Louisiana-Monroe Summary

The drive was a little more quiet than usual this week. Scott & Devin were at an anniversay party for Lupita's parents so it was just Josh and I. Nick also couldn't make the game, however, we were joined by Warren and his girlfriend Caroline. The weather was nice, probably the nicest we've had for a night-game in September. It was clear with a mild breeze blowing and the game temperature was in the 80's shortly after kickoff.

Singing the Spirit of Aggieland

If Fresno State was frustrating because the game went to OT, this week it was nice to see the Ags finally handle a non-conference opponent like we expected them to in weeks 1 and 2. The Ags continued to run the ball well and they finally passed the ball a few times (albeit against a porous secondary).

The offense was balanced and A&M scored 54 points without needing to punt. It was neat in that on one of the Ags scoring drives, down by the goal line, they tried to give the ball to La Mantia (the 12th Man & backup fullback) to score. He didn't get in, but he had a couple of pretty good plays. The crowd appreciated the effort. In fact, probably one of the biggest cheers of the night came early when A&M went deep with a pass to the endzone. They didn't get the TD, but the crowd was just relieved that the Ags made the attempt. Josh and I are convinced that the coaching staff regards the forward pass as something of a trick play...


Defensively, the Ags looked OK, but I have my doubts against tougher opponents. The defensive line continues to lack the ability to put consistent pressure on opposing QB's. Jordan Peterson, while blowing it in coverage a few times, had a great goal-line interception that he ran back 54 yards. He also did a decent job returning punts. Misi Tupe also had a nice interception. ULM scored on their opening drive and then in the middle of the Fourth quarter after the Ags had put in their second-team defense. It was good to see some of the younger guys play.


Overall, this game looked like a good tuneup for Miami and it appeared to accomplish all of the things you would like to see against a lower-tier opponent towards the end of non-conference play. They utilized the passing game and they minimized the mistakes that kept them from capitalizing on more scoring drives last week. They were able to play a lot of younger guys and and they managed to get out of the game without any injuries. You really couldn't ask for much more.


As for other observations during the game:

The Band performed a block aTm facing the student section. I think it is largely in recognition for the great job they did in the Overtimes last week against Fresno State. It was part of an extended halftime performance honoring the anniversary of 911 and the upcoming Constitution Day.

Reveille is also back after serving her quarantine for snapping at the cadet that stepped on her tail. For some reason this garnered a lot of media attention last week.


Now we turn our attention to Miami and the Hurricanes (we're going to the OB!). They will be a tough opponent playing at their house so it will be a stiff challenge for the Ags. We're looking forward to a fun game and a fun week. Scott and I head out on Monday with everyone else to follow on Wednesday.

BTHO Miami

Patrick