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.
Manimal
Since the defense was the driving force of today's win gotta lead off with their unofficial captain. Jabril Cox's ability to always be around the ball was as true as ever today even though teams continue to scheme up ways to reduce his impact.
The Price is Correct
Spencer Waege may have ended the game with the same number of sacks that he went into halftime with but it was still enough to lead the team today and as such deserves to be mentioned among the good.
Green Heat
I've talked about the all-green look for a couple of years now. Wasn't sure that Klieman would be the one to do it - and he wasn't, which is fine. I also didn't think that Entz would do it this year, if at all, what with all the things he has to focus on as a first-year head coach. But with an overmatched opponent coming to town I wonder if the choice was made at least in part to generate some buzz this week. Well, it worked, and while things do not always live up after being long-awaited, the fresh look absolutely did! Throwing that look on once a year would be a great way to mix things up & keep it fresh!
Co-Power
The offense struggled more than they had at any point so far this year. The lone bright spot was Adam Cofield again this week. Granted, most of his yards came on one run but it was one of the best runs that we will see this year. The committee approach isn't going away, nor should it but they're about riding the hot hand and he's shown that he can be up to the task even when the rest isn't working out great.
Out of the System
I already mentioned that the offense had it's worst performance of the season to date. But I'm positive because I think it may have been for the best since it came against a team that NDSU is superior to in basically every way. With the young guys that are being leaned upon, a growing pains game was bound to happen & there may not have been a better time for it than this week. It's spin, I know, but that doesn't mean it isn't true!
It's not an all-encompassing write-up of the pros and cons from today's game but I think these are the main takeaways from today!
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