SJSU Stats/Keys

[The PonyGrad]

Overview

SJSU seems to be at a level similar to UTEP but their strength is passing and they do that a lot more than run. Defensively SJSU again is about the level of UTEP but slightly better against the pass, slightly worse against the run.

SJSU has done well on KORs for #6 in the country, due to Rutledge's record performance last week SMU is #7 in that category. SJSU is +.6 in TO margin while SMU is -1.4. As play against UTEP showed, this could be the key stat.

Details

On offense SMU needs to figure out how to take advantage of SJSUs defense. Against the run SJSU is #98 in YPP allowed at 4.42. More importantly we have got to get that passing game going. SJSU is #86 vs. the pass in YPP at 7.42. Unfortunately SMU is # 112 in rushing YPP at 2.68 and #114 in passing YPP at 4.99. SMU is #116 in total offense and #116 in YPP. Rushbrook has stepped up and KK is a soldier but we need another playmaker.

On defense SMU, #69 in YPP allowed passing, must stop the passing attack of SJSU. This is a different mindset than UTEP which primarily ran the ball. SJSU is #47 in passing offense since they pass so much but only #99 in YPP in that category. SJSU has an adequate running game but probably runs are set-up by the passing game. Passing is generally a short controlled game completing 56% of passes. No doubt they will see how UTEP gave us trouble with those wide receiver screens. SJSU is #86 in YPP rushing for 3.39 while SMU is #86, 4.17 YPP allowed.

Other factors

SJSU has an advantage in TO margin by 2 vs. SMU. Both are top 10 KOR teams. SJSU #6, and SMU #7. Both have poor net punting. SMU is #117 while SJSU is #115.

[Nacho]

I haven't been following SJSU. Is Tyson Thompson playing?

[The PonyGrad]

It appears that Tyson, a Junior, has played in every game but does not show up as first or second in rushing yards.

[PlanoStang]

Sounds like SJSU is running the offense we need to be running with our OL, etc.

[The PonyGrad]

Some additional statistics of note. In many respects SJSU and SMU are similar. Here are the stats where the teams match:

Red zone defense, SMU 70% vs 73%
3rd down conversions, both about 35%
Sacks, both 7
Field goals, SMU 75% vs. 78%
PATs both 100%
Opponent 4th down conv 60% (not good)
First downs, SMU 83 vs. 89

Here are some stats where SMU does better:

Red zone offense, SMU 90% vs. 69% (fumbling on the one does not count)
Opponents 3rd down conversions, SMU 38% vs. 51%
Time of possesion, SMU 34:55 vs 29:41
Opponents penalties SMU 58 vs. 45
Penalties, SMU 67 vs. 79
Opponents 1st downs, SMU 85 vs. 123 (wow!)

Here is where SJSU does better:
Sacks allowed, SMU 13 vs. 9
Kick off coverage, SMU 26.1 vs. 18
4th down conversion, SMU 29% vs. 40%

Kick off coverage could be key as SJSU is a good KOR team.

SMU has an advantage in defensive stats except where our offense allows more sacks