Wyoming Cowboys @ Bowling Green Falcons Football Preview

Wyoming travels to Bowling Green to complete the home-and-home series begun in 2008, when Bowling Green took down the Cowboys 45-16 in Laramie. That result from three years ago gives no insights to this game, since it was so long ago. However, what does give insight into this Saturday’s upcoming clash is the profile of the schedules of each team so far this season. While Wyoming does sport a nice 2-0 record, this game in Ohio marks its first against an FBS opponent. The Cowboys beat Weber State in the closing seconds in week one, then dispatched Texas State 45-10 last week.

Even though this schedule does mean Wyoming will have to win seven games to qualify for a bowl game this year, it could turn out very beneficial for the Cowboys as they continue the attempt to break in freshman quarterback Brett Smith. “Mister Smith” won’t be going to Washington this week, but a trip to Ohio might feel like something close to that. The newbie signal caller for the Pokes has acquitted himself nicely, leading the game-winning drive in week one while completing 60 percent of his passes through two contests and a lot of gameday repetitions. The games under his belt could serve to get Smith up to speed and ready for the rest of this year’s slate.

On the other side of the divide, Bowling Green has been busy racking up yards against Idaho and Morgan State. The Falcons’ offense ranks 11th in the nation, averaging 525 yards per game. The strength of the attack early in the season seems to be the balance the Falcons can offer. While quarterback Matt Shilz has averaged 225 passing yards per game and tallied seven touchdowns compared to only one interception, the run game averages 227 yards per game, anchored by Anthon Samuel and Jordan Hopgood.

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Because Wyoming’s defense has been shaky at times, Bowling Green will present the lads from Laramie with a formidable test. Smith and the Cowboy offense will compete, no doubt, but it will probably be up to Wyoming’s defense to play the deciding role in this game. Smith, being a freshman quarterback, will need all the help he can get in a road environment against a not-so-cupcake-flavored opponent. If Wyoming’s defense can keep the score manageable, Smith will have a chance to put his stamp on this contest.

By: Matt Zemek
DFN Sports Senior Staff Writer