Mules Report September 18

Mules Report
September 18, 2007

Mules Report Archive

D-E-F-E-N-S-E !!!

Q: How many times must a defense step up in order for the team to win?
A: As many as it takes.

Let's talk a little defense shall we? The defensive secondary has been highlighted (in large part by me) early in the season; deservedly so. Other than giving up a few big pass plays that skew their otherwise stellar pass defense statistics, the secondary has been everything they were touted to be, and then some. Whether it's John Samia's interceptions, Bruce Williams' physical play at corner, or Kendall Ricketts ability to be everywhere on every play, or even Adrian Chapman's flashes of being Rickett's Heir Apparent, the secondary for Central Missouri will match up well against any opposing team's attack through the air.

The less obvious surprise on defense has been the play of the Mules defensive line and linebackers. While the Mules have faced three teams known for their offense in MN State-Mankato, Concordia-St Paul, and Truman State, they were known mostly for their passing offense, and UCM has yet to face a real potent rushing attack. Nevertheless, the Cardinal and Black have limited opposing teams to just 56 yards in 77 rushing plays this season. Folks, 0.7 yards per rushing play is darn good no matter who you're facing.

John Wood is growing into his role at DE more each week and could turn out to be the dominant player some folks were hoping for in the pre-season. The real surprise has been the progress and contributions made by returning players LBs Mike Dillon and Adrian Singletary. Dillon has 5 tackles for loss on the season and Singletary had a career day against the Bulldogs, registering 8 tackles (2.5 for loss), a sack, a forced fumble, and a pass breakup.

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WASHBURN OFFENSE vs. CENTRAL DEFENSE:

The Mules will face a more balanced offense in Washburn. Expect Washburn to look to establish the run and then go deep. Ichabods QB Jordan Brill is a quality signal caller and has plenty of experience facing the Mules. While the Mules D-Line should be able to handle the Washburn rushing attack and the secondary, at least on paper, outmatches the Ichabods WR corps, both aspects of Washburn's offense (pass and run) are capable of putting points on the board. The play of the Mules Linebacking Corps could make all the difference.

MULES OFFENSE vs. ICHABODS DEFENSE:

On the other side of the ball, Washburn will bring a physical defense to bear. Before the season started, this game was a big concern to me and in my opinion, the first true test the Mules would face in the MIAA. While it'll still be a good test, it is not the concern to me it once was. I'll tell you why -- the Mules offensive line has played significantly better than in 2006.

UCM Offensive coordinator Jeff Conway admitted to some play calling errors in the post-game show last Saturday, which I respected and admired, but he said something even more interesting to me that most folks probably didn't catch. Conway said that QB Tommy Corwin wasn't that far behind Cziernewski and Dean going into the season. Before anyone gets down on QB Eric Cziernewski, he is just a sophomore and has displayed some great athleticism behind center. We have not seen the last of EC, but don't be surprised if Dean starts Saturday in Topeka and don't be surprised also to see Corwin taking snaps this season, when necessary.

THINGS TO LOOK FOR...

* WR/PR Anthony Parks leads the MIAA in punt returns and has yet to even break one for a TD. His time is coming folks.

* Ricketts is the only defensive back in the Mules secondary without a pick on the season. This one is just a matter of time as well.

* Look for RB Glenn Milner to run the ball a lot. He seems to have bounced everything to the outside thus far, and I'm sure Washburn is watching game film thinking all they have to do is stretch him out. The combo of Milner (Mr. Outside) and RB Jeremy Braden (Mr. Inside) should wear down the Washburn defense. Look to see if Milner can turn a few carries back to the inside where his size should come in handy.

* Look for a blocked kick or punt. We came close last week again.

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For the first time in 4 years, the Mules have won their conference opener. Perhaps that good non-con schedule is already paying dividends? It could just be Payback Time in Topeka on Saturday!

The starting QB for this Saturday's contest has not been announced, but it appears Dean may have earned the start with his 4th quarter performance last Saturday against Truman? If Dean is able to continue his rhythm, look for the Mules to snatch a 7-10 point win on the road in Topeka.

Bill Steinke is a writer for MulesCentral.com. His Mules Report is published every Tuesday throughout the season. Bill resides in Knoxville, TN.

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