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TEMPE, Ariz. — Finally, the day of reckoning for Weber State football has come.
After months of hype, anticipation and excitement, the Wildcats will finally have the opportunity to test their new coaching staff, against the 19th-ranked team in America, the Arizona State Sun Devils.
Obviously, the FBS vs. FCS matchup isn't always the most fairly-matched game in college football, but the tide is turning as more and more FCS teams have upset their big brothers over the past few seasons. For instance, last season's Big Sky conference champion, Eastern Washington, upset Oregon State.
With that in mind, there are several keys for Weber State to pull off the program's biggest upset ever.
Last season, Arizona State averaged almost 200 yards of rushing per game, giving them the fortieth-best rushing attack in FBS football. The Sun Devils have a tremendous passing attack (more on this later), but passing is always harder than running. If the Wildcats can limit the Arizona State's rushing attack, they will at least put the ball in the hands of ASU quarterback Taylor Kelly, which still isn't very comforting.
Arizona State quarterback Taylor Kelly is one of the nation's most versatile players, after he passed for over 3500 yards while running for close to a 1000 yards last season. If Kelly can establish his running ability early, Arizona State will be able to operate out of play action all game long, and will also force the Wildcats to stack the box. IF Weber can keep Kelly from running, they can then focus on blitzing and coverage. However, this will be tough.
Last season, in games against FBS opponents Utah and Utah State, Weber State was unable to absorb their opponent's early scores, often like a fighter that can't get his bearing after a couple of punches. Arizona State will undoubtedly come out and score early, but the moment of truth will come from whether or not the Wildcats can put together a strong drive immediately after.
On the day of his hiring, Weber State coach Jay Hill said he believed in trick plays and unconventional play calling. For years, underdog teams have found victory against larger, more talented squads by taking advantage of their weaknesses with exotic plays. For Weber, being a conventional team for a while, and then throwing something in will create an atmosphere of confusion on the Arizona State sideline.
Studies show not turning the ball over, and simultaneously forcing your opponent to turn the ball over, lead to an increased chance at victory. My advice is for the Wildcats to use that philosophy.
