, 139 Yds, TD
NIU J. Delegal 5 Tkls, ATK
MAC News of Note
-None
NCAA News of Note
-Baylor wins against #14 TCU 38-35. The win moves them to #25 in the polls, and Arizona State drops out of the top 25. TCU moves to #24 with the loss.
#4 LSU loses to #5 Oregon 38-34. The loss moves LSU to #10. The win moves Oregon to #3.
Top 25 after Week 1
Rank
LW
Team/Votes
Wins
Losses
1
1
Oklahoma (32)
1
0
2
2
Alabama (25)
1
0
3
5
Oregon (2)
1
0
4
3
Stanford (1)
1
0
5
6
Ohio State (1)
1
0
6
7
Oklahoma St
1
0
7
8
Boise State
1
0
8
9
Texas A&M
1
0
9
10
Florida St
1
0
10
4
LSU
0
1
11
11
Wisconsin
1
0
12
12
Auburn
1
0
13
13
South Carolina
1
0
14
15
Michigan St
1
0
15
16
Nebraska
1
0
16
17
Virginia Tech
1
0
17
18
Arkansas
1
0
18
19
Mississippi St
1
0
19
20
Florida
1
0
20
21
Notre Dame
1
0
21
22
Texas
1
0
22
23
Missouri
1
0
23
14
TCU
0
1
25
---
Baylor
1
0
lildude39
09-25-2011, 02:57 PM
Things You Need To Know Between Northern Illinois and Kansas
This week’s matchup pits the Northern Illinois Huskies (0-1, 0-0) at the Kansas Jayhawks (1-0, 0-0). Here’s how things are shaping out for both teams so far this early season:
Visiting Prospects – 0
Bold denotes leader in that category
Rankings
NIU
KU
Overall Rating
C+
B-
Offense Rating
C+
B-
Defense Rating
C
C+
Points Per Game
10.0 (#100)
28.0 (#70)
Total Offense
185 (#105)
441 (#45)
Rush Offense
75 (#109)
198 (#42)
Pass Offense
110 (#107)
243 (#49)
Total Defense
396 (#84)
376 (#76)
Rush Defense
245 (#113)
262 (#115)
Pass Defense
151 (#53)
114 (#30)
Turnover Diff
0 (#55)
0 (#55)
*Kansas is 1-0 with a week 1 win against FCS MW 28-21
*Northern Illinois is 0-1 following a 10-24 loss to Army
Herby’s Pick of the Week:
*Upset Alert! Northern Illinois
lildude39
09-25-2011, 04:03 PM
Northern Illinois’ Offense Sputters in Lopsided Loss to Kansas
NIU dropped to 0-2 this week after a one sided loss to Kansas.
On being asked about his offense, Coach Rice had this to say:
“We have to execute better. I know these boys are adjusting to a new offensive scheme, but the little mistakes should not be happening. Those are mistakes that are associated with any type of offense.”
The mistakes he was referring to were the 5 turnovers.
“Harnish held on to the ball a little longer than he needed to when passing. He also made a few errant pitches. I’m confident he’ll get those issues worked out and go on to have a successful senior season.”
Game summary and stats can be seen below:
1st
2nd
3rd
4th
Total
NIU
0
0
0
0
0
KU
7
14
7
3
31
NIU
KU
Score
0
31
First Downs
12
13
Total Offense
119
260
Rushes-Yards-TD
35-(-20)-0
32-106-1
Comp-Att-TD
13-26
12-25-2
Passing Yards
139
154
3rd Down Conv
5-15 (33%)
3-12(25%)
4th Down Conv
0-0 (0%)
0-0 (0%)
2- Point Conv
0-0 (0%)
0-0 (0%)
Red Zone-TD-FG
3-0-0 (0%)
2-2-0 (100%)
Turnovers
5
1
Fumbles Lost
1
1
Interceptions
4
0
PR Yards
20
38
KR Yards
121
0
Total Yards
260
298
Punt-Average
8- 44.8
8- 45.3
Penalties-Yards
5-36
6-60
T.O.P.
19:59
12:01
Players of the Game
NIU B. Lawson 2 Tkls, 2 TFL
KU T. Opurun 4 Tkls, 4 TFL, 2 ATK
MAC News of Note
MAC Standings
Rank
Team
REC
PCT
CONF
PF
PA
1
Temple
2-0
1.000
1-0
86
24
2
Ohio
2-0
1.000
0-0
93
41
3
EMU
2-0
1.000
0-0
83
41
4
WMU
2-0
1.000
0-0
73
38
5
CMU
1-1
0.500
0-0
48
45
6
Toledo
1-1
0.500
0-0
80
45
7
BGU
0-2
0.000
0-0
27
79
8
Buffalo
0-2
0.000
0-0
24
53
9
Kent St
0-2
0.000
0-0
25
55
10
NIU
0-2
0.000
0-0
10
55
11
Miami
0-1
0.000
0-0
33
36
12
Akron
0-2
0.000
0-0
17
96
13
Ball St
0-2
0.000
0-1
36
75
NCAA News of Note
-#18 Mississippi State edges #12 Auburn 29-26. The win moves them to #15 in the polls, while Auburn drops to #19.
Top 25 after Week 2
Rank
LW
Team/Votes
Wins
Losses
1
2
Alabama (32)
2
0
2
1
Oklahoma (26)
1
0
3
3
Oregon (2)
2
0
4
4
Stanford (1)
2
0
5
5
Ohio State
2
0
6
6
Oklahoma St
2
0
7
7
Boise State
1
0
8
8
Texas A&M
1
0
9
9
Florida St
2
0
10
10
LSU
1
1
11
11
Wisconsin
2
0
12
13
South Carolina
2
0
13
14
Michigan St
2
0
14
15
Nebraska
2
0
15
18
Mississippi St
2
0
16
16
Virginia Tech
2
0
17
17
Arkansas
2
0
18
19
Florida
2
0
19
12
Auburn
1
1
20
20
Notre Dame
2
0
21
21
Texas
2
0
22
22
Missouri
2
0
23
24
TCU
1
1
24
25
Baylor
2
0
25
---
West Virginia
2
0
lildude39
09-25-2011, 06:31 PM
Things You Need To Know Between Northern Illinois and Wisconsin
The Northern Illinois Huskies (0-2, 0-0) will take on the #11 Wisconsin Badgers (2-0, 0-0) in DeKalb, Ill this weekend. The Huskies look to make some improvements following a disappointing showing against Kansas last weekend. Here’s how things are shaping out for both teams so far this early season:
Visiting Prospects – 0
Bold denotes leader in that category
Rankings
WIS
NIU
Overall Rating
A
C+
Offense Rating
A
C+
Defense Rating
B+
C
Points Per Game
44.5 (#9)
5.0 (#120)
Total Offense
1025 (#17)
304 (#104)
Rush Offense
515 (#9)
55 (#119)
Pass Offense
510 (#32)
249 (#99)
Total Defense
361 (#10)
656 (#74)
Rush Defense
180 (#25)
351 (#98)
Pass Defense
181 (#10)
305 (#47)
Turnover Diff
1 (#46)
-3 (#101)
*Wisconsin is 2-0 and ranked #11 in the nation.
*Northern Illinois is 0-2 and is dead last in the nation in Points Scored Per Game.
Herby’s Pick of the Week:
Wisconsin
lildude39
09-25-2011, 07:31 PM
Northern Illinois Gives Wisconsin A Scare, But Fall Short
The scoreboard shows a large difference in score, but the Huskies give the Badgers a test.
The Badgers were able to come up with a win Saturday night in DeKalb by capitalizing on some key mistakes by the Husky offense. An interception in the red zone, and another returned for a touchdown were just a few factors that hurt the Huskies. A holding penalty on a two point conversation forced the Huskies to kick a PAT to come within 8, instead of 7.
“That was a huge momentum killer for us.” Head Coach Dave Doeren said. “After that, Wisconsin drove down the field to score and took the wind right out of our sales. I’m proud of our boys though. Our strengths are really starting to show for us, it’s just our weakenesses that are holding us back.”
The Huskies have a chance to pick up a W next week, as they host FCS W in DeKalb.
Game summary and stats can be seen below:
1st
2nd
3rd
4th
Total
UW
7
7
14
14
42
NIU
0
3
10
7
20
UW
NIU
Score
42
20
First Downs
17
17
Total Offense
360
303
Rushes-Yards-TD
31-115-0
29-36-1
Comp-Att-TD
21-35-5
18-33-1
Passing Yards
245
267
3rd Down Conv
10-15 (66%)
5-13 (38%)
4th Down Conv
1-1 (100%)
1-2 (50%)
2- Point Conv
0-0 (0%)
0-0 (0%)
Red Zone-TD-FG
7-4-0 (57%)
4-1-2 (75%)
Turnovers
2
5
Fumbles Lost
1
1
Interceptions
1
4
PR Yards
6
8
KR Yards
45
86
Total Yards
411
397
Punt-Average
4- 46.8
3- 45.0
Penalties-Yards
5-63
7-51
T.O.P.
13:56
18:04
Players of the Game
UW R. Wilson 21-35 245 Yds, 5 TD
NIU W. Clark 4 Rec, 106 Yds, TD
MAC News of Note
MAC Standings
Rank
Team
REC
PCT
CONF
PF
PA
1
CMU
2-1
0.660
1-0
76
63
2
Temple
2-1
0.660
1-0
103
80
3
Ball St
1-2
0.330
1-0
63
81
4
Ohio
3-0
1.000
0-0
121
60
5
WMU
2-1
0.660
0-1
91
66
6
EMU
2-1
0.660
0-0
97
89
7
Miami
1-1
0.500
0-0
71
53
8
Toledo
1-2
0.330
0-0
83
92
9
BGU
0-3
0.000
0-0
30
96
10
Buffalo
0-3
0.000
0-1
30
80
11
NIU
0-3
0.000
0-0
30
97
12
Akron
0-3
0.000
0-1
31
154
13
Kent St
0-3
0.000
0-0
42
83
NCAA News of Note
-Unranked Miami Hurricanes take out the #5 Ohio State Buckeyes 37-23 to drop them to #14.
-#19 Auburn drops from the polls after unranked Clemson wins 24-19. The win places Clemson at #23
Top 25 after Week 3
Rank
LW
Team/Votes
Wins
Losses
1
2
Oklahoma (39)
2
0
2
1
Alabama (21)
3
0
3
3
Oregon (1)
3
0
4
4
Stanford
3
0
5
6
Oklahoma St
3
0
6
7
Boise St
2
0
7
8
Texas A&M
2
0
8
10
LSU
2
1
9
11
Wisconsin
3
0
10
12
South Carolina
3
0
11
14
Nebraska
3
0
12
9
Florida St
2
1
13
16
Virginia Tech
3
0
14
5
Ohio State
2
1
15
17
Arkansa
3
0
16
20
Notre Dame
3
0
17
18
Florida
3
0
18
13
Michigan St
2
1
19
15
Mississippi St
2
1
20
22
Missouri
3
0
21
23
TCU
2
1
22
24
Baylor
2
0
23
---
Clemson
3
0
24
---
USC
3
0
25
---
UCF
3
0
Others Receiving Votes –
Miami (192), Northwestern (180), Auburn (177), Penn State (114),
Maryland (71), Pittsburgh (42)
Dropped Out –
Auburn (#19), Texas (#21), West Virginia (#25)
lildude39
09-25-2011, 07:43 PM
Things You Need To Know Between Northern Illinois and FCS West
The Northern Illinois Huskies (0-3, 0-0) will take on FCS West Bulldogs Saturday night in DeKalb, Ill this weekend. The are looking to improve in some areas and hopefully get the first win of the season under their belt. The Huskies are heavily favored in this matchup and will be taking some vengeance out on the Bulldogs.
Visiting Prospects – 0
Team Matchup not provided due to no stats from FCS W.
*Northern Illinois is 0-3 coming into this game.
Herby’s Pick of the Week:
Northern Illinois
lildude39
09-25-2011, 08:50 PM
QB Chandler Harnish Sets New NCAA Record In NIU’s First Win of the Season
Chandler Harnish threw a 93 yard bomb which broke an NCAA record for longest pass in a game Saturday during a rainy day at Husky Stadium. That toss opened the doors for NIU to burst through on their way to a 31-10 win against the FCS W Bulldogs.
“I saw Palmer streaking down the sidelines and just let it go.” Harnish said. That pass hit him in stride and he was able to outrun the Bulldog defense on his way to the endzone.
The Huskies had a gameplan and stuck to it. That gameplan included setting up play action passes by using the option run. It seemed like the Bulldog secondary was constantly having to stop in their tracks and turn around to get to the receiver sprinting behind them.
Holding penalties are still hobbling the offense, as they had a few positive rushing plays called back.
The Huskies (1-3, 0-0) open up MAC play next weekend as they go to Central Michigan and take on the Chippewas (2-2, 1-0).
Game summary and stats can be seen below:
1st
2nd
3rd
4th
Total
FCS W
0
3
0
7
10
NIU
7
14
7
3
31
FCS W
NIU
Score
10
31
First Downs
11
7
Total Offense
224
397
Rushes-Yards-TD
17-42-0
33-76-1
Comp-Att-TD
14-33-1
15-20-3
Passing Yards
182
321
3rd Down Conv
3-13 (23%)
5-14 (35%)
4th Down Conv
0-0 (0%)
0-0 (0%)
2- Point Conv
0-0 (0%)
0-0 (0%)
Red Zone-TD-FG
3-1-1 (66%)
4-1-1 (50%)
Turnovers
2
0
Fumbles Lost
2
0
Interceptions
0
0
PR Yards
8
13
KR Yards
84
43
Total Yards
316
453
Punt-Average
8- 42.8
6- 44.2
Penalties-Yards
3-20
5-60
T.O.P.
10:14
21:46
Players of the Game
FCS W None
NIU C. Harnish 15-20, 321 Yds, 3 TD
MAC News of Note
MAC Standings
Rank
Team
REC
PCT
CONF
PF
PA
1
Miami
2-1
0.660
1-0
113
74
2
Temple
2-2
0.500
1-0
131
143
3
CMU
2-2
0.500
1-0
89
110
4
Ball St
1-3
0.250
1-0
72
112
5
Ohio
4-0
1.000
0-0
148
70
6
WMU
2-2
0.500
0-1
98
105
7
EMU
2-2
0.500
0-0
100
141
8
Kent St
1-3
0.250
0-0
73
93
9
Toledo
1-3
0.250
0-0
96
112
10
NIU
1-3
0.250
0-0
61
107
11
BGU
0-4
0.000
0-1
51
138
12
Akron
0-4
0.000
0-1
51
182
13
Buffalo
0-4
0.000
0-1
33
104
NCAA News of Note
-#15 Arkansas upsets #2 Alabama 30-24. The win moves Arkansas to #13 and drops Alabama to #8.
-#5 Oklahoma State goes to #7 Texas A&M and gets handled by the Aggies 34-21. Oklahoma State drops to #12 while Texas A&M moves up to 4th.
- Unranked Colorado drops #14 Ohio State 29-28 on a touchdown with 22 seconds left.
Top 25 after Week 4
Rank
LW
Team/Votes
Wins
Losses
1
1
Oklahoma (36)
3
0
2
3
Oregon (21)
4
0
3
4
Stanford (2)
3
0
4
7
Texas A&M (1)
3
0
5
6
Boise St (1)
3
0
6
8
LSU
3
1
7
9
Wisconsin
4
0
8
2
Alabama
3
1
9
10
South Carolina
4
0
10
11
Nebraska
4
0
11
12
Florida St
3
1
12
5
Oklahoma St
3
1
13
15
Arkansas
4
0
14
13
Virginia Tech
4
0
15
16
Notre Dame
4
0
16
17
Florida
4
0
17
18
Michigan St
3
1
18
19
Mississippi St
3
1
19
21
TCU
3
1
20
22
Baylor
3
0
21
24
USC
4
0
22
25
UCF
4
0
23
14
Ohio State
2
2
24
20
Missouri
3
1
25
---
Miami
2
1
Others Receiving Votes –
Northwestern (193), Clemson (128), Auburn (126), Penn State (110),
Maryland (94), Colorado (11), Georgia Tech (6)
Dropped Out –
Clemson (#23)
lildude39
09-27-2011, 06:27 PM
Things You Need To Know Between Northern Illinois and Central Michigan
The Northern Illinois Huskies (1-3, 0-0) will take on the Central Michigan Chippewas (2-2, 1-0) this weekend at CMU. The Huskies look to make it two in a row this season and open up MAC play with a win, while the Chips look to improve to 2-0. Here’s how things are shaping out for both teams so far this early season:
Visiting Prospects – 0
Bold denotes leader in that category
Rankings
NIU
CMU
Overall Rating
C+
C
Offense Rating
C+
C
Defense Rating
C
C-
Points Per Game
15.2 (#109)
22.2 (#85)
Total Offense
1004 (#98)
1330 (#55)
Rush Offense
167 (#119)
408 (#100)
Pass Offense
837 (#53)
922 (#35)
Total Defense
1240 (#58)
1533 (#102)
Rush Defense
508 (#52)
669 (#101)
Pass Defense
732 (#62)
864 (#93)
Turnover Diff
-1 (#72)
-3 (#98)
The Huskies are hoping the old adage “Defense wins games” is true this week, as their defense stacks up well against a weaker offense.
Herby’s Pick of the Week:
NIU
lildude39
09-27-2011, 07:26 PM
NIU Comes From Behind to Stun The Chippewas!
Senior Jasmin Hopkins breaks an NCAA Record with the longest run in history, an 80 yard jaunt to spark a fire in the 2nd quarter, as the Huskies come from behind to beat the Chips.
“I knew as soon as I got around the corner on the left side, I had it.” Hopkins stated.
The game didn’t start off how the Huskies would have liked. Senior QB Chandler Harnish’s first two passes were picked off, which dug NIU into a hole. The offense rallied behind him, though, and took care of the game on the ground. Harnish was quiet most of the game, until he unloaded a bomb to Junior Martel Moore, an 80 yard toss that was taken to the house. He then followed that up with a go ahead 72 yard bomb Senior Willie Clark. The defense then held their ground, allowing a lone field goal to the Chips, and stealing a win.
The Huskies (2-3, 1-0) will host the Kent State Golden Flashes (1-4, 0-1) at noon in Dekalb, Ill.
Game summary and stats can be seen below:
1st
2nd
3rd
4th
Total
NIU
0
14
10
15
39
CMU
6
24
0
3
33
NIU
CMU
Score
39
33
First Downs
10
20
Total Offense
433
466
Rushes-Yards-TD
38-205-3
27-95-1
Comp-Att-TD
10-19-2
25-55-1
Passing Yards
228
371
3rd Down Conv
2-12 (16%)
6-19 (31%)
4th Down Conv
0-0 (0%)
1-2 (50%)
2- Point Conv
1-1 (100%)
0-0 (0%)
Red Zone-TD-FG
4-2-1 (75%)
6-1-4 (83%)
Turnovers
3
1
Fumbles Lost
1
1
Interceptions
2
0
PR Yards
21
34
KR Yards
104
63
Total Yards
558
563
Punt-Average
6- 43.8
5- 46.2
Penalties-Yards
10-61
6-50
T.O.P.
16:27
15:33
Players of the Game
NIU J. Hopkins 13 Car, 167 Yds, 2 TD
CMU J. Carr 5 Tkls, TFl, 3 ATK
MAC News of Note
MAC Standings
Rank
Team
REC
PCT
CONF
PF
PA
1
Ohio
5-0
1.000
1-0
182
83
2
Temple
3-2
0.600
2-0
150
157
3
EMU
3-2
0.600
1-0
130
161
4
Miami
2-2
0.500
1-0
130
110
5
NIU
2-3
0.400
1-0
100
140
6
Ball St
1-4
0.200
1-0
78
164
7
CMU
2-3
0.400
1-1
122
149
8
WMU
2-3
0.400
0-1
115
150
9
Kent St
1-4
0.200
0-1
86
127
10
Toledo
1-4
0.200
0-1
110
131
11
Buffalo
0-5
0.000
0-1
47
139
12
BGU
0-5
0.000
0-1
58
176
13
Akron
0-5
0.000
0-2
71
212
NCAA News of Note
-Unranked Auburn takes out #9 South Carolina 39-24 in SEC play. The upset moves Auburn to #21 and drops South Carolina to #16.
-#13 Arkansas whallops #7 Texas A&M 49-10. Arkansas moves to #8 while Texas A&M drops to #10.
Top 25 after Week 5
Rank
LW
Team/Votes
Wins
Losses
1
1
Oklahoma (37)
4
0
2
2
Oregon (22)
4
0
3
3
Stanford (1)
4
0
4
5
Boise St (1)
4
0
5
7
Wisconsin
5
0
6
6
LSU
4
1
7
8
Alabama
4
1
8
13
Arkansas
5
0
9
11
Florida St
3
1
10
4
Texas A&M
3
1
11
12
Oklahoma St
3
1
12
14
Virginia Tech
5
0
13
15
Notre Dame
5
0
14
17
Michigan St
4
1
15
10
Nebraska
4
1
16
9
South Carolina
4
1
17
18
Mississippi St
4
1
18
19
TCU
4
1
19
16
Florida
4
1
20
22
UCF
4
0
21
---
Auburn
3
2
22
24
Missouri
3
1
23
25
Miami
3
1
24
---
Illinois
5
0
25
---
Penn St
4
1
Others Receiving Votes –
Baylor (129), Maryland (107), Colorada (74), Georgia Tech (52), USC (47),
Ohio State (35), Texas (17), Clemson (16)
Dropped Out –
Baylor (#20), USC (#21), Ohio State (#23)
lildude39
09-27-2011, 08:01 PM
Things You Need To Know Between Northern Illinois and Kent State
The Northern Illinois Huskies (2-3, 1-0) look to extend their winning streak to 3 as they host the Kent State Golden Flashes (1-4, 0-1) this weekend. This looks to be a pretty even matchup. The winner of this game will be the one who shows they want it the most. A suspect KSU defense will be relying on their #49 ranked offense, while the Huskies look to hold them and use the ground game to run them over.
Visiting Prospects – 6
Name
POS
HT
WT
Specialty
Nat. Rank
Hometown
Caliber
Harvey Daniels
T
6’5”
298
Run Block
85
Brookfield, IL
3
Derrick Wagner
HB
6’0”
188
Speed
132
Plymouth, MI
2
Vernon Jones
C
6’3’
275
Balanced
33
Holland, MI
3
Tim Givens
TE
6’2”
257
Balanced
44
Lemay, MO
3
Pete Johnson
DT
6’7”
294
Pass Rush
73
Oak Forest, IL
3
Glenn Brown
DT
5’11”
357
Run Stop
33
Brookfield, WI
3
Bold denotes leader in that category
Rankings
KSU
NIU
Overall Rating
C
C+
Offense Rating
C
C+
Defense Rating
C-
C
Points Per Game
17.2 (#102)
20.0 (#94)
Total Offense
1727 (#49)
1437 (#83)
Rush Offense
887 (#33)
372 (#115)
Pass Offense
840 (#87)
1065 (#53)
Total Defense
1504 (#48)
1706 (#82)
Rush Defense
707 (#78)
603 (#48)
Pass Defense
797 (#44)
1103 (#99)
Turnover Diff
-5 (#111)
-2 (#88)
Herby’s Pick of the Week:
NIU
lildude39
09-27-2011, 09:01 PM
NIU Fails To Show Up Against Kent State
The NIU Huskies (2-4, 1-1) was embarrassed by Kent State (2-4, 1-1) Saturday afternoon, as they demolished the Huskies 50-14. Yes, it was that bad.
Coach Dave Doeren did not allow the media into the locker room after the game, but you could tell he wasn’t happy. Crashes were heard outside the locker room door, as well as undecipherable yelling, but the bottom line was, his team stunk it up on the field.
The Huskies turned the ball over 7 times, with 5 interceptions, one being in the 4 being in the red zone. Two fumbles were returned for touchdowns. Four dropped passes didn’t help their effort any either.
NIU needs to step up their game, as they have an even bigger challenge next week as they host Western Michigan (3-3, 1-1).
Game summary and stats can be seen below:
1
2
3
4
Total
Kent
20
10
13
7
50
NIU
0
7
7
0
14
NIU
CMU
Score
50
14
First Downs
16
15
Total Offense
384
346
Rushes - Yards - TD
36 - 150 - 1
26 - 49 - 0
Comp - ATT - TD
15 - 31 - 3
21 - 40 - 2
Passing Yards
234
297
3rd Down Conv
7 - 16 (43%)
4 - 13 (30%)
4th Down Conv
0 - 0 (0%)
0 - 0 (0%)
2 Pt. Conv
0 - 0 (0%)
0 - 0 (0%)
Red Zone - TD - FG
5 - 2 - 2 (80%)
4 - 0 - 0 (0%)
Turnovers
0
7
Fumbles
0
5
Interceptions
0
2
PR Yards
15
8
KR Yards
23
142
Total Yards
422
496
Punts - Average
4 - 43.5
6 - 42.0
Penalties - Yards
4 - 44
6 - 40
T.O.P.
13:53
18:07
Players of the Game
Kent I. Kitchen 3 Tkls, 4 TFL, 3 ATK
NIU N. Jefferson 5 Tkls, 3 TFl, ATK
MAC News of Note
MAC Standings
Rank
Team
REC
PCT
Conf
PF
PA
:Ohio:
1
Ohio
6-0
1.000
2-0
216
93
:Temple:
2
Temple
4-2
0.660
3-0
181
181
:Miami_OH:
3
Miami
3-2
0.600
1-0
147
124
:Toledo:
4
Toledo
2-4
0.330
1-1
141
148
:Kent_State:
5
Kent St
2-4
0.330
1-1
136
141
:Northern_Illinois:
6
NIU
2-4
0.330
1-1
114
190
:Central_Michigan:
7
CMU
2-4
0.330
1-1
170
205
:Western_Michigan:
8
WMU
3-3
0.500
1-1
149
153
:Eastern_Michigan:
9
EMU
3-3
0.500
1-1
147
192
:Ball_State:
10
Ball St
1-5
0.160
1-1
102
195
:Akron:
11
Akron
1-5
0.160
0-2
91
222
:Buffalo:
12
Buffalo
0-6
0.000
0-2
57
173
:Bowling_Green:
13
BGU
0-6
0.000
0-2
61
210
NCAA News of Note
-#8 Arkansas falls to #14 following a loss to #21 Auburn, who moves to #18
-#12 Virginia Tech drops to #20 losing 38-28 to #23 Miami, who moves behind Va. Tech to #21
Top 25 after Week 5
Rank
LW
Team/Votes
Wins
Losses
1
2
Oregon (37)
5
2
1
Oklahoma (22)
5
3
3
Stanford (1)
5
4
5
Wisconsin (1)
5
5
4
Boise St
5
6
6
LSU
5
1
7
7
Alabama
5
1
8
13
Notre Dame
6
9
9
Florida St
4
1
10
10
Texas A&M
4
1
11
11
Oklahoma St
4
1
12
14
Michigan St
4
1
13
15
Nebraska
5
1
14
8
Arkansas
5
1
15
16
South Carolina
5
1
16
17
Mississippi St
5
1
17
18
TCU
5
1
18
21
Auburn
4
2
19
24
Illinois
6
20
12
Virginia Tech
5
1
21
23
Miami
4
1
22
22
Missouri
4
1
23
---
Georgia Tech
6
24
19
Florida
4
2
25
---
USC
4
1
Others Receiving Votes –
Iowa (104), Colorado (84), Utah (47), Penn State (23),
Clemson (22), Pittsburgh (10), Maryland (3)
Dropped Out –
UCF (#20), Penn State (#23)
lildude39
09-28-2011, 09:16 PM
:Western_Michigan: (3-3, 1-1) @ :Northern_Illinois:(2-4, 1-1)
The Northern Illinois Huskies (2-4, 1-1) look to get back into the win column as they play host to Western Michigan Broncos (3-3, 1-1) this weekend. This looks to be a fairly even matchup.
Northern Illinois was unable to secure any recruits last weekend in their devastating loss to Kent State. Their experiences were as follows:
Name
POS
Caliber
Grade
Harvey Daniels
T (#85)
:3star:
C+
Derrick Wagner
HB (#132)
:2star:
C
Vernon Jones
C (#33)
:3star:
C
Tim Givens
TE (#44)
:3star:
C-
Pete Johnson
DT (#73)
:3star:
C
Michael Garner
DT (#76)
:3star:
C
Glenn Brown
DT (#33)
:3star:
C
For this week's matchup:
Rankings
WMU
NIU
Overall Rating
:check: C+
C+
Offense Rating
:check: C+
C+
Defense Rating
:check: C+
C
Points Per Game
:check: 24.8 (#76)
19.0 (#97)
Total Offense
:check: 2038 (#44)
1783 (#72)
Rush Offense
:check: 742 (#83)
421 (#116)
Pass Offense
1296 (#39)
:check: 1362 (#32)
Total Defense
2219 (#101)
:check: 2090 (#93)
Rush Defense
856 (#85)
:check: 753 (#53)
Pass Defense
1363 (#106)
:check:1337 (#103)
Turnover Diff
:check: 1 (#50)
-9 (#116)
HERBY'S PICK
:Western_Michigan:
NIU has 3 recruits on campus this weekend:
Name
Position
Specialty
Caliber
Reggie Jones
QB (#64)
Scrambler
:2star:
Jared Thomas
T (#116)
Balanced
:2star:
Cameron Cox
DT (#85)
Pass Rusher
:3star:
TobusRex
10-15-2011, 03:47 AM
Just joined this site today, and noticed that nobody had responded to this very interesting thread. Great work lildude39! Do you plan on continuing the thread? I hope so. I wanted to offer a little constructive criticism. The most interesting parts are the stats for your team and the "stories" by the reporters. I think you are making way too much work for yourself putting in weekly rankings, little notes about other happenings, etc. The detail is impressive, but the best parts of your thread are getting buried a bit. Also, by keeping the entries to strictly "sportswriter" accounts (which were great btw) and the stats you'll minimize the labor in producing your entries and I'm sure that will increase your enthusiasm for making them. Once again, great job so far.
lildude39
10-15-2011, 01:45 PM
Thanks Tobus.
I am currently on season 2, but there seemed to be little interest on this, so I quit posting. Also, I've been on travel with little time at home, so I just played and didn't bother updating. Once I get home, I'll pick up again on where I'm at currently.
Thanks for the advice. When i pick this back up, I will go that route.
Thanks again!
claydog2197
10-15-2011, 01:53 PM
Just joined the site today, and Iv'e seen dynasty stories before and this has to be the most impressive. Too bad you wont post anymore
lildude39
10-15-2011, 02:46 PM
Actually have all day to play, so going to fire this thing back up. I am beginning my third season, and have decided to follow the guidelines that were established in Smooth Pancakes CC. The recruiting rules were established by another person, apologies for not remembering who to give credit to. They are as follows:
Years Two and Three
May only move on to higher rated OC/DC jobs after full completion of first contract.
--- Next OC/DC job must be at another mid-major program, no more than three stars prestige.
Years Six and Seven
May only make jump to Head Coach after 6-7 years if going to a mid-major program.
--- Mid-major program must be three stars prestige or less.
------- May move onto four stars prestige or less mid-major programs after completion of first Head Coach contract.
_____________
--- OC/DC positions at major/AQ conference programs are now available, up to four stars.
------- May accept OC/DC at all programs up to five stars after three or more years as OC/DC at a major/AQ conference program.
---------- May accept OC/DC at all programs, including six star prestige, after five or more years at five stars prestige or less major/AQ conference programs.
Years Twelve and beyond
May only make jump to Head Coach of major programs after 5 years HC experience at mid-major.
--- May accept HC jobs at five star prestige programs or less.
------- May accept HC jobs at any programs, including six star prestige, after five or more years at five stars prestige or less major/AQ conference programs.
Contract Rules
Must honor contract years in full, except:
--- May leave via opt-out clause if offered a coaching contract from Cincinnati (alma mater).
------- Includes all versions of contracts (OC, DC, and Head Coach).
Recruiting Rules
As Offensive Coordinator, can only recruit pipeline states. As Head Coach, can recruit anywhere.
Scheduling Rules
Must fill out schedule like in real life with "contracts".
When coordinator or head coach of a non-BCS/mid-major team
If scheduling a BCS/major team, must agree to either a 2 for 1 contract or a one and done contract.
If scheduling a non-BCS/mid-major team, contracts will automatically be home and home.
Games can be spread out, but must be played within 5 years of each other.
When coordinator or head coach of a BCS/major team
If scheduling a BCS/major team, contracts will automatically be home and home.
If scheduling a non-BCS/mid-major team, contracts are allowed to be one and done, home and home, or 2 for 1.
Games can be spread out, but must be played within 5 years of each other.
lildude39
10-15-2011, 03:00 PM
I will be entering the 3rd year of my 3 year contract. My progress so far:
Goal
Progress
Fail Impact
Pass Impact
2400+ total offensive yards each season
4557
:6redarrow:
:6greenarrow:
7+ rushing TD in each season
Complete
:5greenarrow:
55% pass completions over the entire contract
50%
:5redarrow:
:4greenarrow:
Win 8 games in one season
6
:3greenarrow:
2800+ total offensive yards in each season
4557
:3greenarrow:
14+ points per game in each season
24
:2redarrow:
:2greenarrow:
0 Goals Failed
2 Goals Passed (Win 4 games in one season, 2400+ total offensive yards in one season.)
Current Pipeline States:
Illinois
Missouri
Wisconsin
Florida
Indiana
Current Scheduling Contracts:
Army (2 for 1)
Idaho (Home and Home)
lildude39
10-15-2011, 03:29 PM
Coach Rice Stays True To His Word
Despite offerings from Indiana University and San Jose State, Coach Casey Rice stated he is staying loyal to the NIU Huskies.
"I signed a 3 year contract, and unlike a lot of coaches that jump the ship at the best possible opportunity, I am staying a Husky until my job is finished." stated Rice.
Coach Rice's contract is up at the end of this season. He is well on his way to completing a majority of the stipulations of the contract. He does, however, have the opt out clause in his contract, that if his alma mater, the University of Cincinnati, makes an offer, he can be let out with no repercussions.
"Ever since I wrapped my playing career up at UC, it has been a goal of mine to wind up back there at one day in another role on the sidelines. I made that clear with NIU, and they respected my wish. Since they pretty much said 'We're loyal to you if they come calling', then I will be loyal to them."
Coach Rice's option offense has gained some criticism with the Dekalb crowd. Slow starts and turnovers have been the achilles heel of the offense, and have generated 2 straight losing seasons for the Huskies.
"I realize the fans are upset with the option, but they have to realize this is a very difficult system to learn. The kids that were here under the previous system were recruited for that system. I believe they've done a great job at adapting. Now that we are getting some kids in here that are familiar with they way we play, it will bring more positive results."
Dekalb and NIU hope so, or else they may be looking for a new offensive coordinator at the end of the year.
The schedules are being generated, offseason recruiting is getting into full swing, and the next season of NIU football is right around the corner! Stay tuned, folks!
lildude39
10-15-2011, 04:47 PM
Offseason Happenings at Northern Illinois University
Jordan Luallen becomes a Husky
(This occurred last year)
Jordan Luallen has decided to transfer from the University of Cincinnati after being upset with Coach Butch Jones. The scrambling 6'3" 218 lb. former Bearcat should fit in to the option very well, and is looking forward to wrapping his career up at NIU
Dekalb Welcomes The New Huskies
The NIU Huskies sport the #86 ranked class in the nation with the following signed recruits:
Player
POS
Ht.
Wt.
Caliber
J. Gray
DE
6'4"
264
:4star:
J. Patrick
ATH
6'1"
196
:3star:
C. Bowling
WR
6'2"
166
:3star:
R. Sullivan
HB
6'1"
217
:3star:
R. Bradley
DE
6'1"
220
:3star:
J. Smith
OLB
6'4"
224
:3star:
C. McKinney
WR
6'2"
209
:2star:
J. Rodgers
DT
6'4"
304
:2star:
J. Walton
FS
6'5"
183
:2star:
J. Billings
HB
5'9"
203
:2star:
B. Williams
CB
6'0"
185
:2star:
B. Busch
ATH
5'10"
183
:2star:
D. Foster
T
6'4"
303
:2star:
J. Lake
MLB
6'5"
225
:2star:
C. Jones
SS
6'0"
212
:2star:
A. Harris
DT
6'4"
285
:2star:
W. Connor
G
6'3"
302
:2star:
M. Scott
C
6'3"
291
:1star:
T. Colbert
CB
6'0"
183
:1star:
lildude39
10-15-2011, 06:31 PM
Q&A Session With The NIU Coaches
"Good evening everybody, and welcome to the first annual, 'Ask The Coaches' session. I'm your host for night, Justin Taylor. With me in the studio tonight is Head Coach Bill Busch, Offensive Coordinator Casey Rice, and Defensive Coordinator Jay Niemann. Thanks for being here tonight, fellas."
Bill Busch: Thanks for having us Justin.
JT: Now Coach Busch, this is the first session we've had with you guys. Let's give the readers, listeners, and watchers as to why we are doing this.
BB: Well Justin, I wanted to start this Q&A session just to give the fans a preview of what we are expecting this season, as well as to answer some questions they may have regarding the program. I started something like this at my first coaching job, and it went really well. It generated more of a buzz and got the folks more interested in what's happening and got them to come out to the games. I'd like this to be a continuing effort and I want, not only Dekalb, but the nation talking about NIU football.
JT: This is really a great idea, and I'm honored that I can be a part of the first show. Well, let's get started. My first question is for Coach Busch. With your first season under your belt, how does it feel coming in to this season coming off a bowl game.
BB: We're fired up and ready to go, Justin. Certainly we would have liked to have a better showing against a tough Michigan State team in the Military Bowl. It was our only nationally televised game of the year, and to come out as flat as we were, we did a poor job of showing the nation what NIU football is all about. Myself, Coach Rice, and Coach Niemann sat down, poured over the game tape, and found a lot of weaknesses. We believe we have those fixed and are ready to come out of the gate strong this year and sustain it the entire season.
JT: What were some of those weaknesses, Coach?
BB: Well Justin, turnovers were the biggest. We found we let the ball hit the ground way too many times. Our pitches were erratic. Our line didn't do the best job of blocking, which allowed the defenders to get in the face of our quarterbacks, who then pitched the ball when the runner wasn't ready, or there was a defender in his face as well and it bounced off of him. We have been working those issues out, pointing out what our quarterbacks need to look for and read the play before it begins.
Another problem we had was too many penalties. It seemed like every time we had a good run, it was called back for holding, often times when the runner was already beyond the line. I feel if we cut those down, it cuts down our 2nd and 3rd and longs, and we move the ball down the field and put more points on the board.
JT: Sounds like if there were any areas to improve, those would be it. My next question is to Coach Rice. Some criticism has come your way on your option offense. Many folks want to just hand the ball off and let the runners hit the hole. They feel pitching the ball provides for too many errors. What are your thoughts?
CR: The option is a difficult system to run effectively, but when's it ran the way it should be, it's hard to defend and can be very successful. You can chew up a lot of yards, as well as dominate the T.O.P., and control the game. I feel like we're getting the right personnel in our system, and should be a lot more successful this season. If you look at teams like Navy and Georgia Tech, they are terrors on the field because that's all they do is chew up yards and clock. It wears the defense out, and provides your defense plenty of time to rest, and they can ultimately control the opposing offense.
JT: Army has certainly improved their game with the option as well.
CR: Absolutely.
JT: Coach Niemann, how is your defense looking to be this year?
JN: We're looking good Justin. We've recruited well and look to have some size and speed this year. Our secondary is looking to be ball hawks and our line will really be looking to explode and get to the quarterback a lot more. We've beefed up and once we establish control of the line, our secondary will be getting extra work in breaking up passes and picking a few off.
JT: We are certainly looking forward to a tough defense and be nightmares on the field.
We have to take a commercial break, but when we come back, we take your calls and questions you have for the NIU coaches.
~~~
~~~
JT: And welcome back to our first annual "Ask the Coaches". If you're just joining us, we are sitting with the coaches of the NIU Huskies and finding out about what to look for this year. This part of the show, we ask you, the faithful NIU fans, to call in and ask what you want to these guys. And let's go to our first caller. Hello, what do you have for these coaches?"
Caller 1: Good evening coaches. My question is for Coach Niemann. MSU had a heyday with us last year in the bowl, throwing and running all over our D. What are your plans for stopping teams this year that are built like them?
JN: We have really added size and speed to our D this year. We have quality specialty coaches working with these kids day in and day out and we're getting the results we want to see. Our vision is improving in seeing the field and know what's developing.
Caller 2: Coach Rice, I'll admit, I'm not one of the biggest fans of option football. I like the ground and pound we see from bigger schools. If the option doesn't work out this year, is there any chance we start to implement more of a straight up running game?
CR: The option is built more around speed, timing, and vision. A lot of your bigger schools can recruit monsters who are capable of pushing people around, and then the running back just runs up their backs and through the holes that they leave in their wake. NIU is not on the level of the Michigans and Ohio States we're recruiting against, so we have to take a different approach, and that's getting the speed and building players up to what we need.
Caller 3: Coach Busch, can we look forward to a winning season, and possibly our first conference championship since 1983?
BB: Those are definitely our goals. No coach will say no to a winning season and championship, and I'm no different. We're taking every game one at a time, because that's how you build up to the winning season and championships. We feel like we have everything in place to be right at the top of the MAC.
Caller 4: Coach Rice, you're one of the cutest coaches in the country. Are you single?
CR: Haha, make me blush, will ya? Sorry caller, I'm taken.
JT: Haha, alright on that note, lets take a break, and come back with what the schedule looks like, and where your Huskies look to finish this year in the MAC.
~~~
~~~
JT: And welcome back. The preseason schedule was released earlier today, and let's have a look at it:
Week
Opponent
1
Arkansas State
2
Army
3
@ Ohio*
4
Miami U*
5
@ Idaho
6
@ Bowling Green *
7
@ Toledo*
8
Akron*
9
Western Michigan*
10
Bye
11
Bye
12
Ball State* (Homecoming)
13
@Central Michigan*
14
Eastern Michigan*
15
Championship Week
*Denotes Conference Game
JT: That looks like a pretty solid schedule this year, with a C- rating given to strength
BB: Yeah, we're going to have our work cut out for us, that's for sure. We finish up our contract this year with Idaho, as well as enter into a Home and Home with Arkansas State. We have one more road trip against Army after this year as well.
JT: And here's how the MAC Conference is looking to shape out this year:
Team
:Miami_OH:
Miami U
:Ohio:
Ohio
:Western_Michigan:
Western Michigan
:Central_Michigan:
Central Michigan
:Northern_Illinois:
Northern Illinois
:Akron:
Akron
:Ball_State:
Ball State
:Toledo:
Toledo
:Kent_State:
Kent State
:Bowling_Green:
Bowling Green
:Buffalo:
Buffalo
:Eastern_Michigan:
Eastern Michigan
JT: Well, that's going to do it for us here in the studio. Be sure to come out to opening day as your NIU Huskies take on Arkansas State. Go Huskies!
lildude39
10-15-2011, 06:52 PM
NIU Opens The Season Playing Host to the Red Wolves of Arkansas State
NIU opens the college football season playing at home against Arkansas State.
"We're ready to get going and ready to hit someone other then ourselves." Coach Bill Busch stated. "The Red Wolves will be a good test of where we see this season going, and it should be a good game. Come out and support your Huskies!"
Dekalb will be rocking all week leading up to this matchup.
When asked about the quarterback situation, Coach Busch had this to say:
"It will be a Jordan starting, that's all I can say at this point."
Coach Busch was referring to UC transfer Jordan Luallen and last year's starter, Jordan Lynch.
"We don't know who we're going with at this point. Both are ready to go. Luallen has good size and vision, and Lynch has game experience. They may even get double duty."
The game is set to begin at 8:00 pm and will be regionally televised.
Herby's Pick
:Arkansas_State:
lildude39
10-15-2011, 07:41 PM
NIU Sends The Red Wolves Back to Arkansas With Tails Between Legs
The NIU Huskies (1-0, 0-0) drubbed the Red Wolves (0-1, 0-0) 42-14 Saturday night in Dekalb.
"Once we got the early butterflies out of our system, we settled down and played our game." Coach Bill Busch stated. "I was really pleased with our defense, who allowed the Red Wolves 1 TD."
Arkansas State's 14 points came off of starting QB Jordan Luallen's 2 interceptions, one of which returned for a touchdown. After a lost fumble by Luallen, Jordan Lynch replaced him, and got the offense clicking.
"I'm really proud of Lynch. He didn't get the starting job, but kept his head in the game, and when we needed him, he delivered."
Jordan Lynch got some great support as well, as Senior RB Leighton Settle ran the ball for 170 yards and 4 scores.
"Settle saw the field well, found the holes, and exploded. He, along with our entire defense, deserved players of the game."
The Huskies hope to keep the home fires burning, as they host Army at 12 noon next Saturday.
Game Stats
1st
2nd
3rd
4th
Total
:Arkansas_State:
7
7
0
0
14
:Northern_Illinois:
0
14
14
14
42
:Arkansas_State:
:Northern_Illinois:
Score
14
42
First Downs
13
13
Total Offense
258
436
Rushes - Yards - TD
26-85-1
40-251-5
Comp - Att - TD
15-41-0
12-23-1
Passing Yards
173
185
3rd Down Conv
5-16 (31%)
7-13 (53%)
4th Down Conv
0-1 (0%)
0-0 (0%)
2 Pt Conv
0-0 (0%)
0-0 (0%)
Red Zone TD - FG
3-1-0 (33%)
6-3-0 (50%)
Turnovers
4
4
Fumbles Lost
1
1
Intercepted
3
3
PR Yards
23
15
KR Yards
90
37
Total Yards
371
488
Punts-Average
6-42.7
6-46.7
Penalties
4-40
8-63
T.O.P.
11:30
20:30
Players of the Game
ASU B. Jakes 5 Tkls, 2 TFL, 5 ATK
NIU L. Settle 16 Car, 170 Yds, 4 TD
lildude39
10-15-2011, 08:40 PM
To The Lion's Den
The Huskies are looking to make it two in a row at home this season as they host the Black Knights of Army in Dekalb, Ill. This will be Army's opening game of the season, as well as season number 2 in the Big East. NIU is looking for their first win against an AQ team in 3 years.
"Army is a tough team. We're going to have to minimize our mistakes, play our game, and hold down their strong offense." Coach Busch said. "It should be a good one, we're hoping for a raucus crowd today."
Army joined the Big East last year, after Syracuse and Pitt left for the ACC.
NIU looks to be favored in this game. They are currently +1 in the turnover differential department, but still need to limit their mistakes, especially penalties. They are looking to establish a solid run game this week, as Army's defense is rated one of the worst in the nation.
Herby's Pick
:Northern_Illinois:
TobusRex
10-15-2011, 08:57 PM
Looks like your Huskies are off to a great start! I'm looking forward to the Army game, hehe.
I'm in the 4th year of a coaching Dynasty as well, albeit as head coach. I chose the local team, New Mexico State, because I figured they'd be a challenge. Unlike your scheduling though lildude I've been changing my schedule..I replaced all Div1 nonconf opponents with FCS teams, lol. Plus in my second year I moved the best teams from the WAC into other conferences and took those conferences weaker teams (hence the great records). So far I have had records of 11-2, 13-0, and 12-1 (but my wins have been against very bad competition). Every year my team's schedule is ranked "F", but as soon as I get the team's talent to a solid mid70's-low 80's rating I'm going to move them to a tougher conference and quit scheduling only FCS nonconfs.
I simmed last season week by week and was favored in every game (and won them all) until I surprisingly found myself playing Ohio State for the MNC, lol. I figured if I simmed (I was C- overall, OSU was A+) that my team would lose by 40 points, so I went ahead and played the game using the "coach" controls. Surprisingly we had a 7-3 lead at the half, but OSU came back to beat us 10-7 (OSU could've probably scored another TD at the end, but opted to run out the clock).
Just saying the contrast in our approaches is interesting. I don't think I'm cheating, so much, as manipulating the level of competition (I call it the "Boise State" approach, lol), ...however you are playing a more realistic approach which is pretty cool.
lildude39
10-15-2011, 09:25 PM
Mistakes Once Again Hound The Huskies
With a shot to the endzone to take the lead in the second quarter, a Jordan Luallen pass landed in the wrong receivers hands, and ended momentum for the Huskies. An ensuing Army drive that led to a score further deflated them. Jordan Lynch was then placed in the game, but a comeback was not in his hands.
"That Luallen pass hurt us. That changed the whole landscape of the game for us." Coach Busch said. "I credit Lynch with coming up with some big plays to get us back in it, but we still shot ourselves in the foot with penalties."
The Huskies fall to 1-1 (0-0) on the season, and next week's matchup won't get much easier. They will travel to Athens, OH next week for a matchup with a tough Ohio University (1-1, 0-0) team to begin MAC play.
"OU has been tough the last couple years, finishing first and second, respectively, the last two seasons. The starting QB spot is up for grabs again, the harder working of the two QB's will get the nod.
That game will be a 6:00 pm game.
Game Stats
1st
2nd
3rd
4th
Total
:Army:
7
0
17
0
24
:Northern_Illinois:
0
7
0
14
21
:Army:
:Northern_Illinois:
Score
24
21
First Downs
21
12
Total Offense
366
290
Rushes - Yards - TD
67-255-1
18-46-1
Comp - Att - TD
5-11-1
16-37-2
Passing Yards
111
244
3rd Down Conv
11-18 (61%)
7-13 (53%)
4th Down Conv
0-0 (0%)
0-0 (0%)
2 Pt Conv
0-0 (0%)
0-0 (0%)
Red Zone TD - FG
4-1-1 (50%)
3-1-0 (33%)
Turnovers
1
3
Fumbles Lost
0
2
Intercepted
1
1
PR Yards
21
17
KR Yards
35
109
Total Yards
422
416
Punts-Average
4-42.0
5-48.0
Penalties
3-40
9-70
T.O.P.
17:50
14:09
Players of the Game
ARMY G. Bartolo 5-11, 111 Yds
NIU J. Lynch 5-15, 146 Yds
lildude39
10-15-2011, 09:36 PM
That's cool, Tobus. I could see how your way would be fun to do.
I hate playing games where I just dominate every team I play. I actually enjoy getting beat every so often. This NIU team is testing my patience though, haha. I hate not being able to control the players, but i know if I do, then I'm going to win every game. I'm running an option offense, and it's definitely a challenge, to say the least. About the only time I take control is to call audibles and hot routes, but other than that I'm helpless.
I usually play out every game, unless the system freezes and I have to restart, that's when I sim it. I actually won a couple games last season doing that haha. Which made be feel dumb because the computer was a better coach then me, lol.
Thanks for following. It's definitely a lot more fun playing for an audience instead of just posting and getting nothing. That's what happened for last season, just tired of posting and no responses. I guess other folks have stopped playing the game haha. Hope to put on a good show for ya, and good luck in your 'Boise' dynasty :P
TobusRex
10-15-2011, 11:50 PM
Just wanted to clarify that the reason I made such weak schedules for my team is that it really is a horrible team, not for domination purposes. I just started playing Dynasty last week and figured I didn't want to get completely hammered. I was barely beating teams the first and second years, even FCS schools sometimes (wasn't simming at all), but last season I started getting hooked on recruiting and just simmed versus my ridiculously easy schedule. I expect next season to move up to Conf USA or MWC and schedule some decent nonconf opponents. I'll probably go 5-7 hehe.
lildude39
10-16-2011, 07:32 PM
:Northern_Illinois:(1-1, 0-0) @ :Ohio:(1-1, 0-0)
Both teams open up conference play this weekend, as the Northern Illinois Huskies will travel to Athens, OH this weekend to take on the Ohio Bobcats. The Huskies are coming off a close loss to the Black Knights of Army, while the Bobcats are playing a week after trouncing the Mean Green of North Texas.
When asked about the quarterback situation, Coach Bill Busch had this to say:
"We are going with Jordan Lynch to start this one out. He's proven to be a good leader when he's been in the game this year. He's worked hard this past week of practice, so he's getting the starting nod."
Here's how these two teams match up for this week's game:
Rankings
NIU
OU
Overall Rating
C
:check:C+
Offense Rating
C
:check:C+
Defense Rating
:check: C+
C
Points Per Game
:check: 31.5 (#45)
27.0 (#59)
Total Offense
:check: 726 (#28)
681 (#24)
Rush Offense
:check: 297 (#26)
208 (#55)
Pass Offense
429 (#21)
:check: 473 (#16)
Total Defense
:check:624 (#83)
626 (#84)
Rush Defense
340 (#92)
:check: 328 (#90)
Pass Defense
:check:284 (#106)
298 (#75)
Turnover Diff
-1 (#68)
:check:3 (#4)
HERBY'S PICK
:Northern_Illinois:
lildude39
10-16-2011, 07:52 PM
Due to me getting severely ticked off at the game (3 interceptions, 2 returned for touchdowns, 4 fumbles, 1 returned for touchdown, 4 sacks, all in the first half), I've decided to just sim the rest of the season. I may or may not keep posting on here.
lildude39
05-07-2012, 08:46 PM
Alright, I apologize. I let this one get stale with everything going on. I've actually been playing, just haven't been reporting.
Currently, I am in around Season 7 (or 8). After NIU, I went on to a head coaching job at UAB for a year, offensive coordinator at Cincinnati for a year, and jumped to the head coaching position after a year. I'm entering my 4 season as head coach of UC after entering the B1G and winning the National Championship. I actually backdoored my way in the the championship game, then beat TCU pretty soundly for the Championship.
I haven't played for about a month, and have been thinking about starting it back up again, this time destroying UC. I'm going to run an angle where a lot of violations occurred to which the NCAA investigated and dealt the "Death Penalty". Since I've run through the offseason already, but haven't played the first game.
I was wondering what I could do to get this started now? I'm thinking about taking the CPU assistance for recruiting off and simulating about 5 years to get my 6* team down to 1*. I don't want to lose my job and coaching stats for this to happen though. Does anybody have any ideas? I figure with being in the B1G that it would be easy to lose my games. Currently, I have 100% job security. When I'm ready to start up again, I will drop myself to the MAC.
Any help would be appreciated.
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