FCS Playoffs Round 2: #9 Rhode Island (11-2) @ #8 UC Davis (8-3) Way to go Aggies! I really enjoyed the atmosphere, and we commented all night how impressive the student section was given the available excuses. Three sections of students were nearly filled, they were cheering and dancing and it looked like a college football game. Empty seats where the Rhode Island fans were, and a little sparse near the band and on that end, but otherwise it felt like it would have shown well on TV.
Three first half possessions inside the Rams' 20 YL and only 3 points, including a bad interception at the goal line and a questionable call on the missed FG or else we're out in the parking lot celebrating at halftime. The TD drive for Davis right before the half was critical. Flipped the entire feeling of the game. URI goes 3-and-out twice to start the second half and we score on both those opportunities and the route was on.
A few parting thoughts:
-The DE Pena #8 was as advertised. Outstanding football player.
-The QB was good but just what we see every week in BIg Sky play.
-Our DL showed up in the second half when it mattered with pressure from a lot of different guys. The QB got happy feet and took his eyes down instead of looking downfield.
-Credit to our DC for scaling back some of the blitzes in the second half, I think that was his adjustment, or it at least felt that way. The DL created most of the pressures it felt like.
-Ags Offensive Line ran the ball well, pass pro felt just OK.
-CP was spectacular with his legs. Wow. URI was in man coverage chasing our guys and it felt like Caden had a great feel for when to run and when not to. He made two moves on the same scramble that were as impressive as anything I've ever seen.
All we need is one more point than the other guys this time of year to keep the season alive so not going to split hairs, not my job. Impressive atmosphere, even more impressive performance by this young football team. On to the next!