Scouting Northern Iowa's offense: Barry Lamb

Here’s a scouting report on Northern Iowa from BYU outside linebacker coach Barry Lamb who will be in the booth calling defensive observations and adjustments to Jaime Hill.

This blog centers on Northern Iowa’s offense and what Cougar coaches noticed when they broke down film and prepared a game plan.

I will have a similar defensive scouting report later today or evening from running back coach Lance Reynolds.

Said Lamb:

“They have an option attack with power and a decent passing game. They rushed for more than 200 yards and passed for over 200 yards last year. They run an option with power and have a decent passing game.

“They really have good personnel at the skill positions. They have only one returning starter on the offensive line but the thing that scares us is that they are not just a good team but a good program, so we expect their guys to step in and play right away. Two years ago they didn’t lose a game. Last year they only lost one game. If it was just a good team, we’d feel better but it’s a good program and that presents more of a challenge when preparing for them.”

“Northern Iowa’s wideouts are good. Their quarterback we hear is good. Their tailback is outstanding and their tight ends are good blockers and receivers.

Lamb said Northern Iowa’s Sagarin’s rating is higher than five Mountain West teams. “I wish it wasn’t but it is. They got our attention because they play hard. They are always blocking the right guys. They are a good program and that concerns us. They are well-coached and have such good personnel. They have some players transfer in from the Big Ten and one from Notre Dame and they have a nice scheme. They put pressure on you offensively by trying to outflank you and just wear you down. If you aren’t prepared against a play, they’ll just wear you down.”