In Bleil We Trust

For the first time in the past few seasons, I am happy that I can talk with my fellow TXST football fans without one of us freaking out over how many yards we are going to give up per game next season.  I’ve noticed it with my friends and I’ve noticed it for the most part on the BobcatFans Forums too. In Bleil We Trust. Why? Is it because of all his years coaching at San Diego State and North Texas?  Or because last year the TXST Defense allowed close to 100 yards per game less in the last six games than the first six? Or is it because he’s just so damn old?  Most people would probably say that all three are at least partially true and I’m inclined to agree.

Last year, I couldn’t imagine the belly-aching that would have come forth from yours-truly and others if Drenard Williams would have gotten a season-ending injury over the summer.  This year it just seems like most people feel good enough about our defense overall that we can plug another good player into the spot and still be solid.

Now don’t get me wrong, the Bobcat defense is not up to the point where they can thoroughly dominate a game. Yet. The Defensive line has a number of question marks, but it seems like with another veteran coach Mike Bugar teaching these players, that the Bobcats will make enough adjustments from game to game to produce a solid-enough defense.  The Bobcats ranked last in the Southland Conference last year, giving up over 443 yards per game.  If this year’s squad can get into just the top three defensive clubs in the conference and allow the Bobcat Offense to run its course, then I’d expect another FCS playoff appearance for Texas State in 2009.

Let’s not get ahead of ourselves though, as this Saturday the Cats are set to take on the Angelo State Rams.  The Rams already have a record of (1-0) thanks in part to a 21-7 win at home against Texas A&M-Commerce this past Saturday.  It is definitely an advantage to the Rams to already have played a regular season game, but I still think the Bobcats will win handily and Bradley George will be sitting by the third quarter.  How do you think the defense will do this season? Comment below and tell me.

-MaximumBobcat

Max@BobcatFans.com