MSU Game Notes vs. Weber State
10/6/2005 12:00:00 AM | Football
With back-to-back wins against nationally-ranked opponents for only the fourth time in school history behind them, the Bobcats head to Weber State this weekend to face a rejuvenated Wildcat team that outgained and nearly upset #4 Montana last week in Missoula. WSU quarterback Ian Pizzaro threw for 373 yards, and the Wildcats ran up 123 yards more than UM (483-to-360). The Bobcats nipped Idaho State 30-28, with Rick Gatewood catching 146 yards worth of passes for MSU.
GAME FACTS
KICKOFF: 1:35 pm MDT
SITE: Ogden, UT
STADIUM: Stewart Stadium
MSU PRESS BOX: 406/994-6180
RADIO: State Farm Bobcat Network (Kris Atteberry, Dan Davies)
TELEVISION: Altitude (Mitch Hyder, Irv Brown)
HIGHLIGHTS
* MSU’s non-conference foes -- all Division I schools -- are 13-4 in ‘05
* Travis Lulay is 14-4 as MSU’s starting quarterback in Bobcat Stadium
STREAKS
* Jeff Hastings’ string of five straight FGs was snapped with a block Saturday
* Montana State has lost four straight road games
* Montana State has sold out its first three home games for the first time in school history
MILESTONES
* MSU has won back-to-back games against ranked opponents for the fourth time in school history
* Travis Lulay has moved into 15th place in I-AA history in total offense, and is 29th in passing yards
SHINING
* QB Travis Lulay won his 21st game as MSU’s starting quarterback, moving into second place past Dennis Erickson, who was on hand to watch Lulay’s accomplishment
* LB Nick Marudas, BSC Co-POW (with Matt Logue) has back-to-back 11-tackle games
* WR Rick Gatewood has 19 catches in his first two games of ‘05
ABOUT THE ‘CATS...
MSU in ‘05 3-2
Conf./Record Big Sky/1-0
Home/Road 3-0/0-2
Grass/Turf 3-1/0-1
Day/Night 3-0/0-2
HEAD COACH Mike Kramer
Alma Mater Idaho/’76
Overall/Years 66-68/12th
At MSU/Years 28-36/6th
vs WSU 7-4
Home/Road 5-1/2-3
SERIES MSU leads 22-19-1
At MSU MSU leads 12-8-1
At WSU WSU leads 11-10
At Neutral none
Current Streak MSU 4W
ABOUT THE WILDCATS...
WSU in ‘05 2-3
Conf./Record Big Sky/1-1
Home/Road 2-0/0-3
Grass/Turf 2-1/0-2
Day/Night 2-3/0-0
HEAD COACH Ron McBride
Alma Mater San Jose State/’63
Overall/Years 90-66/14th
At School/Years 2-3
vs MSU 0-0
Home/Road 0-0/0-0
ABOUT WSU The Wildcats
Colors Purple, white
Location Ogden, UT
Enrollment 18,000
Stadium Stewart Stadium
OPPONENT ‘05 SCHEDULE/RESULTS
S3 Western State W 61-10
S10 at Fresno State L 17-55
S17 at North Dakota St L 0-41
S24 Northern Arizona W 31-23
O1 at Montana L 19-24
O8 Montana State 1:35 pm
O15 Sacramento State 1:05 pm
O22 at Eastern Wash. 3:05 pm
O29 Idaho State 2:05 pm
N12 at Portland State 4:05 pm
N19 at Southern Utah 3:05 pm
What to Watch
** Grounded... Montana State has faced five squads intent on running the ball in 2005, with Weber State’s rejuvenated ground game on the immediate horizon. Here is a look at MSU’s success in stopping opposing ground games...
Rushes Net Yards Yds/Rush Result
at OSU 41 244 6.0 L, 10-15
SFA 34 106 3.1 W, 42-6
at CP 47 237 5.0 L, 10-38
NDSU 44 135 3.1 W, 20-17
ISU 47 193 4.1 W, 30-28
** Gatewood Gone Wild... How big a difference has Rick Gatewood’s presence made in the Bobcat offense? MSU’s completion percentage, passing yards per game and touchdown passes per game are all significantly up with Gatewood back.
Comp Pass Pass
Pctg Yds/Gm TDs/Gm
W/out Gatewood .541 214.1 0.7
With Gatewood .745 234.0 1.5
Pinpoint Punting
After becoming Montana State’s punter early in 2003, Travis Lulay used a rugby-like roll punt to average 36.2 yards a punt, and pinned the opponent inside the 20 nine times. In his two seasons as MSU’s full-season, full-time punter, Lulay has been consistent his terms of distance:
1-29 30-39 40-49 50-59 60-69 70-89
2005 2 12 7 0 0 1
2004 6 14 19 6 4 1
Sixty percent (39 total) of Lulay’s 66 punts in the past two seasons have traveled at least 40 yards.
Pins
Travis Lulay has become proficient at Punter Pins, or pinning the opponent inside the 20 as the result of a punt. In this year’s five games he has done so six times in 22 attempts, and spotted ISU at its own two last time out. Last season, Lulay nailed the opponent inside its own 20 a dozen times on 50 punts.
3rd Quarter Turnaround
MSU surrendered 34 points in the final three third quarters of 2004, but has given up 20 points in the third this year.
TO Turnaround
MSU was +1 in turnovers against Idaho State, the first time in positive numbers this year. Each team scored on a turnover. Not So Special Tramaine Murray appears close to a breakout, but MSU has not returned a punt or kick to the paint since the ‘03 Grizzly game, a 16-game stretch that is the longest in Mike Kramer’s career.
Down to the Nub
Montana State’s preseason depth chart at defensive line is so far askew from reality it looks like fiction. Three of the eight active D-linemen from the beginning of the spring are injured (Andy Matakis, Chris Kolone, Ryan Cogley) and two more left the team. JC transfers David Siataga, Joe Rothenberger and Jason Macciola join holdovers Lou Saucedo and Aaron Papich to reinfoce the defensive front, while Daryl Rogers has returned from injury.
The Total Travis
Travis Lulay may impact any single game more than any player in college football. He averages 37.2 yards a game rushing, 211.8 yards a game passing, and 39.6 yards per punt.
Short Gains
MSU has allowed 3.5 yards a rush in its wins, 5.5 in the losses.
The Wrong Way
Travis Lulay has thrown four interceptions for TDs in his career, including two this season.
Marauding Marudas
After missing most of the 2004 season with a broken leg, Nick Marudas has made up for lost time in his senior campaign. The linebacker from Bozeman has back-to-back 11-tackle games, his career high, and made a strong run at a write-in candidacy for Homecoming King during MSU’s win over Idaho State by getting the only two Bobcat sacks, causing a fumble, and breaking up a pass.
20 is Terrific
Montana State is 19-3 in Mike Kramer’s five-plus seasons when holding the opposing offense to 20 points or fewer. The Bobcats have won six of their last seven games under those circumstances.
10 is Not Enough
The ‘Cats have scored only 10 points in two of this year’s five games. In Mike Kramer’s tenure, the Bobcats are only 3-22 when scoring 19 points or less.
A Kick
Of Tyler Bolton’s 25 kickoffs in 2005, eight have been touchbacks. Four more resulted in drives that began inside the 20. MSU leads the league in kick coverage.
Quite A Difference
MSU allowed 38 points and 417 yards against Cal Poly. In the other four games, the ‘Cats allowed 16.5 points, and 305.0 yards per outing.
They’re Tight
All four Bobcat TEs are in-state players, with only Brandon Bostick (Missoula Big Sky) from a large school. Starter Elliott Barnhart played at Powder River in Broadus, Nick Parker at Missoula Loyola, and Ty McDonald at Geyser.
Anti-Air Defense
Montana State has shown the ability to slow down opposing passing games in ‘05, standing ninth nationally in pass efficiency defense (91.28), second in the Big Sky, and 10th in I-AA in passing yards a game allowed (145.8), best in the conference. While the Bobcats have paid the price for this anti-air proficiency in run defense -- 183 yards a game on the ground allowed, the league’s worst mark -- the net result stands at 20.8 points a game allowed, second-best in the Big Sky.
Bonus Football
When the ‘Cats split a pair of overtime decisions last fall, it marked the first time Mike Kramer’s Bobcats had played extra football. Below is a look at MSU’s all-time overtime encounters...
2004 44-51 Eastern Washington+
2004 31-24 Portland State+
1994 31-34 Eastern Washington++
1990 28-25 Eastern Washington+
1984 44-41 Nevada+
1982 30-27 Idaho State+
Deep Snaps
MSU has forced only seven punts in the last three games.
MSU When Leading After...
1st Qtr: 3-0/2nd Qtr: 3-1/3rd Qtr: 3-0
MSU When Trailing After...
1st Qtr: 0-2/2nd Qtr: 0-1/3rd Qtr: 0-2
By the Numbers
0
The number of interceptions by MSU in its two losses this season
5
The number of interceptions in the the team’s three 2005 wins (vs. Stephen F. Austin, NDSU and Idaho State)
19
The number of catches by Rick Gatewood in his truncated 2005 season, seven of them in the Bobcats’ two game-deciding drives
2-0
Montana State’s record against Great West Conference opponents other than Cal Poly
BOBCAT RECORD WATCH
MSU Career Records
Career Passing Yards
1. 9,176 Travis Lulay, 2002-
2. 8,152 Kelly Bradley, 1983-86 (7,183)
3. 6,828 Rob Compson, 1995-98
Career Attempts
1. 1,312 Travis Lulay, 2002-
2. 1,238 Kelly Bradley, 1983-86
3. 901 Rob Compson, 1995-98
Career Completions
1. 754 Travis Lulay, 2002-
2. 714 Kelly Bradley, 1983-86
3. 516 Rob Compson, 1995-98
Career Touchdowns
1. 60 Kelly Bradley, 1983-86
2. 54 Rob Compson, 1995-98
3. 49 Travis Lulay, 2002-
4. 28 Paul Dennehy, 1976-78
4. 28 Tyler Thomas, 2001-02
Career Total Offense
1. 10,210 Travis Lulay, 2002-04
2. 7,730 Kelly Bradley, 1983-96
3. 6,788 Rob Compson, 1995-98
Big Sky Career Records
Career Passing Yards
1. 12,207 Jamie Martin, WSU, 89-92
2. 11,400 Travis Brown, NAU, 96-99
3. 11,080 Dave Dickenson, UM,92-95
4. 10,824 Doug Nussmeier, UI, 90-93
5. 10,277 Greg Wyatt, NAU, 86-89
6. 10,187 John Friesz, UI, 10,187
7. 9,639 Jeff Lewis, NAU, 92-95
8. 9,315 Brian Ah Yat, UM, 95-98
9. 9,300 Ken Hobart, UI, 80-83
10. 9,176 Travis Lulay, MSU, ‘02-05
Career Total Offense Yards
1. 12,287 Jamie Martin, WSU, 89-92
2. 12,027 Doug Nussmeier, UI, 90-93
3. 11,513 Dave Dickenson, UM,92-95
4. 11,400 Travis Brown, NAU, 96-99
5. 11,126 Ken Hobart, UI, 80-83
6. 10,277 Greg Wyatt, NAU, 86-89
7. 10,210 Travis Lulay, MSU, 02-
8. 10,187 John Friesz, UI, 10,187
9. 9,454 Marcus Brady, CSN, 98-00
10. 9,230 Brian Ah Yat, UM, 95-98
I-AA Career Records
Career Passing Yards
1. 14,496 Steve McNair, Alcorn St
2. 12,711 Willie Totten, Miss. Valley
3. 12,479 Marcus Brady, Northridge
4. 12,207 Jamie Martin, Weber State
5. 11,784 Robert Kent, Jackson St
6. 11,550 Neil Lomax, Portland St
7. 11,400 Travis Brown, NAU
8. 11,080 Dave Dickenson, Montana
9. 10,824 Doug Nussmeier, Idaho
10. 10,697 John Friesz, Idaho
11. 10,697 Greg Wyatt, NAU
12. 10,655 Sean Payton, E. Ill.
13. 10,329 Donald Carrie, Alcorn St
14. 10,254 Niel Loebig, Duquesne
15. 9,819 Marko Glavic, Lafayette
16. 9,805 David Corley, Wm & Mary
17. 9,698 Jeff Wiley, Holy Cross
18 9,669 Phil Stambaugh, Lehigh
19. 9,655 Jeff Lewis, NAU
20. 9,611 Ted White, Howard
21. 9,548 Robbie Jutino, Liberty
22. 9,538 Chris Boden, Villanova
23. 9,371 Giovanni Carmazzi, Hofstra
24. 9,315 Brian Ah Yat, Montana
25. 9,305 Kirk Schulz, Villanova
26. 9,300 Ken Hobart, Idaho
27. 9,294 James Perry, Brown
28. 9,288 Matt DeGennaro, UConn
29. 9,176 Travis Lulay, Montana St
30. 9,120 Marty Horn, Lehigh
31. 9,089 Ryan Helming, No. Iowa
32. 9,084 Bruce Eugene, Grambling
33. 9,081 Jason Whitmer, Idaho St
34. 9,027 Chris Swartz, Morehead St
35. 9,000 Darin Hinshaw, UCF
Career Total Offense Yards
1. 16,823 Steve McNair, Alcorn St
2. 13,095 Marcus Brady, Northridge
3. 13,007 Willie Totten, Miss Valley
4. 12,538 Robert Kent, Jackson St
5. 12,287 Jamie Martin, Weber St
6. 12,054 Doug Nussmeier, Idaho
7. 11,647 Neil Lomax, Portland St
8. 11,523 Dave Dickenson, Montana
9. 11,267 Travis Brown, NAU
10. 11,127 Ken Hobart, Idaho
11. 10,948 David Corley, Wm & Mary
12. 10,416 Giovanni Carmazzi, Hofstra
13. 10,298 Sean Payton, E. Ill
14. 10,277 Greg Wyatt, NAU
15. 10,210 Travis Lulay, Montana St
16. 10,187 John Friesz, Idaho
17. 10,169 Marko Glavic, Lafayette
18. 10,152 Bruce Eugene, Grambling
19. 10,039 Niel Loebig, Duquesne
20. 10,026 Donald Carrie, Alcorn St
21. 9,886 Michael Proctor, Murray St
22. 9,877 Jeff Wiley, Holy Cross
23. 9,769 Jeff Leewis, NAU
KRAMER’S QUOTES
On the Idaho State game: “We started getting pretty comfortable with the running game and with Justin Domineck. We were able to take advantage of some things in the offensive front, where we settled in nicely with Jeff Bolton at center. Justin had a nice game. He has to play disciplined to play tailback for us, and he did that yesterday. When he plays within himself and within the offense he can be successful. Travis (Lulay) threw the ball with clarity and belief for the first time this season under pretty atrocious conditions (wind). Other than the interception, which he sailed a little bit into the wind, he played a pristine game. Ryan Force and Nick Marudas were steady and solid, and Toph Grenfell continues to evolve into the type of top-of-the-line safety we’ve had here.”
On Weber State: “Weber State’s effort against Montana was very impressive. Ian Pizzaro is becoming more and more comfortable, and their offensive front is improve its protection. Defensively, (Brady) Fosmark and (Shane) Barkdull are two of the best in the conference. We’ll get a snoot-full of a much-improved Weber State defense. And like all Ron McBride teams they will be very capably coached in the kick teams.”
On the Bobcats: “For a Homecoming game, our crowd Saturday was above average. For student enthusiasm, though, it ranks as the No. one game I’ve ever been a part of at Montana State. To have three consecutive huge crowds is indicative of the expectations that exist. Our responsibility is to play up to those expectations. We have to take responsibility to make sure they come back. We’re done being amazed by it. Now we understand what it means, and I think we understand how we have to approach this phenomenon.”
Current Montana State Two-Deep (with pro-nuns-ee-AY-shuns) Player Notes
Offense
LEFT TACKLE 53 Peder Jensen 6-6 277 So* Started last three games
79 Adam DeCock 6-6 307 So* Played in all 11 games last year
LEFT GUARD 57 Brant Birkeland 6-2 271 Jr* Missed NDSU with a leg injury
76 Jeff Hansen 6-4 255 Fr True freshman on redshirt alert
CENTER 64 Jeff Bolton 6-4 302 Sr* Returning All-America, Preseason A-A
61 Jim Verlanic 6-0 249 Fr* Made first career start vs. NDSU
RIGHT GUARD 74 Lawrence Figueroa (fig-uh-ROE-uh) 6-2 285 Sr+* 14 straight starts
66 Chris Smith 6-3 290 Fr* Redshirted in 2004
RIGHT TACKLE 73 Joe Hirst 6-7 292 Jr* Started all four this year
68 Bryan Beniger (BEN-egg-er) 6-4 276 Fr* Redshirted in 2004
QUARTERBACK 14 Travis Lulay (LOO-lay) 6-2 205 Sr Five career fourth-quarter comeback wins
15 Cory Carpenter 6-2 214 So* Played sparingly in 2004
16 Rick Coppack (COP-uck) 6-0 187 So* MSU’s holder on placements
RUNNING BACK 8 Justin Domineck 5-11 206 Sr+ Rushed for 96 yards vs. ISU
23 Jason Gathing (like gather) 6-1 208 Sr*+ Moves from LB, got two carries
28 Evin Groves 5-8 185 Fr* Redshirted in 2004
X RECEIVER 19 Chaz Guinn (like Gwynn) 6-2 194 Sr+ 21 catches, second on team
81 Jevon Miller (juh-VAWN) 6-0 200 Sr+* Probable after missing Cal Poly(shoulder)
SLOT RECEIVER 1 Rick Gatewood 6-0 180 Sr*+ Has 19 catches in two games
83 Mike Brown 5-9 186 Fr* First career start at Cal Poly
Z RECEIVER 17 Tramaine Murray 5-10 180 Sr+* Has two 100-yard games this year
6 Brandon Roosevelt 5-11 166 Jr* Had first catch since knee surgery at CP
TIGHT END 95 Elliott Barnhart 6-4 242 So Six catches this year
86 Nick Parker 6-4 225 Fr* Redshirted in 2004
84 Brandon Bostick (BOSS-stick) 6-4 251 Fr* Redshirted in 2004
45 Ty McDonald 6-2 223 So* Special teams standout
Defense
END 92 Daryl Rogers 6-1 275 Sr+ Four tackles vs. NDSU
96 Jason Macciola (muh-CHO-luh) 6-3 235 Jr+ JC transfer
97 Chris Kolone (KOE-loe-nay) 6-4 288 Fr*+ Doubtful for Weber (leg)
NOSE 94 David Siataga (see-uh-TON-guh) 5-11 285 Jr+* Made first start vs. ISU
75 Louis Saucedo (sou-SEE-doe) 6-5 317 Fr* Seven tackles for redshirt freshman
TACKLE 99 Aaron Papich (like rap) 6-2 263 So* Leads DL with 24 tackles
96 Jason Macciola (muh-CHO-luh) 6-3 235 Jr+ JC transfer
71 Joe Rothenberger 6-3 285 Jr* JC transfer
63 Sean Neill 6-3 225 Fr* US Army veteran, redshirted in ‘04
ROVER 43 Nick Marudas (muh-ROOD-us) 6-2 218 Sr* Back-to-back 11-tackle gms, BSC POW
24 Dan Ashley 6-1 195 Fr* Redshirted in 2004, doubtful (knee)
WILL LINEBACKER 44 Epikopo King (epp-ee-COE-poe) 6-1 205 So* Turned econd pick into first TD vs. ISU
37 Grant Elliott 6-0 217 Jr Questionable with back injury
MIKE LINEBACKER 54 Bobby Daly 6-1 229 Fr* 17 tackles in two starts
33 Mac Mollohan 6-0 205 Sr Two-time All-Big Sky, doubtful (hip)
49 Wes Mauia (mou-EE-yah) 6-0 237 Fr* Redshirted in 2004
SAM LINEBACKER 36 Clayton Curley 6-1 195 Sr Three-time letterman
42 Clive Lowe 6-3 232 So* Doubtful vs WSU (ankle)
FIELD CORNER 22 Kahiam Hunter (KIE-am) 5-10 165 Sr* Big PB led to INT-for-TD vs. ISU
4 Derrick Davis 5-9 175 Jr*+ Played at MSU in ‘02, returns this year
18 Eddie Smith 5-9 200 So*+ Has not yet played (hamstring)
FIELD SAFETY 25 Toph Grenfell 6-0 191 Sr+ Leads team with 27 tackles
7 Luke Holden 6-1 175 Fr* Redshirt in ‘04
BOUNDARY SAFETY 20 Ryan Force 6-2 207 Jr* Tied for team high w/ two sacks
5 Marcosus Le Blanc 6-0 200 Jr*+ Transferred from Boise State in late Aug.
7 Brian Williams 6-0 195 Fr Enrolled at MSU in January ‘05
BOUNDARY CORNER 9 Andre Fuller 5-10 159 Fr* One sack, one pick, one caused fumble
13 Kory Austin 5-11 172 So* 2004 starter
*-indicates player has used redshirt year, +-indicates player is a transfer
KICKOFFS: 12-Tyler Bolton PLACE KICKER: 46-Jeff Hastings
PUNTS: 14-Travis Lulay SHORT SNAPS: 57-Brant Birkeland
KICK RETURNS: 17-Tramaine Murray LONG SNAPS: 84-Brandon Bostick
PUNT RETURNS: 11-Michael Bass HOLDER: 16-Rick Coppack
GAME FACTS
KICKOFF: 1:35 pm MDT
SITE: Ogden, UT
STADIUM: Stewart Stadium
MSU PRESS BOX: 406/994-6180
RADIO: State Farm Bobcat Network (Kris Atteberry, Dan Davies)
TELEVISION: Altitude (Mitch Hyder, Irv Brown)
HIGHLIGHTS
* MSU’s non-conference foes -- all Division I schools -- are 13-4 in ‘05
* Travis Lulay is 14-4 as MSU’s starting quarterback in Bobcat Stadium
STREAKS
* Jeff Hastings’ string of five straight FGs was snapped with a block Saturday
* Montana State has lost four straight road games
* Montana State has sold out its first three home games for the first time in school history
MILESTONES
* MSU has won back-to-back games against ranked opponents for the fourth time in school history
* Travis Lulay has moved into 15th place in I-AA history in total offense, and is 29th in passing yards
SHINING
* QB Travis Lulay won his 21st game as MSU’s starting quarterback, moving into second place past Dennis Erickson, who was on hand to watch Lulay’s accomplishment
* LB Nick Marudas, BSC Co-POW (with Matt Logue) has back-to-back 11-tackle games
* WR Rick Gatewood has 19 catches in his first two games of ‘05
ABOUT THE ‘CATS...
MSU in ‘05 3-2
Conf./Record Big Sky/1-0
Home/Road 3-0/0-2
Grass/Turf 3-1/0-1
Day/Night 3-0/0-2
HEAD COACH Mike Kramer
Alma Mater Idaho/’76
Overall/Years 66-68/12th
At MSU/Years 28-36/6th
vs WSU 7-4
Home/Road 5-1/2-3
SERIES MSU leads 22-19-1
At MSU MSU leads 12-8-1
At WSU WSU leads 11-10
At Neutral none
Current Streak MSU 4W
ABOUT THE WILDCATS...
WSU in ‘05 2-3
Conf./Record Big Sky/1-1
Home/Road 2-0/0-3
Grass/Turf 2-1/0-2
Day/Night 2-3/0-0
HEAD COACH Ron McBride
Alma Mater San Jose State/’63
Overall/Years 90-66/14th
At School/Years 2-3
vs MSU 0-0
Home/Road 0-0/0-0
ABOUT WSU The Wildcats
Colors Purple, white
Location Ogden, UT
Enrollment 18,000
Stadium Stewart Stadium
OPPONENT ‘05 SCHEDULE/RESULTS
S3 Western State W 61-10
S10 at Fresno State L 17-55
S17 at North Dakota St L 0-41
S24 Northern Arizona W 31-23
O1 at Montana L 19-24
O8 Montana State 1:35 pm
O15 Sacramento State 1:05 pm
O22 at Eastern Wash. 3:05 pm
O29 Idaho State 2:05 pm
N12 at Portland State 4:05 pm
N19 at Southern Utah 3:05 pm
What to Watch
** Grounded... Montana State has faced five squads intent on running the ball in 2005, with Weber State’s rejuvenated ground game on the immediate horizon. Here is a look at MSU’s success in stopping opposing ground games...
Rushes Net Yards Yds/Rush Result
at OSU 41 244 6.0 L, 10-15
SFA 34 106 3.1 W, 42-6
at CP 47 237 5.0 L, 10-38
NDSU 44 135 3.1 W, 20-17
ISU 47 193 4.1 W, 30-28
** Gatewood Gone Wild... How big a difference has Rick Gatewood’s presence made in the Bobcat offense? MSU’s completion percentage, passing yards per game and touchdown passes per game are all significantly up with Gatewood back.
Comp Pass Pass
Pctg Yds/Gm TDs/Gm
W/out Gatewood .541 214.1 0.7
With Gatewood .745 234.0 1.5
Pinpoint Punting
After becoming Montana State’s punter early in 2003, Travis Lulay used a rugby-like roll punt to average 36.2 yards a punt, and pinned the opponent inside the 20 nine times. In his two seasons as MSU’s full-season, full-time punter, Lulay has been consistent his terms of distance:
1-29 30-39 40-49 50-59 60-69 70-89
2005 2 12 7 0 0 1
2004 6 14 19 6 4 1
Sixty percent (39 total) of Lulay’s 66 punts in the past two seasons have traveled at least 40 yards.
Pins
Travis Lulay has become proficient at Punter Pins, or pinning the opponent inside the 20 as the result of a punt. In this year’s five games he has done so six times in 22 attempts, and spotted ISU at its own two last time out. Last season, Lulay nailed the opponent inside its own 20 a dozen times on 50 punts.
3rd Quarter Turnaround
MSU surrendered 34 points in the final three third quarters of 2004, but has given up 20 points in the third this year.
TO Turnaround
MSU was +1 in turnovers against Idaho State, the first time in positive numbers this year. Each team scored on a turnover. Not So Special Tramaine Murray appears close to a breakout, but MSU has not returned a punt or kick to the paint since the ‘03 Grizzly game, a 16-game stretch that is the longest in Mike Kramer’s career.
Down to the Nub
Montana State’s preseason depth chart at defensive line is so far askew from reality it looks like fiction. Three of the eight active D-linemen from the beginning of the spring are injured (Andy Matakis, Chris Kolone, Ryan Cogley) and two more left the team. JC transfers David Siataga, Joe Rothenberger and Jason Macciola join holdovers Lou Saucedo and Aaron Papich to reinfoce the defensive front, while Daryl Rogers has returned from injury.
The Total Travis
Travis Lulay may impact any single game more than any player in college football. He averages 37.2 yards a game rushing, 211.8 yards a game passing, and 39.6 yards per punt.
Short Gains
MSU has allowed 3.5 yards a rush in its wins, 5.5 in the losses.
The Wrong Way
Travis Lulay has thrown four interceptions for TDs in his career, including two this season.
Marauding Marudas
After missing most of the 2004 season with a broken leg, Nick Marudas has made up for lost time in his senior campaign. The linebacker from Bozeman has back-to-back 11-tackle games, his career high, and made a strong run at a write-in candidacy for Homecoming King during MSU’s win over Idaho State by getting the only two Bobcat sacks, causing a fumble, and breaking up a pass.
20 is Terrific
Montana State is 19-3 in Mike Kramer’s five-plus seasons when holding the opposing offense to 20 points or fewer. The Bobcats have won six of their last seven games under those circumstances.
10 is Not Enough
The ‘Cats have scored only 10 points in two of this year’s five games. In Mike Kramer’s tenure, the Bobcats are only 3-22 when scoring 19 points or less.
A Kick
Of Tyler Bolton’s 25 kickoffs in 2005, eight have been touchbacks. Four more resulted in drives that began inside the 20. MSU leads the league in kick coverage.
Quite A Difference
MSU allowed 38 points and 417 yards against Cal Poly. In the other four games, the ‘Cats allowed 16.5 points, and 305.0 yards per outing.
They’re Tight
All four Bobcat TEs are in-state players, with only Brandon Bostick (Missoula Big Sky) from a large school. Starter Elliott Barnhart played at Powder River in Broadus, Nick Parker at Missoula Loyola, and Ty McDonald at Geyser.
Anti-Air Defense
Montana State has shown the ability to slow down opposing passing games in ‘05, standing ninth nationally in pass efficiency defense (91.28), second in the Big Sky, and 10th in I-AA in passing yards a game allowed (145.8), best in the conference. While the Bobcats have paid the price for this anti-air proficiency in run defense -- 183 yards a game on the ground allowed, the league’s worst mark -- the net result stands at 20.8 points a game allowed, second-best in the Big Sky.
Bonus Football
When the ‘Cats split a pair of overtime decisions last fall, it marked the first time Mike Kramer’s Bobcats had played extra football. Below is a look at MSU’s all-time overtime encounters...
2004 44-51 Eastern Washington+
2004 31-24 Portland State+
1994 31-34 Eastern Washington++
1990 28-25 Eastern Washington+
1984 44-41 Nevada+
1982 30-27 Idaho State+
Deep Snaps
MSU has forced only seven punts in the last three games.
MSU When Leading After...
1st Qtr: 3-0/2nd Qtr: 3-1/3rd Qtr: 3-0
MSU When Trailing After...
1st Qtr: 0-2/2nd Qtr: 0-1/3rd Qtr: 0-2
By the Numbers
0
The number of interceptions by MSU in its two losses this season
5
The number of interceptions in the the team’s three 2005 wins (vs. Stephen F. Austin, NDSU and Idaho State)
19
The number of catches by Rick Gatewood in his truncated 2005 season, seven of them in the Bobcats’ two game-deciding drives
2-0
Montana State’s record against Great West Conference opponents other than Cal Poly
BOBCAT RECORD WATCH
MSU Career Records
Career Passing Yards
1. 9,176 Travis Lulay, 2002-
2. 8,152 Kelly Bradley, 1983-86 (7,183)
3. 6,828 Rob Compson, 1995-98
Career Attempts
1. 1,312 Travis Lulay, 2002-
2. 1,238 Kelly Bradley, 1983-86
3. 901 Rob Compson, 1995-98
Career Completions
1. 754 Travis Lulay, 2002-
2. 714 Kelly Bradley, 1983-86
3. 516 Rob Compson, 1995-98
Career Touchdowns
1. 60 Kelly Bradley, 1983-86
2. 54 Rob Compson, 1995-98
3. 49 Travis Lulay, 2002-
4. 28 Paul Dennehy, 1976-78
4. 28 Tyler Thomas, 2001-02
Career Total Offense
1. 10,210 Travis Lulay, 2002-04
2. 7,730 Kelly Bradley, 1983-96
3. 6,788 Rob Compson, 1995-98
Big Sky Career Records
Career Passing Yards
1. 12,207 Jamie Martin, WSU, 89-92
2. 11,400 Travis Brown, NAU, 96-99
3. 11,080 Dave Dickenson, UM,92-95
4. 10,824 Doug Nussmeier, UI, 90-93
5. 10,277 Greg Wyatt, NAU, 86-89
6. 10,187 John Friesz, UI, 10,187
7. 9,639 Jeff Lewis, NAU, 92-95
8. 9,315 Brian Ah Yat, UM, 95-98
9. 9,300 Ken Hobart, UI, 80-83
10. 9,176 Travis Lulay, MSU, ‘02-05
Career Total Offense Yards
1. 12,287 Jamie Martin, WSU, 89-92
2. 12,027 Doug Nussmeier, UI, 90-93
3. 11,513 Dave Dickenson, UM,92-95
4. 11,400 Travis Brown, NAU, 96-99
5. 11,126 Ken Hobart, UI, 80-83
6. 10,277 Greg Wyatt, NAU, 86-89
7. 10,210 Travis Lulay, MSU, 02-
8. 10,187 John Friesz, UI, 10,187
9. 9,454 Marcus Brady, CSN, 98-00
10. 9,230 Brian Ah Yat, UM, 95-98
I-AA Career Records
Career Passing Yards
1. 14,496 Steve McNair, Alcorn St
2. 12,711 Willie Totten, Miss. Valley
3. 12,479 Marcus Brady, Northridge
4. 12,207 Jamie Martin, Weber State
5. 11,784 Robert Kent, Jackson St
6. 11,550 Neil Lomax, Portland St
7. 11,400 Travis Brown, NAU
8. 11,080 Dave Dickenson, Montana
9. 10,824 Doug Nussmeier, Idaho
10. 10,697 John Friesz, Idaho
11. 10,697 Greg Wyatt, NAU
12. 10,655 Sean Payton, E. Ill.
13. 10,329 Donald Carrie, Alcorn St
14. 10,254 Niel Loebig, Duquesne
15. 9,819 Marko Glavic, Lafayette
16. 9,805 David Corley, Wm & Mary
17. 9,698 Jeff Wiley, Holy Cross
18 9,669 Phil Stambaugh, Lehigh
19. 9,655 Jeff Lewis, NAU
20. 9,611 Ted White, Howard
21. 9,548 Robbie Jutino, Liberty
22. 9,538 Chris Boden, Villanova
23. 9,371 Giovanni Carmazzi, Hofstra
24. 9,315 Brian Ah Yat, Montana
25. 9,305 Kirk Schulz, Villanova
26. 9,300 Ken Hobart, Idaho
27. 9,294 James Perry, Brown
28. 9,288 Matt DeGennaro, UConn
29. 9,176 Travis Lulay, Montana St
30. 9,120 Marty Horn, Lehigh
31. 9,089 Ryan Helming, No. Iowa
32. 9,084 Bruce Eugene, Grambling
33. 9,081 Jason Whitmer, Idaho St
34. 9,027 Chris Swartz, Morehead St
35. 9,000 Darin Hinshaw, UCF
Career Total Offense Yards
1. 16,823 Steve McNair, Alcorn St
2. 13,095 Marcus Brady, Northridge
3. 13,007 Willie Totten, Miss Valley
4. 12,538 Robert Kent, Jackson St
5. 12,287 Jamie Martin, Weber St
6. 12,054 Doug Nussmeier, Idaho
7. 11,647 Neil Lomax, Portland St
8. 11,523 Dave Dickenson, Montana
9. 11,267 Travis Brown, NAU
10. 11,127 Ken Hobart, Idaho
11. 10,948 David Corley, Wm & Mary
12. 10,416 Giovanni Carmazzi, Hofstra
13. 10,298 Sean Payton, E. Ill
14. 10,277 Greg Wyatt, NAU
15. 10,210 Travis Lulay, Montana St
16. 10,187 John Friesz, Idaho
17. 10,169 Marko Glavic, Lafayette
18. 10,152 Bruce Eugene, Grambling
19. 10,039 Niel Loebig, Duquesne
20. 10,026 Donald Carrie, Alcorn St
21. 9,886 Michael Proctor, Murray St
22. 9,877 Jeff Wiley, Holy Cross
23. 9,769 Jeff Leewis, NAU
KRAMER’S QUOTES
On the Idaho State game: “We started getting pretty comfortable with the running game and with Justin Domineck. We were able to take advantage of some things in the offensive front, where we settled in nicely with Jeff Bolton at center. Justin had a nice game. He has to play disciplined to play tailback for us, and he did that yesterday. When he plays within himself and within the offense he can be successful. Travis (Lulay) threw the ball with clarity and belief for the first time this season under pretty atrocious conditions (wind). Other than the interception, which he sailed a little bit into the wind, he played a pristine game. Ryan Force and Nick Marudas were steady and solid, and Toph Grenfell continues to evolve into the type of top-of-the-line safety we’ve had here.”
On Weber State: “Weber State’s effort against Montana was very impressive. Ian Pizzaro is becoming more and more comfortable, and their offensive front is improve its protection. Defensively, (Brady) Fosmark and (Shane) Barkdull are two of the best in the conference. We’ll get a snoot-full of a much-improved Weber State defense. And like all Ron McBride teams they will be very capably coached in the kick teams.”
On the Bobcats: “For a Homecoming game, our crowd Saturday was above average. For student enthusiasm, though, it ranks as the No. one game I’ve ever been a part of at Montana State. To have three consecutive huge crowds is indicative of the expectations that exist. Our responsibility is to play up to those expectations. We have to take responsibility to make sure they come back. We’re done being amazed by it. Now we understand what it means, and I think we understand how we have to approach this phenomenon.”
Current Montana State Two-Deep (with pro-nuns-ee-AY-shuns) Player Notes
Offense
LEFT TACKLE 53 Peder Jensen 6-6 277 So* Started last three games
79 Adam DeCock 6-6 307 So* Played in all 11 games last year
LEFT GUARD 57 Brant Birkeland 6-2 271 Jr* Missed NDSU with a leg injury
76 Jeff Hansen 6-4 255 Fr True freshman on redshirt alert
CENTER 64 Jeff Bolton 6-4 302 Sr* Returning All-America, Preseason A-A
61 Jim Verlanic 6-0 249 Fr* Made first career start vs. NDSU
RIGHT GUARD 74 Lawrence Figueroa (fig-uh-ROE-uh) 6-2 285 Sr+* 14 straight starts
66 Chris Smith 6-3 290 Fr* Redshirted in 2004
RIGHT TACKLE 73 Joe Hirst 6-7 292 Jr* Started all four this year
68 Bryan Beniger (BEN-egg-er) 6-4 276 Fr* Redshirted in 2004
QUARTERBACK 14 Travis Lulay (LOO-lay) 6-2 205 Sr Five career fourth-quarter comeback wins
15 Cory Carpenter 6-2 214 So* Played sparingly in 2004
16 Rick Coppack (COP-uck) 6-0 187 So* MSU’s holder on placements
RUNNING BACK 8 Justin Domineck 5-11 206 Sr+ Rushed for 96 yards vs. ISU
23 Jason Gathing (like gather) 6-1 208 Sr*+ Moves from LB, got two carries
28 Evin Groves 5-8 185 Fr* Redshirted in 2004
X RECEIVER 19 Chaz Guinn (like Gwynn) 6-2 194 Sr+ 21 catches, second on team
81 Jevon Miller (juh-VAWN) 6-0 200 Sr+* Probable after missing Cal Poly(shoulder)
SLOT RECEIVER 1 Rick Gatewood 6-0 180 Sr*+ Has 19 catches in two games
83 Mike Brown 5-9 186 Fr* First career start at Cal Poly
Z RECEIVER 17 Tramaine Murray 5-10 180 Sr+* Has two 100-yard games this year
6 Brandon Roosevelt 5-11 166 Jr* Had first catch since knee surgery at CP
TIGHT END 95 Elliott Barnhart 6-4 242 So Six catches this year
86 Nick Parker 6-4 225 Fr* Redshirted in 2004
84 Brandon Bostick (BOSS-stick) 6-4 251 Fr* Redshirted in 2004
45 Ty McDonald 6-2 223 So* Special teams standout
Defense
END 92 Daryl Rogers 6-1 275 Sr+ Four tackles vs. NDSU
96 Jason Macciola (muh-CHO-luh) 6-3 235 Jr+ JC transfer
97 Chris Kolone (KOE-loe-nay) 6-4 288 Fr*+ Doubtful for Weber (leg)
NOSE 94 David Siataga (see-uh-TON-guh) 5-11 285 Jr+* Made first start vs. ISU
75 Louis Saucedo (sou-SEE-doe) 6-5 317 Fr* Seven tackles for redshirt freshman
TACKLE 99 Aaron Papich (like rap) 6-2 263 So* Leads DL with 24 tackles
96 Jason Macciola (muh-CHO-luh) 6-3 235 Jr+ JC transfer
71 Joe Rothenberger 6-3 285 Jr* JC transfer
63 Sean Neill 6-3 225 Fr* US Army veteran, redshirted in ‘04
ROVER 43 Nick Marudas (muh-ROOD-us) 6-2 218 Sr* Back-to-back 11-tackle gms, BSC POW
24 Dan Ashley 6-1 195 Fr* Redshirted in 2004, doubtful (knee)
WILL LINEBACKER 44 Epikopo King (epp-ee-COE-poe) 6-1 205 So* Turned econd pick into first TD vs. ISU
37 Grant Elliott 6-0 217 Jr Questionable with back injury
MIKE LINEBACKER 54 Bobby Daly 6-1 229 Fr* 17 tackles in two starts
33 Mac Mollohan 6-0 205 Sr Two-time All-Big Sky, doubtful (hip)
49 Wes Mauia (mou-EE-yah) 6-0 237 Fr* Redshirted in 2004
SAM LINEBACKER 36 Clayton Curley 6-1 195 Sr Three-time letterman
42 Clive Lowe 6-3 232 So* Doubtful vs WSU (ankle)
FIELD CORNER 22 Kahiam Hunter (KIE-am) 5-10 165 Sr* Big PB led to INT-for-TD vs. ISU
4 Derrick Davis 5-9 175 Jr*+ Played at MSU in ‘02, returns this year
18 Eddie Smith 5-9 200 So*+ Has not yet played (hamstring)
FIELD SAFETY 25 Toph Grenfell 6-0 191 Sr+ Leads team with 27 tackles
7 Luke Holden 6-1 175 Fr* Redshirt in ‘04
BOUNDARY SAFETY 20 Ryan Force 6-2 207 Jr* Tied for team high w/ two sacks
5 Marcosus Le Blanc 6-0 200 Jr*+ Transferred from Boise State in late Aug.
7 Brian Williams 6-0 195 Fr Enrolled at MSU in January ‘05
BOUNDARY CORNER 9 Andre Fuller 5-10 159 Fr* One sack, one pick, one caused fumble
13 Kory Austin 5-11 172 So* 2004 starter
*-indicates player has used redshirt year, +-indicates player is a transfer
KICKOFFS: 12-Tyler Bolton PLACE KICKER: 46-Jeff Hastings
PUNTS: 14-Travis Lulay SHORT SNAPS: 57-Brant Birkeland
KICK RETURNS: 17-Tramaine Murray LONG SNAPS: 84-Brandon Bostick
PUNT RETURNS: 11-Michael Bass HOLDER: 16-Rick Coppack
Wednesday, June 10
Friday, March 27
Monday, March 23
Friday, March 13
