We're about 30 minutes from game time- the weather's nice, in the low 80's or so, and it looks like it's going to be just as packed here as it was last year.
Some keys for the Chippewas in today's game:
- Start fast. At least keep up with Purdue instead of fall behind 31-0 by halftime, like last year at Ross-Ade. If CMU gets the ball first, get a good drive going, even if it amounts to only 3 points. Set a tone for the offense and give the defense something to work with.
- Turnovers. CMU has yet to intercept a pass, but picked up two critical fumble recoveries to beat Ohio last week. Very few defenses are good enough to rely on forcing fourth downs, and in this game, when you're facing a guy like Curtis Painter, you're not going to force a punt out of Purdue regularly. Take some opportunities - just make sure you don't get burned.
- Big plays. This works both ways: Dan LeFevour needs to throw deep a little more often for a big game like this, and on the other hand, the defense and special teams have to prevent the big play. The Bobcats scored half of their points off of plays 40 yards or longer, and had another drive go for a touchdown after a 45-yard pass completion. If any team on CMU's schedule can rip big gains, it's the Boilermakers.
- Breakout games? LeFevour was good last week, but not the LeFevour we saw last year, especially late. Same with Bryan Anderson- he hasn't really had anything going, but did show some flair against Ohio. This would be the perfect game to get that connection going, just in time for the thick of the MAC schedule, which starts next week.
We're now about 12 minutes until game time, so I'll cut it off here. Check back at halftime for notes and keys to the game!
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