Saturday, October 28
Moscow, ID
2 pm MT
Montana State University
at
Idaho
Taco Dowler
Photo by: R. Dean Hendrickson
BOBCAT GAME DAY NOTEBOOK #8: Taco's Time Arrives
10/27/2023 1:34:00 PM | Football
Bobcat receiver/returner makes 2023 debut in Kibbie Dome
MOSCOW, Idaho - Many reasons exist for Bobcat fans to circle today's game against Idaho.
The Vandals, ranked ninth nationally this week, make it two straight weeks for the Cats facing a top 10 FCS opponent on the road. Montana State hasn't played a Big Sky game in Moscow since 1994, and hasn't won in the Kibbie Dome since 1990. But the most immediate reason for excitement is the return of one of MSU's most dynamic players.
Sophomore Taco Dowler, the brilliant receiver and return specialist looks to add a jolt of energy in his 2023 debut. He is expected to start today at inside receiver and as punt returner for the Bobcats against the second-ranked passing efficiency defense in the Big Sky as the team inches back toward full strength. Running back Lane Sumner, injured in the team's first game, could also see action today. Defensively, Simeon Woodard and Level Price Jr. could also play, each possibly in a limited capacity.
Fullback Derryk Snell and linebacker Danny Uliulakepa are each out with injuries.
* * * * *
The loss of Snell provided opportunity for several other Bobcats, particularly junior Ryan Lonergan. The Bozeman High product played well after entering the Sacramento State game last week, partucularly in run blocking. "Ryan catches the ball well and blocks well," said Bobcat head coach Brent Vigen, who added that with a week's worth of preparation the program has the ability to "play to the strengths" of new additions to the lineup. Freshman Hunter Provience, who has played one snap this season, and sophomore Elijah Reynolds, join Treyton Pickering as the tight ends and fullbacks likely to impact today's game.
* * * * *
Simeon Woodard's presence may help the Bobcats deal with superstar Vandals receiver Hayden Hatten. Hatten's 28 career touchdown catches is a Vandals record, and his 569 receiving yards this season is third in the Big Sky. Woodard and nickel Level Price Jr. are both game time decisions today.
* * * * *
While Vigen hopes his front seven spends considerable time in the Idaho backfield today, he said that's not the only way to offer adversity to an explosive, well-rounded Vandals passing game. "Pressure isn't just about getting sacks," he said. "Pressure's also about putting the offense in adverse down-and-distance situations."
In other words, Vigen said forcing long-yardage situations on second and third down is important.
* * * * *
Today's game marks a reunion of sorts for Bobcat inebackers coach Bobby Daly, part of the Idaho coaching staff from 2013-18. This is his first time back since departing for his alma mater, where he starred. Daly was an All-America and team captain at Montana State (2005-08).
The Vandals, ranked ninth nationally this week, make it two straight weeks for the Cats facing a top 10 FCS opponent on the road. Montana State hasn't played a Big Sky game in Moscow since 1994, and hasn't won in the Kibbie Dome since 1990. But the most immediate reason for excitement is the return of one of MSU's most dynamic players.
Sophomore Taco Dowler, the brilliant receiver and return specialist looks to add a jolt of energy in his 2023 debut. He is expected to start today at inside receiver and as punt returner for the Bobcats against the second-ranked passing efficiency defense in the Big Sky as the team inches back toward full strength. Running back Lane Sumner, injured in the team's first game, could also see action today. Defensively, Simeon Woodard and Level Price Jr. could also play, each possibly in a limited capacity.
Fullback Derryk Snell and linebacker Danny Uliulakepa are each out with injuries.
* * * * *
The loss of Snell provided opportunity for several other Bobcats, particularly junior Ryan Lonergan. The Bozeman High product played well after entering the Sacramento State game last week, partucularly in run blocking. "Ryan catches the ball well and blocks well," said Bobcat head coach Brent Vigen, who added that with a week's worth of preparation the program has the ability to "play to the strengths" of new additions to the lineup. Freshman Hunter Provience, who has played one snap this season, and sophomore Elijah Reynolds, join Treyton Pickering as the tight ends and fullbacks likely to impact today's game.
* * * * *
Simeon Woodard's presence may help the Bobcats deal with superstar Vandals receiver Hayden Hatten. Hatten's 28 career touchdown catches is a Vandals record, and his 569 receiving yards this season is third in the Big Sky. Woodard and nickel Level Price Jr. are both game time decisions today.
* * * * *
While Vigen hopes his front seven spends considerable time in the Idaho backfield today, he said that's not the only way to offer adversity to an explosive, well-rounded Vandals passing game. "Pressure isn't just about getting sacks," he said. "Pressure's also about putting the offense in adverse down-and-distance situations."
In other words, Vigen said forcing long-yardage situations on second and third down is important.
* * * * *
Today's game marks a reunion of sorts for Bobcat inebackers coach Bobby Daly, part of the Idaho coaching staff from 2013-18. This is his first time back since departing for his alma mater, where he starred. Daly was an All-America and team captain at Montana State (2005-08).
Players Mentioned
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