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Just for some perspective, let's compare last season at week 8 to this season.
SMU was 3-4, this year 4-4
+ is positive change
Category Rank change Stat change
Rush Off 35 43 yds
Pass Off -3 1 yd
TTl Off 24 44 yds
Scoring O 3 1 pt
Rush D 44 37 yds
Pass Eff D -26 -13
Ttl D 27 29 yds
Scoring D 24 3 pts
Net punting 19 2 yds
Punt Returns -109 -15 yds/rtn
KOR 31 2 yds/rtn
Turnovers -58 -1.29 per game
Pass Def -11 -7 yds
Pass Eff 44 38
Sacks 16 .29 per game
TFLs -10 -.19
Sacks Allowed 8 .18

So almost everything is improved except punt returns, turnovers and pass efficiency defense. The key is whether we make or do not create turnovers. The key positions affecting these are where graduations, academic casualties, and injuries have hit us.

I calculated we -8 in Turnover Ratio this year. Last year at this time we were among the nation's leaders

Turnovers is a big difference between last year and this year. A short field and some quick scores would be a big plus. Our O has had to move the ball the length of the field most evry position. That is a tall order to consistantly expect to score.

Aside from turnovers, the glaring thing I see is replacing Sanders at punt returner.

we really miss Sterling Moore