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Sunday, May 05, 2024
The independent student publication of The University at Buffalo, since 1950

Gridiron Report Card

The Spectrum grades the Bulls after 42-14 blowout against Eastern Michigan

Passing game: A-

The Good: Sophomore quarterback Joe Licata was flawless. He let the game develop for him and completed 68 percent of his passes.

The Bad: Licata had senior wide receiver Alex Neutz running wide open down the sideline during the Bulls' last-minute drive in the second quarter. He scrambled for a 16-yard gain instead.

Run game: A

The Good: It was undoubtedly the best rushing attack the Bulls have displayed all season and senior running back Branden Oliver had the best single rush of the season; Oliver scampered for a 60-yard touchdown in the first quarter.

The Bad: After the Bulls pulled their starters in the fourth quarter, junior running back James Potts ran for just seven yards on six carries with the Bulls' second-team offense.

Receiving: A

The Good: For the second straight game, multiple Bulls receivers were involved. Seven different Bulls had catches and Neutz continued his stellar senior campaign with 94 yards and a touchdown.

The Bad: There was only one touchdown through the air.

Offensive line: A

The Good: The big men up front didn't allow a single sack. They gave Licata ample time to complete passes and paved the way for Oliver to have a season-high in rushing yards.

The Bad: Oliver didn't rush for 60-yard touchdowns on every play.

Run defense: B+

The Good: The Bulls were able to contain the Eagles' run game when it mattered.

The Bad: The Eagles' two longest plays of the day came on the ground - a 40-yard run in the second quarter and a 75-yard touchdown run late in the fourth.

Pass rush: B+

The Good: The Bulls sacked Eastern Michigan's Tyler Benz three times and made it into the backfield throughout the game.

The Bad: They failed to record a single quarterback hit.

Pass defense: B+

The Good: Junior Cortney Lester had an interception at the goal line and junior Whitney Sherry had a pick near the game's end in the fourth quarter.

The Bad: Benz was able to complete 63 percent of his passes.

Special teams: A

The Good: Sophomore running back Devin Campbell returned a kick for a 96-yard touchdown - the first kick return for a touchdown since Sept. 20, 2008.

The Bad: Junior kicker Pat Clarke missed a 41-yard field goal and is now 4 for 9 on field goals this season.

Coaching: A

The Good: The play calling was superb all day, especially on the Bulls' 99-yard touchdown drive in the second quarter.

The Bad: After showing superb discipline all season, the Bulls were penalized eight times for 90 yards.

email: sports@ubspectrum.com


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