How to Beat BGSU

For the first time since Marshall left for Conference USA a MAC opponent is visiting Joan C. Edwards Stadium. Saturday’s game against Bowling Green kicks off at 7pm as the Herd attempts to improve on last weeks loss.

So how do you beat BGSU? As coach Snyder said in his weekly press conference Bowling Green runs an offense Marshall should be accustomed to.

“ I do, I do. I absolutely do. They are very Conference USA like, on the west side” said Snyder.

Since the Herd have not played a C-USA West team this season lets review Marshall’s games from last year. During three games versus west opponents Marshall beat Houston 37 – 23, lost to Rice 35 – 10, and lost to Tulsa 38 – 35.

Lets review the Houston game, which was Marshall only win over a C-USA west opponent. Both teams exchanged punts before Craig Ratanmorrn scored on a 28 yard field goal with 5 minutes left in the first. Following another exchange of punts Marshall went on a scoring drive which culminated in a Mark Cann touchdown pass just as the second quarter began. Ratanmorn connected on two more field goals before half time and Marshall entered the third with a 16 - 3 lead. Marshall’s biggest play of the game came as Houston was looking to score on first and goal from MU’s one yard line. Houston running back Bryce Beal fumbled to Maurice Kitchens who returned the ball to Marshall’s one yard line. Due to a Brandon Burns penalty Marshall started there drive on Houston’s 32 but quickly scored on another Cann pass. By then Marshall had a 23 – 3 lead and cruised to a 37 – 23 victory.

What can we learn from the Houston game about beating Bowling Green? First Marshall must score early and often. Taking the momentum at home is huge, Marshall scored 13 points before Houston got on the board and entered half time with a 16 – 3 lead. The Herd has to run the ball. Against a pass happy offense like Bowling Green time of possession is very important. During the Houston game Marshall had a plus 13 minute time of possession advantage. Marshall accomplished this by racking up nearly 250 yards on the ground. The Herds last key to victory is cause turnovers. It does not need to be dramatic as Kitchens run back or DeQuan Bembry’s end zone interception last week but turnovers are needed.

If Marshall can follow the foot prints of last seasons victory against Houston (arguably Snyder’s most impressive win as head coach) the Herd should be able to beat Bowling Green. Just make sure to keep the band carts way out of play this time!