when we failed to go for it on a 4th and 1 foot. It was risky, since we were not out of our territory, but I said at the time, "no guts, no glory." The result of the punt and return was that the ball ended up right where it was anyway, and then the quick scores came and it was over. It was another example of the staff's lack of confidence in the run.
I thought the game went south
- Thread starter RedSea_rivals91325
- Start date
Totally agree! This staff did not have a good "feel for games" this year. I would have punted early when they went for it and went for it when they punted. Also, both fourth down attempts were passes - with a marginal QB.
Agreed. The loss is due to the INTs. Langs 4th and 1 call was dumb, but if TA throws the ball to the flat where a wide open Carter is, it's an easy 1st down. I don't agree with the call, but it would have worked if Tommy didn't play '500' with every pass he throws.
The game (as well as the previous 6), was lost the minute Riley was hired. Expect much the same next year (5 to 8 wins).
I like how you put this...lack of 'feel'. For example, I didn't mind them going for it on 4th and 3 in the 2nd quarter. They were at the Iowa 42 going into the wind. However, in that sequence they gained 7 yards on first down and had 2nd and 3. If you are thinking that is 4 down territory (and you had better be thinking that before you actually face 4th down), why not run the ball once or twice? Instead, they throw three straight in-completions.
Of course, the 4th and 1 in the 4th quarter, they call a play that features our QB's weaknesses rather than his strengths. They also disclose the fact that they aren't going to pound the ball up the middle by lining Armstrong up in the 'gun. If you're determined to throw the ball there, at least line Armstrong up under center so maybe you can surprise them a little with play-action.
Even earlier in the 2nd half - the first drive, NU has 4th and less than a yard at their own 35. They punt, and actually end up losing a yard on the exchange due to a good return and a ridiculous late-hit penalty by our punter. That would have been a perfect opportunity to roll the dice and go for it. You're 5-6, you're at home, into the wind, you had momentum from the late score in the first half...why not try to make a statement there?
