Black Knights Head South to Face USF

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October 11, 2004  

         

 

Black Knights Head South to Face USF

Army Embarks on First Sunshine State Visit Since 1978  

Oct. 11, 2004

This Week's Storyline

Black Knights Head South to Face USF in First Sunshine State Visit Since 1978

The schedule gets no easier for Army this week as the Black Knights head to the road to face USF at Raymond James Stadium. The Bulls have been dominant at home the past several years, winning 24 of their last 27 contests at the sparkling facility. Fresh off Saturday's exhilarating 48-29 defeat of Cincinnati, Army will attempt to post consecutive victories for the first time seven years. The Black Knights' win against the Bearcats on Saturday snapped a school-record 19-game losing streak and continued a trend of improved play under first-year head coach Bobby Ross. Army nearly halted the skid a week earlier before falling to TCU 21-17 when the Horned Frogs scored the game-winning touchdown with 41 seconds remaining. The game will feature Army's rejuvenated running attack, currently ranked 34th nationally and second in C-USA at 183.2, against a stingy USF defense that permits just 114.8 ground yards per game to stand 36th among national leaders.

Quick Hits

Army continues Conference USA play on Saturday with its first visit to USF. The Black Knights and Bulls have met just once previously, last Sept. 27 at West Point.

Following Saturday's win over Cincinnati, the Black Knights are looking to post consecutive victories for the first time since 1997, when Army defeated Rutgers and Colgate on successive weeks.

Army has appeared in the state of Florida just twice previously. The Black Knights' most recent visit to the Sunshine State dates back to 1978 when Army faced Florida in Gainesville.

All-Time Record

The Black Knights are in the midst of their 115th season and seventh as members of Conference USA. Army boasts an impressive all-time record of 623-410-51 (.598) and ranked 27th on the nation's all-time victories list entering the 2004 campaign. The Black Knights ended 108 years of Division I-A independence in 1998 when they joined Conference USA and will return to Independent status next season. Army entered the 2004 season ranked 27th among all Division I-A programs in winning percentage (.600).

This Time Last Year

Army fell to 0-6 on the season with a 34-10 loss at Louisville. Eric Shelton ran for three touchdowns and Stefan LeFors threw for a career-best 406 yards in what would be Todd Berry's final game as Army head coach.

USF the Last Time Out

Oct 2, 2004 in Tampa, Fla. -- Dustin Almond passed for 200 yards and two touchdowns, helping Southern Miss remain unbeaten with a 27-20 win over South Florida at Raymond James Stadium. Anthony Harris ran for 59 yards and one touchdown for the Golden Eagles, who won their 11th straight league game dating back to last season.South Florida lost for just the third time in its last 27 home games. Andre Hall rushed for 56 yards and one touchdown for USF, which fell behind 20-3 early in the third quarter before attempting to rally. Pat Julmiste threw a 9-yard scoring pass to S.J. Green with 1:38 left, but that was one of the few bright spots for USF's quarterback, who was intercepted four times in the game and finished 14 of 35 for 150 yards. Southern Miss controlled the clock, keeping the ball for more than 36 minutes overall. The Golden Eagles outgained South Florida 312-205. Darren McCaleb registered a pair of field goals for the winners, who scored 17 unanswered points over the middle two quarters to take control. McCaleb's 41-yard field goal early in the second quarter put his team up 6-3, and Otho Graves caught a 1-yard touchdown pass from Almond with 7:25 left before halftime for a 13-3 lead. Almond's second scoring pass, a 45-yard strike to Marvin Young two minutes into the third quarter, put Southern Miss up 20-3. USF drew within 20-10 on Hall's 1-yard run late in the third quarter, but Harris' 11-yard run with 5:41 left -- set up by one of the four interceptions -- restored the Golden Eagles' two-touchdown cushion.

Scouting USF

USF carries a 2-2 overall record (1-1 C-USA) into this weekend's contest against Army. The Bulls opened their season with a 21-7 victory over Tennessee Tech before suffering a 34-3 loss to South Carolina. USF registered a stunning 45-44 double-overtime win at TCU, but dropped a 27-20 verdict to Southern Miss in its most recent outing on Oct. 2. The Bulls feature a stingy defense, a unit that has allowed an average of just 327.8 yards per game to date. That figure ranks 42nd nationally and second among Conference USA leaders. USF has struggled offensively, managing just 270.3 total yards per contest to stand 114th nationally. Andre Hall has remained the Bulls' top offensive performer through four games, averaging 149.5 all-purpose yards to rank 15th nationally. Hall is averaging 68.3 rushing yards per contest and 9.0 points per game to stand 19th among national leaders. Pat Julmiste serves as USF's quarterback, but has mustered just 116.2 total yards per contest. He has completed 50.0 percent of his passes (42 of 84), while throwing four interceptions and two touchdowns.

The Army-USF Series

Army and USF met for the first time last September at Michie Stadium with the Bulls posting a 28-0 shutout of the Black Knights. Ronnie Banks completed 22 of 41 passes for 218 to lead USF to the victory. The Bulls scored 13 points in the final 3:01 to grab a 13-0 halftime advantage. The score remained that way until Clenton Crossley's 3-yard TD plunge with 10:44 remaining in the game. Army managed just 17 yards rushing and 176 total offensive yards in the setback.

Return to Independence

Following a brief foray into conference life, Army returns its stately program to the ranks of the Independent next season. Last July, officials at the Military Academy announced their intention to depart Conference USA after the conclusion of the 2004 campaign. Army had spent 108 years as a Division I-A Independent before joining the league in 1998.

Series Finale

With USF moving to the Big East Conference next fall and Army returning to Independent status following this season, no future games are currently scheduled between the two schools.

Streaks Snapped

Army's 48-29 defeat of Cincinnati Saturday snapped the Black Knights' 19-game losing streak while also halting an Academy-record 15-game home losing skid. Prior to Saturday, the Black Knights' most recent win had come by a 14-10 score at Tulane on Nov. 16, 2002. The last time Army had won at home was a 42-35 victory over Tulane on Oct. 27, 2001.

Big Margins

Army's 19-point margin of victory against Cincinnati marked its largest since a 41-21 win over Ball State on Sept. 25, 1999. Army's 48 points versus Cincinnati stand as the highest total by the Black Knights in a game since a 59-52 double-overtime win over Louisville on Oct. 7, 1999. At halftime, Army led 32-29 after having amassed its highest first-half point total since building a 45-17 advantage en route to that double-overtime defeat of Louisville in 1999.

Piling up the Yards

Army rolled up 554 yards of total offense versus Cincinnati, the Black Knights' highest single-game total since they racked up 564 yards opposite Louisville on Oct. 7, 1999. It is the first time Army has reached 500 yards of total offense in a game since beating Tulane on Oct. 27, 2001 (506). Army's yardage total against Cincinnati stands as the 19th highest single-game total in Army history.

Offensive Explosion

Army and Cincinnati combined for 1,110 yards of total offense on Saturday, falling six yards short of a Michie Stadium record. Army and Tulane combined for 1,116 yards of total offense on Nov. 14, 1998, in a game won by the Green Wave, 49-35.

Touchdown Tielor

Sophomore FB Tielor Robinson scored five touchdowns (three rushing, two receiving) in Army's win over Cincinnati, falling one short of Army's single-game record of six touchdowns set by Elmer Oliphant against Villanova on Oct. 28, 1916.

Career Day

Tielor Robinson accounted for a career-high 193 all-purpose yards against Cincinnati, snaring four passes for a career-high 111 yards, while registering 82 rushing yards on 16 carries. Robinson scored rushing touchdowns on scampers of 1, 2 and 12 yards, while hauling in scoring strikes of 2 and 93 yards. Four of Robinson's touchdowns came in the first half as Army built a 32-29 halftime lead. Robinson's receiving yardage total marked his first career 100-yard game and was the highest performance by an Army player since William White's 150 yards opposite Houston last season.

Record Pass

Tielor Robinson's 93-yard touchdown reception from QB Zac Dahman in the fourth quarter against Cincinnati set Academy and Michie Stadium records. The previous Army standard had been an 89-yard scoring toss from Tory Crawford to Sean Jordan against Lafayette on Nov. 14, 1987. The stadium record was a 91-yard touchdown connection from Joe Muha to Bosh Pritchard when VMI visited Michie Stadium on Oct. 11, 1941.

Career Day II

Junior RB Carlton Jones rushed for a career-high 180 yards on 20 carries against Cincinnati, adding one touchdown. It marked his second straight 100-yard performance and the fifth of his career. With his effort Saturday, Jones moved to 12th place on Army's career rushing list with 1,775 yards. He also now boasts 15 career rushing touchdowns, which places him in a tie for 21st on Army's career chart. Jones has rushed for at least one touchdown in four of Army's five games this season. Included in Jones' performance Saturday were runs of 50 and 59 yards, the two longest jaunts of his career. His 180 yards are the most ground markers by a Black Knight since C.J. Young amassed 192 yards opposite Tulane on Oct. 27, 2001.

Zac is Back

Displeased with his club's performance following Army's 40-3 loss to Connecticut on Sept. 25, head coach Bobby Ross decided to change quarterbacks against TCU. After failing to see any action in the first three games of the season, junior Zac Dahman replaced senior Reggie Nevels in the starting lineup versus the Horned Frogs and remained in the lead cast against Cincinnati. Nevels started the first three games of the season after prevailing in a three-way battle with senior Matt Silva and Dahman during the preseason. Dahman started 11 contests for the Black Knights last season and established new single season school records for pass attempts, completions and yardage.

Solid Effort

Junior QB Zac Dahman went 13 of 21 through the air for 270 yards and two touchdowns against Cincinnati, registering his second consecutive 200-yard passing performance and the seventh of his career. Dahman's passing yardage total stands as the fourth-highest aggregate of his career. Dahman continues to rank second on Army's career lists for pass attempts (667), completions (344), and yards (3,757). The junior also lists tied for fourth on the Academy's all-time touchdown passes ladder (18). Saturday's victory marked his first in 17 games as Army's starting quarterback.

Challenge Met

Army head coach Bobby Ross issued a challenge to his entire offensive line before the game against Cincinnati, and specifically the starting tackles Joel Glover and Seth Nieman. Up against a veteran Bearcat defensive line spearheaded by NFL prospects Trent Cole and Andre Frazier, the Black Knights faced a stern task. Army's players responded in a big way, holding Cincinnati without a quarterback sack, while scorching the Bearcats for 554 total yards, including 284 yards rushing. Cincinnati entered the game allowing an average of just 115.2 rushing yards per contest.

J. Lew to the Rescue

After losing his starting job to teammate Ray Stith a week earlier, senior DB Jonathan Lewis came off the bench to produce the finest game of his collegiate career against Cincinnati. Entering the contest after Stith had departed due to injury, Lewis registered five tackles, two fumble recoveries and a pass breakup to key Army's defensive effort in the win over Cincinnati. The native of Columbus, Miss., recovered his first fumble in end zone for touchdown with 4:32 remaining in the third quarter, extending Army lead from 35-29 to 41-29. Lewis recovered his second fumble six plays later with Bearcats driving for score deep in Army territory. He recorded a key pass deflection on a fourth-down pass into end zone on 4th-and-8 from Army 9. Black Knights led 41-29 at the time.

Honors Abound

Army's victory over Cincinnati certainly caught the nation's attention. With their win over the Bearcats, the Black Knights were selected as the FedEx Orange Bowl National Team of the Week, as selected by the pollsters of the Football Writers' Association of America. In addition, Doug Meyer's strip of Richard Hall that resulted in an Army touchdown, was selected as one of four finalists for this week's Pontiac "Game Changing Performance" award on ESPN. Jared Ulekowski's catch off a deflected pass was voted No. 2 on ESPN's list of Top 10 Plays for Saturday,and Army's win was chosen No. 4 on ESPN's "Plays of the Week" segment. Finally, Tielor Robinson and Jonathan Lewis earned Conference USA offensive and defensive player of the week honors, respectively, while Robinson and Carlton Jones were named CollegeSportsReport.com I-A Performers of the Week.

Wake-Up Call

Army had gotten off to slow starts, both offensively and defensively, in its first three contests, but has broken from the gate much more quickly the last two times out. The Black Knights had been outscored 28-3 in first-quarter action this fall, before posting 17 points in the opening stanza versus the Horned Frogs and 13 against Cincinnati. Army scored its first touchdown against TCU just 1:47 into the contest when Tielor Robinson plunged into the end zone from three yards out. On the down side, Army has yielded its opponents touchdowns on their first possession during four of five contests.

Tough as Nails

Senior LB Matt Maimone returned to game action against Connecticut just two weeks after suffering a fractured bone in his left arm. Sporting a heavy cast, Maimone saw reserve duty against the Huskies, entering the contest in the third quarter. The native of Orinda, Calif., missed just one contest due to the injury, suffered during the Black Knights' season-opening loss to Louisville. Maimone earned a starter's berth at linebacker opposite Greg Washington with a solid spring practice showing and maintained the role until the time of his injury. He returned to the starting lineup against TCU, then posted a career-high 14 tackles to aid Army's victory over Cincinnati.

Day of Firsts

Army was able to shake some nagging negative tendencies with its fast start against TCU. The Black Knights scored 17 first-quarter points versus the Horned Frogs after Army had registered a combined total of just three first-quarter points (and no touchdowns) in its first three games. Army enjoyed a 17-0 halftime lead, marking the first time the Black Knights held a lead at intermission since boasting a 19-7 halftime cushion against UAB on Oct. 26, 2002. Army's 17-point lead was also its biggest advantage at any time since leading Navy 26-9 in the fourth quarter on Dec. 1, 2001. In fact, prior to the TCU game, Army had not led in a game at any time this season. After failing to build a halftime lead in 20 consecutive contests, Army has now held an advantage at intermission in consecutive games.

Defensive Turnaround

The Black Knights' defense was beleaguered through the season's first three contests, allowing an average of 42.3 points and 574.0 total yards. Faced with the stern challenge of containing TCU's high-powered offense, Army's stop unit was equal to the task. The Black Knights held TCU scoreless for the game's first 39:01 and limited the Horned Frogs to a season-low 21 points overall. TCU entered the game averaging 42.8 points per contest to rank seventh among national leaders. It marked the lowest point total by an Army opponent since Tulane mustered just 10 points in a 14-10 loss to the Black Knights on Nov. 16, 2002, 20 games earlier. Following a sluggish start against Cincinnati, Army's defense stiffened in the second half, holding the powerful Bearcats scoreless over the final 30 minutes of play.

Heartbreak on the Hudson

There had been several heartbreaking losses during Army's current 19-game losing streak, but none was more disappointing than the Black Knights' loss to TCU on Oct. 2. Army raced out to a 17-0 lead just 12:32 into the contest and maintained the same margin midway through the third quarter. But TCU rallied for three touchdowns in the final 21 minutes, scoring the game-winning touchdown with 41 seconds remaining. It marked TCU's first lead of the contest. Army appeared to be in solid position to clinch a victory, facing a 3rd-and-2 situation at its 37-yard line with four minutes to play. But the Black Knights could not convert the opportunity and were forced to punt the ball back to the Horned Frogs. Meanwhile, TCU was able to keep its game-winning drive intact, converting a 3rd-and-12 situation from the Army 32 with just over one minute remaining. Other major disappointments during the streak included a last-minute 29-26 loss to UAB and a 38-32 setback to East Carolina.

Baby Steps

Upon assuming reins of the Army program last winter, head coach Bobby Ross stated that his immediate goal would be to get the Black Knights more competitive so that they would enter the fourth quarter of games with an opportunity to win. Ross' squad has realized the goal in three of the first five games. Army and Houston were tied at 21-21 with seven minutes remaining in the second game; the Black Knights led TCU throughout before the Horned Frogs scored the game-winning TD with 41 seconds left; Army defeated Cincinnati 48-29.

Zac Attack

Zac Dahman authored the single most prolific passing season in Army history last fall, establishing new single-season highs in completions (230), attempts (436) and passing yardage (2234). The first Black Knight to record 200 completions in a season, Dahman is only the second Army player to throw for 2,000 yards in a season. On the career level, Dahman lists second in completions (344), attempts (667) and yardage (3757), standing behind only Leamon Hall in all three categories. Dahman notched the seventh 200-yard passing game of his career in Army's win over Cincinnati, throwing for 270 yards.

New-Look Offense

Army features a much more balanced offensive attack under head coach Bobby Ross than it has in recent years. Gone is the pass-happy attack utilized the past several seasons, replaced by a more conventional two-back set that places a premium on the running game. Army averaged just 63.5 rushing yards per game last season to rank last among 117 Division I-A programs. The Black Knights averaged a school-record 40.4 pass attempts per contest last season, while averaging 31.2 rushing attempts per outing. The previous school record for average passing attempts per game was 34.7, set in 2000. Through five contests, Army has attempted 179 rushes (35.8) and 127 passes (25.4). Ross has stated that he will strive for an equal ratio of rushing to passing plays this season.

Marked Improvement

After Army ranked last nationally in rushing a year ago, head coach Bobby Ross promised to place heavy emphasis on the running game during the preseason. Results of that philosophy have been apparent through the season's early stages. Through five contests, the Black Knights are averaging 183.2 yards per game to rank 34th among national leaders. The Black Knights topped 130 yards in rushing only twice last season, managed less than 30 ground yards on four occasions and averaged just 63.5 rushing yards per contest. Two Black Knights are currently averaging at least 62 rushing yards per contest. While junior RB Carlton Jones is averaging 106.4 ground yards per game to rank 20th nationally and second among Conference USA leaders, FB Tielor Robinson is averaging 62.2 rushing yards per game.

Ground Assault

The Black Knights rushed 46 times for 284 yards against Cincinnati. It marked Army's highest rushing output since amassing 388 yards on 66 carries versus New Mexico State on Oct. 23, 1999. The Black Knights were operating out of the wishbone set at the time.

Breakout Performance

Sophomore FB Tielor Robinson made a strong impression on Army head coach Bobby Ross during spring practice. Routinely cited for impressive practice performances, Ross stated often that he expected Robinson to play a major role in Army's offensive scheme this season. Robinson provided a glimpse of that potential versus Houston, putting forth the finest rushing performance of his career. Robinson rushed for 148 yards on 10 carries, reeling off runs of 53 and 57 yards. The native of Greenwich, Conn., entered the contest with just 104 career rushing yards. Robinson's rushing total marked the highest by an Army player since Josh Holden ran for 152 yards versus Holy Cross on Sept. 7, 2002. Robinson averaged a whopping 14.8 yards per carry versus the Cougars with both of his long runs setting up Army touchdowns. He scored five touchdowns against Cincinnati, one shy of the single game Academy record set by Elmer Oliphant in 1916.

Memorable Grabs

Freshman WR Jeremy Trimble will forever remember his first collegiate reception after hauling in a 25-yard touchdown pass from QB Reggie Nevels against Houston. Trimble outdueled a Cougar defensive back on fade pattern, hauling down a scoring aerial on his first collegiate grab on the first play of the fourth quarter. Trimble is the third member of Army's current roster to experience such an event. Teammates Jacob Murphy and Blaine Cooper also registered touchdowns on their first collegiate receptions. Murphy did so against Houston in 2002, while Cooper accomplished the feat against Tulane later that same year.

Protect the Ball

Army was haunted by turnovers the previous three seasons, totaling 111 giveaways over those 36 games (3.1). The Black Knights have led the country in turnovers each of the last two seasons, registering 34 miscues in 2002 and 44 in 2003. The Black Knights ranked 113th nationally in turnover margin at (-1.5) last season and their opponents scored 113 points off 19 Cadet giveaways. In fact, the Black Knights have managed just three turnover-free contests in their last 36 outings. Twenty of Army's turnovers occurred in three games last season, including eight versus Tulane and six against both USF and Air Force. Army won the turnover battle just three times in 2002 and three times last fall. Bobby Ross stressed the need to improve in the area throughout preseason, and Army has displayed improved ball security during its first five games this season, committing a total of five turnovers. The Black Knights have also registered 11 takeaways and currently stand tied for 18th nationally in turnover margin at +1.2. Army created five Cincinnati turnovers on Saturday, including one interception and four fumble recoveries. It marked the most turnovers by a Black Knight opponent since Boston College committed seven turnovers (four interceptions and three fumbles) on Oct. 21, 1995.

Hold on Tight

Head coach Bobby Ross' emphasis on ball security has been evident through five contests with Army averaging just 1.0 turnover per game this fall. The Black Knights turned the ball over 21 times in their first five games a year ago. The Cadets did not commit a turnover against TCU, marking just the third time in the last 37 games that Army has not produced at least one giveaway. The Black Knights have committed more than one turnover just once this season after registering multiple giveaways in 10 of 13 games a year ago.

Give it a Rest

Head coach Bobby Ross has also stressed the importance for his team to dominate in the area of possession time since taking over as Army mentor last winter. But through the first five contests, the Black Knights have experienced a difficult time getting their defense off the field. Louisville enjoyed a 36:30-23:30 possession time advantage against Army in the Black Knights' opener, while Houston controlled the ball for 37:26 against Army the following week. The Black Knights have improved in that area each of the last three weeks, but still have held the ball for an average of nearly six minutes less than their opponents this season. Ross has stated he would like his team to possess the football for at least 33:00 minutes per game. Through five contests, the Black Knights are averaging just 27:09 minutes in possession time. As a result, Army has run 107 less plays than its opponents to date (413-306).

Run Aground

With the exception of games against Tulane and Air Force, Army managed little rushing production last season. Discounting the 140-yard efforts versus the Green Wave (142) and Falcons (141), Army mustered a total of just 543 rushing yards (49.4) in its other 11 games, averaging 1.7 yards per carry (292 att.) in those outings. The Black Knights' six-yard rushing total versus Cincinnati stands as the Cadets' lowest ground figure since a 38-16 loss at Penn State on Oct. 9, 1976. Army rushed for less than 30 yards four times last year and less than 20 yards on three occasions.

Ahead of Schedule

Through just five games this season, Army has already surpassed its rushing total of a year ago. The Black Knights managed just 826 rushing yards over 13 games last season, averaging only 63.5 ground yards per contest. Through five games this fall, the Black Knights have totaled 916 ground yards. While Army topped 100 yards in rushing just twice last season, the Black Knights have rushed for at least 129 yards in all five games this year and have topped the 230-yard barrier twice.

Veteran Group

The Black Knights feature a veteran group on their offensive line with all five starters returning to the fold. That should bode well in head coach Bobby Ross' attempts to invigorate a running attack that ranked last nationally a year ago, averaging just 63.5 ground yards per contest. Senior Joel Glover anchors the group, returning to his familiar spot at left tackle. The three-year starter is a legitimate all-conference candidate and is joined by classmates Andy Dytrych at left guard, Justin Troy at center, Pete Bier at right guard and Seth Nieman at right tackle. The group has combined for 81 starts in all, topped by Glover's 23 lead appearances. The unit possesses quality depth as well, with senior OC David Evetts (11 career starts) and senior OG Adam Wojcik (4 career starts) poised to shoulder heavy workloads throughout the season.

Top Hitman

Senior LB Greg Washington enjoyed a "breakout" season in his second year as a starter last fall. The native of Fayetteville, N.C., closed the season ranked second on the team with 129 tackles, despite missing the majority of two games due to injury. His tackle total stands 11th on Army's single-season list. Washington also led Army with three interceptions last season and tied for the team lead in pass breakups with six. Washington was named a team captain prior to last year's season-ending battle with arch-rival Navy, then repeated the honor during preseason camp when he was voted one of four team captains by his teammates for the 2004 season. Washington boasts 249 career tackles, including 15 for loss. He began last season with 56 career stops and currently stands 19th on Army's career list. Washington has recorded double figure tackle totals in all five games this season and has held at least a share of the team tackle lead in three of five games. He currently leads Conference USA in tackles, averaging 12.8 stops per contest.

Double Digits

After piling up 129 tackles a year ago, senior LB Greg Washington hardly missed a beat during Army's season opener, recording a team-best 17 stops versus Louisville. Washington, who added a sack and two tackles for loss, fell just two tackles shy of his career high. Washington followed up that effort with 12 stops in the Black Knights' loss at Houston, 11 versus Connecticut and 12 against both TCU and Cincinnati. He boasts 13 career double figure tackle performances and eight straight dating back to last season.

Big Strips

A pair of reserve players registered big forced fumbles for the Black Knights against Cincinnati. Junior DT Doug Meyer stripped Cincinnati RB Richard Hall near the end zone, leading to one Army touchdown late in the third quarter. Six plays later, freshman W Caleb Campbell punched the ball free from Cincinnati WR Hannibal Thomas at the end of 57-yard pass play that would have placed UC at the Army 11, trailing by 12 points. Meyer's play was selected as one of four finalists for this week's Pontiac "Game Changing Performance" award on ESPN.

Alexander The Great

WR Aaron Alexander authored a "breakout" season last fall, registering the finest pass-catching season in Army history. A legitimate all-league candidate, Alexander established new single season school records for receptions (64) and receiving yards (861). The previous receptions mark had remained on the Army record books since 1970. With six touchdown receptions, he also fell just one shy of the Academy's single-season record. Alexander entered last season with 26 career receptions to his credit, registering all those catches during his sophomore year. He sat out his freshman campaign after suffering a broken jaw during preseason drills. Alexander garnered a pair of 100-yard receiving games last season, becoming the first Black Knight to accomplish that feat since Myreon Williams notched three 100-yard receiving games in 1990.

Threat on the Edge

On the strength of a "breakout" showing last fall, Aaron Alexander has emerged among Army's all-time pass receiving leaders. Alexander rates third on Army's career pass receiving yardage list with 1,468 yards and second in career receptions with 98. He is one of just seven Army players to total 1,000 career receiving yards. Alexander also lists eighth on Army's career list with eight touchdown grabs. He was voted by his teammates as one of four team captains for the 2004 season. Alexander is averaging 19.1 yards on eight receptions this fall. He sat out Army's game against Connecticut due to a shoulder injury, snapping a 26-game starting streak in the process and was banged up again versus TCU. Alexander moved into second place on Army's all-time receptions list with two catches against Cincinnati.

Pickoff Parade

Army notched its fifth interception of the season against Cincinnati when junior DB Ray Stith registered his second pickoff of the season. The Black Knights finished with 12 interceptions in 13 games a year ago.

Strong Debut

Junior TE Jared Ulekowski made a strong impression in his first varsity start, registering four receptions, including a touchdown catch late in the season opener versus Louisville. Ulekowski finished with four catches for 33 yards, including a long gain of 16 yards. The Katy, Texas, native appeared in 10 contests a year ago, mainly in a special teams capacity, and did not figure statistically. Ulekowski's father, Mike, is a 1975 graduate of the U.S. Military Academy. He currently ranks fourth on the club with eight receptions and is averaging 11.8 yards per grab. Ulekowski made a diving "circus" catch off a ball that was deflected three times against Cincinnati, setting up Army's first touchdown. The catch was selected No. 2 on ESPN's list of top plays Saturday. The 28-yard gain marked Ulekowski's career-long reception.

Mr. Jones

Carlton Jones became the 14th player in Army history to record 1,700 career rushing yards against Cincinnati and enters this week's contest ranked 12th on the Black Knights' all-time list with 1,775 ground markers. The Henderson, N.C., native has started at running back in 21 of Army's last 26 contests and topped the Black Knights in rushing each of the past two seasons. Jones owns five career 100-yard rushing games, topping the century mark on two occasions this season. Two years ago, he became the first freshman to lead Army in rushing since Mike Mayweather did so in 1987. Jones notched his fifth career 100-yard rushing game against Cincinnati, finishing with a career-high 180 yards on 20 carries. Jones is averaging 106.4 yards per game to rank 20th nationally. He also owns 15 career rushing TDs, including five this season.

Bayou Pipeline

Army's roster features three players that attended St. Thomas More High School in Lafayette, La., and all three are slated to see significant playing for the Black Knights this week. Seniors Doug Horaist (TE) and Trey Landry (DT) hold major roles on the Black Knights' depth chart, while Regan Tatford sees action on special teams. In addition to the Lafayette trio, standout wideout Aaron Alexander hails from Hahnville, La.

Family Tree

Junior WR Bruce Brown made the most of his first extended playing time versus Louisville, finishing the contest with four catches for 90 yards. Brown teamed with QB Reggie Nevels on a 60-yard touchdown play midway through the third quarter in which he caught the all near midfield on a slant play, then outran the Cardinal secondary to the end zone. The catches were the first of Brown's collegiate career. Brown is the latest member of his family to excel athletically. While his twin sister, Sally, qualified for the 2000 Olympic Swimming Trials and is a former Massachusetts state champion, his other sister, Connie, also captured a state swimming championship. Sally and Connie attend Arizona State University and the University of Texas, respectively, on swimming scholarships. In addition, Bruce's father, Bruce, played football at the University of Miami and signed as a free agent with the New York Jets. Brown has missed the last two contests due to a knee injury and is questionable for this week.

Packing a Wallop

Junior FS Dhyan Tarver has put forth a strong effort through the season's early stages. After registering 13 tackles against Louisville, Tarver equaled his career high with 14 stops against Houston. The San Antonio, Texas, native was credited with 10 primary tackles against the Cougars and 11 versus Louisville. Despite missing the majority of two games due to injury, he currently stands second on the club with 43 tackles (29 primary) and has added one forced fumble. A year ago, Tarver ranked fourth on the squad in tackles with 97 stops. He currently ranks 13th among C-USA tackle leaders at 8.3.

Passing Prowess

In addition to standing second on Army's career lists in passing attempts, completions and yardage, junior Zac Dahman ranks sixth in career touchdown passes (18). The Fort Worth, Texas, native has topped 1,000 yards passing each of the past two years and is only the fourth Black Knight to accomplish the feat in consecutive years, joining the likes of Joe Caldwell (1958-59), Kingsley Fink (1972-73) and Leamon Hall (1975-77). Hall is the only Army player to pass for more than 1,000 yards in three consecutive seasons. Dahman did not see action in the first three games this season before returning to the starting lineup against TCU. He has thrown for 484 yards the past two weeks, topping the 200-yard mark in both those outings. It marks the first time Dahman has registered consecutive 200-yard passing performances in his career.

Seeing Double

Army features a set of identical twins in its defensive backfield, with sophomores Sean and Chris Grevious holding down reserve cornerback roles on the Black Knights' depth chart. Both arrived at the Academy last fall after spending the previous year at the USMA Prep School. The duo injects blazing speed in the Black Knights' secondary, while lending valuable depth behind standout starters Delente Brewer and Jonathan Lewis.

Brother Duo

In addition to the Grevious twins, Army sports two other brother combinations on its roster this fall -- junior LB David Clamon and sophomore DE Alex Clamon hold down spots on Army's three-deep, while freshman QB Kevin Dunn has joined his brother, sophomore TE Tim Dunn, on Army's roster this season. The Clamons hail from Dandridge, Tenn., the Dunns from Challfont, Pa., and the Greviouses from South Plainfield, N.J.

Geographically Speaking

Thirty-three different states are represented on Army's 179-man roster, solidifying the Black Knights' national image. Texas, a longtime Army football recruiting stronghold, leads the way with 34 representatives dotting Army's roster, followed by Florida with 20.

Just For Kicks

After being anointed Army's placekicker during preseason camp, it took three games before Austin Miller attempted his first field goal. But Miller made his first attempt count, converting from 44 yards against Connecticut. Miller's kick hit the cross bar, then bounced high in the air, hurtling through the uprights. He added a 25 yarder against TCU and a 41-yarder versus Cincinnati. Miller is 3-for-4 in field goal attempts and 11 of 12 on extra point tries so far this season.

Change in Scenery

Bobby Ross borrowed a page from former head coach Jim Young's handbook when he opened tryouts for his squad to the Corps of Cadets this past winter. The exercise proved fruitful, uncovering a trio of athletes that have already contributed to the Black Knights' cause at the fullback position. Senior Gary Whidden has the best chance of seeing playing time, entering this week's season opener listed as the top backup to Tielor Robinson. Whidden served as a member of Army's sprint football team during his freshman and sophomore years, earning all-league status at offensive guard. He did not play football last season. The other two "walk-on" fullbacks -- B.J. Laney and Geoffrey Whitfield -- were members of Army's cheerleading squad last fall. Young "found" a fullback named Doug Black in a similar manner back in the early 1980s.

Black went on to rush for 1,148 yards as a junior in 1984 and 950 yards as a senior the following year, helping the Black Knights to a pair of bowl appearances. Whidden has drawn field duty in four contests to date, but has not figured statistically.

Emerging Talent

Highly regarded freshmen WRs Jeremy Trimble and Corey Anderson have begun to make an impact on the Army program this season. Trimble is averaging 20.2 yards on five catches to date. He hauled in a 25-yard TD pass against Houston and set up another score with a 24-yard catch that moved the Black Knights to the UC 2-yard line versus the Bearcats. Anderson, meanwhile, has touched the ball four times (3 rushes, 1 reception) and is averaging 17.0 yards on those plays.

Third-Down Blues

The Black Knights have struggled greatly in their attempts to convert third-down opportunities throughout the early stages of this season. Army has converted only 18 of 66 third-down chances this season, or just 27 percent. By contrast, opponents have successfully converted 29 of 65 third-down opportunities (44.6 percent) against Army. Head coach Bobby Ross has continued to stress the importance of improving in the area and Army did that versus Cincinnati. After converting just 3 of 16 third-down opportunities against TCU and just 6 of 48 (.125) opportunities their previous three games, the Black Knights hit on 9 of 14 (.643) third down tries against Cincinnati.

Weekly Press Luncheon/Teleconference

Army head coach Bobby Ross hosts a weekly press conference in the Kimsey Athletic Center Media Room every Tuesday throughout the season. Lunch is served to media members beginning at 11:30 a.m. with Ross addressing the media from Noon-1 p.m. The week's opposing head coach is available via speaker-phone at 1:15 p.m. Ross' portion of the press conference can be heard live on the Army Athletic Association Web site at www.goARMYsports.com. Those media members unable to attend are invited to join the session via teleconference. Call-in numbers can be obtained by contacting Army's Office of Media Relations at 845-938-3303.

College Sports Pass

Army fans will have more access to audio and video coverage of Black Knight athletic events than ever before this year by virtue of the Army Athletic Association's agreement with College Sports Online. Partnered with Real Networks, College Sports Online offers fans a subscription-based package titled the College Sports Pass. Through College Sports Pass, fans will gain multi-media access to live game audio, live game video, postgame press conference audio, coaches' shows, weekly press conferences, historical game footage, among others. Subscription plans are now available for purchase on Army's official intercollegiate Web site at www.goARMYsports.com. Fans can purchase monthly ($6.95), yearly subscriptions ($49.95). In addition, plans that provide access to College Sports Online's entire package of audio and video streaming inventory are also available.

Streaking

Senior WR Aaron Alexander has caught at least one pass in 23 consecutive games. Alexander's 23-game reception streak marks the longest pass-catching streak by an Army player since Aris Comeaux's 23-game stretch that began in 2001 and ended in December 2002. Alexander sat out the game against Connecticut due to injury, snapping a 26-game starting streak. It had been the longest active starting streak on the team.

Black Knight Walk

In an effort to build excitement and provide a "fan-friendly" environment for fans to interact briefly with players on game days, the Army Athletic Association has developed "Black Knight Alley," which runs along Mills Road in front of Michie Stadium, stretching from Gate 1 to Gate 3 of the facility. Buses carrying members of the Army football team arrives at the intersection of Mills Road and Stoney Lonesome Road at 11 a.m. on Saturday mornings of home games. The team then walks "Black Knight Alley" parallel to Lusk Reservoir en route to the squad's locker room. Fans are encouraged to form up "cordon" style to greet the players as they prepare for competition. Game day sponsor displays, mobile concessions, games and various forms of entertainment are stationed along "Black Knight Alley," which is closed to traffic with the exception of emergency vehicles. Additionally, the hour-long "Army Football Tailgate Show," a pregame internet radio show hosted by Army Director of Broadcasting Rich DeMarco, originates from the site, beginning at 11:30 a.m.

Strong Bloodlines

The names of two members of Army's freshman class should be familiar to National Football League followers. While WR Jeremy Trimble's father, Steven, played defensive back for the Denver Broncos, Denver Gold (USFL) and Chicago Bears from 1981-1987, LB Marcus Millen's father, Matt, played linebacker for the Oakland Raiders, San Francisco 49ers and Washington Redskins from 1980-91and now serves as President and CEO of the Detroit Lions. Sophomore FB-TB Tielor Robinson also boasts solid football genes. He is the nephew of Cedric Jones, who played wide receiver for the New England Patriots from 1982-90. Finally, Bruce Brown's father, Bruce, played football at the University of Miami and signed as a free agent with the New York Jets in 1971.

Jacob's Ladder

After registering just two catches through the season's first three contests, junior WR Jacob Murphy has snared a total of five balls the past two weeks. He is averaging 15.0 yards on seven receptions this fall.

In the Red

Army has reached the "red zone" 12 times this season, cashing all 12 trips into points (11 touchdowns, 1 field goal) for a 1.000 percent success rating. Black Knight opponents have converted 21 of their 26 drives inside Army's 20-yard line into points (17 touchdowns, 4 field goals) for a .808 success rating. Opponents had scored on 24 straight "red zone" visits dating back to 2003 against Army before TCU was halted in the second quarter.

Retro-Look

Army's football players sport a familiar old look this fall under first-year head coach Bobby Ross. One of the sport's most successful coaches at both the college and professional levels, Ross has reinstituted a classic "look" for his club's uniforms, tailoring the design to that worn by the Black Knights during their national championship era of the 1940s under legendary head coach Earl "Red" Blaik. Army's "retro" fashion will include home black jerseys featuring black, gold and gray stripes on both sleeves and gold "tackle-twill" numbers affixed to the front and nameless back. The Black Knights will don solid gold pants matching their timeless gold helmets. The team's road white jerseys will also bear black, gold and gray stripes on both sleeves, complementing solid gold pants. Army's away tops will feature black "tackle-twill" numbers affixed to the front and nameless back. The Black Knights captured three successive national championships (1944-46) while donning the classic uniform style under Blaik. Army has worn similar "throwback" uniform tops on two occasions in recent years, sporting the uniform design for a game against Rice in 1995 and again versus Navy in 1999. The Black Knights celebrated the 50th anniversary of Blaik's national championship winning squads by wearing the jerseys against Rice in 1995, while both Army and Navy sported "throwback" tops in the teams' 100th meeting in 1999.

Coming of Age

After boasting just 10 seniors on last year's roster, 30 "firsties" hold down spots on the Black Knights' 179-man squad this fall. Twelve seniors are slotted into starting roles for this week's game. Army's squad breakdown by class follows: seniors - 31; juniors - 28; sophomores - 45; freshmen 75.

Wrong Way

Army surrendered fumble returns for touchdowns against USF and TCU last season, as well as interception returns for scores versus USF, East Carolina and Hawai'i. In addition, Rutgers recovered a fumble in the end zone for a score against the Cadets. The Black Knights permitted six defensive touchdowns overall last fall. Opponents returned 14 interceptions and six fumbles for touchdowns against the Black Knights from 2000 through 2003.

Army vs. Conference USA

Army sports a 14-43-1 all-time record (.250) against clubs that currently comprise Conference USA. The breakdown: Cincinnati 3-3; East Carolina 0-7; Houston 2-5; Louisville 3-6; Memphis 1-4; Southern Miss 0-3; TCU 0-4; Tulane 5-6-1; UAB 0-4; USF 0-1. The Black Knights own an 8-37 composite record (.178) in their conference games since becoming league members in 1998.

Miller Time

After struggling with depth and placement on its kickoffs in 2002 (managing just one touchback in 45 kickoff attempts), Army was much improved in that area last season thanks to the presence of Austin Miller. The strong-legged plebe blasted 17 touchbacks last season with all but three of his 30 kickoffs landing inside the opponent's 5-yard line. Miller increased his workload this fall by adding placekicking chores after winning a preseason battle for the job. He did not attempt a single field goal or extra point last season. Miller has recorded 10 touchbacks and drilled eight other kickoffs inside the 2-yard line this season. Six of Miller's nine kickoffs against Cincinnati went for touchbacks, with two others landing inside the 2-yard line.

Tough Slate

Only one of the 11 opponents on the Black Knights' 2004 slate finished last season with less than five victories. The combined overall record from last season for the 11 teams included on Army's 2004 schedule is 74-61 (.548). That figure rises to 73-50 (.593) when discounting the 1-11 mark posted by East Carolina last fall. In addition to the annual service academy skirmishes with Air Force and Navy, the Black Knights have already battled Connecticut outside the framework of Conference USA play. Army will square off against eight league opponents and six teams that qualified for postseason bowl games a year ago. Four of those squads received bowl invitations in 2003. Army's 2004 opponents have combined for a 30-25 (.545) record this fall.

Experience on the Edge

Army sports a great deal of experience in its defensive secondary this fall with seniors Delente Brewer and Jonathan Lewis returning to their familiar cornerback spots. The veteran duo has combined for 51 starts at cornerback, with Brewer accounting for 29 of those lead assignments, including 22 in a row. Add Ray Stith (9 starts last season, two this year) into the mix and the Black Knights boast players responsible for 58 of a possible 60 starts at the two corner slots the last three years. Junior Dhyan Tarver also returns to his free safety position after starting nine games at that spot last fall and four this season.

Plebe Power

Head coach Bobby Ross was pleased with the development of his freshman class throughout preseason camp, stating that as many as 10 newcomers could contribute to the club in their "rookie" seasons. Among the freshmen most likely to see game action this season are WRs Corey Anderson and Jeremy Trimble, FB Mike Viti, DE Brandon Thompson, DE John Wright, W Caleb Campbell, DB Charlie Rockwood and P Owen Tolson. All of those players hold down places on Army's three-deep. Anderson, Trimble, Campbell and Rockwood have all seen action this season.

Captains Selected

Seniors Curt Daniels, Greg Washington, Aaron Alexander and Joel Glover have been selected by their teammates to serve as team captains for the 2004 Black Knight football season. Alexander and Washington were tabbed game and team captains prior to last season's Army-Navy contest and stand as just the fourth and fifth Army players in more than a century to be listed as team captain in consecutive years.

Game Day Coaching Assignments

Head coach Bobby Ross is joined on the sidelines by assistant coaches Stan Brock (offensive line), Eddie Wilson (quarterbacks), Tyree Foreman (fullbacks), Tucker Waugh (wide receivers), Clarence Holmes (defensive line), Bruce Hardin (special teams), Steve Tovar (linebackers), Wally Ake (secondary) and Gary Miller (offensive line). Offensive coordinater Kevin Ross and defensive coordinator John Mumford are accompanied by John Misciagna (tight ends) and Adam Waugh (safeties) upstairs in the press box.

Quarterback Derby

Upon assuming the Army coaching reins, head coach Bobby Ross proclaimed the Black Knights' stating quarterback job to be open. He spent spring practice narrowing a list of eight contenders to three -- seniors Reggie Nevels and Matt Silva, and junior Zac Dahman -- then formally named Reggie Nevels as his starter for the season opener on Aug. 16. Nevels has started each of Army's last three season openers, the first Army quarterback to accomplish that feat. He was replaced in the starting lineup by junior Zac Dahman against TCU after Ross re-opened the starting job following the Black Knights' 40-3 loss to Connecticut. Dahman has cemented the starting job with consecutive 200-yard passing efforts.

Must-See TV

One year after setting a school record with nine television appearances, the Army football team is assured of having its highest seasonal percentage of contests televised, with nine of its 11 contests (82 percent) slated for television this fall. At this time, the only Army games not scheduled for television this season are the Black Knights' dates versus Houston on Sept. 18 in Houston and UAB on Nov. 20 at West Point. In addition to a four-game package produced by the Army Sports Network (ASN) that will air in the tri-state area on Regional News Network (RNN), the Black Knights will appear on ESPN Plus twice, CBS Sports once, and regionally in the South on Cox Sports TV once and WFTS once.

C-USA Sweep

For the first time in Army's seven-year association with Conference USA, the Black Knights swept the league's offensive and defensive "Player of the Week" awards on Monday with the announcement that FB Tielor Robinson was named C-USA's top offensive performer and senior DB Jonathan Lewis was selected as the leading defensive player. Prior to this week, Army did not have a single player claim Conference USA Player of the Week honors since Ardell Daniels (offensive) and Omari Thompson (special teams) were cited in Dec. 2001.

Army in the Sunshine State

Army has appeared in the state of Florida just twice previously and not since 1978. Army suffered a 24-13 loss at Miami in 1971, and a 31-7 loss at Florida in 1978 in its only previous showings in the Sunshine State.

The Skinny

Army will appear on television for the fifth time in six games this season against USF ... this week's contest will also be included on ESPN's national GamePlan package, the Black Knights' third appearance this season ... Al Keck and former Rutgers head coach Doug Graber will call the action from Raymond James Stadium ... the Black Knights will not play at home again until Nov. 6 when the Black Knights host Air Force ... the game has already been listed as a sellout ... Carlton Jones has accounted for 87 of Army's 179 rushing attempts (48.6 percent) this fall ... Army quarterbacks have thrown just three interceptions in 127 pass attempts this fall ... Army signal callers accounted for 25 interceptions a year ago ... the Black Knights have forced 11 opponent turnovers this season ... Army has dropped nine consecutive road contests ... Army has lost 12 straight road night games ... the Black Knights' last victory in a night game on the road dates back to 1987 when Army blasted Kansas State 41-14 in Manhattan, Kan. ... freshman W Caleb Campbell registered a season-high eight tackles and a forced fumble in his most extensive action against Cincinnati ... he is expected to make his first career start this week.

What's on Tap

Army enjoys a week off before returning to Conference USA wars on Oct. 30 against East Carolina. The contest will be televised by ESPN Plus with kickoff set for 3 p.m.

http://www.collegesports.com/sports/m-footbl/stories/101104aes.html

[USFMikeB]

****, that's a long post...

[Jim Johnson]

Series Finale

With USF moving to the Big East Conference next fall and Army returning to Independent status following this season, no future games are currently scheduled between the two schools.

It might be nice to change this fact.  I know we have some open spots on the schedule - perhaps we could get a 2 for 1 with them over the next few years... Just a thought.

[Guest HowieP1]

It might be nice to change this fact.  I know we have some open spots on the schedule - perhaps we could get a 2 for 1 with them over the next few years... Just a thought.

I think that there was mention in a recent article that the USF AD is talking with Army about a future series as well as some of the other current C-USA teams.

[Guest HowieP1]

I think that there was mention in a recent article that the USF AD is talking with Army about a future series as well as some of the other current C-USA teams.

Here was one reference to that:

Besides Southern Miss, USF has had discussions with Army, Tulane and Navy about playing nonconference games in future seasons. Woolard will not discuss specific teams concerning future games.

http://bulls.tbo.com/bulls/MGBG72GNUZD.html

[bullwark]

I would prefer to play Air Force, except for this year they are usually the best team out of all the academies, and are sometimes ranked in the Top 25, plus the close proximity of MacDill AFB.

[smazza]

army over 1aa anyday

but can't we do better?

[bulls96go]

just win jim