rsk@pucc-j (Wombat) (11/24/85)
Well, Purdue has just concluded a successful season: we've beaten Notre Dame and Indiana, and (therefore) it has been a good year. After watching Penn State demolish N.D. last week, I think their #1 reputation is well-deserved; but I still wonder whether they'll be able to beat Nebraska or Oklahoma in the Orange Bowl. Perhaps today's game against Pitt will provide some additional insight into that question. The Bears are coming off their blowout of Dallas with a great many injuries; most importantly, McMahon is still out. Last year, the Bears suffered badly from injuries in the latter part of the season (including at QB) and it looks like they may be in the same position this year. I wonder if the better showing by Fuller will continue, and if it will be enough to carry the Bears all the way. On the other hand, Payton and Suhey are both running very well; the receivers seem to be getting healthy again; and the defense has just run amuck game after game. I think the crux of the matter, then, is the offensive line. (!) Why? Because the Bears will need to give Fuller extra time and extra protection in passing situations; and because they will have to do more running--- which means better blocking is required up front. Comments? -- Rich Kulawiec rsk@pur-ee.uucp rsk@purdue.uucp rsk@purdue-asc.arpa
ekblaw@uiucdcs.CS.UIUC.EDU (11/25/85)
You're right, the front line is important. Fuller is improving (better than last year) but he doesn't scramble as well as McMahon. One thing to note is that the defense took some injuries last year, too, and that is why they weren't as strong in the last couple of games. This year they're healthy as a ox (just ask Dallas and Atlanta). The Bears have a shot at going all the way; a good one, if they can avoid injuries. We'll just have to wait and see. Robert A. Ekblaw