Statistics are interesting for the overview they provide. Coaches must work on match-ups and technique and execution in addition to the overview but let me provide some of that overview for UTEP.
Working against UTEP's defense...
SMU's offense in terms of yards per play is #112 (of 117) in rushing and #115 in passing. Rather dismal. But, in UTEP SMU will be facing their weakest opponent so far in terms of yards allowed per passing play. UTEP is #97 in that category while 3 of our 4 previous opponents are well above average in that category. Therefore, it is time to get the passing game going vs. UTEP. This may suggest getting Bartel and freshman receivers involved. Are these players ready to step it up? While UTEP is weak against the rush (#82 in YPP) SMU has faced weaker run defenses and not done well.
In addition, depending on how you want to figure it, SMU is giving up about 14 yards per punt exchange vs. UTEP (based on net punting and average PR,) so we do not want this to be a punting duel. We need to score touchdowns or at least field goals. This again suggests getting the passing game going.
Working against UTEP's offense...
Again in YPP UTEP is #82 in rushing and #111 in passing. It may surprise some to know that SMU is now #45 in pass defense based on YPP but #71 in rush defense. We should be able to shut down UTEP's passing game and bring pressure to bear on their fair running game or the QB to force errant throws. There seems to be room for creativity and I look forward to see how the defense is used.