Inside the Box Scores: Week 9



 



WIAC Survival Guide: Week Nine

Every resource you'll need to follow WIAC football this weekend

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   River Falls Falcons                                                                                    Stout Blue Devils

 

Date: October 27th
Time: 1:00 p.m.

Location: Menomonie
Kickoff Forecast: 42 degrees; Mostly Sunny; No chance of rain; W wind at 5 mph
Audio: WMEQ 880 (Stout); WRFW 88.7 (UWRF)
Video: Stout Broadcast
Live Stats: Stout

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            Oshkosh Titans                                                                                   La Crosse Eagles

Date: October 27th

Time: 1:00 p.m.

Location: La Crosse
Kickoff Forecast: 43 degrees; Partly Cloudy; No chance of rain; NW wind at 3 mph

Audio:  WKTY 580 (UWL); WRST 90.3 (UWO)
Video: N/A
Live Stats: UWL; UWO

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   Whitewater Warhawks                                                                         Stevens Point Pointers

Date: October 27th

Time: 1:00 p.m.

Location: Stevens Point
Kickoff Forecast: 39 degrees; Sunny; No chance of rain; WNW wind at 7 mph
Audio: WPCN 92.1 (UWSP); WKCH 106.5 (UWW)

Video: N/A

Live Stats: UWSP; UWW

 

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            Platteville Pioneers                                                                        Eau Claire Blugolds

Date: October 27th
Time: 3:00 p.m.

Location: Eau Claire
Kickoff Forecast: 42 degrees; Sunny; No chance of rain; W wind at 6 mph
Audio: WPVL 107.1 (UWP) sports stream 2; WBIZ 1400 (UWEC);

Video: Eau Claire Broadcast
Live Stats: UWP; UWEC

 

Bye Week: None

All times Central

I won't be around to test all links as each game is being played. So, please give me a heads up if a certain link doesn't work, or if it takes you someplace else. Also fill me in if you come across a link that I don't have listed.

Much appreciated...Enjoy!



WIAC Matchups

Game of the Week

River Falls Falcons (1-6, 1-3)                                                                Stout Blue Devils (3-4, 1-3)

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Falcons

With three games remaining, River Falls will be looking for the first multi-win season in conference since 2008. In doing so, they will be facing the Blue Devils for the second time this season. Their first meeting ended in a River Falls loss (20-9) back on 9/22 in a "non-conference" showdown. I realize that this game, like most of the Falcons' games, will be an uphill battle...especially with this game on the road. UWRF's defense has been somewhat respectable this year. Yes, they do rank in the bottom half (5th) of the WIAC in total defense, giving up 378.3 yards per game. However, fifth is the highest ranking defense this program has seen in seven years! The strength of coach Matt Walker's defense has been their ability to slow the opposition's running game down. Opposing teams are only managing 3.4 yards per carry against River Falls. Only Whitewater (1.6) and Oshkosh (2.5) have a better average in the WIAC. This matches up fairly well to Stout, considering they are only getting 3.0 yards/carry and 110.9 yards/game, both are third lowest in conference. The glaring hole in the Falcon's defense has definitely been their inability to stop the pass. UWRF's passing defense ranks last in the WIAC in yards/game (240.3), total yards (1682) and touchdowns (12). The one silver lining is the Falcons have forced 11 interceptions on the season. In the conference, only Whitewater has forced more (18). Alex Adams has six of those picks, and leads the WIAC 12 passes defended (total of Ints and Pass breakups). River Falls fans will be happy to know they are facing a Stout team that ranks second to last in the WIAC in pass efficiency with a 102.9 ranking. Even though UWRF's defense has been over achieving this season (for the most part), the same cannot be said for their offense. The Falcons are only averaging just over 10 points per game (7th lowest in the D3). With only eight touchdowns on the years, only three schools in the country have scored fewer than them. I guess some growing pains would be expected when freshman Ryan Kusilek was named the team's starting quarterback this year. Talk about being setup to fail. Not only does he offer zero collegiate experience to the team, but he's also asked to compete in the toughest conference in the country. Meanwhile competing for a team that historically hasn't been nearly as talented as the rest of the conference over the past decade plus. Hopefully this young man will learn from his experience and help turn this program around during his four years.

Blue Devils

After a strong defensive first half of the season, Clayt Birmingham's team has really found it hard to keep the opposition out of the endzone the past two weeks. Stout allowed 41 points to an underachieving Whitewater offense, and let a very poor offensive La Crosse team put 33 on them. Those two games were UWW's and UWL's highest scoring totals of the season. Over the first five games Stout has gave up just over 16 points/game, but has allowed 37 over the past two. Also, they still have yet to play the toughest offenses in the WIAC (Oshkosh and Platteville). Rather than just reeling off stat after stat, I wish I could provide a little more insight on what's going wrong the their defense. Between not being able to make it up to Menomonie, and FOX no longer re-airing WIAC games, I haven't been able to take a close look at the Blue Devils this season. Just looking at Stout's special teams, it appears their punting unit hasn't been doing them favors as far as field position. The Blue Devils are netting a WIAC-low 27.9 yards per punt. That's asking a lot from your defense if your constantly giving opposing offenses a shortened field to work with. Plus their minus six turnover margin isn't helping the field position battle either. If Stout was looking for was week to bounce back, this would be it. They will be at home against a struggling offensive River Falls team, who only achieved three field goals in their previous meeting this year. Stout has been solid against the run, giving up just over 125 yards/game (4th best in the WIAC). Birmingham's squad shouldn't get much trouble from River Falls' running game, considering the Falcons are averaging under 54 yards per game (10th worst in D3). One area the Blue Devils will try to exploit is the River Falls' vulnerability to protect their QB. UWRF has given up 16 sacks on the year (third most in conference). This will be a great opportunity for Ryan Ericksen to bust through the line and add to his WIAC leading five sacks. The senior defensive lineman also leads in the conference in tackles for loss with nine. His teammate, David Lindell, is second in the WIAC with 8.5 tackles for loss. Given how susceptible River Falls is against the pass this year, quarterback Michael Blizel should be able to find some open receivers. The senior has a conference low 50.2 completion percentage, but has 1315 yards on the year. Third most in the WIAC.

Oshkosh Titans (7-0, 4-0) @ La Crosse Eagles (3-4, 2-2)
I'm sure the upper classmen on Oshkosh will be looking forward to this game Saturday. After all, the Eagles were the team that crushed the Titans' hopes (in Oshkosh) in getting a Pool C playoff bid last season. History can't repeat itself. Can it? I wouldn't bet on it. The Eagles, like last year, have no business winning the game. The Titans have proven to everyone this year they are a top 10 program. UWO is ranked No. 6 in the D3football.com poll. This will be the second meeting between these two schools this season, with Oshkosh the first one 16-7. Even though La Crosse had an impressive win against against Stout last week, the Titans are clicking on all cylinders and should win this game easily.

Whitewater Warhawks (5-2, 3-1) @ Stevens Point Pointers (1-6, 0-4)
Well, the Pointers were the unfortunate team to play Whitewater after the first loss earlier in the season. That's when Whitewater bounced back and won 34-7 in week four. Following UWW's loss to Oshkosh, UWSP will again have to face a frustrated Warhawk team that are desperately clinging to any playoff hopes they may still have. UWW will (most likely) be sitting their senior team captain quarterback, Lee Brekke, and handing the reins over to Matt Behrendt. The sophomore QB took over from Brekke last week, energizing the team from a three score deficient to just eight points. Things don't look promising for Stevens Point to get a win in the WIAC this year. Their last three games are against UWW, Oshkosh and Platteville. Last time the Pointers went winless in the conference was 1951.

Platteville Pioneers (5-2, 2-2) @ Eau Claire Blugolds (3-4, 3-1)
I came close naming this matchup the Game of the Week. We all know what Platteville has accomplished this season, and what they're capable of. However, Eau Claire seems to finally hitting their stride in the second half of the season. With only one conference loss, the Blugolds are tied for the second best conference record. After starting out 0-3, UWEC has gone 3-1 since. Rather than relying on the arm of Austin Neu to carry the team (like last year and early this season), they've became more balanced by putting the ball in the arms of Joel Sweeney. The junior running back is leading the WIAC in rushing with 115.3 yards/game and nine touchdowns. Sweeney has been an absolute work horse the past two weeks, totaling 78 carries, 318 yards and four TDs. I'm not sure Eau Claire has the defense to slow down the Pioneers, but if Sweeney can get it going it'll keep UWP's offense off the field. Which will make the outcome closer than expected.

WIAC Wrap: Week 8

Inside the Box Scores: Week Eight

WIAC Survival Guide: Week Eight

Every resource you'll need to follow WIAC football this weekend

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              (6-0, 3-0)                                                                                           (5-1, 3-0)

Date: October 20th

Time: 1:00 p.m.

Location: Whitewater

Kickoff Forecast: 54 degress; Mostly sunny; 10% chance of rain; NNW wind at 11 mph

Audio:  WRST 90.3 (UWO); WKCH 106.5 (UWW)
Video: Whitewater Broadcast; Time Warner Cable Sports32
Live Stats: UWO; UWW

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             (2-4, 2-1)                                                                                            (1-5, 1-3)

Date: October 20th

Time: 1:00 p.m.

Location: Stevens Point
Kickoff Forecast: 52 degrees; Sunny; 10% chance of rain; NNW wind at 5 mph
Audio: WPCN 92.1 (UWSP); WBIZ 1400 (UWEC)

Video: N/A

Live Stats: UWSP; UWEC

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              (3-3, 1-2)                                                                                           (2-4, 1-2)

Date: October 20th

Time: 1:00 p.m.

Location: La Crosse
Kickoff Forecast: 52 degrees; Sunny; No chance of rain; NW wind at 4 mph
Audio: WKTY 580 (UWL); WMEQ 880 (Stout)
Video: N/A

Live Stats:  UWL; Stout

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              (1-5, 1-2)                                                                                            (4-2, 1-2)

Date: October 20th

Time: 3:00 p.m.

Location: Platteville

Kickoff Forecast: 54 degrees; Sunny; No chance of rain; NW wind at 9 mph
Audio:  WPVL 107.1 (UWP) sports stream 2; WRFW 88.7 (UWRF)

Video: Platteville Broadcast
Live Stats: UWP

Bye Week: None

All times Central

I won't be around to test all links as each game is being played. So, please give me a heads up if a certain link doesn't work, or if it takes you someplace else. Also fill me in if you come across a link that I don't have listed.

Much appreciated...Enjoy!

WIAC Matchups

Game of the Week Year

#10 Oshkosh Titans (6-0, 3-0)                                                      #5 Whitewater Warhawks (5-1, 3-0)

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Titans

Head coach Pat Cerroni on what's at stake for his team, "This is the biggest game of my life. I think this is the biggest game of all our lives." I think few would argue. Realistically, this is the last game that stands in Oshkosh's way to their first WIAC title since 1976. UWO is a week removed from eliminating Platteville from the conference (and playoff) race. Last season in Oshkosh, the Titans lead the majority of the game only to lose in the closing minutes of the game, 17-20. Now they are presented with a golden opportunity to knock the seven-time defending conference champs off their throne. If there ever was a WIAC team to knock off the Warhawks, this would be the team to do it. UWO is not only the most balanced team in the WIAC on offense, but are also the most balanced team on both sides of the ball. Everyone knows what preseason All-American Nate Wara brings to the table offensively, but if Oshkosh would win this game it'll be because of its defense. Pat Cerroni's team ranks behind Whitewater in just about every defensive category in the WIAC. If you're a fan of the Titans you have to like the way your defense matches up against this Warhawk offense. The Warhawks strength is its running attack, but the Titans have been stellar against the run, giving up only 2.6 yards per carry and less than 93 yards per game. That's good enough for second in the WIAC this season. Where coach Cerroni really has an advantage is their pass defense against the Warhawk passing attack. The Titans are the WIAC's top ranked team against the pass this season. They've given up a stingy 153.7 yards per game, which sizes up extremely well to Whitewater's second-to-last ranked passing team in conference. The Warhawks are averaging just under 155 yards per game throwing the ball. One reason Cerroni's defense has been so successful against the pass is their ability to rush the passer. The Titans have three linemen that rank in the WIAC's top 10 leaders for sacks: Andrew Thompson (3.5), Cody Huemmer (3.0) and Alex Smith (2.5). As a team the Titans are tops in the conference in getting after the quarterback with 18 total sacks. This should be a great matchup to watch, considering Whitewater has only been sacked four times this season.

Warhawks

If Whitewater wants to win its 33 conference title, to match La Crosse for most in WIAC history, they will have to beat a team that has been outplaying them this year. Even though the Warhawks are ranked higher, the Titans have very few holes (if any) in their game right now. Where as the Hawks have a handful of holes that their fans have been concerned about. What Lance Leipold has going for his team is that he has one of the nation's top defenses. Yes, they have already seen (and beaten) a prolific offense in Platteville a few weeks ago. But they have yet to face an offensive attack that is as balanced as Cerroni's Titans. If you enjoy a very physical, strong defense going up against a potent balanced offense, look no further than Whitewater's homecoming at Perkins Stadium, Saturday. It'll be tough to find a more athletic quarterback in UWO's Wara, not only in the conference, but in all DIII. Even with him taking snaps opposite of UWW's defense, it won't be easy for him to get the best of the Warhawks. Like I mentioned in my Midseason report, The Hawks' rank among the nation's best defensively: 1st in rushing (29.17yards/game), 3rd in scoring (7.83 points/game), and 3rd in total defense (211.5 ypg). If Whitewater wants to win this game they must do what they do best and force turnovers. Leipold's defense is second in the country with 27 takeaways. Although, the Titans haven't been exactly gift wrapping the ball to defenses, considering they've only done it ONCE this year. Yes, that's correct, the Titans have one interception and zero fumbles on the year, which is just mind blowing! The only program in the country that's close to Oshkosh in turnovers lost is Elmhurst with three. One area of concern for Whitewater's defense, that no one seems to be talking about, has been their inability to get after the quarterback this year. It's rare to look at the conference leaders in sacks and see no one from UWW on it. In fact, they are fifth in the WIAC with 11 sacks on the year. Preseason All American Loussaint Minett (defensive end) must step up this game to contain Wara. Minett has two sacks on the year. Given that UWW's offense has struggled at times, their defense might have to shorten the field for the offense by forcing turnovers. If the Warhawks are consistently forced move the chains and drive the length of the field to score points, that'll play right into the hands of the Titans. Whitewater has only managed 97 first downs this season, third worst among WIAC teams.

Eau Claire Blugolds (2-4, 2-1) @ Stevens Point Pointers (1-5, 0-3)
After dropping its first three games, the Blugolds have won two of their last three. Including an impressive win against La Crosse where running back Joel Sweeney was named WIAC Offensive Athlete of the Week. The junior complied 185 yards rushing (112 in the first half) and three touchdowns. The Pointers will be playing only their second home game of the season Saturday, and will be looking for their first conference win. Stevens Point should take full advantage of the Eau Claire's passive defense that's last in the WIAC. Meanwhile, UWSP has the conference's third best total offense, averaging over 361 yards per game.

Stout Blue Devils (3-3, 1-2) @ La Crosse Eagles (2-4, 1-2)
This matchup is my bet to be the lowest scoring WIAC game on Saturday. Stout and La Crosse feature two of the three lowest scoring offenses in the conference. The mere fact the Eagles haven't been able to muster up any type of offense has me leaning towards Stout to steal this game. Plus, the fact Stout owns the third best defense in the conference solidifies my thoughts on this game. Like Stevens Point, this will only be La Crosse's second home game of the season.

River Falls Falcons (1-5, 1-2) @ Platteville Pioneers (4-2, 1-2)
Coming off a tough loss at Oshkosh last week, I don't see a scenario where the Pioneers will lose its homecoming this weekend. River Falls had a very impressive win at Steven Point where two team members earned WIAC Athletes of the Week (Alex Adams - safety, and Robbie Flom - kick returner). I'm now on board thinking the Falcons will win multiple conference games for the first time since 2008 this year. However, that second win won't be coming Saturday in Platteville. UWP has too much fire power for this improving UWRF defense.

WIAC Midseason Report

With a little more than half of the 2012 season already behind us, I thought it would be a good idea to acknowledge some of the highs and lows this season has brought us. We've witnessed no shortage of surprises, disappointments and things to remain optimistic about. However, one thing remains constant though: The WIAC continues to persevere as the most competitive conference in the country. Maybe even now more then ever considering the rest of the WIAC seems to be within an arm's length of the once invincible Warhawks.

Before you start I want to apologize ahead of time for the abundance of stats I'm about to throw you at you. Oh, one more thing....we're doing this report Client Eastwood style: The Good, The Bad and The Ugly

Good

• Nate Wara - What can I say, it's his WIAC Player of the Year to lose. He leads the conference in total offense (299.3), and passing yards (218.5) per game. He's also the WIAC's fourth leading rusher with 80.8 ypg. Of the WIAC quarterbacks that have played the entire season, he's thrown the least amount of picks (1) and the most TDs (10). He leads a team that has the most balance offensive attack in the WIAC and has accounted for over 57 percent of the team's total offense. And this is a team that ranks first in total offense with 517.8 ypg. As far as the Player of the Year goes, I'm certain it won't be coming from a Whitewater player for a change. Since 2004, there's only been one player that wasn't a Warhawk to achieve the WIAC Player of the Year Award (UWSP's Brad Vickroy in 2008).
• Platteville's QB Depth - It's mind numbing that a third-string sophomore quarterback can land himself on the D3football.com's Team of the Week after his first collegiate start. There's some WIAC programs would kill for their first-string QB to be even considered for that recognition. I would entertain the idea that all three of Platteville's QBs (Nick Anderson, John Kelly and Bryce Corrigan) would be good enough to start at any WIAC school (with the exception being Oshkosh). The Pioneers' three-headed monster combine for throwing 18 touchdowns, 2000 yards passing and a 69.8 completion percentage.
• River Falls' Defense - Yes, I realize there's other defenses worth mentioning before River Falls. And I'm well aware they give up a little over 27 points per game. Even so....Coach Matt Walker has to be proud on what they've accomplished defensively this season. At the halfway point of the season the Falcons rank 5th in total defense. Which is outstanding considering they haven't finished better than seventh since 2005. The mere fact they held Oshkosh to just 19 points (when they average close to 40) deserves some recognition. Of course their offense isn't doing them any favors. They have the worst third-down conversion rate in the WIAC, putting even that much more strain on the defense to succeed.
• Whitewater's Defense - Even though the Warhawks seem to be down this season, not one ounce of that blame can be placed on the defense. On top of leading the way defensively in the WIAC, they also are among the nation's best: 1st in rushing (29.17yards/game), 3rd in scoring (7.83 points/game), and 3rd in total defense (211.5 ypg). UWW has held their opponents to a touchdown or less in five of its first six games, including a pair of shutouts. They've been putting up these gaudy numbers despite losing their preseason All American cornerback, Noah Timm, in the preseason. Even without Timm, the Warhawks lead the country in interceptions with 18. Among the Warhawk leaders are Ryan Wenkman (4), Marcus McLin (3), Andrew Kiester (3) and Cole Klotz (3).  
• La Crosse @ North Central (21-17) - By far the year's most impressive win among WIAC teams. In his season's opener, Joel Dettwiler's Eagles came into NCC and held the 6th ranked Cardinals to just 17 points that Saturday afternoon. Since then, NCC has averaged better than 44 points/game. 14 of UWL's 21 points came off defensive touchdowns (fumble and interceptions return). My favorite aspect of the game was the Eagle's fourth quarter defense. They forced NCC to end their drives in the following fashion that quarter: Interception, fumble, fumble, interception and interception. UWL forced six total turnovers on the day. This was a fantastic start for the WIAC, having an unranked team go on the road and knock off a top ten program from strong conference (CCIW).
• WIAC's #1 Ranking - Through much debate on the DIII message boards, the WIAC ranks (again) as the nation's toughest conference. At first glance, their 8-8 nonconference record is anything but impressive. However, consider for moment who they've played: NCC (twice), St. Thomas (twice), St. Johns, Central to name a few strong DIII programs. Not to mention scholarship-offering programs such as St. Francis and Jamestown (both NAIA), as well as Northern Michigan from DII. For a conference to play those teams (and more), and still finish .500 in noncoference games speaks volumes about the strength of the WIAC. Although, this is nothing new to the DIII world. In fact D3football.com ranks the WIAC as the best DIII football conference since they starting ranking them in 2002..
• Three Ranked Teams - The WIAC currently places three teams in D3football.com's Top 25. Whitewater (5th), Oshkosh (10th) and Platteville (20th). Even though Oshkosh comes to Whitewater this weekend, I don't see the outcome of that game jeopardizing either team from dropping off the poll. In fact, looking at the final four weeks of their schedule, there's a very good chance all three teams will remain in the top 25 when the polls close in December. If that would occur, it would be the first time three WIAC teams finished in the top 25 during the D3football.com Top 25 era*. Of course I'm assuming another melt down doesn't occur. Like when a two-win La Crosse team wins at Oshkosh, dissolving what ever post-season hopes the Titans had last year.
• The John and Randy Show - I would like to thank John (anchor) and Randy (videographer) for providing My Little WIAC Football Blog their weekly Wrap-up reports. Over the weeks I couldn't help but notice their ever expanding budget as various props are regularly added to their set. Although, those props do suggest a certain preconception towards a particular team....but that's OK. There's room for a little biased reporting here.
• History of the WSUC - I know I'm getting a little off topic here, but I've vastly enjoyed Ronald Smith's From Normal School To State University: A History Of The Wisconsin State University Conference. This dissertation was written by Smith in 1969 to fulfill his doctoral degree requirements at UW-Madison. In recognition of the conference's Centennial Celebration, the WIAC has been releasing Smith's work one chapter each month for everyone to enjoy. It discusses how athletics in the east made its way across the country, inspiring Wisconsin colleges to form athletic programs in the late 1800s. The first two chapters have already been distributed. The PDFs can be read on the WIAC website. The third and fourth installments will be available in November and December. So, sit down, put on your favorite snuggie and please read this peice of WIAC history.

Bad

• Austin Neu - Ok, I know, "bad" might be a little harsh. But I've personally talked to Blugold fans that are very frustrated with how this season has gone. I realize things haven't been completely Neu's fault, but the senior hasn't exactly been playing up to his potential. He did lose the majority of his receiving core from 2011. However, better on-field decisions could have been made this year. In 2011, Neu threw for a WIAC leading 248 yards/game, while completing 65.7 percent of his passes. This year he's only averaging 154.3 ypg, and is on pace for five fewer TDs and three more Ints than a year ago. Neu's completion percentage is also suffering, down 10 points from 2011. I'll will listen to the argument that the play calling gets predictable in the second half of games. Given the fact their defense can't seem to stop anyone, forcing Neu and the Blugold offense to narrow the playbook down and play catch-up. More on the defense later on......
• River Falls' Offense - Not too many bright spots here. Scored under 10 points in four of their first five games, including getting shutout in Whitewater. They average just over 12 points/game. Only 13 DIII programs average less. The Falcons are gaining just under 283 yards per game, ranking them 194th out of 239 DIII teams. Quarterback Ryan Kusilek is ranked 17th in the country in completions per game (23.3), but that can be viewed both good and bad given how much they are forced to pass. The freshman is on pace for 421 attempts this year. Which is enough to land him 10th in the WIAC record book for passes attempted in a season. Not quite the record you're looking to achieve, but as a freshman - you'll take it!
• La Crosse's and Steven Points' Schedule - Talk about being setup to fail. Five of the Eagle's first six games were on the road: at NCC, at Northern Michigan (DII), at Oshkosh, at Stevens Point, home vs. Platteville, and finally at Eau Claire. Frankly, I'm stunned La Crosse even won two of those games. Point experienced similar hardships to start their season. Five of their first six games were also on the road: at St. Francis (NAIA), at Dubuque, at Whitewater, home vs. La Crosse, at Stout and at River Falls. That's just ruthless. It's not shocking that both teams have combined for three wins during that stretch.
• Whitewater vs. Buffalo State (6-7) - Coming off the bye week Whitewater faced an unranked 1-1 Buffalo State team for its home opener. Warhawk fans had little to be concerned about going into this game. After all, the Warhawks won their first game easily, 34-0. They had a great defense and a "progressing" offense. The Bengals, not at all known for its defense, absolutely shut down the Warhawk's attack that afternoon. They blew away the DIII football world winning 7-6. I understand that Whitewater's offense is light years away from what we're used to seeing. But how Buffalo State managed to hold the Warhawks to just two field goals is still a mystery to me. Where's Robert Stack when you need him?!?! Apart from the Whitewater game, Buffalo State's defense has given up over 32 points/game. Hell, Utica put up 51 on them. Utica!!! 
• Stout's Punting - Currently ranked 219th in the country by only netting 26.9 yards per punt. Between this and their subpar turnover margin, I wish there was a stat listing each team's average starting field position for the season. My guess is that the Blugold's would not be pretty.
• Whitewater's Passing - This is last on the "Bad" list because I was this close from adding it to "Ugly". Their passing game (on the road) against a good Stout defense saved them from being moved one category down. Regardless, this facet of their offense has been FAR from what anyone is used to seeing out of Whitewater. There have been whispers that quarterback Lee Brekke, captain of team, is in jeopardy of losing his starting job. The senior has the conference's second worst yardage among six-game starters (148 ypg). As a team, the Warhawks average 154 ypg, good enough for 180th in the country. Also, not one Warhawk wideout ranks among the top 10 in receiving in the WIAC.

Ugly

• La Crosse's Offensive - To say the least, it's been very "offensive"...one of the worst in the country in fact. They average under 234 ypg - 15th worst in DIII. They had a golden opportunity to put points on the board against a very generous Eau Claire defense this past weekend. However, they failed to get in the endzone, and were held to just three field goals. The Eagles have been terribly missing running back Ben Hertrampf (all conference in 2011). The junior will miss the remainder of the season after suffering a season-ending injury earlier in the year. UWL has been only averaging 12 points per game, and that includes two defensive touchdowns. They've managed only one passing touchdown on the season which came back in week two. That one touchdown is tied for the fewest thrown in the nation. Their offensive line has given up a gaudy 24 sacks in six games this year. That's four sacks per game, which is 10th worst in all of DIII!
• Eau Claire vs. St. Thomas (24-27) - Just as word started to spread that unranked La Crosse upset No. 6 NCC, Eau Claire found themselves up 24-13 well into the fourth quarter against No. 8 St. Thomas. With under four minutes left in the game it almost came a reality that the WIAC would knock off two top 10 ranked programs to start the 2012 season. I was literary reaching for my computer, about tell anyone who was willing to listen that the WIAC was unstoppable!! Then things went down the pooper. With a touchdown the Tommies made things interesting, cutting the lead to 24-20. Then on Eau Claire's very next play from scrimmage, Neu tried to complete an impossible pass when getting dragged to the ground, resulting in a UST interception. Three plays later St. Thomas scores on a 32 yard run to take the lead - and the game. Up by four. With the ball. Under four minutes left. St. Thomas can't stop the clock. Why UWEC elected to pass on first down there is beyond me. In a span of 40 seconds, Eau Claire went from a two-score lead to down by three. *big frustrated sigh*
• Eau Claire Defense -  I don't mean to pick on the Blugolds too much here, but UWEC's defense has been abysmal this season. Rather than bore you with the details, trust me when I say that Eau Claire ranks dead last in just about every defensive category in the WIAC. Last week they did manage play a little better, as they kept a La Crosse out of the endzone. Then again, as we just learned, the Eagles have one of the worst offense in the country this season.

I'm interested to hear other people's thoughts on the WIAC midway through the season. Anything you disagree with? Anything I left out? Clint Eastwood picture too big?



* The D3football.com Top 25 was first voted on in 2003.

WIAC Wrap: Week Seven

Inside the Box Scores: Week Seven

 

WIAC Survival Guide: Week Seven

Every resource you'll need to follow WIAC football this weekend

                                                       
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            (2-3, 1-1)                                                                                              (1-4, 1-1)

 
Date: October 13th

Time: 11:30 a.m.

Location: Eau Claire
Kickoff Forecast: 49 degrees; Showers; 60% chance of rain; SE wind at 9 mph

Audio:  WBIZ 1400 (UWEC); WKTY 580 (UWL)
Video: Eau Claire Broadcast
Live Stats: UWL; UWEC

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           (1-4, 0-2)                                                                                               (0-5, 0-2)

Date: October 13th

Time: 1:00 p.m.

Location: River Falls
Kickoff Forecast: 54 degrees; Showers; 50% chance of rain; SSE wind at 7 mph
Audio: WRFW 88.7 (UWRF); WPCN 92.1 (UWSP)

Video: N/A

Live Stats: UWSP

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                    (4-1, 1-1)                                                                                   (5-0, 2-0)

Date: October 13th
Time: 1:30 p.m.

Location: Oshkosh
Kickoff Forecast: 51 degrees; Thunderstorms; 90% chance of rain; S wind at 12 mph
Audio: WRST 90.3 (UWO); WPVL 107.1 (UWP) sports stream 2

Video: Oshkosh Broadcast
Live Stats: UWO; UWP

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         (4-1, 2-0)                                                                                               (3-2, 1-1)

Date: October 13th
Time: 2:00 p.m.

Location: Menomonie
Kickoff Forecast: 53 degrees; Showers; 50% chance of rain; SE wind at 7 mph
Audio:  WKCH 106.5 (UWW);  WMEQ 880 (Stout)
Video: Stout Broadcast
Live Stats: UWW; Stout

Bye Week: None

All times Central

I won't be around to test all links as each game is being played. So, please give me a heads up if a certain link doesn't work, or if it takes you someplace else. Also fill me in if you come across a link that I don't have listed.

Much appreciated...Enjoy!