MSU so far

iaafan · Post by **iaafan** » Fri Aug 19, 2005 10:36 am

While it is way too early to get overly excited and since I've only been to two practices, the way that Montana State has performed thus far in fall practices is an encouraging sign. I believe Mike Kramer has instilled in his team a sense of urgency that his core group has to play better than it did a year ago. The Bobcats have also practiced with more energy and enthusiasm this fall no doubt due to last year's late season collapse. Travis Lulay's ability to improvise and make plays on the move is a huge plus for the Bobcats. His mobility will frustrate pass rushers and demoralize defensive coordinators who will have to figure out a way to contain this strong, agile and fast-thinking quarterback. Defensively, the Bobcats continue to make progress. While they have allowed the offense to make some plays in practices, they do show signs of progress. An impressive group of linebackers as well as a much improved secondary and an improving line are all positives. Bobcat' fans must be patient with this defense. As many as six new starters are learning a new scheme, which will take some time. Up for the Cats in two weeks are the Oklahoma State Cowboys, who were a Division I-A bowl team a year ago. This team will be a great test for the Bobcat' defense early. It needs to concentrate on its assignments, be technically sound and use the game as a stepping stone in building its confidence. Offensively, the Bobcats should not be shy about attacking this defense through the air with the use of play action. The MSU receivers (Gatewood, Guinn, Murray and Miller) can play against this calibre of team and get after its secondary as they possess equal speed and athleticism as a whole. This is an opportunity for the Bobcat' starters to continue to improve their conditioning and timing as they prepare for the opener. For the younger players it’s another opportunity to show that they are worthy of a spot and that they can contribute on special teams as well as add depth at their respective positions.

Robcat · Post by **Robcat** » Fri Aug 19, 2005 11:03 am

While I have not seen any practices its encouraging to get reports from from fellow posters who have seen practices.

I only hope we are not seeing this years team thru rose colored glasses. Are we going to be THE Big Sky CHAMPS, or will it be another 50/50 season?

I attended a spring scrimage and was impressed the the O line and the backup QB's, but at that time I felt the D had a long way to go.

Patience Grass Hopper.

CelticCat · Post by **CelticCat** » Fri Aug 19, 2005 11:07 am

Robcat wrote:While I have not seen any practices its encouraging to get reports from from fellow posters who have seen practices.

I only hope we are not seeing this years team thru rose colored glasses. Are we going to be THE Big Sky CHAMPS, or will it be another 50/50 season?

I attended a spring scrimage and was impressed the the O line and the backup QB's, but at that time I felt the D had a long way to go.

Patience Grass Hopper.

\

We look a LOT better than we did at the spring scrimmage in Great Falls.