1. Central Michigan is coming off an impressive 33-0 win over Hampton, while Temple is riding high after a come-from-behind win over rival Villanova to open the season. Which team would you say has the "momentum" on their side, and why?
After losing to Villanova in last year's opener, Temple had Villanova circled on their schedule. I don't think anyone familiar with the CMU program takes 1AA programs lightly (remember ND State?) and to beat the best from that division is a great win. Temple is definitely riding high on their win last week and carries all the momentum.
2. After one game, the Chippewas have yet to allow a single point on defense? Care to explain what CMU does so well on defense, and are there any standout players on D that Temple fans should keep an eye on?
CMU is a sure tackling team. When a tackle should be made, it is. They also tend to be a "bend but don't break" style defense against a well run offense. Teams don' t tend to get into the end zone very often even when they are getting into the red zone consistently.
The obvious choices for impact defensive players are Bellore and Berning at LB but that's too easy. The key to the game for our defense is going to be the play of our young DEs, Caesar Rodriguez and Darryll Stinson. When Temple is forced into passing 3rd downs, they need to force Chester Stewart out of his comfort zone as he became a bit inaccurate when under duress against Nova. Also, I'm expecting Jahleel Addae to step up from the Safety position to help snuff out the run game when Temple running backs are able to break through the first line of defense.
3. Quarterback Ryan Radcliff had a good outing to open the season, throwing for just under 250 yards and a touchdown. Temple, just like CMU, has a pretty good defense, including the reigning MAC Defensive Player of the Year in Adrian Robinson at defensive end. Do you think Radcliff will continue his success into Thursday's game?
Coming into the 2010 season, the strength of this offensive unit on paper was the offensive line. We returned 4 starters upfront and have a stable of capable linemen to keep the group fresh. I expect them to give Radcliff adequate time to make accurate decisions with the football. To get him going early and take the pressure off, expect CMU to call some timing routes, swing passes and get the run game going. One thing Radcliff needs to do a better job of, is knowing when to give up on a play and throw it away. He took unnecessary sacks against Hampton and these sort of plays could really kill drives against a tough Temple defense.
4. As a whole, CMU rushed for 168 yards on the ground. Which runner should Temple fear the most: Paris Cotton or Carl Volny?
Both Cotton and Volny are physical backs that can break a big run. Also, they both did the majority of their training under the Butch Jones spread so expect both of these guys to have above average hands in the passing game. I guess if I had to pick one of these guys to have a big a game, it would be Paris Cotton. Unfortunately for us, Zurlon Tipton may be the most talented of the bunch but he is finishing up a 2 game suspension on Thursday and will be inactive.
5. Temple has a terrific tandem at running back between two sophomores, Bernard Pierce and Matt Brown. Which one are you most concerned about, and why?
Bernard Pierce is a menacing back that is capable of smacking our defense in the mouth while Matt Brown is a quicker shiftier runner--it really does make for a nice tandem. During the offseason all anyone talked about was Bernard Pierce and it allowed Matt Brown to fly under the radar a bit. That being said, I think Temple knows their success lies on the shoulders of Pierce. To beat CMU, they need to sustain long drives and pound our DL to slowly wear them down. When game planning, coaches have to be more concerned with Pierce.
6. Last time Temple met Central Michigan, the Owls lost 24-14, but then again, the Chippewas had a great quarterback in Dan LeFevour at the time. How do you see this game playing out, and give us your prediction.
The Chippewa team is still trying to find their identity after LeFevour's departure but it leaves the offense with something to prove. I really expect the Chippewas to show up in Philly ready to play. It will be a hard to match Temple's intensity but I really like our chances as our run defense seems to be a definite strength that matches up with Temple's offensive strength nicely. This one may come down to a play or 2 on special teams. CMU 24-Temple 16
Regardless of the outcome, this ESPNU matchup is great for each program and the conference. I'm sure it will not disappoint football-hungry America! Fire up Chips!
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We thank Fire Up Chips for giving us an insight into the Chippewas, and we look forward to tonight's game. Stay tuned to Cherry & White Nation for post-game analysis.
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