2017 Offensive Depth Charts

[tony]

Two-Deep As of 08.02.2017
LT Collin Conner 6-5 309 Jr, Dillon Radunz 6-6 287 RFr
LG Bryce Messner 6-3 291 Sr, Zack Ziemer 6-4 299 Sr
C Tanner Volson 6-4 301 Jr, Karson Schoening 6-5 297 RFr
RG Austin Kuhnert 6-4 304 Sr, Zach Kubas 6-4 283 RFr
RT Zack Johnson 6-6 312 So, Luke Bacon 6-5 299 Jr
TE Connor Wentz 6-3 250 Sr, Jeff Illies 6-3 235 Sr
QB Easton Stick 6-2 221 Jr, Cole Davis 6-3 215 Sr
FB Brock Robbins 6-1 246 So, Garrett Malstrom 6-0 250 So
RB Lance Dunn 5-9 211, Bruce Anderson 5-11 216 Jr
WR RJ Urzendowski 6-0 200 Sr, Dallas Freeman 6-1 197 Jr
WR Darrius Shepherd 5-11 186 Jr, Dimitri Williams 5-11 191 Jr

Depth as of 08.02.2017
OC
OG Josh Howlesos 6-5 293 RFr, Jack Albrecht 6-5- 278 RFr, Ben Hecht 6-5 277 RFr
OT Cordell Volson 6-6 299 RFr, Erik Olson 6-5 277 Sr
TE Ben Ellefson 6-3 250 So, Nate Jensen 6-6 245 Jr, Matt Anderson 6-4 247 So
QB Henry Van Dellen 6-4 226 RFr, Noah Sanders 6-2 210 So
FB Zak Kuntz 6-2 249 RFr
RB Adam Cofield 5-11 205, Demaris Purifoy 6-1 197 So, Ty Brooks 5-9 180 So
WR Cordell Pimienta 6-0 177 So, Desmond Cain 5-10 185 Jr, Daniel Polansky 6-0 190 Sr, Victor Kizewski 6-0 192 RFr, Sean Engel 6-5 208 RFr, Trevor Heit 5-9 177 RFr, Cole Jacob 6-1 193 RFr

True Freshmen
OC Zach Willis 6-4, 305
OG Nash Jensen 6-4 349
OT
TE Austin Avery 6-3 241, Costner Ching 6-3 249, Cody Mauch 6-4 234, Noah Gindorff 6-6 249, Josh Babicz 6-6 225 Fr
QB Henry Van Dellen 6-4 226 RFr, Holden Hotchkiss 6-3 191 Fr, Noah Sanders 6-2 210 So
FB Zak Kuntz 6-2 249 RFr
RB Adam Cofield 5-11 205, Demaris Purifoy 6-1 197 So, Ty Brooks 5-9 180 So, Seth Wilson 5-10 189 Fr
WR Christian Watson 6-3 186, Andy Voyen 6-2 196, Peter Isais 5-11 170, Carson Yaggie 6-2 196, Brant Bohmert 5-11 179

NDSU has never had more depth at TE, that's for sure. And there is starter material in the WR list too.

[HerdBot]

I saw some Oklahoma drills on twitter last year and one guy just totally kicked everyone's ass. It was so dominating I had to check the number and sure enough it was Bryce Messner. Now he's way bigger.

[23Bison]

I'm thinking "The Bruce" will have a huge year!!

[tony]

I split out the true freshmen...

[THEsocalledfan]

You know, seeing it on paper makes me more excited. The big question is can Easton make a jump in the passing game, and even if he does not, can our OC put together a game plan where his legs are an absolute weapon. (I love to tell big NFL fans that when they say Wentz is a good scrambler, I tell him the current QB is even better.....)

[IzzyFlexion]

As is the case with ALL Bison fans, I'm praying for no major injuries.

But..........it's comforting to know that the depth across the board makes me confident that the "next man up" philosophy will be solid.

[Snowgoose]

You know, seeing it on paper makes me more excited. The big question is can Easton make a jump in the passing game, and even if he does not, can our OC put together a game plan where his legs are an absolute weapon. (I love to tell big NFL fans that when they say Wentz is a good scrambler, I tell him the current QB is even better.....)

The funny thing about Stick is he really wasn't a scrambler last year. His runs were almost all designed runs. He actually didn't do a good job last year when his first read wasn't there actually scrambling and making something happen either with his legs or his arm (Elway Young). It was almost like he felt he needed to stay in the pocket rather than just create. I am hoping he makes that jump and becomes a QB that is a scrambler that can make things happen with both his arm and legs. This can be done by moving him outside the pocket and giving him those options.

[CAS4127]

The funny thing about Stick is he really wasn't a scrambler last year. His runs were almost all designed runs. He actually didn't do a good job last year when his first read wasn't there actually scrambling and making something happen either with his legs or his arm (Elway Young). It was almost like he felt he needed to stay in the pocket rather than just create. I am hoping he makes that jump and becomes a QB that is a scrambler that can make things happen with both his arm and legs. This can be done by moving him outside the pocket and giving him those options.

With the alleged more athletic OL maybe they'll go with some slide protection, allowing Stick to potentially escape the pocket more easily. Also, the new OC used several designed QB runs at MSU last year. We saw some of those in Spring Game.


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[EndZoneQB]

The funny thing about Stick is he really wasn't a scrambler last year. His runs were almost all designed runs. He actually didn't do a good job last year when his first read wasn't there actually scrambling and making something happen either with his legs or his arm (Elway Young). It was almost like he felt he needed to stay in the pocket rather than just create. I am hoping he makes that jump and becomes a QB that is a scrambler that can make things happen with both his arm and legs. This can be done by moving him outside the pocket and giving him those options.

Different kind of offense, but essentially like what Gubrud did against us last year for EWU.

[THEsocalledfan]

With the alleged more athletic OL maybe they'll go with some slide protection, allowing Stick to potentially escape the pocket more easily. Also, the new OC used several designed QB runs at MSU last year. We saw some of those in Spring Game.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Of course, the opposite of all of this is we can't have Stick get killed, either.....he is not that big of a guy.

[HerdBot]

Of course, the opposite of all of this is we can't have Stick get killed, either.....he is not that big of a guy.

Stick is 6-2, 225. That's a big dude. He's heavier than every receiver and running back on the team. Brock Jensen was 6-3 225

[Bison Loaf]

Of course, the opposite of all of this is we can't have Stick get killed, either.....he is not that big of a guy.

As a junior, Stick listed at 6-2, 221.

Brock Jenson as a senior, was listed at 6-3, 225

Carson as a senior, was listed at 6-6, 235

By these numbers, you could make the case that Stick has plenty of size, and is more "solidly-built" and "compact" than Wentz was.

[56BISON73]

Check out Easton on these All Time stat lists. Hes just a junior this year.

Pass attempts
1. 1124 - Brock Jensen (703-1124-21) - 2010-13
2. 841 - Steve Walker (534-841-21) - 2003-07
3. 612 - Carson Wentz (392-612-14) - 2012-15
4. 587 - Graig Gorder (287-587-17) - 1998-02
5. 586 - Kevin Feeney (304-586-24) - 1995-98
6. 520 - Tony Stauss (345-520-18) - 2003-04
7. 474 - Mark Speral (225-474-22) - 1977-80
8. 471 - Nick Mertens (268-471-23) - 2006-09
9. 469 - Ryan Johnson (240-469-17) - 1997-00
10. 441 - Frank Esposito (186-441-12) - 1951-53

Pass completions
1. 703 - Brock Jensen (703-1124-21) - 2010-13
2. 534 - Steve Walker (534-841-21) - 2003-07
3. 392 - Carson Wentz (392-612-14) - 2012-15
4. 345 - Tony Stauss (345-520-18) - 2003-04
5. 304 - Kevin Feeney (304-586-24) - 1995-98
6. 287 - Graig Gorder (287-587-17) - 1998-02
7. 268 - Nick Mertens (268-471-23) - 2006-09
8. 259 - Easton Stick (259-435-13) - 2014-16
9. 240 - Ryan Johnson (240-469-17) - 1997-00
10. 225 - Mark Speral (225-474-22) - 1977-80

Passing yards
1. 8598 - Brock Jensen (703-1124-21) - 2010-13
2. 7033 - Steve Walker (534-841-21) - 2003-07
3. 5115 - Carson Wentz (392-612-14) - 2012-15
4. 4757 - Kevin Feeney (304-586-24) - 1995-98
5. 3806 - Ryan Johnson (240-469-17) - 1997-00
6. 3721 - Mark Speral (225-474-22) - 1977-80
7. 3564 - Graig Gorder (287-587-17) - 1998-02
8. 3496 - Nick Mertens (268-471-23) - 2006-09
9. 3475 - Easton Stick (259-435-13) - 2014-16
10. 3457 - Tony Stauss (345-520-18) - 2003-04

Passing TDs
1. 72 - Brock Jensen - 2010-13
2. 60 - Steve Walker - 2003-07
3. 45 - Carson Wentz - 2012-15
4. 37 - Kevin Feeney - 1995-98
5. 32 - Easton Stick - 2014-16
6. 31 - Ryan Johnson - 1997-00
7. 27 - Terry Hanson - 1965-67
8. 26 - Nick Mertens - 2006-09
26 - Tony Stauss - 2003-04
10. 24 - Jeff Bentrim - 1983-86
24 - Rob Hyland - 1993-96

Passes had intercepted
1. 25 - Paul Walczak (126-290-25) - 1973-74
2. 24 - Kevin Feeney (304-586-24) - 1995-98
3. 23 - Nick Mertens (268-471-23) - 2006-09
4. 22 - Mark Speral (225-474-22) - 1977-80
22 - Terry Hanson (222-411-22) - 1965-67
6. 21 - Steve Walker (534-841-21) - 2003-07
21 - Brock Jensen (703-1124-21) - 2010-13
8. 19 - Ross Fortier (82-195-19) - 1957-59
9. 18 - Mike Bentson (125-279-18) - 1969-71
18 - Tony Stauss (345-520-18) - 2003-04

Pass completion pct (minimum 200 attempts)
1. 66.3 - Tony Stauss (345-520-18) - 2003-04
2. 64.8 - Arden Beachy (151-233-7) - 1990-93
3. 64.1 - Carson Wentz (392-612-14) - 2012-15
4. 63.5 - Steve Walker (534-841-21) - 2003-07
5. 62.5 - Brock Jensen (703-1124-21) - 2010-13
6. 59.5 - Easton Stick (259-435-13) - 2014-16
7. 59.0 - Jose Mohler (144-244-8) - 2009-10
8. 57.5 - Chris Simdorn (115-200-9) - 1987-90
9. 56.9 - Nick Mertens (268-471-23) - 2006-09
10. 54.3 - Rob Hyland (183-337-14) - 1993-96

Pass efficiency (minimum 200 attempts)
1. 168.6 - Arden Beachy (151-233-7) - 1990-93
2. 159.2 - Chris Simdorn (115-200-9) - 1987-90
3. 153.9 - Carson Wentz (392-612-14) - 2012-15
4. 152.3 - Steve Walker (534-841-21) - 2003-07
5. 144.9 - Easton Stick (259-435-13) - 2014-16
6. 144.2 - Brock Jensen (703-1124-21) - 2010-13
7. 143.4 - Rob Hyland (183-337-14) - 1993-96
8. 133.9 - Ryan Johnson (240-469-17) - 1997-00
9. 133.1 - Jeff Bentrim (207-404-17) - 1983-86
10. 132.7 - Kevin Feeney (304-586-24) - 1995-98

Average yards/pass (minimum 200 attempts)
1. 10.4 - Arden Beachy (151-233-7) - 1990-93
2. 9.4 - Chris Simdorn (115-200-9) - 1987-90
3. 8.8 - Rob Hyland (183-337-14) - 1993-96
4. 8.4 - Jeff Bentrim (207-404-17) - 1983-86
5. 8.4 - Steve Walker (534-841-21) - 2003-07
6. 8.4 - Carson Wentz (392-612-14) - 2012-15
7. 8.1 - Kevin Feeney (304-586-24) - 1995-98
8. 8.1 - Ryan Johnson (240-469-17) - 1997-00
9. 8.0 - Easton Stick (259-435-13) - 2014-16
10. 7.9 - Mike Bentson (125-279-18) - 1969-71

Average yards/completion (minimum 200 attempts)
1. 17.7 - Mike Bentson (125-279-18) - 1969-71
2. 16.5 - Mark Speral (225-474-22) - 1977-80
3. 16.5 - Mark Nellermoe (90-209-15) - 1979-82
4. 16.4 - Chris Simdorn (115-200-9) - 1987-90
5. 16.4 - Jeff Bentrim (207-404-17) - 1983-86
6. 16.2 - Don Siverson (91-215-10) - 1969-70,72
7. 16.2 - Rob Hyland (183-337-14) - 1993-96
8. 16.0 - Arden Beachy (151-233-7) - 1990-93
9. 15.9 - Ryan Johnson (240-469-17) - 1997-00
10. 15.6 - Kevin Feeney (304-586-24) - 1995-98

Passing yards/game (minimum 20 games)
1. 172.9 - Tony Stauss (20 games) - 2003-04
2. 159.2 - Brock Jensen (54 games) - 2010-13
3. 156.3 - Steve Walker (45 games) - 2003-07
4. 139.0 - Easton Stick (25 games) - 2014-16
5. 134.5 - Nick Mertens (26 games) - 2006-09
6. 119.0 - Carson Wentz (43 games) - 2012-15
7. 116.0 - Kevin Feeney (41 games) - 1995-98
8. 115.0 - Graig Gorder (31 games) - 1998-02
9. 105.7 - Ryan Johnson (36 games) - 1997-00
10. 103.4 - Mark Speral (36 games) - 1977-80

[EndZoneQB]

Stick looks a lot thicker than he used to, I think.

[DM05]

As a junior, Stick listed at 6-2, 221.

Brock Jenson as a senior, was listed at 6-3, 225

Carson as a senior, was listed at 6-6, 235

By these numbers, you could make the case that Stick has plenty of size, and is more "solidly-built" and "compact" than Wentz was.

For comparison:
JMU Schor: 6-2, 213
EWU Gubrud:6-2, 205
SHSU Briscoe: 6-3, 225
SDSU Christian: 6-2, 220
UNI Dunne: 6-5, 238 (didn't realize he was that big)
UND Studsrud: 6-1, 195

[Christopher Moen]

I believe the reason why Stick looks small is because of his predecessor and the O-Line. Giants will make big men look small.

[THEsocalledfan]

I believe the reason why Stick looks small is because of his predecessor and the O-Line. Giants will make big men look small.

As soon as I was corrected, I thought to myself, that is because I was comparing him to Carson who is a man beast......

[HerdBot]

Check out Easton on these All Time stat lists. Hes just a junior this year.

Pass attempts
1. 1124 - Brock Jensen (703-1124-21) - 2010-13
2. 841 - Steve Walker (534-841-21) - 2003-07
3. 612 - Carson Wentz (392-612-14) - 2012-15
4. 587 - Graig Gorder (287-587-17) - 1998-02
5. 586 - Kevin Feeney (304-586-24) - 1995-98
6. 520 - Tony Stauss (345-520-18) - 2003-04
7. 474 - Mark Speral (225-474-22) - 1977-80
8. 471 - Nick Mertens (268-471-23) - 2006-09
9. 469 - Ryan Johnson (240-469-17) - 1997-00
10. 441 - Frank Esposito (186-441-12) - 1951-53

Pass completions
1. 703 - Brock Jensen (703-1124-21) - 2010-13
2. 534 - Steve Walker (534-841-21) - 2003-07
3. 392 - Carson Wentz (392-612-14) - 2012-15
4. 345 - Tony Stauss (345-520-18) - 2003-04
5. 304 - Kevin Feeney (304-586-24) - 1995-98
6. 287 - Graig Gorder (287-587-17) - 1998-02
7. 268 - Nick Mertens (268-471-23) - 2006-09
8. 259 - Easton Stick (259-435-13) - 2014-16
9. 240 - Ryan Johnson (240-469-17) - 1997-00
10. 225 - Mark Speral (225-474-22) - 1977-80

Passing yards
1. 8598 - Brock Jensen (703-1124-21) - 2010-13
2. 7033 - Steve Walker (534-841-21) - 2003-07
3. 5115 - Carson Wentz (392-612-14) - 2012-15
4. 4757 - Kevin Feeney (304-586-24) - 1995-98
5. 3806 - Ryan Johnson (240-469-17) - 1997-00
6. 3721 - Mark Speral (225-474-22) - 1977-80
7. 3564 - Graig Gorder (287-587-17) - 1998-02
8. 3496 - Nick Mertens (268-471-23) - 2006-09
9. 3475 - Easton Stick (259-435-13) - 2014-16
10. 3457 - Tony Stauss (345-520-18) - 2003-04

Passing TDs
1. 72 - Brock Jensen - 2010-13
2. 60 - Steve Walker - 2003-07
3. 45 - Carson Wentz - 2012-15
4. 37 - Kevin Feeney - 1995-98
5. 32 - Easton Stick - 2014-16
6. 31 - Ryan Johnson - 1997-00
7. 27 - Terry Hanson - 1965-67
8. 26 - Nick Mertens - 2006-09
26 - Tony Stauss - 2003-04
10. 24 - Jeff Bentrim - 1983-86
24 - Rob Hyland - 1993-96

Passes had intercepted
1. 25 - Paul Walczak (126-290-25) - 1973-74
2. 24 - Kevin Feeney (304-586-24) - 1995-98
3. 23 - Nick Mertens (268-471-23) - 2006-09
4. 22 - Mark Speral (225-474-22) - 1977-80
22 - Terry Hanson (222-411-22) - 1965-67
6. 21 - Steve Walker (534-841-21) - 2003-07
21 - Brock Jensen (703-1124-21) - 2010-13
8. 19 - Ross Fortier (82-195-19) - 1957-59
9. 18 - Mike Bentson (125-279-18) - 1969-71
18 - Tony Stauss (345-520-18) - 2003-04

Pass completion pct (minimum 200 attempts)
1. 66.3 - Tony Stauss (345-520-18) - 2003-04
2. 64.8 - Arden Beachy (151-233-7) - 1990-93
3. 64.1 - Carson Wentz (392-612-14) - 2012-15
4. 63.5 - Steve Walker (534-841-21) - 2003-07
5. 62.5 - Brock Jensen (703-1124-21) - 2010-13
6. 59.5 - Easton Stick (259-435-13) - 2014-16
7. 59.0 - Jose Mohler (144-244-8) - 2009-10
8. 57.5 - Chris Simdorn (115-200-9) - 1987-90
9. 56.9 - Nick Mertens (268-471-23) - 2006-09
10. 54.3 - Rob Hyland (183-337-14) - 1993-96

Pass efficiency (minimum 200 attempts)
1. 168.6 - Arden Beachy (151-233-7) - 1990-93
2. 159.2 - Chris Simdorn (115-200-9) - 1987-90
3. 153.9 - Carson Wentz (392-612-14) - 2012-15
4. 152.3 - Steve Walker (534-841-21) - 2003-07
5. 144.9 - Easton Stick (259-435-13) - 2014-16
6. 144.2 - Brock Jensen (703-1124-21) - 2010-13
7. 143.4 - Rob Hyland (183-337-14) - 1993-96
8. 133.9 - Ryan Johnson (240-469-17) - 1997-00
9. 133.1 - Jeff Bentrim (207-404-17) - 1983-86
10. 132.7 - Kevin Feeney (304-586-24) - 1995-98

Average yards/pass (minimum 200 attempts)
1. 10.4 - Arden Beachy (151-233-7) - 1990-93
2. 9.4 - Chris Simdorn (115-200-9) - 1987-90
3. 8.8 - Rob Hyland (183-337-14) - 1993-96
4. 8.4 - Jeff Bentrim (207-404-17) - 1983-86
5. 8.4 - Steve Walker (534-841-21) - 2003-07
6. 8.4 - Carson Wentz (392-612-14) - 2012-15
7. 8.1 - Kevin Feeney (304-586-24) - 1995-98
8. 8.1 - Ryan Johnson (240-469-17) - 1997-00
9. 8.0 - Easton Stick (259-435-13) - 2014-16
10. 7.9 - Mike Bentson (125-279-18) - 1969-71

Average yards/completion (minimum 200 attempts)
1. 17.7 - Mike Bentson (125-279-18) - 1969-71
2. 16.5 - Mark Speral (225-474-22) - 1977-80
3. 16.5 - Mark Nellermoe (90-209-15) - 1979-82
4. 16.4 - Chris Simdorn (115-200-9) - 1987-90
5. 16.4 - Jeff Bentrim (207-404-17) - 1983-86
6. 16.2 - Don Siverson (91-215-10) - 1969-70,72
7. 16.2 - Rob Hyland (183-337-14) - 1993-96
8. 16.0 - Arden Beachy (151-233-7) - 1990-93
9. 15.9 - Ryan Johnson (240-469-17) - 1997-00
10. 15.6 - Kevin Feeney (304-586-24) - 1995-98

Passing yards/game (minimum 20 games)
1. 172.9 - Tony Stauss (20 games) - 2003-04
2. 159.2 - Brock Jensen (54 games) - 2010-13
3. 156.3 - Steve Walker (45 games) - 2003-07
4. 139.0 - Easton Stick (25 games) - 2014-16
5. 134.5 - Nick Mertens (26 games) - 2006-09
6. 119.0 - Carson Wentz (43 games) - 2012-15
7. 116.0 - Kevin Feeney (41 games) - 1995-98
8. 115.0 - Graig Gorder (31 games) - 1998-02
9. 105.7 - Ryan Johnson (36 games) - 1997-00
10. 103.4 - Mark Speral (36 games) - 1977-80

I bet his QB rushing stats are pretty solid too. Almost 1300 yards in just under 2 years.

[Alsen]

I'm thinking "The Bruce" will have a huge year!!

All hail ,"The Bruce." Now everyone lift your kilts and scream and yell like madmen!!

[IzzyFlexion]

I bet his QB rushing stats are pretty solid too. Almost 1300 yards in just under 2 years.

Here ya go young fella.

2015

Attempts: 85
Gain: 550
Lost: 52
Net: 498
YPC: 5.2
Touchdowns: 5
Long: 60
Ave Per Game: 45.3

2016

Attempts: 113
Gained: 792
Lost: 107
Net: 685
APC: 6.1
Touchdowns: 7
Long: 52
Ave. Per Game: 48.9.

[bruinbison]

Dom mentioned on the 6:00 sports that it looks like Dillon Radunz will start at LT, with Colin Connor sliding over to LG.

[A1pigskin]

I believe the reason why Stick looks small is because of his predecessor and the O-Line. Giants will make big men look small.

For sure........

[HerdBot]

Dom mentioned on the 6:00 sports that it looks like Dillon Radunz will start at LT, with Colin Connor sliding over to LG.

That's awesome. Connor is a better run blocker than pass blocker and will be an elite LG with great pass blocking skills. Radunz is athletic as hell.

Also love the size of Radunz, Connor, Volson, Kuhnert, and Johnson. I like how this would lock in 4/5 of our Oline for 2 years. Johnson and Radunz have room to grow.

The size is solid at 6-6 290, 6-5 310, 6-4 301, 6-4 304, and 6-6 312. A little lighter than last year but this is a more athletic group and should kick ass pulling

[BadlandsBison]

Not sure if this has been mentioned but Kuhnert has a sore shoulder right now per Klieman. But he can play apparently.

I would prefer Connor at guard but I thought he did a heck of a job at tackle last season. I hope the Bison can run the ball like 90% of the plays this season :D

[ndsubison1]

Not sure if this has been mentioned but Kuhnert has a sore shoulder right now per Klieman. But he can play apparently.

I would prefer Connor at guard but I thought he did a heck of a job at tackle last season. I hope the Bison can run the ball like 90% of the plays this season :D

Gotta get the best combo of lineman out there. Connor is mobile enough to play guard. Radunz at LT for possibly 4 years has me giddy.

[KilldeerBison]

Not sure if this has been mentioned but Kuhnert has a sore shoulder right now per Klieman. But he can play apparently.

I would prefer Connor at guard but I thought he did a heck of a job at tackle last season. I hope the Bison can run the ball like 90% of the plays this season :D
I agree, Colin has been outstanding at tackle.

[HerdBot]

Gotta get the best combo of lineman out there. Connor is mobile enough to play guard. Radunz at LT for possibly 4 years has me giddy.

Yep. This reminds me of when Cornick moved from LT to make room for Billy Turner. Made the whole unit better.

[Bison20]

Yep. This reminds me of when Cornick moved from LT to make room for Billy Turner. Made the whole unit better.

I think our line will be should be really good and have great depth even after losing so many last year. It will be interesting to see if they rotate guys like Cordell volson to give them an occasional breather

[EndZoneQB]

If we keep putting OL in the NFL, it's going to continue to be easy to recruit guys like Radunz. If you're a 4 year starter at LT for NDSU, you're going to get a shot.

[BisonNation11]

If we keep putting OL in the NFL, it's going to continue to be easy to recruit guys like Radunz. If you're a 4 year starter at LT for NDSU, you're going to get a shot.

I think you could stretch that to either side. Arguably NDSU's most successful OL in the NFL (despite it only being a year) has been Haeg and he started at RT before the move to LT. Lechler in camp currently. Cornick was successful. We've had some guards with shots as well but I think injuries took away their chances.

[BisonNeil]

I think you could stretch that to either side. Arguably NDSU's most successful OL in the NFL (despite it only being a year) has been Haeg and he started at RT before the move to LT. Lechler in camp currently. Cornick was successful. We've had some guards with shots as well but I think injuries took away their chances.

What is so interesting to me is the Bengals have Lechler working at LT. I never imagined he has enough quickness and lateral movement to play there.

[EndZoneQB]

I think you could stretch that to either side. Arguably NDSU's most successful OL in the NFL (despite it only being a year) has been Haeg and he started at RT before the move to LT. Lechler in camp currently. Cornick was successful. We've had some guards with shots as well but I think injuries took away their chances.

It maybe even should be: If you start on the OL for NDSU, you are going to get a look. Whether or not it turns into anything is up in the air, but if you can play on our line you are going to be noticed.

[HerdBot]

What is so interesting to me is the Bengals have Lechler working at LT. I never imagined he has enough quickness and lateral movement to play there.

I was thinking that too.

Then again we had Joe Haeg at LT and Connor was training to play on the left while Lechler spent 4 years on the right. Probably didn't make sense to take Lechler out of his position for only 1 year.

It is much easier to transition from left tackle to left guard than flip sides where the mental memory of stepping right vs left is really really hard. It's totally opposite everything

[Mr. Burgundy]

I predict zero true freshman play. A couple who could help now but in such small doses. Just loaded.

[EC8CH]

I predict zero true freshman play. A couple who could help now but in such small doses. Just loaded.

So you're saying redshirting everyone is better than playing half the freshman class because "they are ready"?

[HerdBot]

I predict zero true freshman play. A couple who could help now but in such small doses. Just loaded.

Me too. If there are some injuries I could see a DE play but in a perfect world it's only a handful of games to preserve the redshirt

Redshirting every player 2 years in a row will pay dividends in 2020 and 2021

[Mr Meaty]

Me too. If there are some injuries I could see a DE play but in a perfect world it's only a handful of games to preserve the redshirt

Redshirting every player 2 years in a row will pay dividends in 2020 and 2021

Provided they stay in the program and do not leave

[HerdBot]

Provided they stay in the program and do not leave

That's fine if they do. If they are too short sighted or too impatient to learn, develop physically, and grow mentally by learning how to do it the right way, they won't make it in our program. Last time I checked we don't recruit many players who stack up physically at 18 years old. It's just flat out rare.

If you look at our 2016 class, we've only lost 2 players. One was gone in the first month of fall camp and another in spring ball due to non football related stuff. And we've retained most of the walk ons.

[bisonfanette]

7830 Maybe someone can attach the link!

[Christopher Moen]

7830 Maybe someone can attach the link!

http://www.inforum.com/sports/4314651-conner-big-piece-ndsus-offense-line-puzzle

[GenX]

Interesting discussion with Coach Klieman on the Breakdown yesterday re: wide receiver position. Coach said position starts and ends with Shep and RJ. Considers them elite playmakers. Then backed up by Dmitri and Dallas, who have had impressive fall camps. Said learning more about Desmond and Engel, but certainly implied they are trailing on the depth chart. Sounds like we all need to slow our roll with the new guys and appreciate what we have.

[HerdBot]

Interesting discussion with Coach Klieman on the Breakdown yesterday re: wide receiver position. Coach said position starts and ends with Shep and RJ. Considers them elite playmakers. Then backed up by Dmitri and Dallas, who have had impressive fall camps. Said learning more about Desmond and Engel, but certainly implied they are trailing on the depth chart. Sounds like we all need to slow our roll with the new guys and appreciate what we have.

Cain just needs some time to learn the system and will make more of an impact as the season comes along. Engel is just too big and talented to not see the field in some capacity. Probably more situational

[thebigund]

Cain just needs some time to learn the system and will make more of an impact as the season comes along. Engel is just too big and talented to not see the field in some capacity. Probably more situational

If he was that talented he would already be a big factor in your offense. You guys have 0 depth at WR, if he can't crack that then he isn't nearly as good as you guys all thought.

[HerdBot]

If he was that talented he would already be a big factor in your offense. You guys have 0 depth at WR, if he can't crack that then he isn't nearly as good as you guys all thought.

You're right. RJ and Shepherd are terrible and they should easily be passed in the depth chart. They have little or no experience or success in our system. And Dimitri Williams is super slow with no speed and his track numbers were turrible. It's a fluke he played as a freshman and he won't improve in his 3rd year. None of these guys will improve in the future and we are screwed. 3 turrible starters
:facepalm:

[thebigund]

You're right. RJ and Shepherd are terrible and they should easily be passed in the depth chart. They have little or no experience or success in our system. And Dimitri Williams is super slow with no speed and his track numbers were turrible. It's a fluke he played as a freshman and he won't improve in his 3rd year. None of these guys will improve in the future and we are screwed. 3 turrible starters
:facepalm:
So far Dee Gray comes to mind. I wonder if your coaches regret not recruiting Wanzek?

[Bison Dan]

So far Dee Gray comes to mind. I wonder if your coaches regret not recruiting Wanzek?

Kind of like JJ right? What's the BSC now 0-2

[BisManBison]

If he was that talented he would already be a big factor in your offense. You guys have 0 depth at WR, if he can't crack that then he isn't nearly as good as you guys all thought.

Can he block? If not, then he's going to be a situational player.

[HerdBot]

So far Dee Gray comes to mind. I wonder if your coaches regret not recruiting Wanzek?

Dee Gray lost weight on his skinny frame from year 1 to year 2 and gained 2 pounds in 3 years. Just wasn't strong enough

Sean Engel is almost 210 lbs and the heaviest receiver in the roster

What's with your obsession with Dee Gray? He wasn't even that big of a recruit

[TwinCityBison]

Interesting discussion with Coach Klieman on the Breakdown yesterday re: wide receiver position. Coach said position starts and ends with Shep and RJ. Considers them elite playmakers. Then backed up by Dmitri and Dallas, who have had impressive fall camps. Said learning more about Desmond and Engel, but certainly implied they are trailing on the depth chart. Sounds like we all need to slow our roll with the new guys and appreciate what we have.. Coach's do not discuss new weapons with the media so they can use in the game situations. Opposing teams listen to all the media. I wouldn't put too much stock in the pre season stuff. The WR position is very deep with 6 good players that will get lots of snaps.

[HerdBot]

. Coach's do not discuss new weapons with the media so they can use in the game situations. Opposing teams listen to all the media. I wouldn't put too much stock in the pre season stuff. The WR position is very deep with 6 good players that will get lots of snaps.

No you mean they won't open up the playbook vs Mississippi Valley State? :rofl: I thought our coaches tell the opponent's everything!! :rofl:

[TwinCityBison]

No you mean they won't open up the playbook vs Mississippi Valley State? :rofl: I thought our coaches tell the opponent's everything!! :rofl: Maybe a trick or two.. Maybe Eastern Washington would be a better game to showcase some new weapons and plays !!! That will be a shoot out !!!!:)

[bison_by_blood]

The quote from coach was "We're learning more about Dez Cain, we're learning more about Sean Engel. Been pleased with those guys". That doesn't sound very critical to me. None of our coaches give too much praise to guys that haven't actually played a real snap for us yet, nor should they.

[thebigund]

Dee Gray lost weight on his skinny frame from year 1 to year 2 and gained 2 pounds in 3 years. Just wasn't strong enough

Sean Engel is almost 210 lbs and the heaviest receiver in the roster

What's with your obsession with Dee Gray? He wasn't even that big of a recruit
Bullshit. You guys pumped his tires like crazy. I remember people dogging Golladay because we were his only offer.

[Bison Dan]

Bullshit. You guys pumped his tires like crazy. I remember people dogging Golladay because we were his only offer.

And what happen to him. Did he finish with you guys? Couldn't wait to leave.

[Bison Dan]

Bullshit. You guys pumped his tires like crazy. I remember people dogging Golladay because we were his only offer.

And what happen to him. Did he finish with you guys? Couldn't wait to leave.

[tjbison]

Bullshit. You guys pumped his tires like crazy. I remember people dogging Golladay because we were his only offer.

Lol, Galloday wanted nothing to do with UND, it was his way to a better gig so he settled with it

[thebigund]

Lol, Galloday wanted nothing to do with UND, it was his way to a better gig so he settled with it
Thing is, I know him personally and how he actually felt about UND. You know, the only school that gave him a chance.

[Bison Dan]

Thing is, I know him personally and how he actually felt about UND. You know, the only school that gave him a chance.

He really showed a lot of loyalty didn't he?

[HerdBot]

Bullshit. You guys pumped his tires like crazy. I remember people dogging Golladay because we were his only offer.

We pumped his potential but like I said he couldn't add weight. But who cares we won a national Championship every year he was on the team and we always have players who don't live up to the hype. He got beat out by walk ons like Nate Moody and Isiah Frandsen, a true freshman in RJ Urzendowski, while falling behind on the depth chart by other players who are no longer on the roster. Reality is we return 3 starters and between Cain and Engel one of those guys will pan out. And Engel isn't having any problems adding weight. He's about the same size as Jake Wieneke was as a sophomore

[Mr. Burgundy]

We pumped his potential but like I said he couldn't add weight. But who cares we won a national Championship every year he was on the team and we always have players who don't live up to the hype. He got beat out by walk ons like Nate Moody and Isiah Frandsen, a true freshman in RJ Urzendowski, while falling behind on the depth chart by other players who are no longer on the roster. Reality is we return 3 starters and between Cain and Engel one of those guys will pan out. And Engel isn't having any problems adding weight. He's about the same size as Jake Wieneke was as a sophomore

You really need to get over heights and weights. Seriously. If guys can play, they can play. There are a million examples.

[HerdBot]

You really need to get over heights and weights. Seriously. If guys can play, they can play. There are a million examples.

I agree but there are a million more examples of guys with prototypical height and weight that can play. Dee Gray didn't see the field because he didn't have the weight or strength to get off the line of scrimmage. That's just reality

[Mr. Burgundy]

I agree but there are a million more examples of guys with prototypical height and weight that can play. Dee Gray didn't see the field because he didn't have the weight or strength to get off the line of scrimmage. That's just reality

that was one reason. guy didn't work out....which is fairly common in D1 football. Recruiting is a gamble. He didn't pan out. But, he has some rings wherever he is.

[HerdBot]

that was one reason. guy didn't work out....which is fairly common in D1 football. Recruiting is a gamble. He didn't pan out. But, he has some rings wherever he is.

The only reason I brought up height and weight is the UND troll tried to use Dee Gray as a reason why Sean Engel won't pan out. I pointed out that egel is 210 lbs which is plenty big

[thebigund]

He really showed a lot of loyalty didn't he?

His coach got fired. He had a great opportunity and he did what was best for him. He turned that into being a 3rd round steal. I can't blame him for leaving.

[thebigund]

The only reason I brought up height and weight is the UND troll tried to use Dee Gray as a reason why Sean Engel won't pan out. I pointed out that egel is 210 lbs which is plenty big

If he was good with that size he'd be starting. You guys need his body type at wr bad.

[Bison Loaf]

If he was good with that size he'd be starting. You guys need his body type at wr bad.

Do your theory's apply to JJ also?

I don't believe that he is on anyone's 2-deep as of yet either.

[tjbison]

If he was good with that size he'd be starting. You guys need his body type at wr bad.

we do? never had that type when we managed to win 5 straight. Think its time for you to go back to your own teams board

[Mr. Burgundy]

His coach got fired. He had a great opportunity and he did what was best for him. He turned that into being a 3rd round steal. I can't blame him for leaving.

If DeLuca left to a mid major, I wouldn't be his biggest fan. Just my opinon. He is a good player. Always was. Left. Could have been a great FCS player. A lot of kids stick out coaching changes. Engle is a young kid. Why the rush? We have a team captain at receiver and another 4 year starter....both starting ahead of him. He will be fine and get some good looks this year and when it is his turn. NDSU is LOADED right now guys. Tough for youth to get into the lineup. This team is nasty.

[HerdBot]

If he was good with that size he'd be starting. You guys need his body type at wr bad.

So you're saying just because he's tall, he should beat out RJ and Darius Shepherd? Desmond Cain hasn't beaten those guys out yet either and he is uber talented.

New flash. We run a west coast offense and don't need a big receiver. We've won 5 straight National Championships without one. If Engel can become that guy it would add a dynamic to our offense we have never had.


we do? never had that type when we managed to win 5 straight. Think its time for you to go back to your own teams board

:rofl:

[89MTBISON]

The best WRs have great hands, ie Zach Vraa. Could care less about their height and weight. RJ was 5' 11" and 181 as a true freshman and caught everything thrown at him. That counts for way more than a big body that drops 1/4 of the passes thrown his way. It will be interesting to see whether Engel has that type of ability.

[tjbison]

The best WRs have great hands, ie Zach Vraa. Could care less about their height and weight. RJ was 5' 11" and 181 as a true freshman and caught everything thrown at him. That counts for way more than a big body that drops 1/4 of the passes thrown his way. It will be interesting to see whether Engel has that type of ability.

Shepard has won us some games with his hands

[Professor Chaos]

Both Shepherd and RJ have tremendous hands and pretty decent speed. However, I don't think either are particularly adept at getting open against good press corners (a la JMU) and I don't think either are particularly good at the 50/50 ball (RJ ripping the ball away from the defender last year to take away a sure INT nonwithstanding) due to their stature. Both are good WRs at this level but both have similar strengths and weaknesses. My hope is that Cain can be that explosive route runner that Stick can trust to get open against even the toughest coverage and that Engel is the type that can turn 50/50 balls into 60/40 or 70/30 balls in the red zone or in 1-on-1 coverage downfield so he doesn't even have to be open to be "open".

Bottom line is the WR corps is good enough as is but if Cain and Engel can add those skills to the group I think Stick will take a huge leap forward this year.

[Christopher Moen]

So you're saying just because he's tall, he should beat out RJ and Darius Shepherd? Desmond Cain hasn't beaten those guys out yet either and he is uber talented.

New flash. We run a west coast offense and don't need a big receiver. We've won 5 straight National Championships without one. If Engel can become that guy it would add a dynamic to our offense we have never had.

The thing that underwear troll is forgetting, and is related to your post about the use of the West Coast Offense, is that we do throw to tall receivers - they're called Tight Ends.

I've stated this before about our recruits, until they suit up in a Bison uniform and are playing, we really don't know how good they are. We've had a lot of recruits with great potential never make it. Some due circumstance out of their control and others that weren't meant to be a Bison. Making this team is tough, and that's they way it should be for team contending for a National Championship every year. No kid, regardless of talent, size or intangibles is entitled to be a Bison. They have to earn it everyday they are in the program.

[89MTBISON]

[QUOTE=Christopher Moen;1218634]The thing that underwear troll is forgetting, and is related to your post about the use of the West Coast Offense, is that we do throw to tall receivers - they're called Tight Ends.

This is a great quote, seems like we didn't utilize our tight ends last year like we could have. Hoping the statements about Stick's accuracy improving this fall camp are true. Stick looked lost in that last drive against JMU.

[Christopher Moen]

[QUOTE=Christopher Moen;1218634]The thing that underwear troll is forgetting, and is related to your post about the use of the West Coast Offense, is that we do throw to tall receivers - they're called Tight Ends.

This is a great quote, seems like we didn't utilize our tight ends last year like we could have. Hoping the statements about Stick's accuracy improving this fall camp are true. Stick looked lost in that last drive against JMU.

I brought that issue up a few times last year, especially in regards to hitting the TE over the middle.

[89MTBISON]

[QUOTE=89MTBISON;1218636]

I brought that issue up a few times last year, especially in regards to hitting the TE over the middle.

Yes, Jensen and Carson Wentz' cousin (is that his real name?) make nice targets.

[thebigund]

Do your theory's apply to JJ also?

I don't believe that he is on anyone's 2-deep as of yet either.

We will see what he's got. I'm not sold yet. I think he runs soft.

[thebigund]

we do? never had that type when we managed to win 5 straight. Think its time for you to go back to your own teams board
Vraa was your taller guy and before him it was Holloway. Offenses need quick/fast guys and tall guys. You had no tall guys at wr last year and it hurt you. Last year our only true burner broke his leg in the first game and it hurt our offense. Of the guys that seem like they can contribute at wr this year you guys have 1 over 6' and that's Engel. NDSU needs him to contribute to reach its potential on offense.

[BadlandsBison]

We should see quite a few o-lineman play in the first game including 3 North Dakota kids.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[HerdBot]

The best WRs have great hands, ie Zach Vraa. Could care less about their height and weight. RJ was 5' 11" and 181 as a true freshman and caught everything thrown at him. That counts for way more than a big body that drops 1/4 of the passes thrown his way. It will be interesting to see whether Engel has that type of ability.

This. We are a system offense, not a high octane burner offense. Like another pointed out, that would be our TEs.


Vraa was your taller guy and before him it was Holloway. Offenses need quick/fast guys and tall guys. You had no tall guys at wr last year and it hurt you. Last year our only true burner broke his leg in the first game and it hurt our offense. Of the guys that seem like they can contribute at wr this year you guys have 1 over 6' and that's Engel. NDSU needs him to contribute to reach its potential on offense.

Vraa was not a burner. He ran great routes, understood the offense, and caught everything. He was the Vikings version of Cris Carter.

We are a power running offense that runs lots of short passes to possession receivers, Tight Ends, and running backs. We take our deep shots very selectively

I don't think it really hurt us. By normal people's standards last year was successful. The defensive injuries and CB depth is what hurt us more. Would have been nice having a deep burner vs JMU though since we needed to air it out late

[89MTBISON]

This. We are a system offense, not a high octane burner offense. Like another pointed out, that would be our TEs.



Vraa was not a burner. He ran great routes, understood the offense, and caught everything. He was the Vikings version of Cris Carter.

We are a power running offense that runs lots of short passes to possession receivers, Tight Ends, and running backs. We take our deep shots very selectively

Yes. The one team to figure this out in the last 6 years has been JMU, they beat us at our own game. Here's to hoping the rest of the FCS never learns that lesson. Keep slingin' the ball around FCS, we'll take the power game and the championships that come along with it.

[HerdBot]

Yes. The one team to figure this out in the last 6 years has been JMU, they beat us at our own game. Here's to hoping the rest of the FCS never learns that lesson. Keep slingin' the ball around FCS, we'll take the power game and the championships that come along with it.

Defensive injuries (Deluca, Tanguay, 2 of his backups) , a phantom off sides, and bad play calling is what cost us that game. Could have used a burner though since we needed points fast

[89MTBISON]

Defensive injuries (Deluca, Tanguay, 2 of his backups) , a phantom off sides, and bad play calling is what cost us that game. Could have used a burner though since we needed points fast

Yes, and we failed to show up for the first half. I liked their physical style of play. We will see if they can replicate that this year. If we stay healthy, get better play calling and QB play we will be tough to beat, JSU and Chatty looked lame last weekend.

[HerdBot]

Yes, and we failed to show up for the first half. I liked their physical style of play. We will see if they can replicate that this year. If we stay healthy, get better play calling and QB play we will be tough to beat, JSU and Chatty looked lame last weekend.

It's all about depth. When you lose Tanguay and then Steidl along with DeLuca, you will be softer in the middle. Our starters were all backups and their backups were 3rd Team and we had to slide a very undersized Caleb Butler inside. Not a good match-up for a power run team

And yes we sucked in the first half but up until that phantom timeout and then offsides we had all the momentum until Polasek decided to run the ball right into a defense that was crashing the middle

[thebigund]

This. We are a system offense, not a high octane burner offense. Like another pointed out, that would be our TEs.



Vraa was not a burner. He ran great routes, understood the offense, and caught everything. He was the Vikings version of Cris Carter.

We are a power running offense that runs lots of short passes to possession receivers, Tight Ends, and running backs. We take our deep shots very selectively

I don't think it really hurt us. By normal people's standards last year was successful. The defensive injuries and CB depth is what hurt us more. Would have been nice having a deep burner vs JMU though since we needed to air it out late

No shit he wasn't a burner. He and Holloway were my examples of guys with a big catch radius that attack the ball in the air. Nobody on NDSU could do that last year.

[Bison20]

Defensive injuries (Deluca, Tanguay, 2 of his backups) , a phantom off sides, and bad play calling is what cost us that game. Could have used a burner though since we needed points fast

How many teams can lose an all American dt and mlb along with their 2nd best dt and not have a major drop off. The biggest thing was polasek called a horrible game. I really hope that the new oc does a better job mixing it up and keeping the defense off balanced

[Professor Chaos]

The one team to figure this out in the last 6 years has been JMU.
I see it a little differently. I think there's been several playoff games the Bison have won over the last few years there that were only a few plays away from turning out like the JMU in '16 game did. Off the top of my head:

SHSU (natty) in '11
Wofford in '12
GSU in '12
In '13.... ummm ok got nothing there.
SDSU in '14
CCU in '14
ISUr (natty) in '14
UNI in '15

What seemed to bail the Bison out of those games was either one unit played heroicly (defense in '11 SHSU and '12 Wofford, offense in all 3 of those '14 games, or special teams in '15 UNI) and/or the Bison had a special kid or three that made incredible plays (Grant Olson's 198 tackles against Wofford in '12, the Wentz/Legendowski connections against SDSU and ISUr in '14, Jensen's refusal to lose against GSU in '12, etc). In all those games the opponent had the horses to beat the Bison if their kids had stepped up the way those Bison players did.

They just didn't have that happen for them against JMU last year. That game, like the games I mentioned above, was a play or two during that crucial 2nd half stretch where it was tied up from the final score being flipped. I don't think JMU had an epiphany or was any better strategically than numerous other playoff opponents that the Bison have beaten over the last 6 years, they just had kids who made heroic plays (like Schor's 3rd and long strike for the TD that put them up 10) and a defensive unit, specially along the defensive front, that played heroically against the NDSU power run game.

Call me a homer or a rube but I'll gladly take the guys in green and yellow this year over anyone else in the country. One playoff loss where they didn't make the plays doesn't erase the last 22 playoff wins where they did. Sometimes it happens but I'll be more than happy to see another 5 titles before it happens again sometime in 2022. :biggrin:

[EC8CH]

I see it a little differently. I think there's been several playoff games the Bison have won over the last few years there that were only a few plays away from turning out like the JMU in '16 game did. Off the top of my head:

SHSU (natty) in '11
Wofford in '12
GSU in '12
In '13.... ummm ok got nothing there.
SDSU in '14
CCU in '14
ISUr (natty) in '14
UNI in '15

What seemed to bail the Bison out of those games was either one unit played heroicly (defense in '11 SHSU and '12 Wofford, offense in all 3 of those '14 games, or special teams in '15 UNI) and/or the Bison had a special kid or three that made incredible plays (Grant Olson's 198 tackles against Wofford in '12, the Wentz/Legendowski connections against SDSU and ISUr in '14, Jensen's refusal to lose against GSU in '12, etc). In all those games the opponent had the horses to beat the Bison if their kids had stepped up the way those Bison players did.

They just didn't have that happen for them against JMU last year. That game, like the games I mentioned above, was a play or two during that crucial 2nd half stretch where it was tied up from the final score being flipped. I don't think JMU had an epiphany or was any better strategically than numerous other playoff opponents that the Bison have beaten over the last 6 years, they just had kids who made heroic plays (like Schor's 3rd and long strike for the TD that put them up 10) and a defensive unit, specially along the defensive front, that played heroically against the NDSU power run game.

Call me a homer or a rube but I'll gladly take the guys in green and yellow this year over anyone else in the country. One playoff loss where they didn't make the plays doesn't erase the last 22 playoff wins where they did. Sometimes it happens but I'll be more than happy to see another 5 titles before it happens again sometime in 2022. :biggrin:

Excellent post. Looking back it certainly looks like NDSU dominated, but when you look closely other than '13 there were games when other teams were very much NDSU's equal but for a few key plays going the Bison's way through either luck or determination of individual players. Last year was not so different other than those key plays going JMU's way for similar reasons.

[89MTBISON]

So I tend to lump all the read/spread/triple option teams into one pile for simplicities sake, ie SHSU, Wofford, GSU, ISUr. Seems like CCU did something similar. SDSU throws the kitchen sink at us in desperation. UNI has a numbskull at head coach, they don't seem to be able to figure out what they want to be. We have an identity and we stick to it. I don't see it so much as heroic play as we have a system that everyone buys into. I still remember our discipline at Kansas State, down by 2 TDs, we never waivered from that identity. JMU reminded me of us more than any other team.

[MAKBison]

I see it a little differently. I think there's been several playoff games the Bison have won over the last few years there that were only a few plays away from turning out like the JMU in '16 game did. Off the top of my head:

SHSU (natty) in '11
Wofford in '12
GSU in '12
In '13.... ummm ok got nothing there.
SDSU in '14
CCU in '14
ISUr (natty) in '14
UNI in '15

What seemed to bail the Bison out of those games was either one unit played heroicly (defense in '11 SHSU and '12 Wofford, offense in all 3 of those '14 games, or special teams in '15 UNI) and/or the Bison had a special kid or three that made incredible plays (Grant Olson's 198 tackles against Wofford in '12, the Wentz/Legendowski connections against SDSU and ISUr in '14, Jensen's refusal to lose against GSU in '12, etc). In all those games the opponent had the horses to beat the Bison if their kids had stepped up the way those Bison players did.

They just didn't have that happen for them against JMU last year. That game, like the games I mentioned above, was a play or two during that crucial 2nd half stretch where it was tied up from the final score being flipped. I don't think JMU had an epiphany or was any better strategically than numerous other playoff opponents that the Bison have beaten over the last 6 years, they just had kids who made heroic plays (like Schor's 3rd and long strike for the TD that put them up 10) and a defensive unit, specially along the defensive front, that played heroically against the NDSU power run game.

Call me a homer or a rube but I'll gladly take the guys in green and yellow this year over anyone else in the country. One playoff loss where they didn't make the plays doesn't erase the last 22 playoff wins where they did. Sometimes it happens but I'll be more than happy to see another 5 titles before it happens again sometime in 2022. :biggrin:

The JMU game reminded me a lot of the 2015 championship game. In 2015 the previous 4 years essentially had our defense just spent. No matter how courageous how talented, there was not much left in the tank. Against JMU our offense and defense seemed to both be equally spent. We need some young bucks to step up. I think we will be just fine!

[THEsocalledfan]

I see it a little differently. I think there's been several playoff games the Bison have won over the last few years there that were only a few plays away from turning out like the JMU in '16 game did. Off the top of my head:

SHSU (natty) in '11
Wofford in '12
GSU in '12
In '13.... ummm ok got nothing there.
SDSU in '14
CCU in '14
ISUr (natty) in '14
UNI in '15

What seemed to bail the Bison out of those games was either one unit played heroicly (defense in '11 SHSU and '12 Wofford, offense in all 3 of those '14 games, or special teams in '15 UNI) and/or the Bison had a special kid or three that made incredible plays (Grant Olson's 198 tackles against Wofford in '12, the Wentz/Legendowski connections against SDSU and ISUr in '14, Jensen's refusal to lose against GSU in '12, etc). In all those games the opponent had the horses to beat the Bison if their kids had stepped up the way those Bison players did.

They just didn't have that happen for them against JMU last year. That game, like the games I mentioned above, was a play or two during that crucial 2nd half stretch where it was tied up from the final score being flipped. I don't think JMU had an epiphany or was any better strategically than numerous other playoff opponents that the Bison have beaten over the last 6 years, they just had kids who made heroic plays (like Schor's 3rd and long strike for the TD that put them up 10) and a defensive unit, specially along the defensive front, that played heroically against the NDSU power run game.

Call me a homer or a rube but I'll gladly take the guys in green and yellow this year over anyone else in the country. One playoff loss where they didn't make the plays doesn't erase the last 22 playoff wins where they did. Sometimes it happens but I'll be more than happy to see another 5 titles before it happens again sometime in 2022. :biggrin:

This is a great post. To only lose 1 of those games is remarkable.

[Bison20]

This is a great post. To only lose 1 of those games is remarkable.

How many of those close games can be won by having home field throughout the playoffs. Do we lose a couple of them if we are on the road? I have to think the atmosphere can be the difference.

[Nel360]

How many of those close games can be won by having home field throughout the playoffs. Do we lose a couple of them if we are on the road? I have to think the atmosphere can be the difference.Not sure about that. Bison have actually been a better road team then home team. Record speaks for itself

Sent from my XT1254 using Tapatalk

[oldmantutters]

Not sure about that. Bison have actually been a better road team then home team. Record speaks for itself

Sent from my XT1254 using TapatalkJirik was kind of talking about this on 1660 the other day, how many FCS teams don't have an atmosphere like the dome so when they come out it pumps them up too.

Sent from my VS995 using Tapatalk

[Professor Chaos]

The JMU game reminded me a lot of the 2015 championship game. In 2015 the previous 4 years essentially had our defense just spent. No matter how courageous how talented, there was not much left in the tank. Against JMU our offense and defense seemed to both be equally spent. We need some young bucks to step up. I think we will be just fine!
Klieman said as much in his presser today. He said this year throughout the team that they have 15 or so more guys that will play significant snaps than they had last year. He went out of his way trying to not say the schedule is easier this year (when we all know it is) but he basically said the personnel depth of this year's team would've been better suited to handle last year's schedule than last year's team was.

[EndZoneQB]

Klieman said as much in his presser today. He said this year throughout the team that they have 15 or so more guys that will play significant snaps than they had last year. He went out of his way trying to not say the schedule is easier this year (when we all know it is) but he basically said the personnel depth of this year's team would've been better suited to handle last year's schedule than last year's team was.

Last years schedule was absolutely insane. Had they finished that season with a win, it would have been almost as impressive as 2013. Almost.

[THEsocalledfan]

Last years schedule was absolutely insane. Had they finished that season with a win, it would have been almost as impressive as 2013. Almost.

That is a good point, EZ. Chuck South and Eastern were nasty non-cons where in 2013 is was a d2 Ferris St (at least a decent d2) and Delaware st. K St. was better IMHO than Iowa. Big difference was how 2013 team literally crushed every FCS opponent outside of UNI, who had a guy named David Johnson.

[tjbison]

Last years schedule was absolutely insane. Had they finished that season with a win, it would have been almost as impressive as 2013. Almost.

we were pretty beat up and wore down by the Semifinal game, i actually like this years schedule even though the Non Con games are going to suck at home

[HerdBot]

Last years schedule was absolutely insane. Had they finished that season with a win, it would have been almost as impressive as 2013. Almost.

2 games that went down to the wire. None of the young players played and played 2 overtimes. Then Iowa which is obviously tough and we didn't play our backups

This year we get Eastern Washington which will tax our depth but other than that, all the young players will get reps and starters will be fresh

This will pay dividends late in the year

[Mr. Burgundy]

we were pretty beat up and wore down by the Semifinal game, i actually like this years schedule even though the Non Con games are going to suck at home

I agree. These two home games won't be "fun" to watch, but we will get to see a lot of kids that NEED valuable experience. I would prefer a crappy game, a fun FBS game, and a solid (ranked) FCS team. The absolute problem here is that NOBODY wants to come up for a bodybag game anymore. It isn't like we are turning down games. We are overpaying for teams that are "willing" to come up here. We will continue to see crappy teams that are broke that need the paycheck that we can afford to pay based on our fanbase.

Personally, I am actually pretty excited to see our backups play. I am excited to see the young RB's, excited to see Cain/Engle at WR, Ben and company at Tight End, our younger OL and probably how the linebacker depth works out. Going to be a total blowout. I hope we open some huge holes and have some long runs. We won't be flashy, NOTHING will be shown. Think....vanilla ice cream.

[THEsocalledfan]

I agree. These two home games won't be "fun" to watch, but we will get to see a lot of kids that NEED valuable experience. I would prefer a crappy game, a fun FBS game, and a solid (ranked) FCS team. The absolute problem here is that NOBODY wants to come up for a bodybag game anymore. It isn't like we are turning down games. We are overpaying for teams that are "willing" to come up here. We will continue to see crappy teams that are broke that need the paycheck that we can afford to pay based on our fanbase.

Personally, I am actually pretty excited to see our backups play. I am excited to see the young RB's, excited to see Cain/Engle at WR, Ben and company at Tight End, our younger OL and probably how the linebacker depth works out. Going to be a total blowout. I hope we open some huge holes and have some long runs. We won't be flashy, NOTHING will be shown. Think....vanilla ice cream.

Burgundy, what's the insider word on Spencer Waege? Being in Sioux Falls, the Argus tabbed him as the top recruit out of SD last year, and now I hearing rumblings this was a huge B1G miss.

[tjbison]

I agree. These two home games won't be "fun" to watch, but we will get to see a lot of kids that NEED valuable experience. I would prefer a crappy game, a fun FBS game, and a solid (ranked) FCS team. The absolute problem here is that NOBODY wants to come up for a bodybag game anymore. It isn't like we are turning down games. We are overpaying for teams that are "willing" to come up here. We will continue to see crappy teams that are broke that need the paycheck that we can afford to pay based on our fanbase.

Personally, I am actually pretty excited to see our backups play. I am excited to see the young RB's, excited to see Cain/Engle at WR, Ben and company at Tight End, our younger OL and probably how the linebacker depth works out. Going to be a total blowout. I hope we open some huge holes and have some long runs. We won't be flashy, NOTHING will be shown. Think....vanilla ice cream.

agree with all this, the MVSU and RMU games are really needed for the younger players and with a new OC to work his thing, the EWU game is a good test in the right slot also between the "gimmie" games.

[thebigund]

Think....vanilla ice cream.

I always laugh when people say vanilla in reference to being bland. In reality the flavor profile of vanilla is infinitely more complex than chocolate and other flavors.

[tjbison]

I always laugh when people say vanilla in reference to being bland. In reality the flavor profile of vanilla is infinitely more complex than chocolate and other flavors.

nobody cares

[tjbison]

Burgundy, what's the insider word on Spencer Waege? Being in Sioux Falls, the Argus tabbed him as the top recruit out of SD last year, and now I hearing rumblings this was a huge B1G miss.

He gonna play!!!

[Mr. Burgundy]

Burgundy, what's the insider word on Spencer Waege? Being in Sioux Falls, the Argus tabbed him as the top recruit out of SD last year, and now I hearing rumblings this was a huge B1G miss.

My impression....Uggh...first kid we get is a small town SD kid. I am thinking...great...first kid...not a huge offer list, probably a project but a kid the other Dakota schools wanted. I honestly didn't think much about the kid.

Jamar Cain leaves...and had a REALLY hard time leaving this group he had...and had coming in. Was VERY quick to point Spencer out as a freak. I was like.....seriously? The smalltown SD kid? QUICKLY he says things like...if he grew up in Omaha or Minneapolis he is in the Big Ten. I was shocked. Jamar wanted to get bigger and longer kids. Said this kid is special.

Then you talk to the staff now, and they just feel he is already a difference maker. Over 250 lbs, 6'5 with a great motor, worked hard, was up all summer like everyone. Always nice to have a SD kid.

So in summary, I barely thought twice about this kid on signing day, but the staff knew what they were getting. Sounds like this D Line class is something quite special.

[THEsocalledfan]

My impression....Uggh...first kid we get is a small town SD kid. I am thinking...great...first kid...not a huge offer list, probably a project but a kid the other Dakota schools wanted. I honestly didn't think much about the kid.

Jamar Cain leaves...and had a REALLY hard time leaving this group he had...and had coming in. Was VERY quick to point Spencer out as a freak. I was like.....seriously? The smalltown SD kid? QUICKLY he says things like...if he grew up in Omaha or Minneapolis he is in the Big Ten. I was shocked. Jamar wanted to get bigger and longer kids. Said this kid is special.

Then you talk to the staff now, and they just feel he is already a difference maker. Over 250 lbs, 6'5 with a great motor, worked hard, was up all summer like everyone. Always nice to have a SD kid.

So in summary, I barely thought twice about this kid on signing day, but the staff knew what they were getting. Sounds like this D Line class is something quite special.

Sounds like the rumblings I am hearing are accurate. Thanks for the info. Folks, keep you eye on this kid.

[Professor Chaos]

We won't be flashy, NOTHING will be shown. Think....vanilla ice cream.
With sprinkles.... because the Bison are winners.

[HerdBot]

I always laugh when people say vanilla in reference to being bland. In reality the flavor profile of vanilla is infinitely more complex than chocolate and other flavors.

You must be a really big nerd if you laugh at that. You are probably laughing by yourself and people around you must think you're a wack job.

[Bison"FANatic"]

With sprinkles.... because the Bison are winners.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c7FRhGCOaAE

[Da Bison]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c7FRhGCOaAE

Did you say Sprinkles?........................................ ...........we just lost Izzy:biggrin:

[ndsubison1]

I always laugh when people say vanilla in reference to being bland. In reality the flavor profile of vanilla is infinitely more complex than chocolate and other flavors.

Okay.
ten char

[thebigund]

You must be a really big nerd if you laugh at that. You are probably laughing by yourself and people around you must think you're a wack job.

If you're not a little bit of a nerd you'll end up working for one.

[IzzyFlexion]

Did you say Sprinkles?........................................ ...........we just lost Izzy:biggrin:

Sprinkles was the name of my co-star in the 1977 Christmas porn classic "Tits a Wonderful Life".

[bisonfanette]

nobody cares

i love this!

[TransAmBison]

I always laugh when people say vanilla in reference to being bland. In reality the flavor profile of vanilla is infinitely more complex than chocolate and other flavors.Makes me think of rationalizing going toe to toe. Does crow taste like vanilla? :)

[GRAFTONBISON]

My impression....Uggh...first kid we get is a small town SD kid. I am thinking...great...first kid...not a huge offer list, probably a project but a kid the other Dakota schools wanted. I honestly didn't think much about the kid.

Jamar Cain leaves...and had a REALLY hard time leaving this group he had...and had coming in. Was VERY quick to point Spencer out as a freak. I was like.....seriously? The smalltown SD kid? QUICKLY he says things like...if he grew up in Omaha or Minneapolis he is in the Big Ten. I was shocked. Jamar wanted to get bigger and longer kids. Said this kid is special.

Then you talk to the staff now, and they just feel he is already a difference maker. Over 250 lbs, 6'5 with a great motor, worked hard, was up all summer like everyone. Always nice to have a SD kid.

So in summary, I barely thought twice about this kid on signing day, but the staff knew what they were getting. Sounds like this D Line class is something quite special.

So, what is the story on the coaching staff's decision not to play Spencer, at least not this past week?

[THEsocalledfan]

So, what is the story on the coaching staff's decision not to play Spencer, at least not this past week?

Part of the complicated scheme NDSU is hatching to expand tailgating at the FargoDome. /purple

[Jay]

So, what is the story on the coaching staff's decision not to play Spencer, at least not this past week?

My novice take... Logan is a better pure pass rusher. Which is what we're lacking with Menard gone.

[Professor Chaos]

So, what is the story on the coaching staff's decision not to play Spencer, at least not this past week?
Sounds like something changed between Monday and Thursday last week. In his press conference on Monday Klieman said that Waege would be the one getting his shirt pulled and then Timmerman said during the MVSU telecast that when they talked to Entz on Thursday he said that it was McCormick getting his shirt pulled. I'm wondering if Waege got injured or something?

[Christopher Moen]

Sounds like something changed between Monday and Thursday last week. In his press conference on Monday Klieman said that Waege would be the one getting his shirt pulled and then Timmerman said during the MVSU telecast that when they talked to Entz on Thursday he said that it was McCormick getting his shirt pulled. I'm wondering if Waege got injured or something?

I listened to the Bison 1660 post game show and McCormick was asked why they switched. I can't remember the exact wording, but I think he said something to the extent that the coaches felt his (McCormick's) style/technique fit the defensive scheme better after the past week of practice.

[bri-dog]

Would like to see this starting lineup sometime, if even for one play:

LT: Bacon (Granville, ND)
LG: Messner (McVille, ND)
C: Tanner Volson (Balfour, ND) or Karson Schoening (Rolla, ND)
RG: Zach Kubas (Dickinson, ND)
RT: Cordell Volson (Balfour, ND)
TE: Brock Robbins (Cavalier, ND)
FB: Zak Kuntz (Grand Forks, ND)
RB: Ty Brooks (Fargo, ND)
WR: Jeff Illies (Lidgerwood, ND)

Hell, even throw Keenan Hodenfield (Ray, ND) at WR and run Eric Bachmeier (Kindred, ND) at QB.

Okay, I maybe took that a LITTLE too far... :biggrin:

[Gully]

Would like to see this starting lineup sometime, if even for one play:

LT: Bacon (Granville, ND)
LG: Messner (McVille, ND)
C: Tanner Volson (Balfour, ND) or Karson Schoening (Rolla, ND)
RG: Zach Kubas (Dickinson, ND)
RT: Cordell Volson (Balfour, ND)
TE: Brock Robbins (Cavalier, ND)
FB: Zak Kuntz (Grand Forks, ND)
RB: Ty Brooks (Fargo, ND)
WR: Jeff Illies (Lidgerwood, ND)

Hell, even throw Keenan Hodenfield (Ray, ND) at WR and run Eric Bachmeier (Kindred, ND) at QB.

Okay, I maybe took that a LITTLE too far... :biggrin:

I love this. Bisonville gold!

[yopaulie]

Would like to see this starting lineup sometime, if even for one play:

LT: Bacon (Granville, ND)
LG: Messner (McVille, ND)
C: Tanner Volson (Balfour, ND) or Karson Schoening (Rolla, ND)
RG: Zach Kubas (Dickinson, ND)
RT: Cordell Volson (Balfour, ND)
TE: Brock Robbins (Cavalier, ND)
FB: Zak Kuntz (Grand Forks, ND)
RB: Ty Brooks (Fargo, ND)
WR: Jeff Illies (Lidgerwood, ND)

Hell, even throw Keenan Hodenfield (Ray, ND) at WR and run Eric Bachmeier (Kindred, ND) at QB.

Okay, I maybe took that a LITTLE too far... :biggrin:

If only we had one or two cream puff teams on our schedule so we could try this.

[mtoutfitter]

So with Board's injury does that put Kennelly in a backup role along with Plank and Mercadel?

[89MTBISON]

So with Board's injury does that put Kennelly in a backup role along with Plank and Mercadel?

Beau Pauly #43, has played quite a bit with Cox and Mercadel in mop up duty this year.

[mtoutfitter]

Beau Pauly #43, has played quite a bit with Cox and Mercadel in mop up duty this year.

Right, forgot about him.....Thanks.

[89MTBISON]

Those three have looked real good when they've seen the field. Mercadel is explosive to the ball, Pauly has flashed on special teams and of course Cox is pretty special. Looks like LB is set for the next two years at least.

[IzzyFlexion]

Those three have looked real good when they've seen the field. Mercadel is explosive to the ball, Pauly has flashed on special teams and of course Cox is pretty special. Looks like LB is set for the next two years at least.

Mercadel kicks ass!
Such a stud.
You won't catch me returning a kick while he is on the field.................unless I get my redshirt pulled.