Schedule/Results at Rutgers - L, 3-38
at Temple - W, 42-7
Team Overview
Since joining D-I, the Buffalo Bulls have not won more than 3 games in a season. That could change this season considering they have more returning starters on offense and defense combined than any other Div 1 school. They already put up some numbers against Temple scoring 42 points 414 yards of total offense. In comparison Buffalo only managed 235 yards of O against Rutgers while giving up 563 to the Scarlet Knights.
Offense
Quarterback Drew Willy is completing passes at an amazing 72% completion rate for 355 yards. Needless to say the Penn State defense will have to keep track of their Willy *snicker snicker*. Running back Mario Henry is averaging 87 yards per game and no less than 5 wide receivers have at least 4 or more catches in the first two games. Yeah, not exactly Heisman-like numbers but more of an offensive threat than Florida International to be sure.
Defense
The Bulls gave up 505 passing yards this season and held opponents to a respectable 99 yards rushing per game. Even Rutgers with Ray Rice had more passing yards than rushing. Defensive back Kareem Byrom leads the team with 13 tackles which should tell you something - when your cornerback is leading the team in tackles things can't be good. To be fair he's tied with two others: linebackers Ollice Ervin and Adekun Akingba. Morelli will have to play better against Buffalo because they will probably stack the line and make Penn State throw. Buffalo as a team only has 5 total sacks all coming against Temple.
Special Teams
No one stands out on returns - Terrel Jackson leads the team with 5 kickoff returns for a meager 84 yards; that's just 16.8 yards per return for the mathematically challenged. Kicker A.J. Principe made his only attempt, a 35 yard field goal. Punter Ben Woods is averaging a respectable 44 yards per punt on 10 punts with a long of 58.
Game Outlook
Make no mistake this is another glorified scrimmage for Penn State before the start of the Big Ten schedule. Look for the Nittany Lions to substitute freely and get one final look at personnel before the meat of the schedule. Yes I know anything can happen… look at Appalachian State… blah blah blah – It’s Buffalo and Penn State will win by at least 3 touchdowns. Anthony Morelli will once again throw for at least 250 and critics will be silenced for another week.
Final Score
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