In Reply to: With our recent track record... think we're all there.* posted by BruinPatti on September 25, 2026 at 09:03:57
yes, I feel you. Recruiting's going well, especially considering new staff and our recruiting last several years but those kids aren't here yet. The staff is doing really well maximizing the talent we have but when there are (relative) weaknesses and you have to shore things up, that creates vulnerabilities elsewhere on the field. We aren't great in the interior of the D line. To shore that up, we have to do more run blitzes, support with LBs, rotate our good DEs inside at time, especially West, also bring more blitzes to create pressure on the opposing QB.
We did a great job absolutely shutting down Purdue's running game but that created a weakness in the D Backfield, lots of one-on-ones back there and a really accurate QB made us pay big time.
On offense, we've done a terrific job run blocking but have really struggled in pass pro against blitzes, putting Nico under pressure and we really need to improve both pass pro and taking advantage of opportunities that opposing team's blitzes actually open up for quick hitters against the blitz.
MD's lack of a threatening run attack allows us to focus on our defense against a passing attack and they haven't shown a good pass rush which allows us to perhaps do better against the blitz this game. Like you, Bob, i'm watching the weather - high winds if those happen aren't a friend of the passing game and hitting a few longer passes is one of the keys to preventing opponents from focusing on our running attack. But those of us in New Mexico have seen Locksley up close and I just feel we have a significant advantage in the coaching staffs.
I think we'll win tomorrow. Hope you have a great time at the game with NORML and the others who will be there.