Speed, not height could kill Texas State

Last week against Angelo State, the Texas State defense fell victim to a cycle of events. First, Ram quarterback John Neiswander would dump the ball to his tight end or running backs on an under route, softening up the Bobcat defense. Neiswander would then find one of his taller receivers (both ASU starters were taller than 6-foot-2) for a jump ball.

Texas State was almost powerless against the attack as Neiswander completed 18-of-25 passes. When the Bobcats did bite on a route, Neiswander found a gap in the seam and nailed the receiver for a huge gain.

This weekend, Texas State goes against Southern Methodist. The Mustangs' starting wide receivers are all under 6-foot tall, but quick. In the run-and-shoot offense, receivers must be fast to break into their slants and to make moves in the open field.

The Bobcats' secondary is fast, with Will Thompson, Drenard Williams and Morris Crosby at corner. Jamal Williams and Brian Williams anchor the safety positions and have speed.

One of the biggest keys to the game this week will be the corner's ability to tackle in the open field. Should SMU's recievers get running room, they could be gone for six.

"Not if we come out and tackle correctly," Jamal Williams said in response to being asked how big a difference it is facing a faster than taller wide receiver. "It will all be the same."