Marshall Football: Late Comeback Fizzles, Purdue Wins 51-41

Despite a valiant second half effort Marshall fell to Purdue 51-41 at Ross-Ade Stadium Saturday afternoon.

Two second quarter interceptions returned for touchdowns by Boilermaker defenders put the Thundering Herd in a 41-14 hole heading into halftime. Despite the deficit Marshall played hard in the second half, outscoring Purdue 27-9 in the last two quarters.

For more on today's game follow the links below.

Box Score

The Charleston Gazette

Interceptions doom Cato, Herd in 51-41 loss to Purdue

Marshall Notebook: Herd rediscovers 3-and-out

The Charleston Daily Mail

Marshall Football: Herd falls to Purdue, 51-41

The Herald Dispatch

Purdue too tough, 51-41

Shuler breaks reception record

MU Game Balls

The WV Metro News

Herd Comeback Falls Short 51-41

The Herd Insider

Herd wins battle, loses war in 51-41 defeat at Purdue

Herdzone.com

Herd Comeback Falls Short at Purdue, 51-41

Marshall Football: A look behind enemy lines, Purdue

Marshall's travels to Purdue today for a 3:15pm kickoff at Ross-Aid Stadium. Lets take a quick look at the Boilermakers before this afternoons match-up.

Purdue
Record: 2-1, 0-0
Stats
Roster

FBS Rankings
Passing Yards: 50th (251.3 per game)
Rushing Yards: 28th (219 per game)
Points For: 19th (39.7 per game)
Points Against: 19th (14 per game)

Players to Watch on Offense
Quarterback: Caleb TerBush (24-43, 237 yards, 3 TD, 3 INT)
Leading Rusher: Akeem Shavers (33 carries, 167 yards, 2 TD)
Leading Receiver: Antavian Edison (18 receptions, 186 yards, 4 TD)

Player to Watch on Defense
Kawann Short, Defensive Tackle: A first team all-Big Ten selection, Kawann Short anchors Purdue's strong defensive line. In three games this year Short has registered six tackles, four for loss, and three sacks. ESPN analysis Mel Kiper ranks Short as the 16th best prospect in this years NFL Draft.

In the Press

The Charleston Daily Mail

Marshall football: Purdue's Short is a handful 

The Charleston Gazette

Ex-GW player coaching Purdue's lineman

'Specimen' Short keys Purdue's defense

Boilermakers defense will put heat on Herd 

Purdue happy to have bye before meeting Herd

The Herald Dispatch

Legg returns to Purdue

Marshall at Purdue, 3:15pm

Purdue limits opponents to Short yardage

Contrast of styles for MU, Purdue

Marshall's Butler, Purdue's Luca to re-unite

Purdue coach has lost twice to Marshall as assistant at Louisville 

The WV Metro News

Legg returns to Purdue

Hammer and Rails

Purdue Game Week 5: Marshall Thundering Herd 

Lafayette Journal and Courier

1st and 10: Purdue football vs. Marshall

Inside the huddle with linebacker Antwon Higgs

Purdue center Rick Schmeig benefits from newfound aggression 

Purdue football notebook: Looking to end non-conference slate in style

Purdue football notebook: Should Boilermakers be ranked?

Purdue football's bye gives defensive ends knee time to heal

Marshall Football: Q&A with w/Purdue Fan Site Hammerandrails.com

Earlier this week I was contacted by the Purdue SB Nation website Hammerandrails.com about conducting a Q&A before this week’s game. My answers to their questions can be found here, and they were nice enough to respond to my inquires below, enjoy:

MTB: It looks like Caleb Terbush will be the Boilermakers starter against Marshall but Robert Marve played well against Eastern Kentucky and Notre Dame. What is Purdue’s quarterback situation entering Saturday’s game?

 H&N: Robert Marve has an ACL that is “damaged” in his left knee and has not played since the Notre Dame game. He has been the better quarterback so far, but the health of his knee is going to be an issue throughout the season. He has stated that he is going to come back this year since he is a sixth year senior and is not getting another year anyway. He was recently cleared for individual workouts, so it is possible he will go on Saturday.

More likely, TerBush will start and Rob Henry will take a few snaps as a wildcat QB. Henry threw an interception in the first game, but has been effective since. Henry is more of a running QB than TerBush and Marve. With him, the two-QB system makes more sense because he at least provides a different look. He’s very dangerous with his legs.

MTB: Everyone knows about defensive lineman Kawann Short and Bruce Gaston, what other players on defense keep the Boilermakers running?

H&N: Josh Johnson and Ricardo Allen are two of the best cornerbacks in the Big Ten. Allen has gotten more press, but Johnson has had the better year overall. Walk-on safety Landon Feichter also leads the team in interceptions with two, one of which he returned for a touchdown. Will Lucas is becoming an excellent linebacker and may finally be our answer over the middle on defense.

The defense has been the strength of the team this far. It hasn’t been tested as much as it will against Marshall, however. Facing a rookie QB, a bad Eastern Michigan team, and an FCS foe is much different than facing the NCAA’s leading passer.

MTB: Akeem Shavers leads Purdue in rushing, what type of running style should Marshall expect from the Texas native?

H&N: Shavers is a powerful runner that has breakaway speed if needed. Marshall will likely see several runners though. Akeem Hunt has been incredibly explosive and had a huge game against EMU. Brandon Cottom is one of the biggest running backs I have ever seen and can be a powerful, punishing runner. He had an 87 yard TD run against EMU. Then there is Rob Henry, who often plays the QB position more like a wildcat QB with the read-option game.

MTB: The Big Ten looks down this year, can Purdue make a run at the Rose Bowl?

H&N Absolutely. When two of the six teams in our division are ineligible and two more are historically inept (Illinois and Indiana) we’ve been thinking of the Wisconsin game at home as the deciding factor in us getting to the Big Ten championship game.

My only concern is the quarterback situation. If Robert Marve was the definitely starter and completely healthy I would feel much better. Danny hope is hellbent on playing multiple QBs, however, and Marve’s health is going to be an issue all season. TerBush is decent, but he has not been as effective as Marve yet.

MTB: You are visiting West Lafayette and Ross-Ade Stadium for the first time, what are the “must do’s” in order to have a great experience?

H&N Breakfast Club is a football tradition where the bars on State Street open at 7am and students go in costume for a day-long party up to kickoff. You see some of the most bizarre costumes possible. The Triple XXX diner was also featured on the Food Network as one of the best diners in America. It has all kinds of signed Purdue memorabilia and menu items named after Purdue great, including the Drew Brees burger.

Marshall Football: Week Five Game Notes, Purdue

Marshall (2-2,1-0) returns to Big Ten country for the first time since 2008 this Saturday as they meet Purdue (2-1,0-0) at Ross-Ade Stadium. The Thundering Herd hopes to build off their thrilling 54-51 victory over Rice last week but the Boilermakers are a formidable challenge.

At first glance Purdue fits in the typical Big Ten box, strong defense and a bruising rushing attack on offense. On defense the Boilermakers are anchored by lineman Kawann Short. The All-Big Ten first team selection is a disruptive force, last year he recorded 54 tackles and a team high 17 for loss. Through three games this season Short has already registered three sacks.

On offense the Thundering Herd can expect a heavy dose of running backs Akeem Shavers and Akeem Hunt. Through three games Hunt and Shavers have combined for 44 carries, 305 yards, and three touchdowns.

With Robert Marve recovering out with a knee injury it looks like Caleb TerBush is the clear cut starter at quarterback. TerBush was suspended for Purdue’s week one win over Eastern Kentucky and spilt time with Marve during the Boilermakers 20-17 loss at Notre Dame. With Marve out of the picture, TerBush quarterbacked Purdue to a 54-16 win over Eastern Michigan two weeks ago. In the victory he completed 16 of 24 attempts for 158 yards and two touchdowns with an interception.

For more on this week’s matchup follow the links below:

Marshall

Quotes for Doc Holliday’s Sept. 25 Press Conference

Game Notes, Purdue

Purdue

Video: Danny Hope discusses this week’s game against Marshall

Game Notes, Marshall

C-USA Football: Week Four Review

In a year where teams from the MAC and Sunbelt have earned big wins over BCS members Conference USA continues to struggle. In seven out of conference match-ups C-USA only managed a record of 1-6 during week four of the college football season. Tulsa earned the lone win, 27-26 at home against Fresno State.

That is not to say C-USA did not earn a few moral  victories. UTEP played a close game in Madison, dropping a 37-26 decision against Wisconsin. UAB did not embarrass themselves at Ohio State. The Blazers took a 6-0 first quarter lead before falling 29-15.

Although, there were a few stinkers. Duke racked up 500 yards of offense during a 38-14 win against Memphis. Facing their in-state rivals, ECU had no answer for North Carolina, losing 27-6. Western Kentucky continued its impressive season, downing Southern Miss at home 42-17.

For a full review of last week’s action click here.

Standings

East

1) Marshall: 2-2, 1-0

2) ECU: 2-2, 1-0

3) UCF: 2-1, 0-0

4) UAB: 0-3, 0-0

5) Memphis: 0-4, 0-0

6) USM: 0-3, 0-1

West

1) Tulsa: 3-1, 1-0

2)SMU: 1-2, 0-0

3) UTEP: 1-3, 0-0

4) Houston: 0-3, 0-0

5) Rice: 1-3, 0-1

6) Tulane: 0-3, 0-1

Marshall in the NFL: Week Three

Weekly review of Marshall Alumni in the NFL.

1. Ahmad Bradshaw, Running Back, New York Giants

Ahmad Bradshaw did not play in the New York Giants 36-7 win over the Carolina Panthers after suffering a neck injury the previous week. A timetable has not been set for Bradshaw’s return.

2. C.J Spillman, Safety, San Francisco 49ers

In a suspiring outcome the San Francisco 49ers lost to the Minnesota Vikings 24-13 Sunday afternoon. Safety C.J Spillman did not register a tackle during the game.

3. Doug Legursky, Guard/Center, Pittsburgh Steelers

Doug Legursky saw a number of snaps along the interior of Pittsburgh’s offensive line as the Steelers fell to the Oakland Raiders 34-31.

4. Byron Leftwich, Quarterback, Pittsburgh Steelers

Serving as Ben Roethlisberger’s primary backup Byron Leftwich did not see the field during Pittsburgh’s week three loss at Oakland.

5. Albert McClellan, Linebacker, Baltimore Ravens

Albert McClellan earned his third start in a row during Baltimore’s last second, 31-30 win over the New England Patriots. The outside linebacker recorded one tackle during the victory.

6. Lee Smith, Tight End, Buffalo Bills

Although he did not record a catch, Bills blocking tight end Lee Smith helped Buffalo to 138 rushing yards during their 24-14 win over the Cleveland Browns.

7. Randy Moss, Wide Receiver, San Francisco 49ers

Randy Moss caught three passes for 27 yards during San Francisco’s week three loss at Minnesota.

8. Vinny Curry, Defensive End, Philadelphia Eagles

Vinny Curry was listed among Philadelphia’s inactive players for the third straight week.

9. Mario Harvey, Linebacker, Indianapolis Colts

Mario Harvey did not record a tackle in the Indianapolis Colts 22-17 loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars.

Marshall Football: Herd takes down Rice in 2OT 54-51

Behind a strong effort by two freshman running backs, Marshall was able to defeat Rice 54-51 in double overtime at Rice Stadium Saturday afternoon.

For the first time since 2009 the Thundering Herd had two players gain 100 yards on the ground. Stewart Butler lead the way with 18 carries for 166 yards and one touchdown. Not to be outdone fellow freshman Kevin Grooms rushed 12 times for 103 yards and three touchdowns including the game winner in double overtime. Grooms also added a touchdown reception in the second quarter.

Even though Marshall gained 334 yards on the ground quarterback Rakeem Catro was far from an after thought. The sophomore signal caller connected on 27 of 38 passes for 257 yards and two touchdowns. Cato's favorite target was his former high school teammate Tommy Shuler. Shuler caught eight passes for 87 yards.

Marshall's defense had another tough game, surrendered 646 yards of offense. The biggest thorn in the defenses side was Rice quarterback Taylor McHargue. The dual threat passer lead the Owls with 17 rushing attempts for 153 yards and a touchdown. Through the air McHargue completed 21 of 37 passes for 313 yards and three touchdowns.

Marshall returns to the gridiron next week for an out of conference game at Purdue. Kickoff is scheduled for 3:15pm ET, TV coverage will be provided by the Big Ten Network.

Links

HerdZone.com

Marshall Withstands Shootout, Beats Rice 54-51 

The Charleston Daily Mail

Marshall football: Herd overcomes Rice in 2OT

Video: Doc Holliday's post game press comments

The Herald Dispatch

Final: Marshall 54, Rice 51, 2OT

Associated Press

Marshall rushes pass Rice 54-51 in 2OT

Notes - Box score...Marshall's leading rusher Travon Vann was moved from running back to defensive back during practice this week. Per Doc Holliday's post game comments the move appears to be permanent...Defensive end RaShawde Meyers did not travel with the team to Rice. In three games this year Meyers registered one start and six tackles...Defensive lineman Armonze Daniel saw a number of snaps at linebacker...Freshman punter Tyler Williams averaged 51 yards on five attempts with three balls placed inside the twenty yard line...Prior to today's game Marshall had lost eight straight games in Texas...Purdue, the Thundering Herds opponent next Saturday, did not play this week.

Marshall Football: A look behind enemy lines, Rice

Marshall meets Rice tomorrow in the Lone Star State for a 3:30pm ET kickoff. Lets take a look at the Owls leading into Saturday's game.

Record: 1-2, 0-0
Roster
Stats

FBS Rankings
Passing Yards - 87th (208.3 per game)
Rushing Yards - 37th (204.3 per game)
Points For - 64th (28.7 per game)
Points Against - 121st (43 per game)

Players to watch on offense
Leading Passer: Taylor McHargue (60-97, 613 yards, 4 TD, 2 INT)
Leading Rusher: Charles Ross (30 carries, 212 yards, 1 TD)
Leading Receiver: Jordan Taylor (15 receptions, 205 yards, 0 TD)

Player to watch on defense
Bryce Callahan, Defensive Back - Callahan lead all FBS freshman last year with six interceptions and the trend has continued in 2012. After three games the all Conference USA preseason selection has picked up where he left, already picking off two passes.

In the Press

The Charleston Gazette

Family and friends: Historic Rice Stadium just doesn't pack them in

Owls offense presents big problem for Herd

Herd, Rice ready for rematch

The Charleston Daily Mail

Marshall football: Rice DB likes to face passing offenses

The Herald Dispatch

Grant Taylor: Thundering Herd plans to do what Rice allows

The Houston Chronicle

Owls search for defensive ends 

Rice seeks quicker start, better result vs. Marshall

Healthy Ross leading Owls running attack

The WV Metro News

Rice will try to create mismatches

Marshall Basketball: Shawn Smith makes verbal commitment to Herd

First reported by the Twitter account of Charleston Daily Mail reporter Derek Redd, City College of San Francisco basketball player Shawn Smith has committed to Marshall University.

Information on Smith is scarce but, multiple websites list him at six-foot-six. A California native Smith spent his prep school years at Sacramento’s McClatchy High School. At McClatchy, Smith earned all-Metro Conference 1^st team honors during his senior season. According to City College basketball coach Justin Labagh, Smith is relatively new to the game, having focused on football during his early high school career.

Smith played AAU basketball with Sacramento based Play Hard Play Smart. According to a 2011 article from NorCalPreps.com, Smith was  recruited by the University of San Francisco, Utah Valley, and Washington out of high school.

Smith will graduate from City College this academic year and will have two seasons of eligibility left at Marshall beginning in 2013-2014.  

For more on Smith visit the links below:

Player page, City College of San Francisco roster.

Rivals.com profile from high school.

Video: Shawn Smith converting a three point attempt in high school.

Marshall Football: Week Four Game Notes, Rice

Marshall kicks off Conference USA play this Saturday as they travel to Rice. The Thundering Herd has never won a football game in Texas, sporting an all time record of 0-8 in the Lone Star State.

The Owls almost escaped Huntington with a victory last year. Rice lead 20-17 with just over three minutes remaining when current Philadelphia Eagle and former Marshall defensive end Vinny Curry caused quarterback Taylor McHargue to fumble on his own 23-yard line. Six plays later Tron Martinez scored the game winning touchdown and the Herd walked away with a 24-20 victory.

A counterbalance to Marshall’s strong passing attach, Rice likes to move the ball on the ground. The Owls are lead by junior running back Charles Ross who has rushed for 212 yards on 30 carries, a 7.1 yards per attempt average. McHargue is also a big part of the ground attack,  leading the Owls with 50 rushing attempts while picking up 206 yards.

Rice has struggled mightily on defense this year, giving up an FBS high 43 points per game. In the Owls lone victory this season against Kansas, the defense held the Jayhawks to 24 points and 339 yards of total offense. In losses to UCLA and Louisiana Tech, Rice surrendered a combined 1,255 yards and 154 points.  

For more information on this week’s match-up visit the links below:

Marshall

Quotes from Doc Holliday’s Sept. 18 Press Conference

Video: Doc Holliday’s weekly press with injury updates

Rice

Rice head coach David Bailiff canceled his weekly press conference to spend time with his ailing mother. Game notes for both schools will be posted shortly.

C-USA Football: Week Three Review

Conference USA's eastern division kicked off inter-league play last week as East Carolina traveled down to Southern Miss for an important early season match-up. Behind a stout defensive effort and three Golden Eagle turnovers, the Pirates walked out of Hattiesburg with a 24-14 victory. UCF picked up the eastern divisions only other win as they took down FIU 33-20.

Out West, Marshall's next opponent Rice had a difficult Saturday against future C-USA member Louisiana Tech, losing 56-37. Western division teams to register wins included Tulsa and UTEP.

For a full review of every week three game in C-USA click here.

Standings

East
1) ECU: 2-1, 1-0
2) UCF: 2-1, 0-0
3) Marshall: 1-2, 0-0
4) UAB: 0-2, 0-0
5) Memphis: 0-3, 0-0
6) Southern Miss: 0-2, 0-1

West
1) Tulsa: 2-1, 1-0
2) Rice: 1-2, 0-0
3) SMU: 1-2, 0-0
4) UTEP: 1-2, 0-0
5) Houston: 0-3, 0-0
6) Tulane: 0-2, 0-1

Marshall in the NFL: Week Two

Weekly review of Marshall alumni in the NFL.

1. Ahmad Bradshaw, Running Back, New York Giants

Ahmad Bradshaw left the New York Giants 41-34 victory over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers after he suffered a neck injury in the first half. Details on the extent of Bradshaw’s injury are scarce at this time. Before leaving the game Bradshaw rushed for 16 yards on five carries.  

2. C.J Spillman, Safety, San Francisco 49ers

Playing special teams C.J Spillman did not register a tackle during the San Francisco 49ers 27-19 win against the Detroit Lions.

3. Doug Legursky, Guard/Center, Pittsburgh Steelers

Doug Legursky continued his role as a backup center and guard on Pittsburgh’s offensive line as the Steelers beat the New York Jets 27-10.

4. Byron Leftwich, Quarterback, Pittsburgh Steelers

DNP.

5. Albert McClellan, Linebacker, Baltimore Ravens

In a wild back and forth game, Albert McClellan lead Baltimore’s linebackers with five tackles, a pass defended, and fumble recovery as the Ravens fell to the Philadelphia Eagles 24-23.

6. Lee Smith, Tight End, Buffalo Bills

Lee Smith left the Buffalo Bills 35-17 win over the Kansas City Chiefs with a clean stat sheet, failing to record a catch or special teams tackle.   

7. Randy Moss, Wide Receiver, San Francisco 49ers

In his second game with the 49ers Randy Moss caught one pass for 14 yards.

8. Vinny Curry, Defensive End, Philadelphia Eagles

Vinny Curry was listed among Philadelphia’s inactive players for the second straight week.

9. Mario Harvey, Linebacker, Indianapolis Colts

Mario Harvey could not match his week one production of three tackles as he failed to register a stop in the Indianapolis Colts 23-20 win over the Minnesota Vikings.

Marshall Football: Late interception dooms Herd, Ohio 27 - Marshall 24

It is hard to win football games when you lose the turnover battle, a difficult lesson Marshall learned tonight as Ohio exited Joan C. Edwards Stadium with a 27-24 victory. The Bobcats used a forth quarter fumble and interception to erase a 21-17 defect and keep their perfect season intact.

Both forth quarter turnovers occurred as Marshall was looking to complete scoring drives deep in Ohio territory. With the score knotted at 24, Thundering Herd quarterback Rakeem Cato completed a nine yard pass to Antavious Wilson near the Bobcat 30 yard line. Wilson was hit by Larenzo Fisher, causing a fumble which was returned by linebacker Nate Carpenter near Marshall's 30 yard line, setting up a Matt Weller field goal and 27-24 Ohio lead. Given the ball back with just over 90 seconds remaining, Marshall drove down to the Bobcats 27 yard line before Cato threw an interception, ending MU's comeback hopes. 

Despite the late interception Cato had another effective night passing the football. The sophomore quarterback completed 44 of 65 passes for 432 yards and three touchdowns. Cato's favorite target was his former high school teammate Tommy Shuler. Shuler caught a game high 13 passes for 121 yards. Senior wide receiver Aaron Dobson got close to the century mark, hauling in 11 receptions for 94 yards and a touchdown. Marshall had a difficult time running against a stout Ohio defense, only gaining 59 yards on 22 carries. In fact, Cato was the leading rusher with 32 yards. 

Ohio quarterback Tyler Tettelton had his third impressive game in a row, hitting 20 of 35 passes for 200 yards and three touchdowns with no interceptions. Tettelton spent a lot of time handing off to junior running back Beau Blankenship who registered 30 carries for 102 yards. 

Marshall returns to the football field next Saturday as they visit Rice. Kickoff is scheduled for 3:30pm ET with TV coverage provided by CSS. 

Notes - Box Score...Dobson's touchdown catch moved him to fifth all-time on Marshall's career TD reception list...Alex Schooler started at right guard in place of John Bruhin...Offensive lineman Corey Tenney did not play after appearing on the sideline with crutches to start the game...Attendance was counted at 33,436, the 6th largest crowd in Marshall football history...Ohio's victory was its first in Huntington since 1977 and only at Joan C. Edwards Stadium. 

Marshall Football: Herd to Honor State Troopers Bailey and Workman

Marshall University’s football team will honor slain West Virginia State Troopers Marshall Bailey and Eric Workman with a helmet sticker for the rest of the season. The stickers feature the WV State Police logo and the badge numbers of Bailey and Workman. The officers were fatally shot during a traffic stop on August 28th in Roane County.

A picture of the helmet sticker is below:

Picture courtesy of the @HerdEqitment Twitter account.

Marshall Football: A look behind enemy lines, Ohio

A look at Ohio University’s football team heading into this Saturday’s game against Marshall.

Record: 2-0, 0-0

Roster

2012 Stats

FBS Rankings
Passing Yards – 22^nd (307.5 per game)

Rushing Yards – 26^th (234 per game)

Points For – 33^rd (37.5 per game)

Points Against – 45^th (19 per game)

Players to watch on offense

Leading Passer: Tyler Tettelton (46-64, 481 yards, 4TD, 0 INT)

Leading Rusher: Beau Blankenship (58 att., 277 yards, 2 TD)

Leading Receiver: Donte Foster ( 10 rec., 89 yards, 2 TD)

Player to watch on defense

Tremayne Scott, Defensive end – 2011 All MAC second team selection registered 63 tackles and 3.5 sacks last year. Has six tackles including one for a loss this season.

In the Press

OhioBobcats.com

Ohio Battles for the Bell at Marshall on Saturday

Solich Meets With the Media on Marshall Gameweek

The Charleston Daily Mail

Ohio QB has big league arm

Numberosity – Ohio Week

Athens NEWS

Matchup against Marshall remains family affair for ‘Cat

The Charleston Gazette

These are the good old days for Ohio U.

OU, Herd will set fast pace

Herd, Bobcats remember last years rout

The Herald Dispatch

Tettelton fits Ohio University offense to a “T”

HerdZone.com

Marshall-Ohio: A River Runs Though It

Marshall Basketball: Wilkerson & Whiteside work out with NBA squads

With NBA training camps opening in three weeks two former Marshall basketball players are looking to earn roster spots.

After a strong performance in the NBA Summer League Tyler Wilkerson received an invitation to the San Antonio Spurs upcoming veteran camp. The Kentucky native has spent the past two years playing professionally in Israel after graduating from Marshall in 2010. If San Antonio likes what they see Wilkerson could be invited back for training camp.  

Wilkerson’s former frontcourt partner, Hassan Whiteside, was cut by the Sacramento Kings in July but interest in the 7-footer has picked up recently. Over the past week Whiteside participated in workouts for the Minnesota Timberwolves and Miami Heat. After being drafted 33^rd overall in the 2010 NBA draft Whiteside made 19 appearances with Sacramento, averaging 5.8 minutes, 1.6 points, and 2.2 rebounds per game. 

Marshall Football: Week 3 game notes, Ohio

One of the most anticipated match-ups of Marshall's 2012 football season kicks-off Saturday night as the Thundering Herd and Ohio University meet for "Battle of the Bell".

In last years meeting Ohio used six Thundering Herd turnovers to catapult them selves to a 44-7 victory. Marshall quarterback Rakeem Cato had a particularly difficult game. In his third college start the young signal caller only completed nine of 21 passes for 166 yards and four interceptions.

Ohio is lead by quarterback Tyler Tettelton, son of former Major League Baseball player Mickey Tettelton. In two games this year, wins over Penn State and New Mexico State, the younger Tettelton has completed over 70% of his passes while tossing four touchdowns and no interceptions. The Bobcat offensive line has done a good job of keeping Tettelton's jersey clean, only allowing two sacks. Ohio's offense is buoyed by a strong ground attack, leading rusher Beau Blankenship is averaging 4.8 yards per carry and has eclipsed the 100 yard mark in Ohio's first two contest.

For more on Saturday's match-up follow the links below.

Marshall 

Quotes from Doc Holliday's September 11th press conference.

Video, Doc Holliday's September 11th press conference.

Game Notes, Ohio. 

Ohio

Quotes & video from Frank Solich's September 10th press conference.

Game Notes, Marshall.

Marshall in the NFL: Week 1

Weekly review of every Marshall alumni in the NFL:   

1. Ahmad Bradshaw, Running Back, New York Giants

Ahmad Bradshaw opened the 2012 NFL season with the New York Giants Wednesday night, rushing for 78 yards on 17 carries and one touchdown. He also caught two passes for 15 yards. Despite Bradshaw’s best efforts New York lost to the Dallas Cowboys 24-17.

2. C.J Spillman, Safety, San Francisco 49ers

The San Francisco 49ers traveled to Lambeau Field for a matchup with the Green Bay Packers on Sunday and walked out with a 30-22 victory. Playing mostly special teams backup safety C.J Spillman did not register a tackle during the game.

3. Doug Legursky, Guard/Center, Pittsburgh Steelers

Doug Legursky did not start for Pittsburgh but he received plenty of playing time after Steelers right guard Ramon Foster left with an eye injury in the first half. Pittsburgh dropped its season opener at the Denver Broncos 31-19  

4. Byron Leftwich, Quarterback, Pittsburgh Steelers

DNP.

5. Albert McClellan, Linebacker, Baltimore Ravens

Albert McClellan earned his second career start Monday night, registering two tackles as the Baltimore Ravens defeated the Cincinnati Bengals 44-13.

6. Lee Smith, Tight End, Buffalo Bills

Serving as the Bills blocking tight end Lee Smith caught one pass for five yards in Buffalo’s 48-28 loss to the New York Jets.

7. Randy Moss, Wide Receiver, San Francisco 49ers

After sitting out the 2011 season Randy Moss started 2012 with a bang, catching four passes for 47 yards and a touchdown in San Francisco’s season opening win over Green Bay.

8. Vinny Curry, Defensive End, Philadelphia Eagles

Vinny Curry was listed among Philadelphia’s inactive players during their week one victory over Cleveland.  

9. Mario Harvey, Linebacker, Indianapolis Colts

Making his NFL regular season debut Mario Harvey registered three special teams tackles as the Indianapolis Colts fell to the Chicago Bears 41-21.

C-USA Football: Week Two Roundup

It was not a stellar week for Conference USA football but the league did register a signature victory as Rice took down Big 12 member Kansas. The Owls entered the fourth quarter trialing 24-16 but used nine unanswered points including a last second field goal to win the game 25-24.

C-USA earned two other wins as Marshall defeated Western Carolina and Tulsa took down Tulane in the leagues lone inter-conference contest. 

Last but certainly not least, the thoughts and prayers of the Marshall Thundering Blog go out to Tulane safety Devon Walker who suffered a spinal cord injury during the Green Wave's game at Tulsa. Walker spent three hours in surgery today to stabilize his spine, further updates will be available later this week. 

For a full review of every week two game in C-USA click here.

Standings:

East

1) Marshall: 1-1, 0-0

2) ECU: 1-1, 0-0

3) UCF: 1-1, 0-0

4) Southern Miss: 0-1, 0-0

5) UAB: 0-1, 0-0

6) Memphis: 0-2, 0-0

West

1) Tulsa: 1-1, 1-0

2) Rice: 1-1, 0-0

3) SMU: 1-1, 0-0

4) UTEP: 0-2, 0-0

5) Houston: 0-2, 0-0

6) Tulane: 0-2, 0-1

Marshall Football: Herd takes down WCU 52-24

After dropping a 69-34 decision to WVU last week, Marshall earned its first victory of the 2012 season, defeating Western Carolina 52-24 Saturday night at Joan C. Edwards Stadium.

The Thundering Herd was paced by the offense and quarterback Rakeem Cato. Overall Marshall gained 614 yards, 378 from Cato's right arm. The sophomore QB had his second stellar performance of the season, completing 32 of 42 passes while tossing three touchdowns. Cato had lots of help from receivers Aaron Dobson and Antavious Wilson. Wilson lead the Herd with 98 yards receiving on six receptions. Dobson was not far behind, hauling down a team high 9 passes for 81 yards and a touchdown. On the ground Marshall used a group of running backs to gain 182 yards on 48 carries. Freshman Stewart Butler paced the Herd with 60 yards on only eight attempts.

On defense Marshall did a good job of containing former Thundering Herd quarterback Eddie Sullivan. Sullivan played every offensive snap for WCU, completing 21 of 41 passes for 205 yards with three touchdowns (one passing & two rushing) and a interception. Marshall defenders did not take it easy on their former teammate, getting slapped with two roughing the passer penalties.

The Thundering Herd returns to Joan C. Edwards Stadium next week as they meet Ohio University (2-0,0-0) for the "battle of the bell". The Bobcats defeated Marshall last year in Athens 44-7. Kickoff is scheduled for 6:30pm.

Game Notes - Box Score...Freshman defensive back A.J Leggett has suffered a season ending shoulder injury and will take a redshirt. Leggett did not play against WVU or WCU...Offensive lineman Garrett Scott and Josh Lovell did not play after being injured in the WVU game. Both should be back next week...Redshirt freshman D.J Hunter started at outside linebacker after being moved from safety earlier this week...Hunter was not the only position change as Devon Johnson switched from linebacker to tight end. Further complicating manners, Johnson started at fullback...Justin Haig missed his fist field goal of the season, a 37 yard attempt in the first quarter. He converted a 24 yard FG for Marshall's first points of the game...Punter Tyler Williams had a quiet night, only punting once...Back-up quarterback Blake Frohnapfel entered in the fourth quarter, completing 4 of 4 passes for 54 and a touchdown to his brother, tight end Eric Frohnapfel...Marshall's offense had its first 600 yard game since 2003 against Kent State.

Marshall Baseball: Herd close to series with WVU & Straily returns to majors

According to an article in today's Beckley Register Herald, Marshall and WVU are close to signing a three game baseball series for the 2013 season. Each match-up would occur at a different location, the Mountaineers Hawley Field, Charleston's Appalachian Power Park, and Linda K. Epling Stadium in Beckley. Speaking with Charleston Daily Mail reporter Derek Redd, Marshall athletic director Mike Hamrick indicated the series had been discussed but a deal has not yet been finalized.

In other Thundering Herd baseball news former Marshall pitcher Dan Straily has been recalled by the Oakland Athletics. Straily could replace injured starter Brandon McCarthy in the A's rotation. After making his major league debut on August 3rd Straily made two additional starts before he was sent back down to the minors. In his three appearances with Oakland Straily pitched 17 innings while accumulating an ERA of 3.18. 

C-USA Football: Week 2 Preview

Last week was not pretty for Conference USA's 12 football playing members. The conference only won two games during week one of the college football season and Memphis suffered a loss to FCS member Tennessee Martin.

Week two looks like another difficult test as East Carolina faces number nine South Carolina and UCF visits Ohio State.
 

Tulane at Tulsa, 11am CT, FSN

Tulane and Tulsa meet for C-USA's lone inter-conference game in week two. Both teams lost their openers as Tulane fell at home to Rutgers and Tulsa lost at Iowa State 38-23.

The Golden Hurricanes are heavy favorites and are lead by Nebraska transfer quarterback Cody Green. Against Iowa State Green completed 23 of 49 passes for 198 yards and two touchdowns. After suffering a dizzy spell and collapsing at Tuesday's practice Tulane head coach Curtis Johnson plans to lead the Green Wave Saturday afternoon. 

East Carolina at (9) South Carolina, 12:20pm ET, SEC Network

East Carolina steps up to SEC competition this week after taking down Marshall's old Southern Conference rival Appalachian State 35-13 last Saturday. South Carolina might be without starting quarterback Connor Shaw after he suffered a shoulder injury against Vanderbilt.

UCF at (14) Ohio State, 12noon ET, ESPN2

The Knights of Central Florida travel to Columbus this Saturday for a date with Ohio State. The Buckeyes unveiled a up-tempo offense under new head coach Urban Meyer last week resulting in a 56-10 victory over Miami University. 

Predicted to win C-USA's Eastern division UCF opened its season with a 56-14 drubbing of Akron. Knights running back Latavius Murray only needed 14 carries to rush for 108 yards against the Zips but he will find tougher sledding against Ohio State.

Rice at Kansas, 2:30pm CT, FSN

Rice hung with UCLA for three quarters last week, only trailing the Bruins 35-24 entering the fourth quarter. On Saturday Rice travels to the sunflower for a meeting against Kansas. The Jayhawks are coming off a 31-17 win over South Dakota State.

Western Carolina at Marshall, 7pm ET, Fox College Sports

The big story this week centers around former Marshall and current Western Carolina quarterback Eddie Sullivan. Sullivan joined the Thundering Herd football program in 2010, completing six of 24 passes for 134 yards and one touchdown as a true freshman. Entering 2011 Sullivan planned to redshirt after being moved to third on the depth chart behind Rakeem Cato and A.J Graham.  When Graham went down with an injury in November Sullivan was thrust back into the role of primary backup. Instead of risking his redshirt Sullivan walked away from the Thundering Herd and re-appeared on Western Carolina’s roster this summer.

UTEP at Mississippi, 6pm CT, FSN

You know what they say, close only matters in horseshoes and hand grenades but UTEP was just a field goal behind Oklahoma entering the fourth quarter of last week’s 24-7 loss. The Miners will have another opportunity to knock off a BCS opponent as they travel to Mississippi Saturday. If UTEP can get better quarterback play, starter Nick Lamaison only completed six of 23 passes against Oklahoma, a upset is not out of the question.

Memphis at Arkansas State, 6pm CT, ESPN3

It might be a long season for first year Memphis coach Justin Fuente. The Tigers suffered an embarrassing defeat to FCS school Tennessee Martin last week. Things don't get much easier on Saturday as Memphis heads to Arkansas State. The Red Wolves are lead by their own first year head coach, former Auburn offensive coordinator Gus Malzahn.

Louisiana Tech at Houston, 7pm CT, CBS Sports Network

An interesting game pitting one of C-USA's incoming members, Louisiana Tech, against one of the conferences outgoing schools, Houston. After their 30-13 loss to Texas State last week Houston offensive coordinator Mike Nesbitt resigned. Play calling duties have been taken over by assistant Travis Bush.

Stephen F. Austin at SMU, 7pm CT, Time Warner Texas 

Coming off a loss to Baylor, SMU will host FCS member Stephen F. Austin this week. The Mustangs are lead by one of C-USA's top returning offensive players, running back Zach Line. In last week’s loss to the Bears Line rumbled for 135 yards on 25 carries.

Marshall Football: Week 2 game notes, Western Carolina

Western Carolina travels to Marshall University this Saturday as Joan C. Edwards stadium host its first football game of the 2012 season. The Catamounts got off to a hot start last week, beating Mars Hill College 42-14. Marshall did not match Western Carolina’s victory as the Thundering Herd dropped its season opener 69-34 at West Virginia.

The big story line this week centers around former Marshall and current Western Carolina quarterback Eddie Sullivan. Sullivan joined the Thundering Herd football program in 2010, completing six of 24 passes for 134 yards and one touchdown as a true freshman. Entering 2011 Sullivan planned to redshirt after being moved to third on the depth chart behind Rakeem Cato and A.J Graham.  When Graham went down with an injury in November Sullivan was thrust back into the role of primary backup. Instead of risking his redshirt Sullivan walked away from the Thundering Herd and re-appeared on Western Carolina’s roster this summer. You can read about the former Marshall quarterbacks return to Huntington here, here, and here.

Below, you will find pre-game press conference transcripts for Marshall coach Doc Holliday and Western Carolina’s Mark Spier. Game notes furnished by both schools are also provided.

Marshall

Quotes from Doc Holliday’s September 4^th press conference.

Game Notes

Western Carolina

Quotes from Mark Speir’s September 3^rd press conference.

Game Notes

Marshall Basketball: Herd releases 2012-2013 schedule

Marshall University released its 2012-2013 men's basketball schedule today. The Thundering Herd will play against ten NCAA Tournament participants from last year.

Highlights include:

• Two games against Big East opponents, Villanova and Cincinnati. Marshall will play the Bearcats at the Charleston Civic Center. The Thundering Herd meets Villanova in Philadelphia as part of the 2K Sports Classic benefiting the Wounded Warrior Project.
• Marshall heads to Lexington to play defending national champion Kentucky on December 22nd. The game will be broadcast nationally on ESPN2 at 4pm ET.
• Marshall will play three games on the campus of Hofstra University as part of the 2K Sports Classic benefiting the Wounded Warrior Project. The Herds premier opponent in New York will be South Dakota State, last years Summit League champion.
•  Nevada travels across the country to face off against Marshall in Huntington. The Wolf Pack were WAC regular season champions last year and advanced to the NIT's quarterfinal round.
• The Herd meets 2012 NCAA Tournament participant Ohio in Athens. Last year the Bobcats beat Marshall 70-68 in the Cam Henderson Center.
• The annual Capital Classic against WVU will be played December 5th at the Charleston Civic Center. 
• Two games previously announced are not on this years schedule. In a June 6th article on HerdZone.com, Jack Bogaczky confirmed Marshall would play at Akron on December 29th. In June, Jeff Goodman of CBS Sports wrote that the Herd would host WAC tournament champion New Mexico State.  As mentioned above neither game appears on this years schedule. 

Marshall's 2012-13 men's basketball schedule

Oct. 29 - Bluefield College (exh.)

Nov. 9 - Longwood

Nov. 11 - at Villanova$

Nov. 16 - vs. University of District of Columbia$

Nov. 17 - vs. South Dakota State$

Nov. 18 - at Hofstra

Nov. 24 - Nevada
Nov. 28 - Morehead State
Dec. 1 - UNC-Wilmington
Dec. 5 - vs. West Virginia#
Dec. 8 - Coppin State
Dec. 15 - vs. Cincinnati#
Dec. 19 - Savannah State
Dec. 22 - at Kentucky
Jan. 2 - Delaware State
Jan. 5 - at Ohio
Jan. 9 - Tulsa*
Jan. 12 - at UTEP*
Jan. 19 - East Carolina*
Jan. 23 - at Southern Miss*
Jan. 26 - at Memphis*
Jan. 30 - SMU*
Feb. 2 - UCF*
Feb. 6 - at Tulane*
Feb. 9 - at UAB*
Feb. 13 - Rice*
Feb. 16 - Memphis*
Feb. 20 - at UCF*
Feb. 23 - UAB*
March 2 - at Houston*
March 6 - Southern Miss*
March 9 - at East Carolina*
March 13-16 - C-USA Championships^

$ 2K Sports Classic benefiting Wounded Warrior Project (Nov. 16-18 games hosted by Hofstra)
* Conference USA game
# at Charleston Civic Center
^ at Tulsa, Okla.