Ball State Univeristy

Type of Offense: Pro-Style I. This offense is a run oriented offense that uses run plays and play action to get defenders out of position for passes in the 15-25 yard range. The tight end and fullback are more involved in the offense as the fullback is a blocker and the tight end is 70/30 blocking versus running routes. Most known for the isolation running plays in the middle, the offense has evolved to a more off tackle and “counter trey” running offense. This is more of the style of professional ranks allowing for a QB with a strong arm to thrive.

Type of Defense: 4-3.  Fast OLBs with the WLB being stronger in pass coverage and the SLB being stouter versus the run.  MLB is balanced and expected to make most of the tackles, especially versus the run game.  A lot of Cover 2 with the MLB expected to get deep (15 yards) on a pass play.  Corners on an island playing the edges with help over top.  Gap responsibilities on the run game with DL and LB filling gaps and DE normally containing on the edge. 

·         Run/Pass %: 59/41

·         Run/Pass Attempts: 445/309
·         Points Per Game: 22.0
·         Points Allowed Per Game: 33.4

Key Returning Players:

·         Keith Wenning, QB: Returning starting QB who started as a freshman in 2010 threw for nearly 1400 yards and 14 TDs. He must take the next step forward and cut down on the INTs (14) from last season and begin to be a real threat offensively.
·         Eric Williams, RB: Leading returning rusher with 613 yards and 5 TDs in 2010. Split carries and will be expected to take more of a #1 role in the upcoming season. Must get somewhere near 1000 yards to have a successful season in 2011.

Key Incoming Freshmen:

·         Jalen Schlachter, OL: This massive 3 star recruit has the size and ability to get playing time as a freshman on the line. He is the crown jewel of the recruiting class and has the potential to have NFL scouts watching him play the next 4 years.

·         Willie Snead, WR: The only other 3 star player signed by Ball State does not have burning speed but is very talented and knows the ins and outs of the game. If he shows maturity and can pick up the offense quickly, he has the chance to make some plays in 2011.

Overall Assessment:

·         Going 4-8 in 2010 was a rough way to end the season for the Cardinals. The lowest point may have been a loss to I-AA squad Liberty. There are building blocks that could become pretty good players and some freshmen that could become great players as they physically mature. Offensively, the passing game was dreadful with a true freshman at QB and just no real threat to any defense. The running game was serviceable and should continue to improve as the season comes to a head. Defensively, more 3 and outs and just defensive stops must be made to keep the defense fresh as Ball State does not have the quality depth that other teams on their schedule have. Best case scenario is a long shot at a .500 record winning 6 and losing 6. Worst case is 2 or so wins and a new coach in 2012. The reality is right in the middle with another 4-8 record and struggle to win games on the road in 2011.