Aug 30, 2014; Lubbock, TX, USA; Texas Tech Red Raiders running back Quinton White (37) rushes against Central Arkansas Bears defensive back George Odum (31) in the second half at Jones AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Michael C. Johnson-USA TODAY Sports
Defense
The Bears gave up a lot of points in 2014, to the tune of 33.8 per game. UCA’s run defense was especially suspect, allowing 201.5 yards a game last season, while limiting opposing quarterbacks to a mediocre 255.8 yards per contest. Their front seven put some decent pressure on the quarterback in 2014, forcing 23 sacks.
Central Arkansas was especially bad in the redzone last season, allowing 50 scores in 57 opportunities.
UCA actually fared a little better against Samford in the running game, allowing 164 yards. The Bears’ passing defense was exploited, allowing 372 yards and four touchdowns while posting one interception.
Junior safety Devin Spurlock, a transfer from Navarro College, was effective in his first start with UCA, compiling six solo tackles and the team’s lone interception. George Odum, a sophomore hybrid linebacker, picked up where he left off in 2014, posting a quarterback hurry and nine tackles, which included two for a loss.
Given the Cowboys’ previous performance in Mount Pleasant, expect the Bears to sell out against the pass, daring Mike Yurcich to call some more of those up-the-middle draw plays we all love so much.
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