Three consecutive games of unbelievable defense. Comprehensive in every sense of the word. Less idiotic penalties, dare I say, perfect? Perhaps I’m gushing, but the complete shut down of the offenses of Fresno State, Hawaii and San Jose State is impressive, awe-inspiring and downright wow.
Let us review the complete San Jose State beating: 35 yards rushing. The much mentioned Tyler Ervin was held to 31 yards in 17 carries. Mr. Ervin certainly had his opportunities. SJSU rushing attempts yielded 1 yard per rush. 1 yard. 36 inches of grass and dirt. As for the air, 113 yards passing. That equates to barely 8 yards gained per completion. Whether by foot or by air, the Spartans averaged less than a first down. 4 sacks (16 for the year), 2 interceptions and 2 forced fumbles. Applause, and lots of it, for the Aztec defense. An Aztec defense without Dakota Turner and Trey Lomax. An Aztec defense that featured J.J. Whitaker losing his mind via assaulting a Spartan wide receiver, thereby receiving the obligatory personal foul (this stuff must stop. 9 flags for 76 yards is stupid). An Aztec defense featuring true freshman Ronley Lakalaka subbing for Jake Fely in the second half. 148 yards of total offense allowed by this stellar defense.
Darrell Greene’s return to the offensive line was notable. Nothing against Robert Craighead, but Mr. Greene knows the business of blocking and pummeling his defensive opponent. Addressing the obvious, Mr. Greene’s presence related directly to Maxwell Smith’s comfort. While I continue to find astounding Mr. Smith’s lack of air production, he was much more a quarterback than any prior game. 10/14/144 is, again, serviceable. No picks is extra nice. The running game was almost as phenomenal as the SDSU defense. Donnel Pumphrey (20/153) and Chase Price (10/47) led the way to the end zone and impressive drives. However, I found at least one of Donny Hageman’s field goals should have been a touchdown (okay, two of his kicks should have been touchdowns), but I find confidence in his 3/3 evening via his foot.
Speaking of feet, Tanner Blain was NFL good by landing all three punts inside the fifteen, two of which were inside the ten. Well done.
3-0. Utah State is next. The Aggies destroyed Boise State. Not a team to be taken lightly. Thankfully, at the Q is helpful. The run continues.
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