UNI went to Springfield, Missouri and beat Missouri State 35-7 in typical fashion. Fortunately, the game was broadcast on a local channel to allow me to watch it. Once again, the Panther offense started sloppy with Grace missing high on any pass of ten yards or less. A few triple option plays getting wide receiver Jarred Herring involved in the running game. UNI also decided to call a particular play several times, too many in my personal opinion. The play was a quick pass to a wide receiver out on the edge with a slot receiver to block. It was not a bubble screen because no linemen were sent out to block. The receiver was left with one receiver as a blocker and, otherwise, the open field to show what he could do. I believe this was an attempt to get Pat Grace some simple completions while also getting the ball in the hands of the receivers. Rather than constantly trying to make big plays by throwing down the field, Panther wide receivers are fast enough to gain some yards after the catch. Unfortunately, Missouri State was all over the play, and it rarely went for any yardage. However, eventually, the offensive coordinator seemed to figure out better ways to throw underneath in an effort to get the ball out to the receivers.
On the other side of the ball, the defense looked solid. “Bend, but don’t break” worked to perfection with turnovers coming anytime the Bears started to drive the ball. The only score came when Missouri State put the ball in the endzone with seven seconds left in the game against the Panther backups. It ended a scoreless streak by the Panther defense that lasted over 170 minutes or eleven quarters of football. The last score given up was on the first offensive play by South Dakota two weeks ago when they ran a flea flicker trick play to go approximately seventy yards for a touchdown. It was the traditional cover 3 by which coach Farley lives and dies. Missouri State demonstrated some ability to take advantage of it on occasion, but turnovers prevented them from capitalizing on it. It will be something to keep an eye on in the bigger games when teams do not make as many unforced errors. Farley’s strategy is to allow the other team to beat themselves. It works great until facing talented teams who seize the opportunity and make the plays needed to win the game. Be assured, I will be keeping an eye on it as the season progresses.
On the whole, the game was a nice progression. While still looking a little sloppy on the offensive side, there were signs of moving in the right direction. The defense continues to look strong while hiding its potential Achilles Heel for the time being. I suppose one good things about UNI’s offense started sloppy is the coaches do not shut it down at halftime. In the end, it was another win against a team with a bit more talent than the previous two opponents.