Topic: H-D: Don't expect turnaround in Birmingham

[ZackUSAF82]

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. -- It's time for Marshall to finish off one of these swing games.

The Thundering Herd's last victory in such a tossup came a year ago in Mobile, Ala., a 27-26 rally over Tulane on Oct. 29, 2005. Since then, at least five swing games (depending on perspective) have gone the other way.

Last week was the definition of a swing game. SMU was a 5.5-point favorite, but with a half-empty stadium providing no home advantage and several Mustang starters out, this was an absolute push.

Continuing a concerning trend, Marshall appeared to find a way to lose rather than simply be bested by superior talent. Three turnovers down the stretch led to a 31-21 loss and 1-5 record.

The Thundering Herd now essentially faces six consecutive swing games in the season's second half. Conference USA is wide open and Marshall is equipped to defeat each of its remaining opponents; of course, the opposite could just as well play out.

Avoiding those aggravating turnovers and penalties would lead to a victory tonight over UAB. Marshall (1-5, 0-2) and the Blazers (3-4, 2-1) kick off at 7 p.m. at Legion Field and WOWK will televise the game.

Link: http://www.heralddispatch.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20061021/SPORTS0301/610210338/1002/SPORTS

[W0lfman]

Hanshews statement is right on the mark...

Continuing a concerning trend, Marshall appeared to find a way to lose rather than simply be bested by superior talent.

[extragreen]

Hanshews statement is right on the mark...

Continuing a concerning trend, Marshall appeared to find a way to lose rather than simply be bested by superior talent.

Totally agree.