It’s been an interesting few weeks in the MAC conference, with unexpected outcomes and some good football played. The first week was filled with tune up games, while the second week proved a much stiffer test against Big Ten and SEC competition.
One of the more alarming things of note in the first few weeks is the Bowling Green defense, which has looked like it can’t stop anyone at times. While over at NIU, the Huskies look to pick up where Jordan Lynch left off squeaking out a big win against Northwestern this past week, and a big win for Central Michigan over Purdue in convincing fashion without star receiver Titus Davis. Let’s take a look at some of the performances of note from the first few weeks of play.By Matt and Mike Vahey
Buffalo Bulls vs Duquesne Dukes
Buffalo Bulls
Trevor Sales, C, #71
The more I watch Trevor Sales on film the more I like what I see. He is responsible for making all the line calls for the Bulls and was solid at the point of attack against the Dukes, giving Licata room to step up in the passing game. Sales was also able to get good movement in the running game, winning the battles he should against inferior competition.
Adam Redden, FS, #29
Redden is utilized in a variety of different ways for the Bulls, both in coverage and rushing the passer. Redden was highly productive against the Dukes, with 7 tackles, 2 sacks, and another TFL. Redden was very effective coming off the edge, showing good first step quickness continually beating tackles around the edge, and even had a nice counter spin move a la Dwight Freeney on his first sack. Look for more of the same throughout the season.
Akron Zips vs Penn State Nittany Lions
Akron Zips
Nordly Capi, DE, #11
Capi’s speed is what really jumps out on film. Capi showed good first step quickness and a real nose for the quarterback proving to be more than capable against Big Ten tackles. Capi did struggle against the run, along with locating the football throughout the duration of the game, missing several tackles behind the line of scrimmage. His quickness, on several occasions, proved too much for bigger slower blockers.
Jawon Chisholm, RB, #7
Chisholm had a very underwhelming day against the Nittany Lions. Chisholm finished the day with 7 carries and 30 yards and no touchdowns. He seems to be an auxiliary piece in this offense, as their more concerned with throwing the ball as running the ball. He did show good hands and toughness when he did carry the ball.
Justin March, LB, #5
March had a productive game against Penn State, with 6 tackles with a TFL. March was solid all game in coverage, and showed no fear taking on bigger blockers (as he’s an undersized linebacker), coming down hill to make plays. March has impressive closing speed, and was used as a rusher linebacker in several situations.
Toledo Rockets vs Missouri Tigers
Toledo Rockets
Junior Sylvestre, LB, #33
A lot of expectations ahead for this Senior Linebacker and pre-season Sporting News MAC Defensive Player of the Year. Watching him again a top 25, SEC opponent was an excellent test for Sylvestre and put his talents on display, and he did not disappoint. Sylvestre had more than enough speed to contend with Missouri and was countlessly matched up against running backs and tight ends in coverage and flys around the field. His coverage skills are excellent and forced an interception with his tight coverage and forcing the Quarterback to make a bad pass, and forced a second interception with a QB pressure. Sylvestre brings the hips and is not afraid to make a hit. What he needs to work on is getting off blocks, he is a little undersized and can be overwhelmed at times by larger offensive lineman.
Greg Mancz, OL, #75:
He may be the most important player on the Toledo offense. His versatility may be his main asset, as he is the starting Center for the Rockets this year and played Right Guard and Right Tackle the seasons before. Does an excellent job of combo blocking in zone schemes and anchoring in the pass game, with an excellent block at the second level to spring Toledos first touchdown of the game. He could be moving up in talks for best Offensive Lineman in the MAC. Along with his versatility what stood out on film was his athleticism, being pulled from the Center spot and leading on outside run plays. Keep an eye out for him rising up draft boards.
Notes:
Jordan Haden, S, #4:
Jordan Haden, the brother of Pro-Bowler Joe Haden, getting his first full year starting for Toledo after transferring from Florida and being injured last year. He is no stranger to SEC competition and it showed, tied for the team high in tackles for the game as well as making a first half interception on Matty Maulk. Will be interesting to watch how this full year as a starter progresses as he has a tremendous amount of talent.
Ball State Cardinals vs Colgate Raiders
Ball State Cardinals
Jahwan Edwards, RB, #32:
The number one back in the MAC was on display in the first outing of the season with a little more size and bulk in order to continue being the go to guy. Carrying the load for Ball State, getting over 20 carries and reaching the century mark in his first game. What makes “Quake” so productive is that he always is gaining positive yards and seems to always make the right decision. Does a great job setting up his blocks and does a great job running between the tackles. He does not have the break-away speed to be a home run hitter, but he is extremely productive.
Northern Illinois Huskies vs Northwestern Wildcats
Northern Illinois
Tyler Loos, OL, #75:
First real test for Tyler Loos coming off the season ending injury last season that had him miss 4 games. What stood out was that Loos was not hesitant and looked in mid-season form. He plays with excellent leverage and runs his feet in the run game. What has always stood out with Loos is that he plays to the whistle and definitely plays with a mean streak. If he can stay healthy, he is definitely in discussion for the top Offensive Lineman in the conference. Has good technique in pass pro and didn’t get beat off the edge. Some concerns for Loos is his durability, as he was splitting time with #71 Lavon Meyers at Left Tackle. If this split time discontinues throughout the season you can pin point this as he was not full go.
Dechane Durante, S, #1:
With the loss of Jimmy Ward to the NFL, the spotlight in the secondary for the Huskies was how Durante will take over as the main guy. Durante has ideal size as a prospect and he flashed some good things with his speed and play recognition, not falling for play-action, but coming up in the run game quickly. He is a good athlete, and plays the “center field” role in man coverage. What stood out as well is that he is not Mark Barron type of Safety in that Durante doesn’t throw his body around with wreck less abandonment. He will make the tackles and wraps up, but isn’t a punishing player.
Notes:
Jamaal Bass, LB, #6
He was out for the second straight week to begin the season with an injury. This is the star of the Northern Illinois defense, and will need to get back in the lineup make a case for the NFL.
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