View from the Opposing Sideline: UTSA
Overall the Roadrunners are 6-4 and are headed to their second consecutive bowl game, what is the vibe surrounding the program in year 2 of the Frank Wilson era?
It is definitely positive even with some of the disappointing performances. Being bowl eligible for the second consecutive year is a pretty big accomplishment for such a young program. After the fast start some thought UTSA would be contending for the conference title in a few weeks, things just did not bounce the Roadrunners way. Regardless it is hard for anyone to be mad at being bowl eligible again. Things are looking up for UTSA and Frank Wilson.
Offensively the Roadrunners have put up some solid numbers from a total yards standpoint, but are only averaging 25 points per game. What are the issues keeping the Roadrunners from scoring more?
This one is actually pretty simple. UTSA has had a very hard time scoring touchdowns when they get to the red zone. UTSA is only scoring touchdowns 47% of the time when they reach the red zone. That is second to last in the conference. If they get some of that fixed they will have a good shot at winning.
Dalton Sturm has given the Bulldogs fits for years, what makes the senior signal caller so special?
His ability to extend plays has been giving all teams fits these past few seasons. Sturm does a little bit of everything well for UTSA. He does not have the strongest arm, he is not the most accurate, but he does just enough of everything to make him an excellent quarterback in the conference.
Defensively the Roadrunners have been exceptional throughout the year, what is Pete Golding doing with the defense that is leading to so much success?
It all starts up front for Golding. One of the first priorities for Frank Wilson and Pete Golding when they first got here was the defensive line. They have recruited and developed talent that will be hard to stop these next few years. Is also helps they have an NFL defensive end in Marcus Davenport.
Who are some players to watch for both offensively and defensively for UTSA?
On offense you have quarterback Dalton Sturm, and the running back duo of Jalen Rhodes, and Tyrell Clay. UTSA’s all-time leading receiver Kerry Thomas is getting back to 100% after a 100-yard game last week. On defense, Marcus Davenport will lead the way on the defensive line. Linebacker Josiah Tauaefa is back in the lineup after missing four games before his return last week. In the secondary you have the senior duo of Devron Davis, and Austin Jupe.
What are your keys to the game Saturday night? Who wins and why?
Establish the running game early, bring pressure on the young quarterback, and score touchdowns not field goals. I had this game pegged as a loss in the preseason I can’t lie. What I did not expect is for Louisiana Tech to struggle the way they have been this season. The Roadrunners still remember Skip Holtz running up the score at end of last year’s game. Give me UTSA in a close one.