3yardsandacloud
Administrator Emeritus
2004 Marshall Thundering Herd Game Preview
written by
FKAGobucks877, daddyphatsacs, Bucklion, osugrad21, and 3yardsandacloud
written by
FKAGobucks877, daddyphatsacs, Bucklion, osugrad21, and 3yardsandacloud
Marshall Thundering Herd Game Preview
Next up for the Buckeyes is the Marshall Thundering Herd. Coach Bob Pruett has brought respectability and (for a mid-major) a national prominence to this once floundering program. Pruett's .838 winning percentage is tops among D1 coaches with at least 5 years of tenure, so the guy can coach. Marshall returns almost as many starters and lettermen as Cincinnati and only loses 3 lettermen from last years squad. Rumors from Huntington seem to say this will be the best Marshall team to ever take the field. After suffering what could only be described as a humbling loss to Troy, Marshall will look to atone for the poor performance against the Buckeyes. One thing's for sure, Ohio State Defensive Coordinator Mark Snyder will be extremely prepared for this game ... he's a Marshall grad from 1988 and an All-American defensive back from the 1987 Marshall football team. We know Mark Snyder has done his homework and is ready for this game, are you?
Date and Time
Game time: Saturday, September 11th, 2004
3:30 pm EDT Kick-off at Ohio Stadium
ABC will cover the game
Marshall Thundering Herd Offensive Preview
Returning starters: 5; Returning letterwinners: 17
Marshall has won 5 conference titles and 5 bowls since 1997, and no team has that much success without a good offense. Players such as Chad Pennington, Randy Moss, and Byron Leftwich have led a prolific attack in the past that was more balanced than is often assumed, given all the talent and success throwing the ball. In fact, Marshall led the MAC in rushing (196.3/game) last season, and ranked 20th nationally. Marshall still compiled respectable passing numbers (244.6/game) despite injuries at the quarterback position. On the downside, Marshall turned the ball over 34 times, 106th nationally. Their scoring offense was 29.17 points per game, a middle of the pack conference finish, and their turnover ratio was -19, both areas that Marshall will be looking to improve on this season, despite having to replace several starters, particularly along the offensive line.
Quarterbacks
QB #4 Stan Hill (6-3, 210)
QB #11 Graham Gochneaur (6-4, 218)
Stan Hill is coming off a season where he tore up a knee, limiting him to only 6 games. However, in those 6 games, he completed almost 70% of his passes for nearly 1800 yards and 15 TDs. His injury is what forced Marshall to become a more ground-based team. Gochneaur was a more versatile threat, finishing with almost 300 yards rushing and leading the team to their historic win over Kansas State in Manhattan last season. He is recovering from shoulder difficulty. It is important for the team to have health and stability at this position to have one final run at the MAC title this season. It is difficult to say how good either QB would be given the chance to play the full season, particularly in the case of Hill, who dazzled in limited action last season. Both can successfully lead the team, a luxury not many teams have. Bernard Morris, Tim Bessolo, and Jimmy Skinner are the future of the position, and will battle for the number 3 spot this season.
QB Rating: A-
Running Backs
RB #34 Earl Charles (6-1, 215)
Charles returns after rushing for over 1000 yards and 12 TDs, looking to build on his second-team All-MAC season from a year ago. Tank Tunstalle looks to be the first back-up, but look out for Marcus Fitzgerald, who has the talent and bloodlines to make an immediate impact. Donte’ Newsome will also be in the mix after converting from linebacker. Marshall does not feature a fullback.
RB Rating: B+
Wide Receivers
WR +#82 Josh Davis (6-1, 185)
New starters: ?
The loss of Darius Watts hurts this unit, but Josh Davis is poised to fulfill the superstar role. He caught 66 balls and had 6 scores a season ago, and will probably move to Watts' old spot. He already has nearly 3000 career receiving yards. Though the rest of this unit is light on starting experience, they are seasoned, led by seniors Tremel Guillory, Brad Bates, and Clarence Stanfield, and juniors Wilbur Hargrove and Mandell Smith. Look for sophomore Hiram Moore to start, along with Guillory, though the positions are not documented at press time for this preview.
WR Rating: C
Tight Ends No starters returning.
TE #85 Jeff Mullins (6-3, 253)
Jeff Mullins, who had limited touches last season (8 for a little over 50 yards) should get the nod here. He has nice size (6-3, 253), and can present mismatch problems in the middle of the defense, and he is also a capable blocker. Joe Deifel, Brian Shope, and Matt Morris will compete for playing time behind Mullins. Look for Shope to snag the backup role.
TE Rating: C-
Offensive Line
OT #60 Nate Griffin (6-5, 334)
OG #56 Toby Bullock (6-4, 335)
New Starters:
C #55 Zac Elcess (6-5, 285)
OG #72 Ryan Baynes (6-2, 324)
OT #73 Seth Cook (6-4, 300)
The right side of last year’s line returns, with the gargantuan Griffin at tackle and the bulldozing Bullock at guard. Miami transfer Zac Elcess is scheduled to be the starter at center, while junior Ryan Baynes and sophomore Seth Cook look to fill the remaining guard and tackle spots, respectively. There is one seasoned backup in senior Jesse Saito, who can play guard and tackle. The rest of the backup spots will probably be maintained by redshirt freshmen, including tackle Dave Ziegler, guard John Inman, and center Nate Howard. Depth here is a giant concern, and the Herd cannot afford to lose starters for significant periods of time. The starters they have are more than capable, particularly on the right side, but don’t be surprised of coach Pruett loses has nightmares at losing a starter or 2 to injury.
OL Rating: C
Analysis
This will be an interesting year for Marshall. They have traditionally been a passing powerhouse, and Hill showed flashes of continuing the trend before being hurt last season. In his absence, Marshall became one of the conference’s best rushing schools. This will make a frightening multi-dimensional attack, provided the coaches can work out successful game plans that adequately feature both aspects. Charles should have another solid season and if Davis steps up to be a marquee receiver, Marshall could put a lot of points on the board. Of course, all of that skill doesn’t help if they can’t block anybody. Therefore, the most pressing issue going into the season is getting the O-line to gel and keeping it healthy because there isn’t much behind it. If they can cut down the turnovers and stay healthy along the line and at QB, they can be a force.
Overall Offensive Rating: B-
Marshall has won 5 conference titles and 5 bowls since 1997, and no team has that much success without a good offense. Players such as Chad Pennington, Randy Moss, and Byron Leftwich have led a prolific attack in the past that was more balanced than is often assumed, given all the talent and success throwing the ball. In fact, Marshall led the MAC in rushing (196.3/game) last season, and ranked 20th nationally. Marshall still compiled respectable passing numbers (244.6/game) despite injuries at the quarterback position. On the downside, Marshall turned the ball over 34 times, 106th nationally. Their scoring offense was 29.17 points per game, a middle of the pack conference finish, and their turnover ratio was -19, both areas that Marshall will be looking to improve on this season, despite having to replace several starters, particularly along the offensive line.
Quarterbacks
QB #4 Stan Hill (6-3, 210)
QB #11 Graham Gochneaur (6-4, 218)
Stan Hill is coming off a season where he tore up a knee, limiting him to only 6 games. However, in those 6 games, he completed almost 70% of his passes for nearly 1800 yards and 15 TDs. His injury is what forced Marshall to become a more ground-based team. Gochneaur was a more versatile threat, finishing with almost 300 yards rushing and leading the team to their historic win over Kansas State in Manhattan last season. He is recovering from shoulder difficulty. It is important for the team to have health and stability at this position to have one final run at the MAC title this season. It is difficult to say how good either QB would be given the chance to play the full season, particularly in the case of Hill, who dazzled in limited action last season. Both can successfully lead the team, a luxury not many teams have. Bernard Morris, Tim Bessolo, and Jimmy Skinner are the future of the position, and will battle for the number 3 spot this season.
QB Rating: A-
Running Backs
RB #34 Earl Charles (6-1, 215)
Charles returns after rushing for over 1000 yards and 12 TDs, looking to build on his second-team All-MAC season from a year ago. Tank Tunstalle looks to be the first back-up, but look out for Marcus Fitzgerald, who has the talent and bloodlines to make an immediate impact. Donte’ Newsome will also be in the mix after converting from linebacker. Marshall does not feature a fullback.
RB Rating: B+
Wide Receivers
WR +#82 Josh Davis (6-1, 185)
New starters: ?
The loss of Darius Watts hurts this unit, but Josh Davis is poised to fulfill the superstar role. He caught 66 balls and had 6 scores a season ago, and will probably move to Watts' old spot. He already has nearly 3000 career receiving yards. Though the rest of this unit is light on starting experience, they are seasoned, led by seniors Tremel Guillory, Brad Bates, and Clarence Stanfield, and juniors Wilbur Hargrove and Mandell Smith. Look for sophomore Hiram Moore to start, along with Guillory, though the positions are not documented at press time for this preview.
WR Rating: C
Tight Ends No starters returning.
TE #85 Jeff Mullins (6-3, 253)
Jeff Mullins, who had limited touches last season (8 for a little over 50 yards) should get the nod here. He has nice size (6-3, 253), and can present mismatch problems in the middle of the defense, and he is also a capable blocker. Joe Deifel, Brian Shope, and Matt Morris will compete for playing time behind Mullins. Look for Shope to snag the backup role.
TE Rating: C-
Offensive Line
OT #60 Nate Griffin (6-5, 334)
OG #56 Toby Bullock (6-4, 335)
New Starters:
C #55 Zac Elcess (6-5, 285)
OG #72 Ryan Baynes (6-2, 324)
OT #73 Seth Cook (6-4, 300)
The right side of last year’s line returns, with the gargantuan Griffin at tackle and the bulldozing Bullock at guard. Miami transfer Zac Elcess is scheduled to be the starter at center, while junior Ryan Baynes and sophomore Seth Cook look to fill the remaining guard and tackle spots, respectively. There is one seasoned backup in senior Jesse Saito, who can play guard and tackle. The rest of the backup spots will probably be maintained by redshirt freshmen, including tackle Dave Ziegler, guard John Inman, and center Nate Howard. Depth here is a giant concern, and the Herd cannot afford to lose starters for significant periods of time. The starters they have are more than capable, particularly on the right side, but don’t be surprised of coach Pruett loses has nightmares at losing a starter or 2 to injury.
OL Rating: C
Analysis
This will be an interesting year for Marshall. They have traditionally been a passing powerhouse, and Hill showed flashes of continuing the trend before being hurt last season. In his absence, Marshall became one of the conference’s best rushing schools. This will make a frightening multi-dimensional attack, provided the coaches can work out successful game plans that adequately feature both aspects. Charles should have another solid season and if Davis steps up to be a marquee receiver, Marshall could put a lot of points on the board. Of course, all of that skill doesn’t help if they can’t block anybody. Therefore, the most pressing issue going into the season is getting the O-line to gel and keeping it healthy because there isn’t much behind it. If they can cut down the turnovers and stay healthy along the line and at QB, they can be a force.
Overall Offensive Rating: B-
Marshall Thundering Herd Defensive Preview
Returning Starters: 9
Marshall brings an experienced defense to Columbus. All 9 returning starters are seniors which will help on what will be a very tough road game for the Herd. Marshall was as dominant a defense as there was in the MAC last season, leading the conference in total defense (329.8/game) and passing defense (177.4/game), and they were respectable against the run (152.4/game). They also led the conference in two very important, though somewhat overlooked, statistical categories: first downs allowed (184) and 3rd down conversion percentage converted (29.2%). The unit returns 24 letterwinners (losing only 6), so they should not miss a beat this season. The biggest weakness of this unit was turnovers, as they only produced 15 (110th nationally) which led to the schools turnover margin (-1.58/game) being only 114th/117. They were also outscored in the second half last season, including 80-66 in the fourth quarter, something the unit anxiously awaits their chance to improve on in 2004. The heart and soul of the defense rests in the trenches which will start 4 of the seniors.
Defensive Line
DE #50 Johnathan Goddard (6-0 246 Sr.)
DT #98 Reggie Hayes(6-3 288 Sr.)
DT #96 Jamaal Whyce (6-2 280 Sr.)
DE #99 Jamus Martin (6-2 224 Sr.)
Marshall is led on defense by all MAC defensive end Jamus Martin. Martin has been named to the 2004 Bronko Nagurski Trophy Watch List, which honors the top defensive player in the nation regardless of position. Martin was tied for the team lead in sacks (6.5) and second on the team in total tackles (80) and tackles for loss (15). Martin is known for his aggressive mentality and harassing presence in the offensive backfield. The other side of the defensive line will be held down by Johnathan Goddard. Goddard was credited for 68 tackles and 6.5 sacks during his junior campaign, and was a terror in the backfield, recording 20.5 tackles for loss. Goddard could be the MAC's most under-appreciated defensive player. When combined with Martin one could argue that they are the best tandem in the MAC.
Reggie Hayes is slated to go at one of the defensive tackle spots for Marshall. Hayes certainly knows how to irritate an offensive coordinator and he demonstrated this last season by registering 5.5 sacks and 14.5 tackles for loss, to go with 68 total tackles. He should prove a formidable challenge for the OSU big uglies down in the trenches. The other defensive tackle position will be filled by Jamaal Whyce. Whyce tallied up 25 tackles last season before coming down with an injury to his paw (hand).
The rotation of Whyce with Roger Garrett (#95) and Nate Howard (#75) should more than compensate for the departure of last year's other starter, Toranio Brown. Versatile Marcus Hairston (#35) could also see time at both end and tackle. Damarcus Thomas (#38) could also see time at end.
Linebackers
WLB #33 Dionte Wilson (6-2 221 Sr.)
MLB #5 Kevin Atkins(6-3 245 Sr.)
SLB #32 J.T. Rembert (6-1 235 Sr.)
The linebacker situation is not nearly as solid as the defensive line for the Herd, but they are all seniors (notice a pattern here). Kevin Atkins leads the linebacking corps from his middle backer spot. Atkins put together a nice junior season with 100 tackles, which led the team. Look for Atkins to be among the league's top tacklers again this season. J.T. Rembert will get the start on the strong side. Rembert suffered a tough shin injury during his junior season, and ended up playing sporadically, amassing 33 tackles. Rembert could be dangerous if he stays healthy, he was on the Butkus watch list last season. Dionte Wilson will hold down the fort on the weakside for Thundering Herd. Wilson piled up 70 tackles and 1 sack in 2003.
Sophomore Matt Couch (#47) is the anchor of the future for this unit in the middle, and will see time there this season. Juniors Carlos Morgan (#44) and Dennis Thornton (#30) are capable backups on the outside.
Secondary
CB #27 Willie Smith (6-0 194 Jr.)
CB #2 Roberto Terrell (5-8 175 Sr.)
SS #25 Curtis Keyes (6-0 187 So.)
FS #3 Moriah Anderson (6-2 188 Sr.)
Willie Smith looks to anchor the secondary and build upon his stellar sophomore season. Smith batted down 14 passes and piled up 54 tackles last season. He is known for his great physical presence and was voted the Thundering Herd’s 2003 defensive MVP. The other corner position will feature Roberto Tiny, ... uh, ... I mean Terrell. Standing 5-8 in platforms (yes ... Goldfish platforms for all you Disco Stu fans out there), Terrell will never be confused for Manute Bol. What Terrell lacks in height, he makes up in speed and agility. With 26 career starts to his name Terrell has found ways to overcome his height much like a man with the last name of Winfield did seasons ago. He was credited for 51 tackles and an interception last season.
Curits Keyes returns at strong safety, but will be pushed for time by Geremy Rodamer (#19). Moriah Anderson returns at free safety, and he will be pushed for time by punisihng hitter Chris Royal (#26). Senior Renaldo Williams (#28) is looking for a big year in the secondary as well, and will push for time at corner and in multiple defensive back situations. Look for Ivan Clark (#9) to see the field as well.
Overall rating: B
Marshall brings an experienced defense to Columbus. All 9 returning starters are seniors which will help on what will be a very tough road game for the Herd. Marshall was as dominant a defense as there was in the MAC last season, leading the conference in total defense (329.8/game) and passing defense (177.4/game), and they were respectable against the run (152.4/game). They also led the conference in two very important, though somewhat overlooked, statistical categories: first downs allowed (184) and 3rd down conversion percentage converted (29.2%). The unit returns 24 letterwinners (losing only 6), so they should not miss a beat this season. The biggest weakness of this unit was turnovers, as they only produced 15 (110th nationally) which led to the schools turnover margin (-1.58/game) being only 114th/117. They were also outscored in the second half last season, including 80-66 in the fourth quarter, something the unit anxiously awaits their chance to improve on in 2004. The heart and soul of the defense rests in the trenches which will start 4 of the seniors.
Defensive Line
DE #50 Johnathan Goddard (6-0 246 Sr.)
DT #98 Reggie Hayes(6-3 288 Sr.)
DT #96 Jamaal Whyce (6-2 280 Sr.)
DE #99 Jamus Martin (6-2 224 Sr.)
Marshall is led on defense by all MAC defensive end Jamus Martin. Martin has been named to the 2004 Bronko Nagurski Trophy Watch List, which honors the top defensive player in the nation regardless of position. Martin was tied for the team lead in sacks (6.5) and second on the team in total tackles (80) and tackles for loss (15). Martin is known for his aggressive mentality and harassing presence in the offensive backfield. The other side of the defensive line will be held down by Johnathan Goddard. Goddard was credited for 68 tackles and 6.5 sacks during his junior campaign, and was a terror in the backfield, recording 20.5 tackles for loss. Goddard could be the MAC's most under-appreciated defensive player. When combined with Martin one could argue that they are the best tandem in the MAC.
Reggie Hayes is slated to go at one of the defensive tackle spots for Marshall. Hayes certainly knows how to irritate an offensive coordinator and he demonstrated this last season by registering 5.5 sacks and 14.5 tackles for loss, to go with 68 total tackles. He should prove a formidable challenge for the OSU big uglies down in the trenches. The other defensive tackle position will be filled by Jamaal Whyce. Whyce tallied up 25 tackles last season before coming down with an injury to his paw (hand).
The rotation of Whyce with Roger Garrett (#95) and Nate Howard (#75) should more than compensate for the departure of last year's other starter, Toranio Brown. Versatile Marcus Hairston (#35) could also see time at both end and tackle. Damarcus Thomas (#38) could also see time at end.
Linebackers
WLB #33 Dionte Wilson (6-2 221 Sr.)
MLB #5 Kevin Atkins(6-3 245 Sr.)
SLB #32 J.T. Rembert (6-1 235 Sr.)
The linebacker situation is not nearly as solid as the defensive line for the Herd, but they are all seniors (notice a pattern here). Kevin Atkins leads the linebacking corps from his middle backer spot. Atkins put together a nice junior season with 100 tackles, which led the team. Look for Atkins to be among the league's top tacklers again this season. J.T. Rembert will get the start on the strong side. Rembert suffered a tough shin injury during his junior season, and ended up playing sporadically, amassing 33 tackles. Rembert could be dangerous if he stays healthy, he was on the Butkus watch list last season. Dionte Wilson will hold down the fort on the weakside for Thundering Herd. Wilson piled up 70 tackles and 1 sack in 2003.
Sophomore Matt Couch (#47) is the anchor of the future for this unit in the middle, and will see time there this season. Juniors Carlos Morgan (#44) and Dennis Thornton (#30) are capable backups on the outside.
Secondary
CB #27 Willie Smith (6-0 194 Jr.)
CB #2 Roberto Terrell (5-8 175 Sr.)
SS #25 Curtis Keyes (6-0 187 So.)
FS #3 Moriah Anderson (6-2 188 Sr.)
Willie Smith looks to anchor the secondary and build upon his stellar sophomore season. Smith batted down 14 passes and piled up 54 tackles last season. He is known for his great physical presence and was voted the Thundering Herd’s 2003 defensive MVP. The other corner position will feature Roberto Tiny, ... uh, ... I mean Terrell. Standing 5-8 in platforms (yes ... Goldfish platforms for all you Disco Stu fans out there), Terrell will never be confused for Manute Bol. What Terrell lacks in height, he makes up in speed and agility. With 26 career starts to his name Terrell has found ways to overcome his height much like a man with the last name of Winfield did seasons ago. He was credited for 51 tackles and an interception last season.
Curits Keyes returns at strong safety, but will be pushed for time by Geremy Rodamer (#19). Moriah Anderson returns at free safety, and he will be pushed for time by punisihng hitter Chris Royal (#26). Senior Renaldo Williams (#28) is looking for a big year in the secondary as well, and will push for time at corner and in multiple defensive back situations. Look for Ivan Clark (#9) to see the field as well.
Overall rating: B
Marshall Thundering Herd Special Teams Preview
Returning Starters: 2
Marshall's kicking game is slightly below average. There's just no way to sugar coat it. Ben Lewis, their top place kicker and punter has moved on to life after college ball. Ben didn't exactly set the world on fire last season either. That leaves a few guys with some experience, but not much in the way of results.
Special Teams
PK #41 Nick Kelly (6-0 215 Jr.)
K #49 Ian O'Connor (6-2 185 So.)
P #42 Klint Rose (6-2 206 So.)
KR #34 Earl Charles (6-1 215 Sr.)
K/PR #26 Chris Royal (5-9 176 So.)
PR #80 Tremil Guillory (5-10 185 Sr.)
LS #97 Brett Riffey (6-1 195 So.)
Nick Kelly saw some action last season kicking behind Ben Lewis who has since graduated. Kelly was an unimpressive 4 of 7 attempts, 3 conversions coming from within 40 yards and the long being 43 yards. Kelly had no point after conversion opportunities, Ben Lewis took all PAT attempts, making 42 of 44. Range will be the issue for Kelly this season. Marshall's once high flying aerial attack will be more focused on the ground this season and won't be able to bail him out of many attempts at a long field goal. Look for sophomore kickoff specialist Ian O'Connor to push Kelly for playing time. Nick also handled half of the punting duties last year. He averaged 34.3 yards in 24 attempts, including 3 touchbacks, 2 fair catches and 5 punts downed inside the 20.
Handling the other half of the punting duties, Klint Rose, who averaged a seemingly respectable 38.5 yards per punt last season. Of the 22 punts, Klint had 1 touchback, 1 fair catch, 2 downed inside the 20 and 1 punt blocked. That seems to indicate the 38.5 yard average is a soft number. Too few punts were cut short by fair catch or downing inside to 20 to affect the average yards per punt. So the yards per punt isn't as respectable as it initially seems.
Chris Royal, Earl Charles and Tremil Guillory might be the only bright spots on the Marshall special teams. Royal averaged 18.7 yards per kick return on 7 attempts and had a long of 35 yards. Royal also had 12 punt returns last season for a 13.7 average and a long return of 70 yards. Guillory was less than spectacular, averaging 6.5 yards per return on 30 punts. Charles averaged 23.2 yards per kick return on 13 attempts and had a long of 53 yards. None of the 34 kicks or 42 punts were returned for a score.
Marshall's kick and punt coverage teams were also less than intimidating last season. The kick coverage squad gave up an average of 19.2 yards per attempt, while the punt coverage team allowed an average gain of 9.7 yards. Subtract that 9.7 from the average punting yardage of Kelly & Rose for a average net yardage of 24.6 and 28.8 on punts. Short punts and weak coverage on those punts must be a major concern for the staff.
Analysis
Marshall's special teams should be a focus of the coaching staff this season. While the return game was about average, the kicking game was lackluster at best. In an effort to cure the problem, Marshall tried "platooning" kickers and returners all season long with little effect. Two players split the attempts for field goals and punting. Likewise, 2 players split time on punt returns, and a total of 9 players tried their hand at kick returns. The short story is that someone needs to step up at each of these positions or Marshall will be hurting again in the special teams this season.
Overall Special Teams Rating: D+
Marshall's kicking game is slightly below average. There's just no way to sugar coat it. Ben Lewis, their top place kicker and punter has moved on to life after college ball. Ben didn't exactly set the world on fire last season either. That leaves a few guys with some experience, but not much in the way of results.
Special Teams
PK #41 Nick Kelly (6-0 215 Jr.)
K #49 Ian O'Connor (6-2 185 So.)
P #42 Klint Rose (6-2 206 So.)
KR #34 Earl Charles (6-1 215 Sr.)
K/PR #26 Chris Royal (5-9 176 So.)
PR #80 Tremil Guillory (5-10 185 Sr.)
LS #97 Brett Riffey (6-1 195 So.)
Nick Kelly saw some action last season kicking behind Ben Lewis who has since graduated. Kelly was an unimpressive 4 of 7 attempts, 3 conversions coming from within 40 yards and the long being 43 yards. Kelly had no point after conversion opportunities, Ben Lewis took all PAT attempts, making 42 of 44. Range will be the issue for Kelly this season. Marshall's once high flying aerial attack will be more focused on the ground this season and won't be able to bail him out of many attempts at a long field goal. Look for sophomore kickoff specialist Ian O'Connor to push Kelly for playing time. Nick also handled half of the punting duties last year. He averaged 34.3 yards in 24 attempts, including 3 touchbacks, 2 fair catches and 5 punts downed inside the 20.
Handling the other half of the punting duties, Klint Rose, who averaged a seemingly respectable 38.5 yards per punt last season. Of the 22 punts, Klint had 1 touchback, 1 fair catch, 2 downed inside the 20 and 1 punt blocked. That seems to indicate the 38.5 yard average is a soft number. Too few punts were cut short by fair catch or downing inside to 20 to affect the average yards per punt. So the yards per punt isn't as respectable as it initially seems.
Chris Royal, Earl Charles and Tremil Guillory might be the only bright spots on the Marshall special teams. Royal averaged 18.7 yards per kick return on 7 attempts and had a long of 35 yards. Royal also had 12 punt returns last season for a 13.7 average and a long return of 70 yards. Guillory was less than spectacular, averaging 6.5 yards per return on 30 punts. Charles averaged 23.2 yards per kick return on 13 attempts and had a long of 53 yards. None of the 34 kicks or 42 punts were returned for a score.
Marshall's kick and punt coverage teams were also less than intimidating last season. The kick coverage squad gave up an average of 19.2 yards per attempt, while the punt coverage team allowed an average gain of 9.7 yards. Subtract that 9.7 from the average punting yardage of Kelly & Rose for a average net yardage of 24.6 and 28.8 on punts. Short punts and weak coverage on those punts must be a major concern for the staff.
Analysis
Marshall's special teams should be a focus of the coaching staff this season. While the return game was about average, the kicking game was lackluster at best. In an effort to cure the problem, Marshall tried "platooning" kickers and returners all season long with little effect. Two players split the attempts for field goals and punting. Likewise, 2 players split time on punt returns, and a total of 9 players tried their hand at kick returns. The short story is that someone needs to step up at each of these positions or Marshall will be hurting again in the special teams this season.
Overall Special Teams Rating: D+
Predictions
FKAGobucks877's prediction: 27-13, Ohio State
daddyphatsac's prediction: 31-14, Ohio State
Bucklion's prediction: 21-12, Ohio State
3yardsandacloud's prediction: 34-21, Ohio State
osugrad21's prediction: 35-10, Ohio State
daddyphatsac's prediction: 31-14, Ohio State
Bucklion's prediction: 21-12, Ohio State
3yardsandacloud's prediction: 34-21, Ohio State
osugrad21's prediction: 35-10, Ohio State
Additional Information
Rebuild or Reload
Starters Returning: 15 (Offense 5, Defense 9, Special Teams 2)
Letterman Returning: 43 (Offense 17, Defense 24, Special Teams 3)
Letterman Lost: 3
Incoming Recruits:
Letterman Returning: 43 (Offense 17, Defense 24, Special Teams 3)
Letterman Lost: 3
Incoming Recruits:
Emanuel Spann (5-11, 170, WR, Westlake H.S., Atlanta, Ga.)
Marcus Fitzgerald (5-10, 195, RB, Academy of Holy Angles. Minneapolis, Minn.)
Jason Kaminski (6-3, 225, LB, Hargrave Military/C.D. Hylton H.S., Woodbridge, Va.)
Joe Bragg (6-4, 254, TE, Morgantown H.S., Morgantown, W.Va.)
Jeff Bush (6-3, 225, DE, Jack Britt H.S., Fayetteville, N.C.)
Bilal El-Amin (6-3, 240, DE, Lafayette H.S., Lexington, Ky.)
Jermaine Filer (6-3, 190, WR/DB, Countryside H.S., Clearwater, Fla.)
Phillip Gamble (5-11, 190, RB/KR, Bainbridge H.S., Bainbridge, Ga.)
Demone Goins (6-3, 210, QB/FS, Lumberton H.S., Lumberton, Miss.)
Ian Hoskins (6-2, 190, FS, Campbellsville H.S., Campbellsville, Ky.)
James Houston (6-2, 183, CB/FS/QB, Starmount H.S., Booneville, N.C.)
Maurice Kitchens (6-3, 225, LB, William Fleming H.S./Roanoke, Va.)
Antonio Leath (5-7, 170, RB, Cummings H.S./Burlington, N.C.)
Doug Legursky (6-3, 308, OL, Woodrow Wilson H.S., Beckley, W.Va.)
Deondrea Lindsey (5-11, 180, RB, St. Petersburg Catholic H.S., St. Petersburg, Fla.)
Blake Merritt (6-4, 265, DE, Hargrave Academy/East Wake H.S., Wendell, N.C.)
Jon Moravec (6-0, 190, S/KR, Linganore H.S., Frederick, Md.)
Matt Parkhurst (6-3, 245, TE, St. Josephs Prep, Philadelphia, Pa.)
Mandell Smith (6-3, 190, WR, Holmes C.C. (Miss.), Northview H.S., Century, Fla.)
Sam Walker (6-1, 185, FS/WR/KR, Englewood H.S., Jacksonville, Fla.)
Floyd Wright (6-0, 271, DE, Moorpark College (Ca.)/Hayfield H.S., Hayfield, Va.)
Summary: This is an excellent group as a whole, covering most of the positions on the field and extensive regions of the country. The marquis name here is probably all-everything RB Marcus Fitzgerald, younger brother of standout Pittsburgh receiver Larry Fitzgerald. He rushed for 1300 yards and was team MVP as a senior. He is also already in the Marshall system. Additionally, Spann could quickly become a weapon in the receiving corps, and Kaminski helped his team to 2 state championships. This class is deep and covers most of the major positions, indicating the potential for the class to shape the team top-to-bottom as upperclassmen. It is widely regarded as the best class in the MAC this year, and should springboard the team into conference USA play in 2005 and beyond. With 10 of the 15 returning starters seniors, Marshall will again look to win the MAC. Well, Marshall always looks to win the MAC.Marcus Fitzgerald (5-10, 195, RB, Academy of Holy Angles. Minneapolis, Minn.)
Jason Kaminski (6-3, 225, LB, Hargrave Military/C.D. Hylton H.S., Woodbridge, Va.)
Joe Bragg (6-4, 254, TE, Morgantown H.S., Morgantown, W.Va.)
Jeff Bush (6-3, 225, DE, Jack Britt H.S., Fayetteville, N.C.)
Bilal El-Amin (6-3, 240, DE, Lafayette H.S., Lexington, Ky.)
Jermaine Filer (6-3, 190, WR/DB, Countryside H.S., Clearwater, Fla.)
Phillip Gamble (5-11, 190, RB/KR, Bainbridge H.S., Bainbridge, Ga.)
Demone Goins (6-3, 210, QB/FS, Lumberton H.S., Lumberton, Miss.)
Ian Hoskins (6-2, 190, FS, Campbellsville H.S., Campbellsville, Ky.)
James Houston (6-2, 183, CB/FS/QB, Starmount H.S., Booneville, N.C.)
Maurice Kitchens (6-3, 225, LB, William Fleming H.S./Roanoke, Va.)
Antonio Leath (5-7, 170, RB, Cummings H.S./Burlington, N.C.)
Doug Legursky (6-3, 308, OL, Woodrow Wilson H.S., Beckley, W.Va.)
Deondrea Lindsey (5-11, 180, RB, St. Petersburg Catholic H.S., St. Petersburg, Fla.)
Blake Merritt (6-4, 265, DE, Hargrave Academy/East Wake H.S., Wendell, N.C.)
Jon Moravec (6-0, 190, S/KR, Linganore H.S., Frederick, Md.)
Matt Parkhurst (6-3, 245, TE, St. Josephs Prep, Philadelphia, Pa.)
Mandell Smith (6-3, 190, WR, Holmes C.C. (Miss.), Northview H.S., Century, Fla.)
Sam Walker (6-1, 185, FS/WR/KR, Englewood H.S., Jacksonville, Fla.)
Floyd Wright (6-0, 271, DE, Moorpark College (Ca.)/Hayfield H.S., Hayfield, Va.)
Awards & Recognition
Preseason-Conference
2004 MAC Football Media Preseason Poll
MAC West
School (1st place votes)...Points
1. Toledo (34)...................278
2. Northern Illinois (3)........225
3. BGSU (3).......................223
4. Western Michigan (1)......154
5. Ball State.......................118
6. Central Michigan.............84
7. Eastern Michigan.............66
MAC East
School (1st place votes)....Points
1. Marshall (21).................258
2. Miami (18).....................257
3. Akron (1).......................188
4. UCF...............................176
5. Kent State (1)................119
6. Ohio...............................82
7. Buffalo...........................67
Votes to win MAC Championship game:
Toledo...................22
Marshall.................9
BGSU.....................3
Miami.....................3
Northern Illinois.......3
Akron.....................1
Preseason-National
Davey O'Brien Award Watch List
QB - Stan Hill, Marshall
Bronko Nagurski Watch List
DE - Jamus Martin, Marshall
Lombardi Trophy Watch List
LB - Kevin Atkins, Marshall
DE - Jamus Martin, Marshall
Doak Walker Award Watch List
RB - Earl Charles, Marshall
2004 MAC Football Media Preseason Poll
MAC West
School (1st place votes)...Points
1. Toledo (34)...................278
2. Northern Illinois (3)........225
3. BGSU (3).......................223
4. Western Michigan (1)......154
5. Ball State.......................118
6. Central Michigan.............84
7. Eastern Michigan.............66
MAC East
School (1st place votes)....Points
1. Marshall (21).................258
2. Miami (18).....................257
3. Akron (1).......................188
4. UCF...............................176
5. Kent State (1)................119
6. Ohio...............................82
7. Buffalo...........................67
Votes to win MAC Championship game:
Toledo...................22
Marshall.................9
BGSU.....................3
Miami.....................3
Northern Illinois.......3
Akron.....................1
Preseason-National
Davey O'Brien Award Watch List
QB - Stan Hill, Marshall
Bronko Nagurski Watch List
DE - Jamus Martin, Marshall
Lombardi Trophy Watch List
LB - Kevin Atkins, Marshall
DE - Jamus Martin, Marshall
Doak Walker Award Watch List
RB - Earl Charles, Marshall
Historical Data
Marshall Thundering Herd (Huntington, West Virginia) Founded in 1837
Football 1st Season: 1895
Stadium: Marshall University - 1991 (38,016)
Conference: Mid-American Athletic Conference (since 1997). Marshall will join Conference USA in 2005
Colors: Green & White
Mascot: Buffalo (Marco)
College Classification: Marshall has played as a D-IA (or equivalent) since 1997. They have bounced between small and major conference classification previous to 1997
Conference Championships: 12 total, 5 since joining MAC, 1997-2000 and 2002. Marshall has won the East Division of the MAC from 1997 thru 2002.
Head Coach: Bob Pruett (61 years old) is 88-17-0 at Marshall (.838). Bob is the the 26th Head Coach at Marshall. In 5 of his 8 years at Marshall, Bob has been recognized by the AFCA for a graduation rate of at least 70%. He was just the second coach in history to have posted 15 victories in his first season as a head coach and was just the second to have posted an undefeated and untied record in his first season. The two gentlemen who accomplished those feats first were George Woodruff and the legendary Walter Camp, in 1892 and 1888 respectively. His .838 win percentage is tops among active D-1A or D1-AA coaches with at least 5 years as head coach. Bob has had previous assistant coaching stints at: Florida, Tulane, Mississippi, Wake Forest and Marshall. Pruett came to Marshall as a halfback in 1961, but moved to end in 62-63. An all-around athlete, Bob also earned letters in 3 years at Marshall in both wrestling and track.
Consensus All-Americans: 1 (incomplete data)
College Hall-of-Famers: 6 players and 3 coaches in the divisional HOF
Pro Hall-of-Famers: 1 (Frank Gatski - also played at Auburn)
Award Winners: 1 Sammy Baugh, 1 Biletnikoff, 1 Payton
National Championships: 2 (1992 & 1996) at the D-1AA level, none at the D-1A level
Number of AP/Coaches final rankings: AP-2 years, Coaches-3 years (also, a total of 8 different years as a D-1AA school)
Football 1st Season: 1895
Stadium: Marshall University - 1991 (38,016)
Conference: Mid-American Athletic Conference (since 1997). Marshall will join Conference USA in 2005
Colors: Green & White
Mascot: Buffalo (Marco)
College Classification: Marshall has played as a D-IA (or equivalent) since 1997. They have bounced between small and major conference classification previous to 1997
Conference Championships: 12 total, 5 since joining MAC, 1997-2000 and 2002. Marshall has won the East Division of the MAC from 1997 thru 2002.
Head Coach: Bob Pruett (61 years old) is 88-17-0 at Marshall (.838). Bob is the the 26th Head Coach at Marshall. In 5 of his 8 years at Marshall, Bob has been recognized by the AFCA for a graduation rate of at least 70%. He was just the second coach in history to have posted 15 victories in his first season as a head coach and was just the second to have posted an undefeated and untied record in his first season. The two gentlemen who accomplished those feats first were George Woodruff and the legendary Walter Camp, in 1892 and 1888 respectively. His .838 win percentage is tops among active D-1A or D1-AA coaches with at least 5 years as head coach. Bob has had previous assistant coaching stints at: Florida, Tulane, Mississippi, Wake Forest and Marshall. Pruett came to Marshall as a halfback in 1961, but moved to end in 62-63. An all-around athlete, Bob also earned letters in 3 years at Marshall in both wrestling and track.
Consensus All-Americans: 1 (incomplete data)
College Hall-of-Famers: 6 players and 3 coaches in the divisional HOF
Pro Hall-of-Famers: 1 (Frank Gatski - also played at Auburn)
Award Winners: 1 Sammy Baugh, 1 Biletnikoff, 1 Payton
National Championships: 2 (1992 & 1996) at the D-1AA level, none at the D-1A level
Number of AP/Coaches final rankings: AP-2 years, Coaches-3 years (also, a total of 8 different years as a D-1AA school)
Records
All Time: 493-458-47 (.518)
125-170-3 (.424) at the D1A level since rejoining that class in 1997
Home 79-70-1 (.530), Away 40-99-2 (.291), Neutral 6-1-0 (.857)
Bowl Games: 5-1-0 (.833), most recently a win against Louisville (2002) in the GMAC Bowl
All Time vs the BigTen: 0-3-0 (.000)
Marshall is 0-1-0 as a D1A opponent of the Big Ten. A loss to Michigan State (5-6-0 for the year) in 2000 was the only game played at the D1A level vs. the Big Ten
All Time vs the Ohio State: 0-0-0 (No previous meetings)
Last Season: Marshall finished 8-4-0 (.666)
W - Hofstra (NY)
L - Tennessee
L - Toledo (OH)
W - Kansas St.
L - Troy St. (AL)
W - Kent St. (OH)
W - Buffalo (NY)
W - Western Michigan
W - Akron (OH)
L - Miami (OH)
W - Central Florida
W - Ohio
Last 5 Years: 51-13-0 (.797)
Last 10 Years: 112-22-0 (.836), 73-17-0 (.811) at the D1A level since rejoining that class in 1997
125-170-3 (.424) at the D1A level since rejoining that class in 1997
Home 79-70-1 (.530), Away 40-99-2 (.291), Neutral 6-1-0 (.857)
Bowl Games: 5-1-0 (.833), most recently a win against Louisville (2002) in the GMAC Bowl
All Time vs the BigTen: 0-3-0 (.000)
Marshall is 0-1-0 as a D1A opponent of the Big Ten. A loss to Michigan State (5-6-0 for the year) in 2000 was the only game played at the D1A level vs. the Big Ten
All Time vs the Ohio State: 0-0-0 (No previous meetings)
Last Season: Marshall finished 8-4-0 (.666)
W - Hofstra (NY)
L - Tennessee
L - Toledo (OH)
W - Kansas St.
L - Troy St. (AL)
W - Kent St. (OH)
W - Buffalo (NY)
W - Western Michigan
W - Akron (OH)
L - Miami (OH)
W - Central Florida
W - Ohio
Last 5 Years: 51-13-0 (.797)
Last 10 Years: 112-22-0 (.836), 73-17-0 (.811) at the D1A level since rejoining that class in 1997
Links
Official Sites:
Official Athletic Site - Herd Zone
Roster & Coaching Staff (Old 2003-See the 2004 Prospectus for a current Roster) - Herd Zone
DE Jamus Martin Named to Nagurski Trophy Watch List - Herd Zone
Previews/Breakdowns:
NCAA Football Preview - Marshall - Sports Network
Thundering Herd Loaded (Marshall Preview) - The O-Zone
Marshall 2004 Preview - CFN
Marshall 2004 Offensive Preview - CFN
Marshall 2004 Defensive Preview - CFN
Marshall 2004 Inside Scoop - CFN
Marshall Player Profile (Earl Charles) - CFN
Prospectus:
2004 Prospectus (PDF) - Herd Zone
Message Boards:
Message Boards - (Insiders)
Message Boards - (Rivals)
Message Boards - (Independent-The Herd Sports Page)
Message Boards - (Independent-Herd Grapevine)
Message Boards - (Independent-Thundering Experience)
Local News Sources:
Herald-Dispatch - Local News
Official Athletic Site - Herd Zone
Roster & Coaching Staff (Old 2003-See the 2004 Prospectus for a current Roster) - Herd Zone
DE Jamus Martin Named to Nagurski Trophy Watch List - Herd Zone
Previews/Breakdowns:
NCAA Football Preview - Marshall - Sports Network
Thundering Herd Loaded (Marshall Preview) - The O-Zone
Marshall 2004 Preview - CFN
Marshall 2004 Offensive Preview - CFN
Marshall 2004 Defensive Preview - CFN
Marshall 2004 Inside Scoop - CFN
Marshall Player Profile (Earl Charles) - CFN
Prospectus:
2004 Prospectus (PDF) - Herd Zone
Message Boards:
Message Boards - (Insiders)
Message Boards - (Rivals)
Message Boards - (Independent-The Herd Sports Page)
Message Boards - (Independent-Herd Grapevine)
Message Boards - (Independent-Thundering Experience)
Local News Sources:
Herald-Dispatch - Local News
Notes of interest
• In 2002, Marshall became the first university to eliminate landline telephones from its dormitory rooms. All Marshall students who live in residence halls now receive their own mobile phones.
• Previous school nicknames (non-official) included: Judges, Indians, Boogercats, Big Green, Rams, and Green Gobblers. The Athletic fund raising arm is still called Big Green.
• Marshall overcame one of the greatest disasters in American sports, when on November 14, 1970, a plane crash killed 75 players, coaches, and fans returning from a game against East Carolina University. The program and all the people associated with it demonstrated great character and perseverance to overcome the great devastation this event brought to the Marshall family. To read more about the tragedy, including reading about the situation as it occurred and the people involved, go to: Marshall Tragedy - HD Online
• Marshall’s upset of KansasState in Manhattan last season was monumental for the program in several regards. It was the highest ranking team ever beaten by a MAC school (#6) and it was also the first time in school history they beat a team in the AP Top 25. The win ended KSU’s 41 straight over non-conference opponents and their 39 in a row at home over non-conference foes.
• Home field advantage: Marshall is 98-6 at Joan C. Edwards stadium. Bob Pruett is 53-2 there.
• Marshall and Central Florida will leave the MAC for Conference USA in 2005 as part of the nationwide radical conference realignment. They will be joined by Rice, SMU, ands Tulsa from the WAC.
• Bob Pruett (88-17) is only the second coach in school history to coach 100 games at Marshall. Cam Henderson was 68-46 from 1935-1949.
Note: Statistical data was complied using a variety of sources, including:
Stassen (Chris Stassen) - Data
College Football Data Warehouse - Data
Two Cousins College Football Emporium - Data
American College Football-RSFC (Dave Wilson) - Data
D1A Football (Formerly WALJ 10 College Football) - Data
National Champs.net - Data
Hickok Sports - Data
