Here’s a list of things to keep an eye on during the Richmond game tonight:
Danny Rocco
Ok, we’ve beaten this horse to death this week. Not sure what else can be said. I guess in keeping with the “what to watch” theme, it will be interesting to see the interaction pre and post game between Rocco and Liberty “people.” By “people” I mean players, coaches, administrators, fans, alumni, etc.
Can Turner Gill start the season 3-1?
Gill looks to go 3-1
In Turner Gill’s 7 previous seasons as a head coach, he has never started the season 3-1 or better. With a win tonight, he will do just that. He has been 2-2 on three separate occasions, 1-3 three times, and last year was 0-4.
UR’s run game
Richmond’s run game has been horrendous the last two weeks combining for just 26 yards on 46 carries. That’s good for 0.57 yards per carry. The Spiders rank 102nd in the 114 team FCS in rushing offense as they average 84 yards rushing per game. Liberty’s run defense is ranked 31st in the country and allowing 132 yards per game. If the Flames hope to win this game, they must limit Richmond’s run game.
UR’s pass game
On the other hand, Richmond’s passing game, led by QB Michael Strauss, is one of the most prolific in all of FCS. The Spiders are ranked 9th in the FCS with 313.7 passing yards per game. Liberty’s stout passing defense is the 13th best in the FCS only allowing 138 yards passing per game. Strauss, Ben Edwards, and Stephen Barnette against Walt Aikens, Kevin Fogg, and company. Definitely a matchup to watch.
Kevin Fogg hopes to slow down UR’s passing attack
Low scoring game?
Both Liberty and Richmond rank in the top 10 in scoring defense; Liberty ranks 10th, Richmond ranks 6th. The Spiders are only allowing 11.7 points per game after playing VMI, NC State, and Gardner-Webb. The Flames are only allowing 14 points per game after playing Kent State, Monmouth, and Morgan State. Could we see a 13-10 game?
UR interception streak
A pretty cool stat from the Richmond Times-Dispatch’s John O’Connor this week – the Spiders have at least one interception in 13 consecutive games. In those 13 games, Richmond has 30 interceptions. Wow. Liberty quarterback Josh Woodrum, who has 2 interceptions in Liberty’s first 3 games, will be hoping to put this streak to an end.
Kevin Fogg returning kicks/punts this week?
The former All-American kick returner, who has been slow to get going in the return game this season, was pulled in last week’s game against Morgan State in favor for Walt Aikens. Coach Gill said after the game that Fogg is still “our guy.” So, it will be interesting to see if Fogg gets a shot returning kicks/punts this week. Currently, Fogg is not listed on the depth chart as a returner for the Richmond game, but that could change.
Full Richmond week coverage:
Richmond player spotlight: Michael Strauss
Liberty hoping to make a statement against Richmond
The Heat: A Chance for Some Closure
From the opposition’s viewpoint: Richmond
