Daily Campus 2010 Homecoming Extra

Volume CXV No. 27

Homecoming Extra

Friday, October 1, 2010

VANDERBILT COMMODORES AT CONNECTICUT HUSKIES OCTOBER 2, 2010 – NOON, SNY RENTSCHLER FIELD, EAST HARTFORD

For Endres, it’s been a long road Page 4

Who’s set to break out?

Page 5

Sio Moore steps up Page 6

Blair: Remembering my HC games Page 8

Page 2

Friday, October 1, 2010

Homecoming Extra

VANDERBILT COMMODORES AT UCONN HUSKIES

RENTSCHLER FIELD, EAST HARTFORD – OCT. 2, 2010 – NOON, SNY

When UConn Has The Ball ...

Sean Richardson #21

Jay Fullam #33

SS

FS

UCONN IMPACT PLAYERS Quarterback Cody Endres

Bouncing around from second string to suspension and then the starting role, Endres played admirably in the second half against Buffalo.He sported a 63 percent complete rate last year.

Chris Marve #13

John Stokes #49

Nate Campbell #52

SLB

MLB

WLB

Wide Receiver Michael Smith

Casey Hayward #19

Theron Kadri #91

T.J. Greenstone #74

Rob Lohr #84

Tim Fugger #42

Eddie Foster #16

CB

DE

DT

DT

DE

CB

WR Michael Smith #80

TE

LT

LG

C

RG

Ryan Griffin #94

Adam Masters #63

Eric Kuraczea #60

Moe Petrus #57

Zach Hurd #78

Smith has emerged as the favorite target of every Husky quarterback this season, after hauling in a 56-yard bomb from Cody Endres against Buffalo. He has 310 receiving yards.

Defensive End Jesse Joseph

Joseph’s play along the front four has been a steady force for the Huskies defense early this season, having tallied at least one tackle behind the line of scrimmage in each contest.

RT Mike WR WR Ryan #71 Kashif Dwayne Moore Difton #82 #1

QB

Linebacker Lawrence Wilson

Wilson’s superior range and sound technique allows him to pile up the stats, so if a Vandy running back is halted for little gain Saturday, put your money on Wilson being right there.

Cody Endres #12

RB

Strong Safety Jerome Junior

A leader of the secondary, Junior is enjoying his second year in a starting role. The ballhawk has picked off two passes this year, returning his last one back to the house for a touchdown.

Jordan Todman #23

SPECIAL TEAMS K David Teggart #38 P Cole Wagner #86 KR Mike Lang #7 PR Taylor Mack #29

Depth charts accurate as of Wednesday, Sept. 29.

Head Coach: Randy Edsall, 12th season This Year: 2-2 (0-0 Big East) Overall: 68-67 overall

When Vanderbilt Has The Ball ...

VANDERBILT IMPACT PLAYERS

Jerome Junior 15

Running Back Warren Norman The 5-foot-10, 195 pound sophomore running back through whom most of Vanderbilt’s run-heavy goes. Norman is a big-play threat.

Running Back Zac Stacy

The Robin to Warren Norman’s Batman. As a backup, he’s made his presence felt with two touchdowns and 5.6 yards per carry. He provides an excellent change of pace.

The 6-foot-5, 250 pound tight end who leads the team in receiving yards and has their only touchdown catch. With his size and versatility, he poses a serious threat.

Linebacker Chris Marve

WR Jonathan Krause #17

The 6-foot-2, 212 pound junior safety is the physical leader of the Commodores’ defense and already has 30 tackles. He is a big hitter and a tough player who has played hurt.

WLB

Kendall Reyes #99

Shamar Stephen #59

Tywon Martin #4

Jesse Joseph #91

Dwayne Gratz #24

DE

DT

DT

DE

CB

TE

LT

LG

C

RG

RT

Brandon Barden #6

Wesley Johnson #67

Caleb Welchans #78

Joey Bailey #71

Kyle Fischer #72

Ryan Seymour #74

The 6-foot, 235 pound linebacker led the SEC in tackles last season and averaged about ten per game. The junior is the dominant force on the Commodores’ defense.

Safety Sean Richardson

Sio Moore #46

FS

MLB

HLB

CB

Tight End Brandon Barden

Lawrence Wilson #8

SS

Scott Lutrus #32 Blidi Wreh-Wilson #5

Mike Lang #7

SPECIAL TEAMS K Ryan Fowler #48 P Richard Kent #94 KR Warren Norman #5 PR Zac Stacy #2

QB

WR John Cole #83

Larry Smith #10

RB

RB

Warren Norman #5

Kennard Reeves #28

Head Coach: Robbie Caldwell, 1st season This Year: 1-2 (1-1 SEC) Overall: 1-2

John Kennedy, Editor in Chief Russell Blair, Managing Editor Valerie Nezvesky, Business Manager/Advertising Director Nancy Depathy, Financial Manager Front Desk: Fax: Editor-In-Chief/Commentary: Managing Editor/Photo: News/Sports: Focus/Online:

(860) (860) (860) (860) (860) (860)

486-3407 486-4388 486-6141 486-6119 486-6118 486-6110

On The Front: Cody Endres (top) and Michael Smith (bottom left) are two impact players for the Huskies this season.

Designed by: Ashley Pospisil/The Daily Campus

Friday, October 1, 2010 Production Managers: Mac Cerullo, Matt McDonough, Colin McDonough Copy Editors: Russell Blair, Amy Schellenbaum

Amy Schellenbaum, Associate Managing Editor Joe Adinolfi, News Editor Jay Polansky, Associate News Editor Taylor Trudon, Commentary Editor Cindy Luo, Associate Commentary Editor Caitlin Mazzola, Focus Editor Melanie Deziel, Associate Focus Editor Mac Cerullo, Sports Editor

Matt McDonough, Associate Sports Editor Ashley Pospisil Photo Editor Jim Anderson, Associate Photo Editor Sarah Parsons, Comics Editor Brendan Fitzpatrick, Assoc. Business Manager Kara Miller, Marketing Manager Laura Carpenter, Graphics Manager Nadav Ullman, Circulation Manager

Friday, October 1, 2010

Page 3

Homecoming Extra

DAILY CAMPUS STAFF PICKS – VANDERBILT AT UCONN

Mac Cerullo Sports Editor

UConn

—

Vandy

35 21 —

ONE TO WATCH

Jay Cutler isn’t walking through that door, this is Endres’ game.

Matt McDonough

Colin McDonough

UConn

UConn

Associate Sports Editor —

Vandy

20 7 —

ONE TO WATCH

Like South Carolina, UConn takes Vandy behind the woodshed.

Senior Staff Writer —

Vandy

Russell Blair Managing Editor

UConn

—

Vandy

Jon-Paul Roche Senior Staff Writer

UConn

—

Vandy

27 17

35 24

ONE TO WATCH

ONE TO WATCH

ONE TO WATCH

For Vandy, SEC speed applies to wits, not football.

I’m personally a bigger fan of “808s & Heartbreak.”

This is a futbol match right?

—

—

3

—

2

BREAKING DOWN THE HUSKIES OFFENSE

Coach Randy Edsall inserted Cody Endres as his starting quarterback last Saturday against Buffalo, and after leading the Huskies to a victory over the Bulls, the redshirt junior will remain the starter.

Endres is no stranger to the starting role, starting in eight games over the last two years. In his only action this season, Endres threw for 139 yards and two touchdowns. If starting running back Jordan Todman is available, after missing last week with an arm injury, the junior will look to continue his early season success. Todman averages 149.3 yards a game and leads the team with five touchdowns. The receiving corps is coming into its own after the departure of star wideout Marcus Easley.

Kashif Moore, Dwayne Difton and Michael Smith will start. Moore has one touchdown this year while Difton has just four catches. Smith leads all receivers with two touchdowns on 310 receiving yards.

By Matt McDonough Associate Sports Editor

DEFENSE

Linebacker Lawrence Wilson leads the defense in tackles with 39. After a speedy recovery from a knee injury, Greg Lloyd has played all four games this season and is second on the team with 24 tackles. Recently named Big East Defensive Player of the Week, Sio Moore is third with 23. Strong safety Jerome Junior leads the secondary with two interceptions, returning one 27 yards for a touchdown against Buffalo.

Blidi Wreh-Wilson also Lawrence Wilson, LB. found the end zone that game, picking off a fourth-quarter pass and returning it 46 yards to the house. Linebacker Jory Johnson and freshman cornerback Taylor Mack also have interceptions this season. Free safety Mike Lang and cornerback Dwayne Gratz round out the starting secondary.

SPECIAL TEAMS X FACTORS

Who will be kicking field goals for UConn on Saturday remains to be seen. Both Dave Teggart and Chad Christen are possible starting place kickers. Teggart is 7-for-11 on field goals and has made every extra point attempt. Christen, however, kicked the final PAT attempt against Buffalo. Coach Randy Edsall said Teggart’s arrest this week will not affect his playing time. While it is still up in the air as to who will be kicking field goals, there is no doubt that Christen will take care of the kickoffs, as he has kicked all 24 this season. Cole Wagner has two touchbacks on 19 punts. Robbie Frey will look to be the man returning kickoffs, as he has 149 yards on seven runbacks. Lang will be beside Frey on the kickoff team. Lang has returned three kickoffs for 76 yards.

Taylor Mack, Gary Wilburn and Nick Williams have all split time returning punts this season. Mack averages 9.67 yards per return.

If Todman is unavailable, the rushing load falls on D.J. Shoemate and Robbie Frey’s shoulders. Shoemate handled most of the carries against Buffalo, but Frey had more rushing yards. Both scored on the ground, but Frey looked more impressive, running for 112 yards. He will be the starter if Todman is out. The loss of a running back like Todman would stifle any offense, but the Huskies seemed to fill the void nicely against the Bulls.

An SEC team like Vanderbilt is a different beast, and the Commodores will Robbie Frey, RB. look to stop the run.

The running corps suffered another blow, as redshirt junior Kelmetrus Wylie is out for the year. Look for freshman quarterback Leon Kinnard to enter the game in the Wildcat formation, as well as a possible reverse play to Moore to give the Commodores a different look on the run and possibly break open a big play.

BREAKING DOWN THE COMMODORES OFFENSE

Vanderbilt features a running back by committee attack that produces the bulk of their offense. Last week in their win 28-14 against Ole Miss, Zac Stacy, Warren Norman, Warren Tate and Kennard Reeves combined for 186 yards on the ground, resulting in three touchdowns. The most prolific runner of the four is Norman, a sophomore who had a 111-yard performance against Ole Miss, including an 80-yard touchdown run.

Warren Norman, RB. Lack of production from quarterback Larry Smith has been an issue for the Commodores in the early stages of their 2010 campaign.

He has thrown for only one touchdown on the season, and in the last two games, a 27-3 loss at home against LSU and the win at Ole Miss, he is a combined 17-of34 for 143 yards and zero touchdowns.

By Peter Logue Campus Correspondent

DEFENSE

The expected return from injuries of three starters – free safety Jay Fullam, cornerback Jamie Graham and defensive tackle Adam Smotherman – will provide a boost to the Commodore defense that is anchored by All-SEC middle linebacker Chris Marve.

The Vanderbilt defense is very potent at forcing turnovers. They were able to force two fumbles and an interception against Jeromi Masoli and Ole Miss, resulting in 14 points. Junior defensive end Tim Rugger has forced one fumble in each of Vanderbilt’s three games so far this season, and as a result, he top the SEC and shares the NCAA lead in forced fumbles. The Commodores have the second best turnover margin in the SEC at +3, behind only Florida (+8), and the defense is a large part of that. The Huskies will need to take care of the football in order to be successful on Saturday.

SPECIAL TEAMS

The bright spot for Vanderbilt’s special teams this season has been freshman punter Richard Kent. Nine of his NCAAleading 25 punts have been downed inside the opponent’s 20-yard line while only one has resulted in a touchback. He was a large factor in the Ole Miss victory, as three of the last five Rebels drives started inside the their own 15-yard line following a Kent punt.

Aside from Kent, the Vanderbilt special teams have been mediocre. In a 23-21 opening day loss Richard Kent, P. to Northwestern, Commodores kicker Ryan Fowler missed an extra point and a 48-yard field goal.

The punt returners are averaging 3 yards per punt return, while the kick returners are averaging 21.1 yards per return. The Vanderbilt kick returners have yet to find the end zone so far this season, nor have they had a return of more than 50 yards.

X FACTORS

The Vanderbilt Commodores are a very young team. Twenty-one sophomores, nine redshirt freshman and 10 true freshman have seen action so far this season. Twenty one of these players have seen their first college action this season.

What does this mean? It is up to the Dog Pound and the rest of UConn country to expose this inexperience and youth. Yes, the Commodores won on the road in a hostile environment at Ole Miss, but no, they have not played at Rentschler Field in our Homecoming game. The place needs to be nuts. This is a challenge to everyone reading this article to “rock the ‘Rent” on Saturday. The louder and crazier the crowd is, the more likely it will have a negative impact on the fledgling Commodores. The youth of Vanderbilt is the X-Factor on Saturday. It is up to the crowd, especially the student section, to expose it.

Page 4

Friday, October 1, 2010

Homecoming Extra

It hasn’t always been a smooth ride

Endres’ career has seen its fair share of ups and downs

By Mac Cerullo Sports Editor Cody Endres’ career at UConn can be best described as a rollercoaster ride. There have been high points and low points, twists and turns and times where everything seems to get turned upside-down.

The one time that seems to be consistent for Endres, year in and year out, however, is Homecoming.

For all the turbulence that has characterized his career, this weekend will mark his third consecutive homecoming start dating back to his freshman year. In each of the last two, he performed very well.

Endres earned his first career start Homecoming Weekend of 2008.

Tyler Lorenzen and Zach Frazer had both gone down with injuries, and the Huskies were faced with a Cincinnati team that would go on to win the Big East and earn an Orange Bowl bid later that season.

The untested freshman came into the game and calmly guided the Huskies offense to a convincing 40-16 win over the Bearcats. At game’s end, Endres had completed 18 of 42 passes for 196 yards without throwing a touchdown pass or an interception.

“Cody Endres stepped up and did a great job,” said coach Randy Edsall after the game. “He did not turn the ball over, managed the game extremely well, and made some big throws.”

A year later, circumstances had repeated themselves. Cody Endres was once again filling in for Zach Frazer, who had suffered a knee injury earlier in the season against UNC. But unlike his freshman year, Endres had already notched three starts that year and had performed well in each, going 2-1 in those games.

The homecoming game against Louisville was just another day at the office for him by then. Endres went 14-for-21 that day, throwing for 273 yards with a touchdown and an interception. The Huskies won 38-25, and at that point everything seemed to be going great for Endres, who had performed well and seemed to have a chance to keep the starting job even after Frazer returned from his injury.

But things took a turn for the worse shortly after.

On Oct. 31, 2009 against Rutgers, Frazer was cleared to play, but Edsall sent Endres out again anyway; the starting job seemed to be all his. But midway through the first quarter, Endres took a hard hit and had to come out of the game.

He suffered a shoulder injury on the play, and just like that, his season was over.

This was the first in a string of disappointments that awaited Endres. After recovering from his injury, Endres competed for the starting job in spring practice, and despite performing well, he was not able to beat out Frazer.

But the low point for Endres didn’t come until Aug. 18, when both he and offensive guard Erik

FILE PHOTO/The Daily Campus

Cody Endres takes a snap during the Huskies’ 38-25 Homecoming victory over Louisville on Oct. 17, 2009.

Kuraczea were suspended from the team indefinitely for a violation of athletic department policy.

“It was disappointing,” Endres said. “Being away from the game was tough, cause it’s a game I do love, I’ve been playing it for years.

It was hard, it was like losing your girlfriend or something like that.”

Though he said he remained optimistic, Endres did admit that the thought did cross his mind occasionally that he may have caused himself irreversible damage.

“It did cross my mind, but I’m an optimistic person,” Endres said. “I’ve seen some guys, obviously Andre Dixon went through the same thing and he came back strong, and that was a thing for me, I thought about that a lot. I talked to him briefly about it. I never really lost the faith. I always knew I’d come back and be able to perform well.”

Endres got his second chance about a month later, when he and Kuraczea were both reinstated to the team following the Huskies 30-16 loss at Temple. Edsall made the decision after he talked to both players and determined that both had learned from their mistake and were ready to return to the team.

“I was satisfied with their response,” Edsall said at his Sept.

21 press conference. “There was remorse, they understood in terms of how much they not only let themselves down, let their families down and most especially let their teammates down.”

Returning to the team was a great start for Endres, but he still had a lot of work to do. Edsall slated Endres as the third stringer upon his return, and for the first couple of days at practice, he wasn’t getting a lot of reps. During the two minute drill, Frazer was getting four reps, freshman Mike Box was getting two, and Endres only one.

But by midweek, Endres had shown the coaching staff enough that they decided to bump him up to No. 2. Then, during last weekends game against Buffalo, Edsall was forced to make a decision. The team was struggling, there was no energy, and Frazer wasn’t getting

the job done. Edsall pulled Frazer from the game, and sent Endres back out for the first time in nearly 11 months.

It was then that Endres got the offensive lineman and wide receivers together so he could say a few words to them.

“I just told the offensive linemen to give me some time out there and the receivers to get open and I’ll get the ball to them,” Endres said.

The team immediately began to play better. Tied 14-14 with Buffalo at the half, Endres led the Huskies to two quick scoring drives in the third quarter, and suddenly, the Huskies had a 24-14 lead. The Huskies ended up outscoring Buffalo 31-7 in the second half, with the final score ending up at 45-21. By games end, there was no doubt who the starting quarterback was any longer. Endres was back, and this time, apparently, for good.

After the game, Endres’ receivers raved about his demeanor and how he helped give the team a spark.

“Cody’s always calm in every situation,” said receiver Michael Smith. “It’s amazing to me how calm he stays, it relaxes me out there as well.”

“I think Cody, he brings a different type of energy, he’s a laid back type of guy but he’s real comfortable out there,” said receiver Kashif Moore. “Once we started to make big plays over the weekend, it just continued to build, and he just gave us the confidence to keep going out there and do it.”

Edsall said that despite the month away from the game, he wasn’t surprised to see Endres perform so well.

“He obviously threw while he was away, while he was on his own, even though it might have been to Kuraczea,” Edsall said.

“I think it’s a little bit like riding a bike, you know how to do it and it wasn’t like he was coming back off an injury, which is a little bit different.”

Endres’ rise from the ashes marks the end of a long road. Throughout all of the obstacles he has faced, he said that there is a lot he has learned about himself.

ASHLEY POSPISIL/The Daily Campus

Cody Endres looks to throw duing the Huskies’ 45-21 win over Buffalo on Sept. 25. Endres came into the game in relief of Zach Frazer at the end of the first half and led the Huskies to victory.

“I think I’ve grown as a player and as a person,” Endres said. “I mean, just the ability to lead the guys, a lot of respect, and everyone knows what I’m about and I think that’s important.”

Though he had to work hard to prove to his teammates and coaches that he was worthy of their trust after his suspension, many of his teammates who knew him best knew that they could count on him.

“Me and Cody, we go way back,” said Kashif Moore. “I remember coming up here to work out for the coaches before camp, there was a quarterback throwing to me for one-on-ones, and it was Cody. We definitely had a connection right there, and I knew he was a great quarterback.”

“I always trusted Cody,” Michael Smith said. “Just some of his decision making off the field they didn’t always trust. But on the football field they always trusted Cody and we always trusted Cody.”

Now, with his third Homecoming start ahead of him, Endres hopes for the same kind of success as the last two, with more to come after.

“It’s been an up and down career for me here,” Endres said.

“It’s my third Homecoming start, and I’ve had some success in the last ones. I’m looking to get another big W here.”

“I’m really focused on this Saturday,” Endres said. “I’m not worried about the past, I’m just worried about getting this win for the team.”

Though it’s impossible to predict the future, it seems that Endres’ roller coaster ride has finally run its course. With the starting job all his, and a seemingly smooth road ahead, Endres has a chance to show his coaches and teammates what he’s believed all along, that he’s the No. 1 starter, and that he’s the right guy to lead the Huskies from this point on.

Michael.Cerullo@UConn.edu

Friday, October 1, 2010

Page 5

Homecoming Extra

ALL PHOTOS BY ASHLEY POSPISIL/The Daily Campus

Who will be this year’s breakout wideout?

Three receivers have emerged as Cody Endres’ main options this season. Kashif Moore (left), Michael Smith (center) and Dwayne Difton (right).

By Colin McDonough Senior Staff Writer Heading into the UConn football team’s 2009 season, the question was who’s going to replace Donald Brown’s offensive production? Running backs Jordan Todman and Andre Dixon each rushed for 1,000 yards helping the Huskies not miss a beat in the backfield. But receiver Marcus Easley stepped up to make UConn a twodimensional offense.

The senior from Stratford became Cody Endres’ and Zach Frazer’s favorite target, catching 48 passes, eight touchdowns and amassed 893 yards for the 8-5 Huskies. The Buffalo Bills drafted Easley in the fourth round.

With UConn’s season nearly at the halfway point and coach Randy Edsall asking his receivers to be more consistent, the question in 2010 is, who’s going to be the next Marcus Easley?

Twelve different Huskies have receptions this season, with Michael Smith leading the receiving group with 16 catches, 310 yards and two touchdowns. Smith caught a 56-yard touchdown pass from Endres last weekend to turn the tide against Buffalo. He also made a spectacular juggling reception for one of the only bright spots in the season opening loss at Michigan. Smith is 6 feet, 202 pounds, not too far off from Easley’s 6 feet 2 inches and 216 pounds. Smith may be a key target for Endres in picking up third downs and getting into the end zone like Easley was last year.

Kashif Moore is second on the team in receiving with 13 receptions and one touchdown. The redshirt junior made big plays last year, with touchdowns against West Virginia and Notre Dame. He also made an incredible one-handed touchdown catch against South Carolina in the Papajohns.com

Bowl that was featured on ESPN’s Top Plays. Moore will need to be more consistent the rest of the way, but he has the athleticism and playmaking ability to do so.

Isiah Moore and Dwayne Difton have each started this season, with Difton looking like he will be the No. 1 guy for the rest of the season. Moore and Difton each have four receptions on the year, but have not shown any signs of being deep threats in the last two seasons. Moore scored his only collegiate touchdown in the snow last year against South Florida. Difton may not have gotten into the end zone yet, but the sophomore is beginning to show his speed. The four-star recruit averages 13 yards per catch in his second season in Storrs.

John Delahunt and Ryan Griffin can both catch the ball at the tight end position. Griffin scored against Buffalo and Delahunt has a 46-yard reception on the season. Easley not only had

speed but he had strength; Griffin and Delahunt can provide steady hands in goal line and short yardage situations where the Huskies pass.

UConn can also get receptions out of the backfield. Todman, Robbie Frey, Anthony Sherman and D.J. Shoemate all have catches this year. It remains to be seen if Edsall uses his running backs as receiving options more often.

Easley was a former walk on who became the No. 1 option and an NFL draft pick for the Huskies last year.

Receivers have acknowledged that the loss of Easley is a big one, but the offense can still rely on the passing game as well as the running game.

There may not be another Easley this season, but in order to replace him, the entire receiving corps will have to pitch in.

Colin.McDonough@UConn.edu

From The Coaches...

“Connecticut is a very good team, a very sound and disciplined team.

They have a very strong power running game...”

— Robbie Caldwell

AP

Vanderbilt head coach Robbie Caldwell.

“They’re a team that offensively likes to run the ball. They are a team we’re going to have to really study and understand because of all of the different looks they’ll give us.”

— Randy Edsall

AP

UConn head coach Randy Edsall.

Sio Moore adds key depth

Page 6

Friday, October 1, 2010

Homecoming Extra

ASHLEY POSPISIL/The Daily Campus

Linebacker Sio Moore makes a tackle during the Huskies’ 45-21 win over Buffalo on Sept. 25. Moore recorded a career high 16 tackles on the day in his first career start, and was named Big East Defensive Player of the Week for his efforts.

By Colin McDonough Senior Staff Writer Redshirt sophomore Sio Moore made his first start of his career Saturday against Buffalo. After 16 tackles, one interception and a Big East defensive player of the week honor, it surely won’t be the last start Moore gets.

“It felt good to get out there with my teammates and help get a win,” Moore said. “I was excited my number was called to get in and tried to make the most of it.”

Cody Endres wasn’t the only spark for UConn last Saturday, as Moore and the defense held the Bulls to seven points in the second half en route to a 45-21 victory. The Huskies’ defense forced four turnovers and returned two interceptions for touchdowns.

“I look at my performance as it was good but there’s still things I have to improve on and get better and that’s what I have to do this week to prepare

for Vanderbilt,” Moore said. start on Saturday versus Vanderbilt.

The Commodores may have had He was listed first string on the depth to watch No. 46 on film a lot this chart on Tuesday for the Homecoming week before facing the Big East defen- game against the Commodores. sive player of the “Homecoming week on the field is always great and “My goal has Saturday. Moore we’re working everyis more concerned day to prepare for always been to be about beating Vandy,” Moore said. a contributor to the Vanderbilt than in “We’re always fired repeating his conup to be playing at team in any and every ference honors. the Rent and to get a way I can and to be “It feels good win. I expect our fans but the big boys to do what they do ready whenever my on the defenevery week, get loud number is called.” sive line let us and get crazy and linebackers run support us. It’s going

around so credit is to be a great football

– Sio Moore to them,” Moore atmosphere.”

UConn linebacker said. “But this The linebacker is not something from Apex, N.C. I’m looking into played his first year to much. I have to prepare for the task of high school football at West Haven at hand this week and that’s Vanderbilt High School, before moving to North and getting a W.” Carolina. Moore saw action in only Moore will get his second career four games last season and made six

tackles in the season. He already has 23 tackles this season, 14 solo, and an interception versus Buffalo, which he returned 13 yards.

“My goal has always been to be a contributor to the team in any and every way I can and to be ready whenever my number is called,” Moore said.

Moore realizes that coach Randy Edsall likes to change the depth chart often, but he will continue to give the same effort no matter if he is the starter or backup.

“In the words of my big brother Jazz, ‘You have to play each play like it’s the last play you’ll ever play,’” Moore said.

Greg Lloyd was moved out of the starting position as linebacker and Moore was put in. Moore filled Lloyd’s role beautifully against Buffalo, and if he can continue to produce, the starting job will remain his.

Colin.McDonough@UConn.edu

» QUICK HITS

UConn looks to even series with Vandy

By Matt McDonough Associate Sports Editor

ASHLEY POSPISIL/The Daily Campus

Robbie Frey carries the ball against Buffalo on Sept. 25, 2010 at Rentschler Field.

The Huskies UConn has won six of its last eight contests dating back to last year… Cody Endres will make his first start as quarterback this season, the ninth in his career…Sio Moore was named Big East Defensive Player of the Week and Robbie Frey was selected to the conference honor roll…

Jordan Todman remains fifth in the country in rushing and first in the Big East with nearly 150 yards a game despite missing last Saturday’s contest vs. Buffalo.

The Commodores Vanderbilt defeated UConn in the only meeting between the schools, 27-24 in 2002 at Nashville… The Commodores are 10-7-1 all-time against current Big East members… Vanderbilt has played Cincinnati the most – seven times – and has a 4-3 record against the Bearcats… Three SEC teams, Kentucky, Florida and LSU, have all defeated Big East teams this season…

Vanderbilt receiving coach and passing game coordinator Charlie Fisher played football at Springfield College with UConn’s defensive line coach Hank Hughes.

Coaching Carousel

First-year coach Robbie Caldwell is handling the reins for Vanderbilt after nine seasons on the staff as an assistant. He took over the program in July after Bobby Johnson abruptly retired.

During his time in Nashville, Johnson coached the likes of Jay Cutler, was named an SEC coach of the year in 2008 and won the Music City Bowl that same year, leading the Commodores to its first bowl win since 1955.

Caldwell has coached at Furman, North Carolina State and North Carolina. In those stints, he coached in 11 bowl games.

Matthew.McDonough@UConn.edu

Friday, October 1, 2010

Homecoming Extra

THE OPPONENTS Sept. 4 – Michigan 30, UConn 10

Michigan Quarterback Denard Robinson gave UConn the fits as he accounted for more than 380 yards and two touchdowns. The Huskies fell to Michigan in the most attended game in college football history.

Sept. 11 – UConn 62, Texas Southern 3 Led by Jordan Todman, the Huskies put 62 points on the board against the Tigers. The Huskies’ defense held Texas Southern to just two first downs in the first half as UConn easily won its home opener.

Sept. 18 – Temple 30, UConn 16 On the back of running back Bernard Pierce, the Temple Owls beat the Huskies by two scores, starting their season 3-0. The Huskies rushed for 240 yards in the losing effort.

Sept. 25 – UConn 45, Buffalo 21 Quarterback Cody Endres stepped in for Zach Frazer and led the Huskies to an impressive 23-point victory over Buffalo. Endres went 7-for-11, throwing for 139 yards and two touchdowns.

Saturday – vs. Vanderbilt – noon, SNY UConn and Vanderbilt’s last and only meeting came in 2002, when the Commodores beat the Huskies 27-24 in Nashville. This year Vandy is 1-2, but comes in fresh off a big win over Ole Miss.

Oct. 8 – at Rutgers – 7:30 p.m., ESPN Wildcat-minded Rutgers is looking to win its first Big East conference game against the rival Huskies. After beating the Huskies 28-24 last season, Rutgers finished with a mark of 8-4.

Oct. 23 – at Louisville – TBA The Huskies enter the ‘Ville for the first time since Zach Frazer led UConn to a 26-21 victory. Since then, both programs have gone in opposite directions. Coach Charlie Strong looks to turn the tide.

Oct. 29 – vs. West Virginia – 8:00 p.m., ESPN2 The Mountaineers come to town as Connecticut hosts and plays on national television. Running back Noel Devine hopes to carry WVU past the Huskies for the seventh year in a row.

Nov. 11 – vs. Pittsburgh – 7:30 p.m., ESPN Coach Dave Wannstedt and quarterback Tino Sunseri look to march the Panthers past UConn. The UConn defense looks to improve after last season, where it gave up 24 points to the Panthers in a three-point loss.

Nov. 20 – at Syracuse – TBA Two years ago UConn earned its first victory on the gridiron at the Carrier Dome and the Huskies blew out the Orange last year. Does Greg Paulus have a year of eligibility left?

Nov. 27 – vs. Cincinnati – TBA The two-time Big East champions seem to be in a transition year after the departure of coach Brian Kelly. UConn handed the Bearcats’ its last conference loss in 2008.

Dec. 4 – at South Florida – TBA, ABC/ESPN/ESPN2 UConn looks for its first win at Raymond James Stadium, while Skip Holtz coaches against his former team.

It’s a safe bet there won’t be snow at this year’s contest.

AS FOR VANDERBILT...

Sept. 4 Sept. 11 Sept. 18 Oct. 2 Oct. 9 Oct. 16 Oct. 23 Oct. 30 Nov. 6 Nov. 13 Nov. 20 Nov. 27 * SEC game

vs. Northwestern vs. LSU* at Mississippi* vs. UConn vs. Eastern Michigan at Georgia* vs. South Carolina* at Arkansas* vs. Florida* at Kentucky* vs. Tennessee*

vs. Wake Forest

L, 23-21 L, 27-3 W, 28-14 Noon, SNY TBA TBA TBA TBA TBA TBA TBA TBA

THE HUSKIES

Page 7

(Roster Accurate As Of Sept. 25) Elig. Pos. Ht. Wt. Hometown / Prev. School 1 Dwayne Difton So. WR 5-11 173 Ft. Lauderdale, Fla. / St. Thomas Aquinas Fr. CB 5-11 182 Davie, Fla. / Plantation 2 Gilbert Stlouis 3 Joshua Alexander Fr. S Waldorf, Md. / Westlake 6-1 184 4 Twyon Martin DT RJr. 6-2 292 Parkland, Fla. / Stoneman Douglas 4 Michael Box RFr. QB Suwanee, Ga. / Collins Hill 6-3 209 5 Blidi Wreh-Wilson RSo. CB 6-0 191 Edinboro, Pa. / General McLane 7 Mike Lang So. DB 5-11 181 Largo, Fla. / Largo 8 Lawrence Wilson RSr. LB 6-1 226 Tuscaloosa, Ala. / Paul W. Bryant 9 Andrew Opoku Fr. OLB 6-4 224 North Brunswick, N.J. / Fork Union (Va.) 10 Zach Frazer RSr. QB 6-4 231 Mechanicsburg, Pa. / Notre Dame Univ.

11 Scott McCummings QB Natick, Mass. / Natick Fr. 6-2 227 12 Cody Endres RJr. QB Washington, Pa. / Trinity 6-4 232 Etters, Pa. / Red Land 13 Chad Christen RFr. K/P 6-1 203 14 Leon Kinnard Fr. QB 5-9 182 Reistertown, Md. / Loyola Blakefield 15 Jerome Junior RSo. S Baltimore / Archbishop Curley 6-1 215 16 Byron Jones Fr. S 6-1 177 New Britain, Conn. / St. Paul (Bristol) 17 Blaise Driscoll Fr. QB Avon, Conn. / Avon Old Farms 6-0 193 18 Johnny McEntee RSo. QB Fullerton, Calif. / Servite 6-3 223 19 Kijuan Dabney Jr. DB Houston / Yates 6-1 192 20 Tevrin Brandon RFr. CB 5-10 176 Bethlehem, Pa. / Bethlehem Catholic 21 Gary Wilburn RJr. CB 5-11 195 Washington, Ga. / Washington-Wilkes 22 Meme Wylie RJr. RB 5-10 224 Washington, Ga. / Washington-Wilkes 23 Jordan Todman Jr. RB 5-9 193 North Dartmouth Mass,. / Dartmouth 24 D.J. Shoemate Jr. RB 5-11 218 Corona, Calif. / Servite 24 Dwayne Gratz RSo. CB Piscataway, N.J. / Piscataway 6-0 187 25 Harris Agbor RJr. S Mesquite, Texas / Horn 5-11 183 26 Marcus Campbell DE Bloomfield, Conn. / Bloomfield Jr. 6-3 232 28 Emmanuel Omokaro RJr. OLB 5-10 210 Danbury, Conn. / Danbury Mobile, Ala. / St. Paul’s 28 Jory Johnson RSo. OLB 6-1 227 29 Taylor Mack Fr. CB 5-9 170 Powder Spring, Ga. / The Lovett School 30 Matt Edwards RSo. OLB 6-0 190 Holliston, Mass. / Holliston 31 Nick Williams So. WR 5-10 190 East Windsor, N.J. / The Hun School 32 Scott Lutrus LB Brookfield, Conn. / Brookfield RSr. 6-3 245 33 Yawin Smallwood Fr. LB Worcester, Mass. / Doherty 6-2 227 34 David Kenney RFr. OLB 6-0 199 Highstown, N.J. / The Peddie School 35 Chris Lopes RFr. CB 5-10 192 Brockton, Mass. / Tilton School (NH) 36 Michael Osiecki Fr. LB Seymour, Conn. / Seymour 6-1 226 37 Jonathan Jean-Louis RJr. RB Cambridge, Mass. / Arlington Catholic 6-0 199 38 Dave Teggart RJr. K 6-0 207 Northborough, Mass. / Algonquin Regional Potomac, Md. / Churchill 38 Alex Kantor Fr. CB 5-9 191 39 Bret Manning Sr. FB 5-11 260 Acton, Mass. / Acton-Boxborough 39 Mark Hinkley RSo. LB 5-11 226 Kanehoe, Hawaii / Punahou 40 John Yurek RJr. S 6-0 201 Greencastle, Pa. / Wyoming Seminary 41 Brandon Steg Fr. LB 6-2 214 Coral Springs, Fla. / J.P. Taravella 42 Jordan Huxtable RB Fr. 5-8 183 St. Charles, Ill. / St. Charles North 44 Robbie Frey RJr. RB Leihighton, Pa. / Leihighton 6-0 203 45 Martin Hyppolite RFr. OLB 6-0 214 Wakefield, Mass. / Wakefield RSo. LB 46 Sio Moore Apex, N.C. / Apex 6-1 230 47 Reuben Frank Fr. FB 6-3 229 Poughkeepsie, N.Y. / Poughkeepsie So. 48 Trevardo Williams DE 6-1 225 Bridgeport, Conn. / Canterbury School Sr. 49 Anthony Sherman FB 5-11 240 North Attleboro, Mass. / North Attleboro 50 Tyler Bullock RFr. OG 6-4 301 Mechanicsburg, Pa. / Mechanicsburg 51 Tim Willman RFr. DT Fulton, Md. / Reservoir 6-3 274 Kensington, Conn. / Avon Old Farms 52 Patrick Wilson Fr. DE 6-2 237 53 Ryan Wirth RSo. DT 6-2 272 Medford, N.J. / Cheshire Academy 54 Alex Polito RSr. DT Reading, Pa. / Governor Mifflin 6-6 280 55 Jerome Williams RSo. LB 5-11 233 Burlington Township, N.J. / Holy Cross 56 Angelo Pruitt Fr. DT Cincinnati, Ohio / North College Hill 6-2 295 57 Moe Petrus RJr. C St. Laurent, Que. / Vanier Prep 6-2 292 59 Shamar Steven RFr. DT 6-5 300 Brookville, N.Y. / Long Island Lutheran 60 Erik Kuraczea RSo. OG Ansonia, Conn. / Ansonia 6-2 324 61 Stephen Brown RFr. OT 6-6 290 Clifton Park, N.Y. / Shenendehowa 62 Ben Chapman RSo. C Stonington, Conn. / Stonington 6-2 274 63 Adam Masters RSo. OT Bethesda, Md. / Walt Whitman 6-4 283 65 Gus Cruz Fr. OG 6-4 274 Manchester, N.H. / Kimball Union Academy 66 Mathieu Olivier RSr. OG Woburn, Mass. / Woburn 6-6 294 67 Adam Mueller Fr. LS 6-1 208 Park Ridge, Ill. / Maine Township South 69 Steve Greene RFr. OG 6-4 309 Edensburg, Pa. / Bishop Carroll 70 Gary Bardzak RJr. C Mar Lin, Pa. / Pottsville 6-3 292 71 Mike Ryan RJr. OT 6-5 333 Tamaqua, Pa. / Marian Catholic 72 Jimmy Bennett RSo. OT 6-8 290 Alexandria, Va. / West Potomac 76 Mark Hansson Fr. OT 6-5 245 Clearwater, Fla. / Palm Harbor University 77 Kevin Friend RFr. OT Warrentown, Va. / Faquier 6-5 289 78 Zach Hurd RSr. OG Waterford, Conn. / Waterford 6-7 325 79 Greg McKee Fr. OT 6-6 290 Chicago, Ill. / Martin Luther King, Jr. Prep WR Houston, Texas / Westside 80 Michael Smith Jr. 6-0 202 81 Corey Manning RSo. TE 6-5 249 Tyrone, Ga. / Woodward Academy 82 Kashif Moore RJr. WR 5-9 180 Burlington, N.J. / Burlington Township 83 Isiah Moore RJr. WR 6-1 190 Cambridge, Mass. / Cambridge Ridge & Latin 84 Tebucky Jones Fr. WR 5-11 180 Farmington, Conn. / New Britain RFr. P York, Pa. / York Suburban 86 Cole Wagner 6-2 198 86 Nasir Abudu Fr. WR Los Angeles, Calif. / Loyola 6-0 194 88 Gerrard Sheppard RSo. WR 6-2 209 Owings Mills, Md. / McDonogh School 89 John Delahunt RSo. TE Ottawa, Ont. / Holy Trinity 6-3 244 90 Alex Kaiser Sr. TE Newington, Conn. / Newington 6-5 241 91 Jesse Joseph So. DE Laval, Que. / Vanier Prep.

6-3 255 93 Derek Chard Sr. LS Burlington, Conn. / St. Paul’s 6-3 237 94 Ryan Griffin RSo. TE Londonderry, N.H. / Londonderry 6-6 243 95 Greg Lloyd Sr. LB Clermont, Fla. / East Ridge 6-2 259 96 A.J. Portee RSo. DE Austell, Ga. / Mays 6-4 237 98 Ted Jennings RSo. DE 6-5 247 Dayton, Ohio / Chaminade-Julienne 99 Kendell Reyes DT Nashua, N.H. / Nashua North RJr. 6-4 298

No. Player

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Friday, October 1, 2010

Homecoming Extra

Remembering my Homecoming games which I’m still not sure whether or not I’ll attend, I’d like to take the time to reminisce about Homecoming past. Come, join me on this journey.

Russell Blair Through my three-plus years here at UConn, I’ve managed to make it to every Homecoming football game.

Now I know what you’re thinking, “That’s not such a big deal, I’ve been to every football game since freshman year!” Well, back off. Between the noon starts, forgetting to submit an application for student tickets – I recently just forgot to enter the basketball ticket lottery – and the 35-minute drive to Rentschler Field, attending a football game is a task worth some applause.

But unlike most students on campus, I’ve had the distinct opportunity to attend the past three Homecoming games as a student fan, a beat writer for The Daily Campus and a radio broadcaster for WHUS. So on the eve of my last and final Homecoming, a game

Oct. 19, 2007: UConn 21, Louisville 17 Oh freshman year. This game, just three days before my 18th birthday, (yes, I’m a youngin’) is one that I’ll always remember. In the midst of a monsoon, UConn defeated the Cardinals 21-17 with the aid of Larry Taylor’s “phantom” fair catch.

I’ll be honest, I don’t remember a lot from this game. The weather put a damper on our plans, and our tailgate turned more into a “bus and car”–gate. Suffice to say, several hours of pre-game festivities were crammed into about 45 minutes, and suddenly we didn’t care about the cold so much.

But despite my slight incoherence, I’ll never forget the chants of “Larry Taylor” *clap* *clap* *clap* *clap* *clap* echoing through the student section at Rentschler Field.

I remember Taylor waving his hand in the air and thinking to myself, “That looked an awful lot like a fair catch.” But 71 yards later, the

student section exploded, UConn took the lead and continued to roll, improving to 6-1 in its faux Big East Championship season.

Oct. 25, 2008: UConn 40, Cincinnati 16 To say that I had one everlasting memory from this game would be a lie. O.K., that’s not entirely true, but the most memorable moment of this day came not during the game, but before.

UConn was coming off a disheartening 12-10 loss at Rutgers, a game in which then-kicker Tony Ciaravino missed three field goals, bringing his total number of kicks missed for the season to six in as many games.

Upon arriving at Rentschler Field, this time as a radio broadcaster, I noticed the Husky Walk – a chance for fans to interact with the team when they enter the stadium – passing me by. At the very end of the line, wearing warmups, a white baseball hat and listening to his iPod, was Ciaravino. One could tell by the look on his face that he wasn’t starting that day, and he didn’t. His replacement, Dave Teggart, went 4-for-4 on kicks and the Huskies took down the even-

tual Big East champion Bearcats.

As for Ciaravino? I saw him at UConn’s Pro Day the following spring. As far as I know, Ciravino’s professional football career ended that day in March at the Shenkman Center.

Oct. 17, 2009: UConn 38, Louisville 25 As much as my first two Homecoming games stuck with me, last year’s game is one I will truly never forget.

Oct. 17, 2009 was the date of the last football game Jasper Howard ever played, he died less than 12 hours after completing post-game interviews, stabbed to death early the next morning outside the Student Union.

Howard’s death has been written about at length by numerous journalists – including myself – but something about seeing someone, laughing and full of life, and not knowing that they would be dead hours later, still haunts me to this day.

The column that ran in this spot last year, by former Daily Campus Sports Editor Marc Gauthier, talked about planning to go to his first football game. Well, he did go

to that Louisville game, but rather than writing a column about his experience at Rentschler Field, Gauthier penned a moving piece about Howard and his efforts on the field that day.

To quote Gauthier’s story, which ran on Oct. 28, 2009, 11 days after Howard’s death: “At about 2 p.m., I wrote, ‘Marcus Easley with a great catch.’ The next thing I wrote - without a time assigned to it - was, ‘Jasper Howard - unbelievable defensive play.’”

I remember Marc keeping notes of the game, and the day. He wrote at one point how he was impressed that I had drank four Diet Cokes before the first half ended – well okay, maybe he wasn’t impressed.

But I’ll never forget that defensive play either. Howard forced a fumble near the UConn goal line, stopping a Louisville drive before they could score.

I can’t say for certain if I’ll be at Saturday’s game, but I’m sure that if I do attend, there’ll be a story I’ll keep with me. Oh, and one more thing, UConn is 3-0 in Homecoming games I’ve attended.

Just sayin’.

Russell.Blair@UConn.edu

Top 25 Action This Weekend

No. 1 Alabama (4-0) – vs. No. 7 Florida (Saturday, 8:00 p.m) Defending National Champion Alabama and running back Mark Ingram look to move to 5-0 against Urban Meyer and the Florida Gators in the swamp.

No. 13 Utah (4-0) – BYE (Next game: Oct. 9, at Iowa State, TBA) After a 56-3 blowout of San Jose State the Utes stand idle in the top 25. Defensive end Trevor Reilly, who left last game, has a concussion, and is questionable.

No. 2 Ohio State (4-0) – at Illinois (Saturday, noon) Heisman candidate Terrelle Pryor and the Buckeyes take on a 2-1 Illinois team lead by Quarterback Nathan Scheelhasse and running back Mikel LeShoure

No. 14 Arizona (4-0) – BYE (Next game: Oct. 9, vs. Oregon State, TBA) After jumping ahead in the Pac-10 the Arizona Wildcats have a bye week to rest and recover. Arizone is 4-0 for the first time since 1998.

No. 3 Boise State (3-0) – at New Mexico State (Saturday, 8:00 p.m.)

After starting the season 3-0 Kellen Moore and the Broncos look to keep their National Championship hopes alive versus New Mexico State.

No. 4 Oregon (4-0) – vs. No. 9 Stanford (Saturday, 11:15 p.m.)

Although the Ducks sent quarterback Jeremiah Misoli packing, they are off to a fast start and are ready to face a tough Stanford team at home.

No. 5 TCU (4-0) – at. Colorado State (Saturday, 2:00 p.m.)

The Horned Frogs and coach Gary Patterson head to Colorado State to take on the 1-3 Rams. Look for running back Ed Wesley in the backfield for TCU. No. 6 Nebraska (4-0) – at Kansas State (Oct. 7, 7:30 p.m.)

The Cornhuskers hit the road and head to Kansas State. Quarterback Taylor Martinez leads the Huskers in rushing and passing yards after four games.

No. 7 Florida (4-0) – at No. 1 Alabama (Saturday, 8:00 p.m.)

The Gators and quarterback John Brantley look to make a statement in the Swamp against National Champion Alabama. FL is 3-0 at home this season.

No. 8 Oklahoma (4-0) – vs. No. 21 Texas (Saturday, 3:30 p.m.)

Oklahoma looks to best No. 21 Texas in the ‘Red River Rivalry’ game. Coach Bob Stoops and the Sooners are looking to rebound after a 16-13 loss last season.

No. 9 Stanford (4-0) – at No. 4 Oregon (Saturday, 11:15 p.m.)

Quarterback Andrew Luck has thrown 11 touchdowns through four games as Stanford takes on No. 4 Oregon on the road.

No. 10 Auburn (4-0) – vs. Louisiana-Monroe (Saturday, noon) A threat through the air and on the ground, quarterback Cameron Newtown and the Tigers look to defend their perfect record at home.

No. 11 Wisconsin (4-0) – at No. 24 Michigan State (Saturday, 3:30 p.m.)

The running back combo of John Clay and James White look to rush past the Michigan State defense in this Big 10 matchup.

No. 12 LSU (4-0) – vs. Tennessee (Saturday, 3:30 p.m.)

Coach Les Miles and the Tigers defense hope to lead LSU back to the National Championship game after a win versus Tennessee at home.

Week 5 AP Poll (Sept. 26, 2010); compiled by Mac Cerullo and Dan Milot

No. 15 Arkansas (3-1) – BYE (Next game: Oct. 9, at Texas A&M, TBA) Losing to No. 1 Alabama last week the Razorbacks have Week 5 off. The Razorbacks defense could use some help after Mark Ingram ran for 157 last week.

No. 16 Miami (FL) (2-1) – at Clemson (Saturday, TBA) The “U” is back in the top 25 as Miami faces off with Clemson. Jacory Harris is looking to continue his strong play against the Tigers.

No. 17 Iowa (3-1) – vs. No. 22 Penn State (Saturday, 8:05 p.m.)

The Hawkeyes host No. 22 Penn State to open up their Big 10 schedule. Quarterback Ricky Stanzi has nine touchdowns and one interception in four games.

No. 18 USC (4-0) – vs. Washington (Saturday, 8:00 p.m.)

Despite being bowl ineligible, the USC Trojans find themselves again ranked in the top 25 as they take on Washington at home.

No. 19 South Carolina (3-1) – BYE (Next game: Oct. 9, vs. No. 1 Alabama, TBA) Steve Spurrier and the Gamecocks have Week 5 off in preparation for their Week 6 showdown against defending National Champion Alabama.

No. 20 Michigan (4-0) – at Indiana (Saturday, 3:30 p.m.)

Quarterback Denard Robinson will play despite hurting his knee against Bowling Green in this Big 10 matchup against Indiana.

No. 21 Texas (3-1) – at No. 8 Oklahoma (Saturday, 3:30 p.m.)

Texas heads to the Cotton Bowl to take on Oklahoma. Quarterback Garrett Gilbert look to take the ‘Red River Rivalry’ game for the second year in a row.

No. 22 Penn State (3-1) – at No. 17 Iowa (Saturday, 8:05 p.m.)

“Joe Pa” and the Nittnany Lions hope to extend their winning streak to three against visiting No. 17 Iowa in this Big 10 opener.

No. 23 N.C. State (4-0) – vs. Virginia Tech (Saturday, TBA) The Wolfpack hopes to continue its winning ways against Virginia Tech at home.

Quarterback Russell Wilson leads the offense with a QB rating of 149.8.

No. 24 Michigan State (4-0) – vs. No. 11 Wisconsin (Saturday, 3:30 p.m.)

The Spartans will try to move to 5-0 without coach Mark Dantonio against a tough No. 11 Wisconsin team.

No. 25 Nevada (4-0) – at UNLV (Saturday, 10:00 p.m.)

Nevada is off to its best start since joining the FBS in 1992 and looks to extend its undefeated season Saturday against UNLV.