Beat writer chat, Part I
August 26, 2008
Had an email chat with Adam Sparks, MTSU beat writer for the Daily News Journal in Murfreesboro. They also launched blueraiders.com for easier access to MTSU athletics coverage.
1. What do you expect to see with the QB situation, and would playing two QBs help or hurt Middle Tennessee?
— Both will play. Joe Craddock has a better rhythm with the offense, especially for timing in the passing game. Dwight Dasher is a home run threat running the ball. He has a strong arm, but his accuracy slips at time. I think playing both QBs is the only sensible way to go. If you ranked MTSU’s best players, Craddock and Dasher would probably both be in the top-5. You can’t keep either on the sideline the entire game.
2. Where could MTSU exploit Troy?
— With MTSU on offense, there are few holes that I can see on Troy’s offense. Maybe get a good catch-and-run on Troy’s new cornerbacks. MTSU has more play-makers at WR than it has the last two seasons combined.
On the other side, MTSU is at its best on defense when it forces turnovers. But I don’t think MTSU is dominant personnel-wise at any defensive position.
3. Where could Troy exploit MTSU?
— MTSU’s offensive line is inexperienced. At some point in the game, there will probably be two freshmen at offensive tackle. I think MTSU could be good in the secondary, but I think there could still be a tendency to give up a deep ball. Safety is still a question mark for MTSU, I think.
4. Make a prediction on the crowd.
— About 24,000
5. Make a prediction on the score
— Troy 28, MTSU 20
