Colleges

Scouting reports

By IZZY GOULD
Published September 16, 2006

FLORIDA A&M (0-2, 0-1) at HOWARD (0-1, 0-1), 1

Something's got to give with both MEAC teams searching for first wins. The Rattlers hope quarterback Albert Chester can return after missing last week's game with a broken finger on his left (nonthrowing) hand. Their offensive line has done its share to protect the quarterback, limiting opponents to one sack, though four turnovers in two games are alarming. Howard's biggest obstacle is reaching the end zone after a 46-7 loss to Hampton. The Bisons used three quarterbacks, and just two receivers posted receptions.

BETHUNE-COOKMAN (1-1) AT SOUTH CAROLINA ST. (1-1), 6

B-CC hopes to continue its solid run defense - second nationally in Division I-AA - limiting teams to 22.5 yards per game. The Wildcats also boast a versatile quarterback in Jimmie Russell, who leads B-CC in rushing, passing and total offense with 274 yards. South Carolina State has won the past two games in the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference series and leads all time 26-17-1. The Bulldogs are ranked eighth nationally in rushing offense with 259.5 yards per game. They are led by running back William Ford, who rushed for 170 yards and two touchdowns last week in a 35-6 win at Winston-Salem.

FLORIDA ATLANTIC (0-2) AT OKLAHOMA ST. (2-0), 7

The Owls have been outscored 99-6 in two games and have not scored a touchdown. They are ranked 117th out of 119 schools in scoring offense. The only player to score has been kicker Warley Leroy with two field goals in two games. That's bad news, considering Oklahoma State has averaged 43.5 points. Cowboys quarterback Bobby Reid ranks 10th nationally in passing efficiency (173.4), and running back Mike Hamilton averages 114 yards.

FLORIDA INTernational (0-2) vs. BOWLING GREEN (1-1), 6

FIU hosts its first home game with confidence after losing each of its first two games by one point. The Panthers rely on go-to receiver Chandler Williams, who caught nine passes for 129 yards last weekend and returned a punt 82 yards for a score in a 21-20 loss to USF. The Falcons are the nation's fifth-best rushing attack at 287.5 yards a game. They are led by running back Freddie Barnes, who has rushed for 257 yards and four touchdowns.

[Last modified September 16, 2006, 02:29:52]