All about the quarterbacks

We aren't the only team that has a revolving door at the QB position.

The Miami Redhawks HC Shane Montgomery wasn't happy with the performance of his incumbent starter in JR QB Daniel Raudabaugh in the first half of last Saturday's game against Temple. During halftime, the coach pulled the plug on DR and put in the lefty rFR Clay Belton. He didn't necessarily play better, going 14 of 22 for 147 yds and an INT.

However, it provides NIU something to watch out for at home Satuday. If Belton gets consistent playing time and performs well, we had better watch out. I just feel like the supporting cast around him really isn't helping either of these players out so far this season.


Who does Coach Kill fear from this Miami OH team?

Their punter.

"Field position. They have a great punter. Not a good punter, a great punter. He can kick it 60 yards with a 4.4 sec. hang time. He's a big time punter. He controls field position."

Jacob Richardson leads the country with 48.08 average yards per punt. Our guy Andy Dittbenner isn't too shabby averaging 41.61 ypp, ranking #36 in the nation and #2 in the MAC.


Statistics

During this century, we are 3-0 against the Miami Redhawks winning in Oxford in 2002 and 2006. We won the last matchup in Dekalb 38-27 in 2005.

Miami may have the #2 total defense next to us, averaging 331.20 ypg, but are #9 in scoring defense allowing 30 ppg! This indicates that Miami just can't stop the big play so far this season, whether its on special teams or offense.

Miami ranks in the lower end of the MAC in the following categories:

Rushing offense (#13)
Total offense (#12)
Scoring offense (#13)
Pass efficiency defense (#12)
Turnover margin (#11)
Passing efficiency (#13)
Sacks allowed (#10)


Injury Updates (Chronicle)

-Mike Sobol is listed as the starting SS for Saturday's game despite a concussion against Tennessee. May see limited playing time.

-WR Marcus Perez is ready to go after sustaining an eye injury vs Tennessee

-QB Dan Nicholson re-injured his non-throwing shoulder vs Tennessee on a hard hit. He initially hurt his shoulder @ the WMU game. He is unlikely to see much time on the practice field at all this week and is doubtful against Miami OH.

-QB Chandler Harnish started jogging this week and may participate in some drills. He is an emergency option for Saturday. I predict he will be able to go against rival Toledo for our must-win homecoming game.