Soccer Sweep

I spent my afternoon watching soccer at West Texas A&M. The Lady Buffs beat New Mexico Highlands 3-0 at the Pitch while the Buffs traveled to Austin and beat St. Edward's 3-0.

The Pitch, in all its glory, has had yet another change. Two seasons ago there was one big bleacher stationed in front of the press box. Last season, chairs lined the sideline opposite the teams. Now WT is back to the bleachers, only this time, it is two small sets split by the press box. Seats aren't as plentiful this season so bring a lawn chair and park in the shade.

While watching the women's game I noticed something that was sorely missing last season, consistency in the attacking game. The Lady Buffs set up their shots and got consistent pressure, the game was never in doubt. On several occasions WT was able to get behind the Highland defenders to get good looks at the goal. If the Lady Buffs look anything like this for the rest of the season, their hope of advancing past the first round of the NCAA Division II tournament will become a reality.

Watch WT O-line, D-line play vs. Angelo

One thing to watch tonight, when West Texas A&M takes on Angelo State, is how the Buffs offensive line performs.
There's a new lineup, one that took the field in the second quarter of the WT-ACU game. In the second half, the Buffs showed more life on offense, due in part to panic looking at a 24-point deficit but also because quarterback Keith Null had more time to throw and running backs more room to run.
Another thing to watch is the WT defensive front. The Buffs did not get to ACU quarterback Billy Malone last week and the players put in extra time this past week toughening up.
For the Buffs to be successful from this point in the season, line play will be key on both sides of the ball. Angelo State will be a good test for both units.

WT opponent UCO pressed No. 17 Pitt State in loss

West Texas A&M won't have it easy again this weekend when the Buffs travel to Edmond to take on Central Oklahoma. Despite starting several true freshman and playing their first game under new head coach Tracy Holland, UCO battled No. 17 Pitt State tough before losing 16-12. UCO looks to have a strong defense again. Mesa State's defense was stout, holding WT to three touchdowns in a 23-20 Buffs' win in Grand Junction, Colo. With young players in the Bronchos lineup, it will be important for WT to set the tone early.



Speaking of young players, how about Curtis Jefferson? Pressed into starting duty, Jefferson forced WT's only turnover to deny Mesa points. A talented secondary just got better.