NEC Pick'em Week 4

[Original_RMC]

Week 4 Games
Albany @ Duquesne
Bryant @ CCSU
Monmouth vs. Old Dominion
RMU @ Wagner
Sacred Heart @ Dartmouth

Bye Week
SFPA

[aceinthehole]

A great set of games this week!

I think RMU-Wagner has to be the 'NEC Game of the Week' and will be on TV live (MSG Network and Fox College Sports)

The other 2 NEC games are huge for an early leg up in the standing - Bryant @ CCSU / Albany @ Duquesne

And after a suprising and disapointing loss to SFPA, Sacred Heart gets to face its first Ivy opponent.

[danefan]

I have to wait and see the game notes for Albany before I can pick any games. If Drew Smith is healthy I'll take Albany. If not, I'll have to really think about it.

[89Hen]

Albany @ Duquesne
Bryant @ CCSU
Monmouth vs. Old Dominion
RMU @ Wagner
Sacred Heart @ Dartmouth

[CoachL]

Albany @ Duquesne - "Homer" pick inasmuch as the Duquesne team is vastly improved over 2009's injury-riddled squad. I'm not sure that Albany has the means this year to completely shut down: 1.) the best receiver corps in the NEC - Conner Dixon (Michigan State transfer, now fully recovered from the flu from which he was suffering during Delaware week), Dave Williams (Michigan State transfer - preseason All-NEC pick), Sean Bunevich (fully-healed 2007 All-MAAC and 2008 All-NEC TE), Akeem Moore (possibly our biggest receiver threat - hopefully back from ankle sprain suffered against Dayton), Joe Cangilla (15.6 ypc average so far this year), and RB's coming out of the backfield who can catch and have fine yac stats; 2.) a strong and mobile QB in Sean Patterson; 3.) 2009's top freshman RB in the FCS, Larry McCoy, who is out to prove that his sub-par 59 yards against Albany last year was an aberration.

Duquesne's defense (while it still needs a bit of work) is 100% better than the 2009 version. Delaware ran the ball at will against the Dukes, but I don't see Albany's OL coming anything close to Delaware's, and Albany does not have Andrew Pierce .

55-10 was last year. I don't believe that Albany's team is as good as their 2009 team; Duquesne is vastly improved; and the game is on The Bluff. Advantage: Duquesne

Bryant @ CCSU - I think that the "upstart" NEC newcomers from RI take this close one.

Monmouth vs. Old Dominion - I hope that I'm wrong, but this one is just a (bad) feeling.

RMU @ Wagner - Which Robert Morris team shows up this week? Which Wagner team shows up this week?

Sacred Heart @ Dartmouth - They can't throw 7 (seven! ) interceptions this week, can they? The Sacred Heart QBs must have been confused by the red jerseys of St. Francis. Not a problem this week.

[danefan]

Albany @ Duquesne - "Homer" pick inasmuch as the Duquesne team is vastly improved over 2009's injury-riddled squad. I'm not sure that Albany has the means this year to completely shut down: 1.) the best receiver corps in the NEC - Conner Dixon (Michigan State transfer, now fully recovered from the flu from which he was suffering during Delaware week), Dave Williams (Michigan State transfer), Sean Bunevich (fully-healed 2007 All-MAAC and 2008 All-NEC TE), Akeem Moore (possibly our biggest receiver threat - hopefully back from ankle sprain suffered against Dayton), Joe Cangilla (15.6 ypc average so far this year), and RB's coming out of the backfield who can catch and have fine yac stats; 2.) a strong and mobile QB in Sean Patterson; 3.) 2009's top freshman RB in the FCS, Larry McCoy, who is out to prove that his sub-par 59 yards against Albany last year was an aberration.

Duquesne's defense (while it still needs a bit of work) is 100% better than the 2009 version. Delaware ran the ball at will against the Dukes, but I don't see Albany's OL coming anything close to Delaware's, and Albany does not have Andrew Pierce .

55-10 was last year. I don't believe that Albany's team is as good as their 2009 team; Duquesne is vastly improved; and the game is on The Bluff. Advantage: Duquesne

Bryant @ CCSU - I think that the "upstart" NEC newcomers from RI take this close one.

Monmouth vs. Old Dominion - I hope that I'm wrong, but this one is just a (bad) feeling.

RMU @ Wagner - Which Robert Morris team shows up this week? Which Wagner team shows up this week?

Sacred Heart @ Dartmouth - They can't throw 7 (seven! ) interceptions this week, can they? The Sacred Heart QBs must have been confused by the red jerseys of St. Francis. Not a problem this week.

I can't argue with your analysis of Duquesne, but I can say that I think this year's Albany team is actually quite a bit better than last year's team. This should be a good one though. The last trip to Duquesne in 2008 was a close one if I remember correctly.

I'll have a better idea on the matchup when I figure out if we're healed.

[dgreco]

Albany @ Duquesne - The Dukes have been impressive so far and before they let it get away because of the new "AP" they looked really good. They were throwing the ball around and running with conviction. Unfortunately the defense seemed to struggle and once a few plays broke they fell apart. I have a feeling Albany will do the same, I do not think it will be a blowout, but Albany should win with only a little stress.

Bryant @ CCSU - I think Bryant has gotten the offense into gear and they need to work on their defense. Going up against probably the fastest and most athletic offense in the NEC will not be easy, but CCSU has had some big losses (player wise). Mallory being the obvious, but they have also lost a good TE, their starting Center and a few DBs (which should help Bryant) and filling holes as you go is never easy. Coach Fine raves about CCSU being the best team in the NEC and will be tough to beat because they are playing from a hole now trying to compete for the playoffs. The prior two games have been close and decided because of special teams, this time I think Bryant comes out quick, like every other game so far, and holds on barely.

Monmouth vs. Old Dominion - ODU has played some good games so far this season and Monmouth hasn't had the best play so far. The Hawks had an off week to prepare and I think that helps them, especially when making adjustments on the fly. I think Monmouth squeaks out the win.

RMU vs. Wagner - RMU has had a start similar to last year, slow, and then they came on. If they are already on the upswing then they have a nice shot at the playoffs. I think RMU takes this game.

Sacred Heart @ Dartmouth - Sacred Heart really underperformed last week and unfortunately I think they will again this upcoming weekend. Even though they may underperform I think they have a shot to win the game, unfortunately Dartmouth will probably win this game.

[FAMU Rattler70]

Albany @ Duquesne
Bryant @ CCSU
Monmouth vs. Old Dominion
RMU @ Wagner
Sacred Heart @ Dartmouth

[Dane96]

Albany @ Duquesne
Bryant @ CCSU
Monmouth vs. Old Dominion
RMU @ Wagner
Sacred Heart @ Dartmouth

[danefan]

OK I'm ready now:

Albany @ Duquesne - this game will be very similar to 2008. Whether its Drew Smith, Dillon Romain or Tremain Wilson at RB for the Danes won't really matter. We'll pound the ball and break a few big plays. Dixon will get a couple big catches himself, but even he will look like he's running in slow motion after playing against the receivers SFA has. I'm taking the Danes on the road by 10.

Bryant @ CCSU - Bryant is actually really good. the offense has some confidence now. This will be close but I think Bryant pulls it out in the end.

Monmouth vs. Old Dominion - ODU lost to Jacksonville. Monmouth is better than Jacksonville.

RMU @ Wagner - RMU is riding high and will keep it going. Another big day for the Colonials on the ground.

Sacred Heart @ Dartmouth - I have to think that Fink got all his INTs for the year out in last week's game. I'm taking the NEC over the Ivy's every week this. year.

[andy7171]

Albany @ Duquesne
Bryant @ CCSU
Monmouth vs. Old Dominion
RMU @ Wagner
Sacred Heart @ Dartmouth

[Seahawks]

Albany @ Duquesne
Bryant @ CCSU
Monmouth vs. Old Dominion
RMU @ Wagner
Sacred Heart @ Dartmouth

[seahawkfan2010]

Albany @ Duquesne: I think this is an even match up and will pick the home team by a FG. Duquesne 24-21
Bryant @ CCSU: Bryant's early season win vs. Fordham was impressive. Close call but I am going with Bryant 31-24
Monmouth (H) Old Dominion: ODU had a close one with William&Mary last week and the Hawks have come up just a little short against two quality opponents (Colgate and Maine). Monmouth bounces back to win this one 30-17.
RMU @ Wagner: Last week the Seahawks lit up their new video scorboard vs. Cornell. RMU had one of the most impressive wins in NEC history vs. #15 Liberty. Forget about Wagner's annual opening day dud vs. a D2, I like Wagner in a close one 24-20.
SHU @ Dartmouth: I don't know if St. Francis (Pa) is that much improved or SHU is just not very good but either way SHU will have trouble recovering from last weeks mess. Dartmouth 34-14

[Mvemjsunpx]

Albany @ Duquesne
Bryant @ CCSU
Monmouth vs. Old Dominion
RMU @ Wagner
Sacred Heart @ Dartmouth

[CoachL]

I can't argue with your analysis of Duquesne, but I can say that I think this year's Albany team is actually quite a bit better than last year's team.

I just have to ask, danefan...

Albany lost a reported 17 starters from last year's squad. That number includes Albany's all-time leading rusher David McCarthy; the entire starting linebacker corps; Albany's #2 all-time passer Vinny Esposito; and others. And yet you state that you "think this year's Albany team is actually quite a bit better than last year's team"? In what ways? I confess that I just don't see it. You're obviously closer to the situation. I sincerely would like your thoughts on why you think that this Albany team is better than 2009, or even 2008 or 2007 for that matter.

I am quite sure that the guys that have stepped up this year are not chopped liver, and (as Maine can attest) Albany is still a powerful threat in the NEC. I have also posted that I believe that the NEC is one of the most (if not the most) competitive FCS conferences in intra-conference play in 2010. Not one single game in NEC play this year is a "gimme". Not one. Ask Sacred Heart.

I truly believe that this Saturday's game between Albany and Duquesne is going to be a slugfest, just like the entire 2010 NEC schedule. The last team standing wins. The last team standing heads to the playoffs. There is going to be some terrific football being played in the NEC this year. It's a pity that I won't be seeing any of them in person.

[danefan]

I can't argue with your analysis of Duquesne, but I can say that I think this year's Albany team is actually quite a bit better than last year's team.

I just have to ask, danefan...

Albany lost a reported 17 starters from last year's squad. That number includes Albany's all-time leading rusher David McCarthy; the entire starting linebacker corps; Albany's #2 all-time passer Vinny Esposito; and others. And yet you state that you "think this year's Albany team is actually quite a bit better than last year's team"? In what ways? I confess that I just don't see it. You're obviously closer to the situation. I sincerely would like your thoughts on why you think that this Albany team is better than 2009, or even 2008 or 2007 for that matter.

I am quite sure that the guys that have stepped up this year are not chopped liver, and (as Maine can attest) Albany is still a powerful threat in the NEC. I have also posted that I believe that the NEC is one of the most (if not the most) competitive FCS conferences in intra-conference play in 2010. Not one single game in NEC play this year is a "gimme". Not one. Ask Sacred Heart.

I truly believe that this Saturday's game between Albany and Duquesne is going to be a slugfest, just like the entire 2010 NEC schedule. The last team standing wins. The last team standing heads to the playoffs. There is going to be some terrific football being played in the NEC this year. It's a pity that I won't be seeing any of them in person.

A couple reasons why I think this team is better than last year's:

1. Solid two-deep O-line, all of whom had significant playing time last year.
2. Drew Smith is a game changing RB/QB/WR. You'll know more about him after Saturday.
3. Our two QBs (freshman and junior) are both better passers than Vinny Espisito was.
4. Our defensive line is pretty much back in tact.
5. Despite losing a number of starters from defense, those guys were starters in name only. The guys that are playing now are guys that had significant playing time.

I wasn't sure what to think before the season. I was worried about our RB depth. I'm no longer worried. Drew Smith will rotate with two solid young Freshman RBs - Tremaine Wilson and Dillon Romain. Wilson probably won't play against the Dukes, but you'll get to know Romain pretty quickly as well.

I was also worried about our QB play. Dan DiLella is a solid QB that will do fine in the NEC. His backup, which could take over at some point is freshman Buddy Leathey. He also looked pretty good in the garbage time at SFA.

Overall, the team is more athletic and well rounded than last year. This class of redshirts is the best we've ever had at Albany.

[Original_RMC]

Excellent break down on Albany...makes that game even tougher to pick now

[Ruler]

To add to Danefan's point about Andrew Smith # 10. He is a big physical back (225-230lbs) that is VERY fast. You should remember him from last year as he went 90 yrds from LOS against Duquesne if I am not mistaken. He put up almost 150 yards against Georgia Southern last year. In my opinion he could be playing for an FBS school somewhere. His back ups Wilson and Romain from what I witnessed from the SFA game was they were very fast.

[danefan]

To add to Danefan's point about Andrew Smith # 10. He is a big physical back (225-230lbs) that is VERY fast. You should remember him from last year as he went 90 yrds from LOS against Duquesne if I am not mistaken. He put up almost 150 yards against Georgia Southern last year. In my opinion he could be playing for an FBS school somewhere. His back ups Wilson and Romain from what I witnessed from the SFA game was they were very fast.

I forgot about last year against Duquesne. Smith went for 94 yards on 9 carries including a 58 yard TD run.

And I'm hoping that Fordie figures out some effective way to get all three guys in the game at the same time. That will give any defense fits.

Three more years with all of these guys too.

[CoachL]

Thanks, danefan! I really appreciate your thoughts and analysis.

It should be a great game on Saturday. I wish I could be there.

[aceinthehole]

Albany @ Duquesne - UA has played a very tough schedule, but they are struggling to score. They have a lot to replace from last year and haven't hit stride yet. The Dukes are pretty balanced and they are playing at home, so I'll take them in a close one.

Bryant @ CCSU - Bryant has just been explosive, albiet against two D-II team and a questionable Fordham. But the fact is this team can run the ball well. Central is horrible against the run and will struggle mightly in this game. However, I think CCSU has the size and speed to overcome its shortcomings vs the Bulldogs. Again, take the home team in a very tight matchup.

Monmouth vs. Old Dominion - Hawks are also looking to rebuild after losing Burke and Sinisi. ODU has been very respectable this year with a tougher schedule. For a third time, I'll take the home team in a very close game.

RMU @ Wagner - Colonials made a big statement with the upset of #15 Liberty as Wagner quitely rolled over Cornell. I like both teams this year, but RMU has more weapons and they have to think they can win the NEC, so they can't let up here.

Sacred Heart @ Dartmouth - The Heart was stunned by SFPA and threw 7 INTs in the process handing them an easy win. No way they play that bad 2 weeks in a row. Dartmouth may not be as bad as some feared and could easily win this at home, but I think Fink rallies and has a big day.

[Original_RMC]

Albany @ Duquesne
I think the Dukes will strike first and Albany will attempt to quickly answer but The Dukes D will hold and Albany will be in an early hole. I see Albany attempting to slow down this game by using their RBs to pound the ball against the Dukes. Albany will be down through out the game but they will stay patience and will take their first lead of the game in the 4th quarter. Albany's D will bend but won't break and it will force the Dukes to punt. The Dukes will hope to get the ball back but the running game will seal the victory for the road team.

Albany 28-24

Bryant @ CCSU
First road game for Bryant this year. First NEC game of the season for both teams. First FBS opponent in 2 weeks for Bryant.
I don't see Bryant jumping out early on CCSU. I do believe Bryant is ready to put their hat in the ring to be considered possible NEC champs but CCSU will be too much for Bryant.

CCSU 31-21

Monmouth vs. Old Dominion
ODU had a great 2009 season but 2010 did not start very well. Losing to Jacksonville but Monmouth's D has not been very good this year. ODU is coming to Monmouth angry after letting William & Mary beat them.
But I think Monmouth starts 0-3 before NEC play.

ODU 38-34

RMU @ Wagner
The Seniors at Robert Morris realize that the win against Liberty was huge but losing to Wagner takes everything away from that Liberty victory. I think Robert Morris walks off that bus on Saturday and they are all business. Myles Russ is on a mission to promote this offense and the O will ride him again. Expect another big day from Russ and Sinclair will make the necessary throws when needed.
I expect Doscher to have a better outing against RMU's D than last year but it won't be enough

RMU 31-17

Sacred Heart @ Dartmouth
So is the pre-season next to last team in the NEC better than the pre-season next to last team in the Ivy League?
Sacred Heart took a long trip to SFPA and should have just stayed home. Dartmouth offensively at home will be too much for Sacred Heart.

Dartmouth 45-21

[bobcat7]

Albany @ Duquesne
Bryant @ CCSU
Monmouth vs. Old Dominion
RMU @ Wagner
Sacred Heart @ Dartmouth

[danefan]

Duquesne preview from the UA Athletic Dept.

[youtube][/youtube]

[danefan]

Pregame story with video interview of Drew Smith.
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