The classical definition for Slobberknocker is a literal hard hit. I'm going to play off that somewhat in a more figurative manner. While in contrast, and maybe more obviously, the Naw's are things that shouldn't have happened and/or need to change.
Tights
NDSU's Tight-Ends continued their torrid pace by adding two more touchdowns. It was very surprising that Fargo South grad Dawson Weisenberger decided to leave the program but with the youth & depth that is on the roster, I can understand why he would look for alternate opportunities. Today it was Noah Gindorff & Ben Ellefson turning their measly three catches into two scores. A higher volume would be nice to see but with the way that the entire offense continues to hum along, it isn't necessary.
High & Low
Before leaving the game with an injury, Christian Watson hauled in a pass for his first touchdown for NDSU. Much ballyhooed, it's taken him some time to round into form but he's got two full seasons remaining so if the injury isn't serious this could be just the beginning of another top option coming into his own!
Raging River
Ty Brooks could not have been much better today. He more than doubled the rushing yardage of any of the other Bison backs, and they produced well so it was great. He also scored a touchdown and had a huge kickoff return before calling it a day.
Manimal
Jabril Cox
Master Code
Beyond the best defensive player in the FCS, the defense was fired up to shut down the Red Birds. Of all the stats that stand out to me, their nine total pass breakups is the most impressive one. The early and large lead made it necessary for Illinois State to try and pass but that's a great sign of shut down pass defense.
Balanced Power
Beyond Ty Brooks running wild, NDSU had four runners with at least 40 yards as they racked up nearly 200 total yards. Adam Cofield also crossed the score stripe as he lead the way with 15 carries. With Trey Lance still making it look easy to play the position, I think this is just the beginning of an even more dominant stretch!
Magical
Griffin Crosa wasn't supposed to be a contributor this year but he continues to make the most of the chances that he is called upon to take care of. His play deserves to be recognized as one of the most important developments this season.
Comments