5 Takeaways From MSU 17 Idaho 20
Montana State just lost their initial game of 2016 to FBS Idaho by the score of 20-17 and the first game in the Jeff Choate era is finally over. So many questions surrounded this first game of the season and it was great to see the Cats on the field and let their play speak for itself.
1. Chad Newell This dude showed up tonight. 25 carries for 105 yards and a 4.2 yard per carry average. Everyone knows that Newell is going to be who the Cat offense runs through but the way he ran tonight was impressive. I can’t wait to see what Newell does to Big Sky defenses this year.
2. The Cat Defense It’s the first game of the season and Matt Lineman looked horrible, but this Cat defense is not the Cat defense from 2015. A couple of big plays from Deon Watson were all the Cats really gave up in the passing game – but Deon looked like Calvin Johnson on those catches so it can be excused. One huge running play for the Vandals resulted in a touchdown but the attitude and energy from the defense was apparent. Idaho scored 0 points in the second half. Seriously – when is the last time the Cats shut out an opponent in the second half.
3. Jeff Choate I’m a believer. I never loved what Ash did coming out in the second half but Choate’s team came out and got a touchdown on their first drive and stopped the Vandals on their first possession. The Cats D then proceeded to shut down the Vandals the rest of the half with Tre’von Strong’s pick of Linehan being one of the biggest plays of the half. I know that the staff includes Gregorak and Anderson – but Choate is the one I’m giving the credit too. I’m jacked.
4. Tyler Bruggman Hmmmm… well… He hasn’t thrown a D1 pass – ever. He comes out and takes the Cats down the field in his first drive. I’m loving it. Then the rest of the first half happens and I’m clamoring for Chris Murray. Then Bruggman comes out in the second half and shows some poise and touch and I’m back to thinking we have a QB. When the game ended… I’m thinking I want to see more Chris Murray. Shit. I don’t know. Brugggman finished 19/35 with 191 yards with a TD and a pick – I want more against an Idaho defense that gave up a SHIT TON of points last year.
5. Chris Murray Dude looked pretty electric. I’m on this cat’s bandwagon. Give me more Chris Murray – sorry Tyler. All in all, I’m feeling good right now. Obviously, there are improvements to be made but the way the defense played and the intensity Choate showed is a change I love. Can’t wait for September 10th to see what Choate does with these Cats.
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About the Author
Hot Take Nate Hot Take Nate now resides in Northern California but still calls Montana his home. It'll always be home.
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