I rewatched the MSU/EWU game to get a better understanding of what EWU was doing to score 35 on MSU. In the first half EWU was attacking the edges with their run game and quick hitting passes. Their first two TDs came on #23, their best running back, scoring on big chunk plays. One on the right side and one on the left. In the second half MSU made the adjustment of spreading their DEs a bit wider and that aspect of EWU's game was nuetralized. Both teams had good interior D linemen. MSU also made a big effort to take away the quick hitting passes to the outside. To EWU's credit, they then ran some effective post patterns. EWU's QB is short on one end, but MSU's pass rush wasn't getting their hands up in the passing lanes. Gunner seemed to be effective when he was scrambling or on the run. Under pressure, he did throw up some questionable passes.
MSU probably could have dominated this game if they had just stuck to their off tackle running game. The MSU O mostly stopped themselves with bad penalties and ill advised passes. When MSU tossed an interception in the endzone, EWU could have run the 3:46 off the clock and won the game with a little ball control. However, their top running back put the ball on the carpet on the first play. MSU used 3 running plays off tackle to win it.
Our keys to stop EWU will be to take away the edge running game, pressure their QB/get hands up, and get the ball when he throws it up for grabs. I will be disapointed if we don't come away with at least 2 interceptions and 1 fumble recovery. 4 or 5 sacks also seems about right.
On O, we need to run off tackle and bounce some runs to the outside. We should run a bunch. I feel that we can pass against their secondary as well. Just keep the passing game simple.
We may get a few chances for some return yards. Probably not on kickoffs, but certainly on punts and interceptions.
Against MSU, their punter was quite vulnerable to getting blocked. We could see that.
I think that I will stick to my prediction.