The Transfer played a few downs yesterday but was not the guy who made things hard for the Linfield D yesterday---That QB has been on the Roster since 2006 and had a lot of playing time 2 years ago. . However, the offense that UPS employed yesterday was much different than what they've shown in the rest of the games because their starting QB (K. Williams) did not play. He is the running QB and for whatever reason, the coaches have stuck with a run heavy offense all season despite the results. Yesterday, the passing QB played the whole game (except for a play or two where he was banged up). UPS threw more passes yesterday than they have in all the other games combined. I suspect that the Cats weren't expecting this but that certainly doesn't explain their difficulty adjusting. I'm hoping that we can flush this one and get the D back on track for PLU and the play-offs.
Haven't had a chance to get online for a couple of days. UPS has run that option offense for a number of years, which has made Crace the backup since he is not much of a runner. He has played well when he has gotten the chance, but my guess is that we'll be back in the option this week against the Bearcats. The transfer from Sac State has been on the bench for most of the year. UPS does have several young receivers (especially Zuhl, #2, a freshman) that make running a balanced offense next year a necessity.
I don't know enough about the D3 powers to know who runs the short passing game like UPS used, but my guess is that Linfield will be ready for it when the playoffs roll around as it is needed. I am not an apologist for the Cats - I just think Crace is as good at that offense as anyone in the conference.
Linfield's offense was outstanding. The Loggers started two freshman d-backs, and Boehme went after them all game. The o-line gave him great protection except for one breakdown in the first half. One of the UPS players I know said that the tackles were studs, better than UWW's linemen.
UPS in young, and I hope that means we'll be better in the next couple of years. Good luck to the Cats - stay focused on PLU - they have a good passing game, too!