2013 vs 2014

[bisonboone11]

2013 vs 2014 stats (through 5 games):

2013 Rushing - 232 attempts for 1204 yards (5.19 yds/rush); 12 TDs; 5 fumbles - 2 lost
2014 Rushing - 227 attempts for 1156 yards (5.09 yds/rush); 11 TDs; 4 fumbles - 2 lost

2013 Passing - 87 of 133 for 880 yards (Completion percentage - 65.41%); 10 TDs, 3 INTs
2014 Passing - 83 of 124 for 1081 yards (Completion percentage - 66.94%); 5 TDs, 3 INTs

2013 Scoring Offense - 35.0 ppg
2014 Scoring Offense - 31.0 ppg

2013 Scoring Defense - 10.8 ppg
2014 Scoring Defense - 8.2 ppg

2013 3rd Down Offense - 44 of 78 (56.4%)
2014 3rd Down Offense - 37 of 69 (53.6%)

2013 3rd Down Defense - 17 of 69 (24.6%)
2014 3rd Down Defense - 22 of 73 (30.1%)

2013 Sacks Allowed - 9 for 38 yards
2014 Sacks Allowed - 3 for 22 yards

2013 Red Zone Offense (TDs) - 18 on 24 Attempts (75.0%)
2014 Red Zone Offense (TDs) - 11 on 20 Attempts (55.0%)

Considering last year's team was one of the best teams in the history of the FCS, the stats are actually pretty comparable. The one that jumps out, and I'm sure no one will be surprised by this, is the Red Zone TDs.

[coloradobison]

Good comparison for perspective.

[MNLonghorn10]

stats could be close...but 2013 could've picked a score vs anyone outside of a few games.


i dont get the same vibes with this team

[westnodak93bison]

stats could be close...but 2013 could've picked a score vs anyone outside of a few games.


i dont get the same vibes with this team
Did you expect too? This team could be very good. It may take to November.

[MNLonghorn10]

Did you expect too? This team could be very good. It may take to November.

no..which is why Im not letting these stats skew my beliefs even though they seem to be close in areas

[BisonNation11]

What I'm really impressed by is how often this offense is getting into the red zone. However, that could also mean last year's team was better at scoring from outside the red zone. This team clearly has the ability to move the football offensively. Just need to put teams away by scoring in the red zone and occasionally hitting the "home run" plays outside of the red zone.

[bisonboone11]

stats could be close...but 2013 could've picked a score vs anyone outside of a few games.


i dont get the same vibes with this team
Did you really have that feeling through the first 5 games last year? In the first 5 games of 2013, NDSU was down 14 to KSU in the 3rd quarter, only had a 7 point lead against SDSU at the beginning of the 4th quarter, and was down 13 to UNI to start the 4th quarter. The other two games were Ferris State and Delaware State.

[CAS4127]

2013 vs 2014 stats (through 5 games):

2013 Rushing - 232 attempts for 1204 yards (5.19 yds/rush); 12 TDs; 5 fumbles - 2 lost
2014 Rushing - 227 attempts for 1156 yards (5.09 yds/rush); 11 TDs; 4 fumbles - 2 lost

2013 Passing - 87 of 133 for 880 yards (Completion percentage - 65.41%); 10 TDs, 3 INTs
2014 Passing - 83 of 124 for 1081 yards (Completion percentage - 66.94%); 5 TDs, 3 INTs

2013 Scoring Offense - 35.0 ppg
2014 Scoring Offense - 31.0 ppg

2013 Scoring Defense - 10.8 ppg
2014 Scoring Defense - 8.2 ppg

2013 3rd Down Offense - 44 of 78 (56.4%)
2014 3rd Down Offense - 37 of 69 (53.6%)

2013 3rd Down Defense - 17 of 69 (24.6%)
2014 3rd Down Defense - 22 of 73 (30.1%)

2013 Sacks Allowed - 9 for 38 yards
2014 Sacks Allowed - 3 for 22 yards

2013 Red Zone Offense (TDs) - 18 on 24 Attempts (75.0%)
2014 Red Zone Offense (TDs) - 11 on 20 Attempts (55.0%)

Considering last year's team was one of the best teams in the history of the FCS, the stats are actually pretty comparable. The one that jumps out, and I'm sure no one will be surprised by this, is the Red Zone TDs.

And total TD's. Dif of 6.

[westnodak93bison]

Did you really have that feeling through the first 5 games last year? In the first 5 games of 2013, NDSU was down 14 to KSU in the 3rd quarter, only had a 7 point lead against SDSU at the beginning of the 4th quarter, and was down 13 to UNI to start the 4th quarter. The other two games were Ferris State and Delaware State.

And we were damn fortunate to beat UNI last year. Seems a lot of doubting and concern about this year's team. I never thought we would be 5-0. Keep on truckin Bison!

[Bison Loaf]

What I'm really impressed by is how often this offense is getting into the red zone. However, that could also mean last year's team was better at scoring from outside the red zone. This team clearly has the ability to move the football offensively. Just need to put teams away by scoring in the red zone and occasionally hitting the "home run" plays outside of the red zone.

I really think this is the case. We are not fully stretching the field vertically or horizontally YET. To me that's the most glaring aspect lacking in this 2014 team so far. We have simply been unable to adequately replace Ryan Smith's speed in this regard (stretching the field in both directions).

Having said that, I think we get there. It just might take a little bit more time to develop - even if by committee. (and I'm not talking about one whole season here, either!) Stretching horizontally requires the abilities of a running back. Stretching vertically requires the abilities of a sprinter. Smith provided both. And I think it's safe to say that he was no slouch at either.

[thebootfitter]

And I think it's safe to say that he was no slouch at either.

Why the purple? I'm confused.

[thebootfitter]

2013 vs 2014 stats (through 5 games):
Thanks for pulling this together! Great perspective!

Does anyone know how to give reppies via Tapatalk?

[Bison Loaf]

Why the purple? I'm confused.

My bad.:hide: Fixed it. Had another thought in there originally.

[MNLonghorn10]

Did you really have that feeling through the first 5 games last year? In the first 5 games of 2013, NDSU was down 14 to KSU in the 3rd quarter, only had a 7 point lead against SDSU at the beginning of the 4th quarter, and was down 13 to UNI to start the 4th quarter. The other two games were Ferris State and Delaware State.

I said outside of a few games which I referring to sdsu and uni.

If you think the two teams are close to comparison...you're high. This year's team wouldn't beat kstate..and last year's team would've beat Montana by more than 12

Sent from my SCH-I605 using Tapatalk

[IBleedYellow]

Well shit...


I can't really complain anymore other than those damn Red Zone TD's.

[CAS4127]

bb11: Where did you get the stats from last year. Did you have to put them together, or did you find them somewhere.

Another thing to keep in mind is that we played KSU, UNI and SDSU in those 5 games last year. Much tougher schedule than this year IMO.

[steelbison]

I really think this is the case. We are not fully stretching the field vertically or horizontally YET. To me that's the most glaring aspect lacking in this 2014 team so far. We have simply been unable to adequately replace Ryan Smith's speed in this regard (stretching the field in both directions).

Having said that, I think we get there. It just might take a little bit more time to develop - even if by committee. (and I'm not talking about one whole season here, either!) Stretching horizontally requires the abilities of a running back. Stretching vertically requires the abilities of a sprinter. Smith provided both. And I think it's safe to say that he was no slouch at either.


Could not agree more!! I agree Smith provided a lot. But for some reason we haven't taken the shots down field this year. I know coach K says he wants to take more shots down field as well. Hopefully we will see a few this Saturday!!

[NDSUstudent]

Would like to see 2012 vs 2014.

[bisonboone11]

I said outside of a few games which I referring to sdsu and uni.

If you think the two teams are close to comparison...you're high. This year's team wouldn't beat kstate..and last year's team would've beat Montana by more than 12

Sent from my SCH-I605 using Tapatalk
Oh, I do think last year's team was a lot better, but that's comparing to one of the best teams in the history of the FCS. I'm just saying that even when comparing with the possibly the greatest team the FCS has ever seen, this team isn't really that far off through the first 5 games. If they can find a way to start scoring TDs in the red zone instead of settling for field goals, they can be extremely good.

[ndsubison1]

2013 vs 2014 stats (through 5 games):

2013 Rushing - 232 attempts for 1204 yards (5.19 yds/rush); 12 TDs; 5 fumbles - 2 lost
2014 Rushing - 227 attempts for 1156 yards (5.09 yds/rush); 11 TDs; 4 fumbles - 2 lost

2013 Passing - 87 of 133 for 880 yards (Completion percentage - 65.41%); 10 TDs, 3 INTs
2014 Passing - 83 of 124 for 1081 yards (Completion percentage - 66.94%); 5 TDs, 3 INTs

2013 Scoring Offense - 35.0 ppg
2014 Scoring Offense - 31.0 ppg

2013 Scoring Defense - 10.8 ppg
2014 Scoring Defense - 8.2 ppg

2013 3rd Down Offense - 44 of 78 (56.4%)
2014 3rd Down Offense - 37 of 69 (53.6%)

2013 3rd Down Defense - 17 of 69 (24.6%)
2014 3rd Down Defense - 22 of 73 (30.1%)

2013 Sacks Allowed - 9 for 38 yards
2014 Sacks Allowed - 3 for 22 yards

2013 Red Zone Offense (TDs) - 18 on 24 Attempts (75.0%)
2014 Red Zone Offense (TDs) - 11 on 20 Attempts (55.0%)

Considering last year's team was one of the best teams in the history of the FCS, the stats are actually pretty comparable. The one that jumps out, and I'm sure no one will be surprised by this, is the Red Zone TDs.

Keep in mind 3of our first 5 games last year KSU, SDSU, UNI

[westnodak93bison]

I wonder what the water cooler talk(didn't have Bisonville) was during the 1990 season after barely beating Morningside. I can't remember. Probably hung over.

Statistics Summary for 1990


Date Opponent Score Attend Site Notes
9/1/1990 INDIANA (PA) W 28-18 11778 Fargo, ND
* 9/15/1990 at Minn. St. Mankato W 34-20 6000 Mankato, MN
* 9/22/1990 SOUTH DAKOTA STATE W 40-28 12596 Fargo, ND
* 9/29/1990 at South Dakota W 42-14 3700 Vermillion, SD
* 10/6/1990 MORNINGSIDE W 19-12 12448 Fargo, ND
* 10/13/1990 at Northern Colorado W 34-17 8378 Greeley, CO
* 10/20/1990 ST. CLOUD STATE W 62-3 10109 Fargo, ND
* 10/27/1990 at Augustana (SD) W 43-14 2800 Sioux Falls, SD
* 11/3/1990 at Nebraska Omaha W 44-7 8320 Omaha, NE
* 11/10/1990 at North Dakota W 42-14 12400 Grand Forks, ND
p 11/17/1990 NORTHERN COLORADO W 17-7 7103 Fargo, ND
p 11/24/1990 CAL POLY W 47-0 8253 Fargo, ND
p 12/3/1990 PITTSBURG STATE W 39-29 9086 Fargo, ND
p 12/10/1990 vs Indiana (PA) W 51-11 10080 Florence, AL

Overall: 14-0
Conference: 9-0
Home: 7-0
Away: 6-0
Neutral: 1-0

[bisonboone11]

bb11: Where did you get the stats from last year. Did you have to put them together, or did you find them somewhere.

Another thing to keep in mind is that we played KSU, UNI and SDSU in those 5 games last year. Much tougher schedule than this year IMO.
I put them together.

Yeah, KSU, UNI, and SDSU were tough, but we also had a D2 team to pad the stats. Also, I do think ISU is better than most people think (but not nearly as good as 2013 KSU), and we blew them out. Montana is always good, and I'd say they are comparable to SDSU last year. Those games both seemed to have the same feeling to me, with NDSU dominating statistically, but not so much on the scoreboard. Overall though, the first five games last year were definitely tougher than the first 5 this year.

[scbison91]

I wonder what the water cooler talk(didn't have Bisonville) was during the 1990 season after barely beating Morningside. I can't remember. Probably hung over.

Statistics Summary for 1990


Date Opponent Score Attend Site Notes
9/1/1990 INDIANA (PA) W 28-18 11778 Fargo, ND
* 9/15/1990 at Minn. St. Mankato W 34-20 6000 Mankato, MN
* 9/22/1990 SOUTH DAKOTA STATE W 40-28 12596 Fargo, ND
* 9/29/1990 at South Dakota W 42-14 3700 Vermillion, SD
* 10/6/1990 MORNINGSIDE W 19-12 12448 Fargo, ND
* 10/13/1990 at Northern Colorado W 34-17 8378 Greeley, CO
* 10/20/1990 ST. CLOUD STATE W 62-3 10109 Fargo, ND
* 10/27/1990 at Augustana (SD) W 43-14 2800 Sioux Falls, SD
* 11/3/1990 at Nebraska Omaha W 44-7 8320 Omaha, NE
* 11/10/1990 at North Dakota W 42-14 12400 Grand Forks, ND
p 11/17/1990 NORTHERN COLORADO W 17-7 7103 Fargo, ND
p 11/24/1990 CAL POLY W 47-0 8253 Fargo, ND
p 12/3/1990 PITTSBURG STATE W 39-29 9086 Fargo, ND
p 12/10/1990 vs Indiana (PA) W 51-11 10080 Florence, AL

Overall: 14-0
Conference: 9-0
Home: 7-0
Away: 6-0
Neutral: 1-0

umm, 9086 was the attendance for Pittsburg KS semi-final game and I had stand for that game because we got in late from AC/DC in MSP night before and was a sell out.. But other home games during the year had 10 to 12K at them...

[td577]

Could not agree more!! I agree Smith provided a lot. But for some reason we haven't taken the shots down field this year. I know coach K says he wants to take more shots down field as well. Hopefully we will see a few this Saturday!!

I don't think he trusts anyone much other than Vraa down field. During his presser after the game has kind of said they don't have any home run guys like last year other than Crockett. I don't exactly buy it, there are 13 WRs on the roster not named Vraa and not one of them can burn down the field and catch a football? Someone needs to step up. Gray is supposed to be a speedy guy. Maybe we start seeing him get worked into the offense more. Woods is supposed to be one of these guys who knows how to use his body to get into position for a catch as he isn't a fast guy. He needs to quit thinking and just start catching footballs. RJ seems to be a guy who finds seams, like Smith. He will be breaking records by the time he is done. You can't cover them all. Somebody has got to have someone on them that shouldn't be. The last game saw a CB covering Crockett when he goes outside, so who has the mismatch?

[Bisonator98]

Would like to see 2012 vs 2014.

That would be a better comparison.

I would think 2011 vs 2014 would be even better since I feel like this years offense is about the same experience wise as the 2011.

[Hammerhead]

I think that's because the atcual paid attendance is used in playoff games because the NCAA gets a percentage of each ticket sold so it wouldn't make sense to pad the numbers. It's been a while, but I don't remember anyone counting the number of students that sat in the stands at Dacotah Field for regular season games. We just showed our ID and walked through the gate.


umm, 9086 was the attendance for Pittsburg KS semi-final game and I had stand for that game because we got in late from AC/DC in MSP night before and was a sell out.. But other home games during the year had 10 to 12K at them...

[Hammerhead]

To compare scores from the beginning of 2011:

Lafayette - W 42-6
Saint Francis, Pa. - W 56-3
Minnesota - W 37-24
Illinois State - W 20-10
Southern Illinois - W 9-3

[NDSUBowler]

Because I am supremely bored and someone asked, I decided to add on to bb11's awesome post by including 1st 5 data from 2011 (Lafayette, St Francis, Minnesota, ISUr, SIU) and 2012 (Robert Morris, Colorado St, Prairie View A&M, UNI, YSU)

2011 vs 2012 vs 2013 vs 2014 stats (through 5 games):

2011 Rushing - 160 attempts for 735 yards (4.6 yds/rush); 12 TDs; 3 fumbles - 2 lost
2012 Rushing - 215 attempts for 1083 yards (5.04 yds/rush); 14 TDs; 7 fumbles - 3 lost
2013 Rushing - 232 attempts for 1204 yards (5.19 yds/rush); 12 TDs; 5 fumbles - 2 lost
2014 Rushing - 227 attempts for 1156 yards (5.09 yds/rush); 11 TDs; 4 fumbles - 2 lost

2011 Passing - 75 for 110 for 951 yards (Completion percentage - 68.18%); 6 TDs, 1 INT
2012 Passing - 95 for 137 for 1166 yards (Completion percentage - 69.34%); 13 TDs, 0 INT
2013 Passing - 87 of 133 for 880 yards (Completion percentage - 65.41%); 10 TDs, 3 INTs
2014 Passing - 83 of 124 for 1081 yards (Completion percentage - 66.94%); 5 TDs, 3 INTs

2011 Scoring Offense - 32.8 ppg
2012 Scoring Offense - 44.2 ppg
2013 Scoring Offense - 35.0 ppg
2014 Scoring Offense - 31.0 ppg

2011 Scoring Defense - 9.2 ppg
2012 Scoring Defense - 8.4 ppg
2013 Scoring Defense - 10.8 ppg
2014 Scoring Defense - 8.2 ppg

2011 3rd Down Offense - 23 of 56 (41.1%)
2012 3rd Down Offense - 42 of 71 (59.2%)
2013 3rd Down Offense - 44 of 78 (56.4%)
2014 3rd Down Offense - 37 of 69 (53.6%)

2011 3rd Down Defense - 29 of 76 (38.2%)
2012 3rd Down Defense - 17 of 57 (29.8%)
2013 3rd Down Defense - 17 of 69 (24.6%)
2014 3rd Down Defense - 22 of 73 (30.1%)

2011 Sacks Allowed - 8 for 50 yards
2012 Sacks Allowed - 3 for 20 yards
2013 Sacks Allowed - 9 for 38 yards
2014 Sacks Allowed - 3 for 22 yards

2011 Red Zone Offense (TDs) - 12 on 15 Attempts (80.0%)
2012 Red Zone Offense (TDs) - 20 on 31 Attempts (64.5%)
2013 Red Zone Offense (TDs) - 18 on 24 Attempts (75.0%)
2014 Red Zone Offense (TDs) - 11 on 20 Attempts (55.0%)

[Ex Pat]

Did you really have that feeling through the first 5 games last year? In the first 5 games of 2013, NDSU was down 14 to KSU in the 3rd quarter, only had a 7 point lead against SDSU at the beginning of the 4th quarter, and was down 13 to UNI to start the 4th quarter. The other two games were Ferris State and Delaware State.

Completely agree, i think may of us remember the playoff bitz in which we were 100% unbeatable hands down. It's easy to forget the sometimes shaky starts we had early in the run...

[thebootfitter]

Because I am supremely bored and someone asked, I decided to add on to bb11's awesome post by including 1st 5 data from 2011 (Lafayette, St Francis, Minnesota, ISUr, SIU) and 2012 (Robert Morris, Colorado St, Prairie View A&M, UNI, YSU)

The only ones that really stand out to me over that whole period are the red zone offense and 3rd down offense. Otherwise, we're more or less in line.

[Bison"FANatic"]

The red zone needs to get better and they realize it and are working on it. i am a big watcher of the 3rd down percentage, it has been good but it seems we are completing more longer 3rd downs this year and are off schedule for us on 1st and 2 nd down.

[SoCalBison]

Darn stats...we're doing OK. I guess I do need to relax. (Anyone want to pull the penalty stats through the first 5?)

[NDSUBowler]

Darn stats...we're doing OK. I guess I do need to relax. (Anyone want to pull the penalty stats through the first 5?)

2011 - 40 for 324 yards
2012 - 27 for 199 yards
2013 - 22 for 163 yards
2014 - 36 for 293 yards

[MNLonghorn10]

Oh, I do think last year's team was a lot better, but that's comparing to one of the best teams in the history of the FCS. I'm just saying that even when comparing with the possibly the greatest team the FCS has ever seen, this team isn't really that far off through the first 5 games. If they can find a way to start scoring TDs in the red zone instead of settling for field goals, they can be extremely good.

they already are extremely good. Theyre the best in the country, at this level.

last years team was a top 25 team in the entire country. I dont care who laughs at that statement.

[ZHerd]

they already are extremely good. Theyre the best in the country, at this level.

last years team was a top 25 team in the entire country. I dont care who laughs at that statement.

^^^truth^^^

[LITTLEGUYSINGREEN]

they already are extremely good. Theyre the best in the country, at this level.

last years team was a top 25 team in the entire country. I dont care who laughs at that statement.

Quoted for truth.

As far as this years team, the stats clearly show this team is right in the mix. I really feel the talent on the field is on par with the with the past 4 years, it's the coaching that is lacking. Hopefully, with experience, that will fall into place as well.

[LITTLEGUYSINGREEN]

2011 Passing - 75 for 110 for 951 yards (Completion percentage - 68.18%); 6 TDs, 1 INT
2012 Passing - 95 for 137 for 1166 yards (Completion percentage - 69.34%); 13 TDs, 0 INT
2013 Passing - 87 of 133 for 880 yards (Completion percentage - 65.41%); 10 TDs, 3 INTs
2014 Passing - 83 of 124 for 1081 yards (Completion percentage - 66.94%); 5 TDs, 3 INTs

As far as Wentz's performance, the stats clearly show that he is doing just as good as Jensen did as a starter. The only stat that is lacking is TD's, but again, this is due more to the shortcomings of the coaching staff vs. his performance.

It should be obvious to everyone watching the games that Carson has a much stronger arm than Brock and I would argue that he is a more accurate passer. I would also argue that Wentz does a better job of checking down his receivers and runs the ball just as well as Jensen. In short, Wentz has more athletic ability than Jensen does.

I'm not trying to take anything away from Jensen, he was a great QB for us. I just think Wentz has the potential to be much better. Or course, just my opinion.

[semobison]

I agree with those who said our first 5 games last season were against better teams. Our 3 closest games all last season were in the first 5 weeks. This is what we did after that:
Game 6 W 41-26
Game 7 W 31-0
Game 8 W 56-10
Game 9 W 28-10
Game 10 W 35-17
Game 11 W 42-0
Game 12 W 38-7
Game 13 W 48-14
Game 14 W 52-14
Game 15 W 35-7

Personally, it don't think it is fair to compare this years team with the 2013 team. I would take a repeat of 2011 or 2012 in a heartbeat though!

[El_Chapo]

they already are extremely good. Theyre the best in the country, at this level.

last years team was a top 25 team in the entire country. I dont care who laughs at that statement.


NDSU has owned the FCS and been cream of the crop since Montana state game 2010. 4 years.


2013 NDSU was the best team in school history not even close. (2007 was close). #1. Mays Dahl Humber Roehl walker frick all nfl types

[OrygunBison]

... not even close. (2007 was close).

Dude, some of the shit you write just kicks my ass...

[El_Chapo]

Why? 2013 hands down best team ever at NDSU.

[HerdBot]

NDSU has owned the FCS and been cream of the crop since Montana state game 2010. 4 years.


2013 NDSU was the best team in school history not even close. (2007 was close). #1. Mays Dahl Humber Roehl walker frick all nfl types

The 2007 team would be a distant 5th or 6th in my book. They allowed over 28 points 6 times. Offensively they are right up there. The 2006 team was a much better defense

[bisonboone11]

Why? 2013 hands down best team ever at NDSU.

I don't think that was the part he was laughing at. I think it was that you said "not even close. (2007 was close). " You said no other team was close, but then immediately said 2007 was close, which contradicted what you had just said.

[El_Chapo]

oh el chapo gets a lil excited some times. :(

[NorthernBison]

The 2007 team would be a distant 5th or 6th in my book. They allowed over 28 points 6 times. Offensively they are right up there. The 2006 team was a much better defense

Yeah. I'd put 2006 over 2007 any day. 2012 might be 2nd best ever. They were darn good.

[bisonboone11]

I thought I would check the stats compared to last year through 8 games. We are getting to the teams that we have typically had more difficulty with though, so these numbers might be skewed a little bit based on the difference in schedules. Anyways, here are the updated numbers (I did these quick, so if you notice any errors, let me know).

2013 vs 2014 stats (through 8 games):

2013 Rushing - 359 attempts for 1834 yards (5.11 yds/rush); 16 TDs; 10 fumbles - 5 lost
2014 Rushing - 370 attempts for 1910 yards (5.16 yds/rush); 18 TDs; 7 fumbles - 3 lost

2013 Passing - 134 of 199 for 1605 yards (Completion percentage - 67.34%); 18 TDs, 4 INTs
2014 Passing - 124 of 195 for 1708 yards (Completion percentage - 63.59%); 12 TDs, 4 INTs

2013 Scoring Offense - 37.9 ppg
2014 Scoring Offense - 34.3 ppg

2013 Scoring Defense - 12.5 ppg
2014 Scoring Defense - 9.4 ppg

2013 3rd Down Offense - 61 of 114 (53.5%)
2014 3rd Down Offense - 61 of 112 (54.5%)

2013 3rd Down Defense - 27 of 111 (24.3%)
2014 3rd Down Defense - 31 of 113 (27.4%)

2013 Red Zone Offense (TDs) - 24 on 35 Attempts (68.6%)
2014 Red Zone Offense (TDs) - 19 on 34 Attempts (55.9%)

[HerdBot]

I thought I would check the stats compared to last year through 8 games. We are getting to the teams that we have typically had more difficulty with though, so these numbers might be skewed a little bit based on the difference in schedules. Anyways, here are the updated numbers (I did these quick, so if you notice any errors, let me know).

2013 vs 2014 stats (through 8 games):

2013 Rushing - 359 attempts for 1834 yards (5.11 yds/rush); 16 TDs; 10 fumbles - 5 lost
2014 Rushing - 370 attempts for 1910 yards (5.16 yds/rush); 18 TDs; 7 fumbles - 3 lost

2013 Passing - 134 of 199 for 1605 yards (Completion percentage - 67.34%); 18 TDs, 4 INTs
2014 Passing - 124 of 195 for 1708 yards (Completion percentage - 63.59%); 12 TDs, 4 INTs

2013 Scoring Offense - 37.9 ppg
2014 Scoring Offense - 34.3 ppg

2013 Scoring Defense - 12.5 ppg
2014 Scoring Defense - 9.4 ppg

2013 3rd Down Offense - 61 of 114 (53.5%)
2014 3rd Down Offense - 61 of 112 (54.5%)

2013 3rd Down Defense - 27 of 111 (24.3%)
2014 3rd Down Defense - 31 of 113 (27.4%)

2013 Red Zone Offense (TDs) - 24 on 35 Attempts (68.6%)
2014 Red Zone Offense (TDs) - 19 on 34 Attempts (55.9%)

+++ on some keen stats
I think the schedule has been pretty darn tough so far this year even though we're throttling everyone.
Curious how our net punting has been. Didn't we lead the nation last year?
Field goal kicking has to be the best it's ever been. Keller has been on fire
Heard coach P on the radio and he said we are running more plays than in prior years.

[DORMIE]

The 1965 team was the first National Champion. They went 10-0 during the season, 316-73. In the first game they beat Wisc- Millwaukee 59-20. The next 9 games they gave up 53 points. They finished the season beating Grambling 20-7 in the Pecan Bowl. That's when it all started.

[LITTLEGUYSINGREEN]

I thought I would check the stats compared to last year through 8 games. We are getting to the teams that we have typically had more difficulty with though, so these numbers might be skewed a little bit based on the difference in schedules. Anyways, here are the updated numbers (I did these quick, so if you notice any errors, let me know).

2013 vs 2014 stats (through 8 games):

2013 Rushing - 359 attempts for 1834 yards (5.11 yds/rush); 16 TDs; 10 fumbles - 5 lost
2014 Rushing - 370 attempts for 1910 yards (5.16 yds/rush); 18 TDs; 7 fumbles - 3 lost

2013 Passing - 134 of 199 for 1605 yards (Completion percentage - 67.34%); 18 TDs, 4 INTs
2014 Passing - 124 of 195 for 1708 yards (Completion percentage - 63.59%); 12 TDs, 4 INTs

2013 Scoring Offense - 37.9 ppg
2014 Scoring Offense - 34.3 ppg

2013 Scoring Defense - 12.5 ppg
2014 Scoring Defense - 9.4 ppg

2013 3rd Down Offense - 61 of 114 (53.5%)
2014 3rd Down Offense - 61 of 112 (54.5%)

2013 3rd Down Defense - 27 of 111 (24.3%)
2014 3rd Down Defense - 31 of 113 (27.4%)

2013 Red Zone Offense (TDs) - 24 on 35 Attempts (68.6%)
2014 Red Zone Offense (TDs) - 19 on 34 Attempts (55.9%)


Only glaring statistical difference is the red zone offense, although this years offense doesn't have the same "feel" of efficiency as last years. However, I really think our O is getting better every week. QB play has been respectable and, more importantly, consistent.

[Bison Loaf]

I thought I would check the stats compared to last year through 8 games. We are getting to the teams that we have typically had more difficulty with though, so these numbers might be skewed a little bit based on the difference in schedules. Anyways, here are the updated numbers (I did these quick, so if you notice any errors, let me know).

2013 vs 2014 stats (through 8 games):

2013 Rushing - 359 attempts for 1834 yards (5.11 yds/rush); 16 TDs; 10 fumbles - 5 lost
2014 Rushing - 370 attempts for 1910 yards (5.16 yds/rush); 18 TDs; 7 fumbles - 3 lost

2013 Passing - 134 of 199 for 1605 yards (Completion percentage - 67.34%); 18 TDs, 4 INTs
2014 Passing - 124 of 195 for 1708 yards (Completion percentage - 63.59%); 12 TDs, 4 INTs

2013 Scoring Offense - 37.9 ppg
2014 Scoring Offense - 34.3 ppg

2013 Scoring Defense - 12.5 ppg
2014 Scoring Defense - 9.4 ppg

2013 3rd Down Offense - 61 of 114 (53.5%)
2014 3rd Down Offense - 61 of 112 (54.5%)

2013 3rd Down Defense - 27 of 111 (24.3%)
2014 3rd Down Defense - 31 of 113 (27.4%)

2013 Red Zone Offense (TDs) - 24 on 35 Attempts (68.6%)
2014 Red Zone Offense (TDs) - 19 on 34 Attempts (55.9%)


Only glaring statistical difference is the red zone offense, although this years offense doesn't have the same "feel" of efficiency as last years. However, I really think our O is getting better every week. QB play has been respectable and, more importantly, consistent.

Very much agree on this.

In fact, I'll go so far as to say most Bison Fans, in general, simply don't fully realize, or cannot completely believe, just what it is we are seeing here in these unprecedented times, as we transition into and through 2014 from a "once-in-a-lifetime" unbeaten FCS Championship Team AND a 3-year title run. But the numbers and the results (so far) don't lie ... even in the midst of the greatest run in FCS football history, this 2014 team hasn't fallen off very much at all ...... and is STILL pretty damn good!

And yes, I'm as guilty as the next guy in thinking "it just can't be so!", even after having the privilege of seeing this sort of thing happen before, back in the 80's.

But it IS happening right before my/our eyes. And I'm enjoying the hell out of it!

[X-Factor]

Very much agree on this.

In fact, I'll go so far as to say most Bison Fans, in general, simply don't fully realize, or cannot completely believe, just what it is we are seeing here in these unprecedented times, as we transition into and through 2014 from a "once-in-a-lifetime" unbeaten FCS Championship Team AND a 3-year title run. But the numbers and the results (so far) don't lie ... even in the midst of the greatest run in FCS football history, this 2014 team hasn't fallen off very much at all ...... and is STILL pretty damn good!

And yes, I'm as guilty as the next guy in thinking "it just can't be so!", even after having the privilege of seeing this sort of thing happen before, back in the 80's.

But it IS happening right before my/our eyes. And I'm enjoying the hell out of it!

I would argue that when it is all said and done (everyone knows we have a TON of football left to play and anything can happen), 2014 has much more upside potential than 2013 due to the maturity of the team. We have a lot of young players on the roster that are starting together for the their first season and the last 2 or 3 games they have really stepped it up. We could still lose, even in the regular season. I'm just pointing out that I think right now 2013 and 2014 are pretty much neck and neck in my book in terms of ability. A slight improvement in the O-line, WR (our leading receiver is a true freshman and we are still putting up 30 some points a game!), and FB is all it would take to start racking up Touchdowns in watershed moment fashion.

[A1pigskin]

I would argue that when it is all said and done (everyone knows we have a TON of football left to play and anything can happen), 2014 has much more upside potential than 2013 due to the maturity of the team. We have a lot of young players on the roster that are starting together for the their first season and the last 2 or 3 games they have really stepped it up. We could still lose, even in the regular season. I'm just pointing out that I think right now 2013 and 2014 are pretty much neck and neck in my book in terms of ability. A slight improvement in the O-line, WR (our leading receiver is a true freshman and we are still putting up 30 some points a game!), and FB is all it would take to start racking up Touchdowns in watershed moment fashion.

Not much of a drop off at all. Very impressive imo.

[Herd]

I almost feel better about the offensive diversity in 2014. Carson tends to throw to the open person, instead of there being favorites and trust factors. The running game is a push, and our kicker is lethal. Say what you want about red zone tds, but im going to kick 4 FGs and feel good about it, not whine about it. On D . . .

DT depth not there, but got to love the way the Fr are playing
DE maybe stronger than 2013, but Hardie needs to get rolling
LB have to give the nod to GO, but its 1A/1B;
S 2013 had Shep, a slight edge, Shep was lights out good
CB more consistent in 2014, but 2013 had Swag

Quite frankly not much of a dropoff. The difference is 60, 69, and 94 from 2013, an elite group. Throw in the loss of 34, 16, 22, 77, 4 and its amazing we are where we are in 2014. The 2014 success speaks to the strong will of the program. The leadership of 53, 38, 52, 20, 35. 23 is awesome.

[Herd]

By the way, what LB group is the greatest of all time at NDSU?

8, 44, 17 (OR) 34, 38, 52 ???

Are there any other groups that would be at this level?

As a unit, i have to go with the 2013 group.

[Bison06]

By the way, what LB group is the greatest of all time at NDSU?

8, 44, 17 (OR) 34, 38, 52 ???

Are there any other groups that would be at this level?

As a unit, i have to go with the 2013 group.

Strictly speaking for recent NDSU history(late 90's and forward), it has to be your first example. Joe Mays, Ramon Humber and Mike Maresh. As great as this most recent group was, let's keep in mind, Joe and Ramon are STILL in the NFL. Not sure many FCS linebacking crews could say they had two linebackers, who played together, go on to have 7+ year NFL careers.

[NorthernBison]

By the way, what LB group is the greatest of all time at NDSU?

8, 44, 17 (OR) 34, 38, 52 ???

Are there any other groups that would be at this level?

As a unit, i have to go with the 2013 group.
At the end of 2011, Beck, Evans, and Wilson were performing as well as Beck, Olson, and Littlejohn last season. The current group will never have the NFL success that Mays and Humber have had. How do you compare? Mays and Humber never played against a schedule like we have now. The FBS teams weren't near as good and there were mostly cupcakes in the FCS portion of the schedule. No MVFC schedule for Joe and only one season for Ramon.

[BisonNation11]

By the way, what LB group is the greatest of all time at NDSU?

8, 44, 17 (OR) 34, 38, 52 ???

Are there any other groups that would be at this level?

As a unit, i have to go with the 2013 group.

I'd have to go with 2013 group. I understand that total defense as a whole has a lot more pieces to it than just the LB's, but the '13 defense gave up 75 yards less per game than did the '07 team. They were even 30 yards better at stopping the run per game which I would have guessed was the '07 groups strong point. And to add to it, against 4 playoff teams and a Big 12 team. The '07 group were physical specimens. Mays was a Hulk among boys. But the '13 group are just straight up ballers.

[Bison06]

I'd have to go with 2013 group. I understand that total defense as a whole has a lot more pieces to it than just the LB's, but the '13 defense gave up 75 yards less per game than did the '07 team. They were even 30 yards better at stopping the run per game which I would have guessed was the '07 groups strong point. And to add to it, against 4 playoff teams and a Big 12 team. The '07 group were physical specimens. Mays was a Hulk among boys. But the '13 group are just straight up ballers.

The question wasn't which defense is better so throwing out statistics is irrelevant. If two of the three linebackers currently starting on this team go on to have nearly decade long NFL careers, then we can begin to have this conversation. Until then it's not even a discussion IMO.

[BisonNation11]

The question wasn't which defense is better so throwing out statistics is irrelevant. If two of the three linebackers currently starting on this team go on to have nearly decade long NFL careers, then we can begin to have this conversation. Until then it's not even a discussion IMO.

So throwing out your "end all, be all" response is considered a discussion? A question was asked, that was my answer. If you read what I said, I clearly stated that stats don't say everything about the LB's, but it gives a general idea. I've watched both sets of LB's and I still believe that the '13 squad accomplished more IN COLLEGE. You can't compare pro careers because only Mays and Humber are there. The question was which group was better. Not which individuals were better.