Friday, October 23, 2015 The Baylor Lariat D1

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MIDSEASON #CaglesCorner I expect Coleman REVIEW to move up to No. 3 The good, the bad Tyler Cagle names of the No. 2 Bears in his top four in the next week. – Joshua Davis 2015 playo race. pg. D2 pg. D6 “#HeismanWatch shortlist pg. D5 PODCAST >> Don’t Feed the Bears: Special homecoming episode as we talk Bennett BaylorLariat.com In the shadow Phil Bennett defends record

SHEHAN JEYARAJAH City Editor

It’s 2 p.m., and defensive coordinator Phil Bennett is preparing for Wednesday practice in his o ce overlooking Baylor’s outdoor facility. From the second you walk into his o ce, Bennett oozes intensity and  re. As we begin speaking, he opens letters and answers questions with the same voracity he exhibits on the sideline at McLane Stadium. He knows the criticism his defense has gotten since he’s been at Baylor. He knows Baylor is perceived as an “o ensive” school that can’t stop anyone. He knows head coach Art Briles is beloved while he at times is maligned. He knows Trey Honeycutt | Lariat Photographer the days of a No. 1 overall defense may be behind him with the way the game is shi ing. ALL SMILES, ALMOST Baylor fans cheer on the Baylor football team during a game between Baylor and Lamar University on Sept. 12 at But from the moment he begins speaking, McLane Stadium. The game against Lamar was Baylor’s home opener for the 2015 season. Baylor won 66-31. it is clear: Phil Bennett could not care less what anyone else thinks. And he’ll let you know it. “I know what we do here and I know that it works,” Bennett said. “Anyone who wants to b-- -- about two Big 12 championships can go jump in a lake.” In many ways, Briles and Bennett are perfect complements. Both were born on the same Incomparable day: Dec. 3, 1955. Briles has roots in West Texas. Briles is an o ensive guru who has led Homecoming and McLane make unbeatable pair seven top-10 o enses. Bennett is a defensive BENNETT >> Page D3 JOSHUA DAVIS games have been especially advantageous [take part in].” Sports Writer for Baylor as it has won those by an average Baylor was one of the  rst  ve schools margin of 45.3 points. to ever celebrate Homecoming and Drango e No. 2 Baylor Bears take on Iowa “We have a point to prove every time recognized the signi cance. State for Homecoming this Saturday, where we step out on that  eld,” said junior wide “I think we have [one of] the longest they are the best team in the country at receiver . “We can’t tolerate Homecoming traditions in the United winning at home. anything, so we have to put our foot down States, so it’s a big game for Baylor and the Soccer faces Under head coach Art Briles, the team and just be at our best. We have great fans, University as a whole,” Drango said.” has won 19-straight home games in Waco, and we don’t want to let anyone down.” “We have a lot of alumni coming back, the longest active FBS winning streak. Sophomore linebacker Taylor Young said but for us it’s just another game on the TCU and UT “It’s impressive and I think it says a lot he always looks forward to the excitement of schedule.” about who we are as a fan base, how we homecoming and playing for a large crowd. Junior quarterback Seth Russell admitted MEGHAN MITCHELL play as a team and how we protect our turf,” “It’s always a big deal at home,” Young that the 92nd playing of the homecoming Reporter Briles said. “ at’s all good, but I think that said. “Seeing everybody in that green and game represents a lot for the fans and just shows you how hard it is to consistently gold, and other people that haven’t been able alumni coming back to support the team, Baylor soccer is back on the road a er beating win.” to come to the games is exciting. It’s a big but agreed with Drango, saying it’s just like Oklahoma and tying with the No. 17-ranked Baylor’s premier win streak started deal to celebrate homecoming.” any other game. Texas Tech team at home last weekend. nearly three years ago on Homecoming Homecoming just has a di erent feel, e Bears will take on the Cyclones at “It was a really physical weekend for sure,” against the Kansas Jayhawks. senior le tackle Spencer Drango said. McLane Stadium at 11 a.m. Saturday. e said head coach Paul Jobson. “We got a little Since that time, it’s been nothing but “At homecoming, there’s a lot more game will be televised on ESPN. banged up.” home cooking for the Bears as they’ve people around Baylor, which is a really cool Baylor noti ed fans planning to attend “Two game weekends are tough, but the rattled o win a er win. atmosphere to be around,” Drango said. “It’s Saturday’s game at McLane Stadium to reality is, that’s normal. at’s what we are usually e Bears have won their last  ve electric, not just at the game, but the campus participate in the annual #StripeMcLane doing,” Jobson said. “I think the physicality of the homecoming matchups. e past three is electric. It’s a really fun environment to game. two games were probably tougher than the fact that we are playing two games. It’s something most of these girls are used to. We were fortunate to have a few weeks where we didn’t have that, and I think it has helped us to be healthy this far into the season.” e Bears (8-5-2, 3-1-1) will  rst head to Fort No. 2 Bears host Iowa State Worth in a Friday match-up against the strong SIDE-BY-SIDE TCU (8-7-0, 2-3-0 Big 12) team. e Bears defense is going to have to shut down junior forward Michelle Prokof, who has TYLER CAGLE one of the toughest six game stretches in scored nine goals this season. Sports Writer America to round out the season. HEAD COACHES “She’s a really good player, but we’re great Although perennial cupcake Iowa State defensively,” Jobson said. “We are one of the best Briles vs ISU (4-2) For the Baylor Bears, homecoming is a enters the game with just a 2-4 record, the Rhoads vs BU (2-3) special time of the year. Families get together Cyclones have played tough games against and celebrate their Baylor pride, reuniting strong opposition. SOCCER >> Page D6 for Pigskin Revue and football game during “ ey’re good; they’re a good football TEAM RECORDS the weekend. team,” said head coach Art Briles. “You Baylor – 6-0, 3-0 is year’s homecoming game will see can ask Toledo; they went to double OT in Iowa State – 2-4, 1-2 the second ranked Baylor Bears host the Toledo and Toledo is the number 19 or 20 SUBSCRIBE VIA ITUNES Iowa State Cyclones. team in America. TCU is the No. 3 or No. However, the pageantry of the 4 team in America, and it was 24-21 TCU OFFENSE homecoming season isn’t a ecting the at half.” The Lariat Sports Desk o ers Baylor football team as much as the normal e Cyclones would eventually lose both Baylor – 719.7 ypg student body. of those referenced games yet their play has sports podcasts catered to Iowa State – 487.3 ypg “I think we have the longest homecoming been noticeably improved in 2015. Baylor students. tradition in the United States, so it’s a big O ensively, the Bears are playing their game for Baylor and the university as a same old song and dance, torching the Subscribe to Don’t Feed the DEFENSE whole,” said senior tackle Spencer Drango. nation yet again. Bears on your iPhone. Baylor – 381.5 ypg “We have a lot of alumni coming back, but e Bears rank sixth in passing yards Iowa State – 461.8 ypg for us it’s just another game on the schedule.” per game and second in rushing, the only While the game may be just another baylorlariat.com/sports game on the schedule for the Bears, it begins FOOTBALL >> Page D7 Friday, October 23, 2015 The Baylor Lariat D2 Sports Better Than Ever Baylor reaches new heights halfway through season

TYLER CAGLE for his imposing stature, has recorded 17 tackles, Sports Writer 7.5 of which are for a loss. He has also recorded 3 sacks on the season, bringing his career total At the midway point in the season, Baylor to 16, which is the most in Baylor school history. has shown it is one of the best programs in the In the interior, Billings has been as equally nation. dominant, recording 21 tackles and eight tackles After going 6-0, securing bowl eligibility and for loss, including a sack. soaring to the No. 2 ranking in the polls, spirits Billings has been the victim of numerous are high for the Bears. double and triple-teams but that has not stopped Offensively, the Bears are the nation’s top the junior defensive tackle. offense in both points scored per game and “You can’t double-team me all the time, yards per game. you have to worry about what he’s [Billings] A major factor of that success is the play of doing. He’s just as capable of making plays in the offensive line, led by 2014 All-American left the backfield as I am. If he does things the right tackle Spencer Drango. way, it makes it 10 times easier,” Oakman said. “As an offensive line, we’ve reached one of of Billings’ ability. our goals – six wins after six games. We’re bowl The duo was the Big 12’s best statistical eligible, which is great, but we know we still defensive line tandem last season, and that have a lot of work to go,” Drango said. success has continued on to 2015. For Drango individually, his season has been The Bears have earned their No. 2 rank in the terrific up to this point. A preseason candidate nation with no doubt and dominant play across for the Outland Trophy and Wuerffel Trophy, the board. Drango has not disappointed on or off the field. With the second place rank a school high, Earlier this week, the Outland Trophy continue to watch the Bears this season. With announced their top 25 rankings and Drango their game against Iowa State, the Bears start led the pack with a score almost 18 points one of the toughest remaining schedules in the higher than second place. nation. Individual accomplishments have come The Bears will begin by traveling to across the board for Baylor players this season. Sarah Pyo | Lariat Photographer Manhattan, Kan., to face the Kansas State One huge standout for the Bears is junior wide MASTERMIND Head coach Art Briles walks to the sideline after a timeout discussion with his Wildcats. receiver Corey Coleman. team during the game between West Virginia and Baylor on Saturday at McLane Stadium. They then will host No. 17 Oklahoma Coleman has already broken the school Sooners before heading on a two game road record for touchdown catches in a single not earth-shattering news to us. We’ve been yards and five touchdowns through the air streak, facing No. 14 Oklahoma State in season, previously set by Kendall Wright. It took around him for four years, so we know what he while also running for a team high 160 yards Stillwater, Okla. Coleman only 6 games to catch 16 touchdowns, brings to the table.” and another score. Russell’s performance earned After their game against the Cowboys, the an astounding feat. It’s only been six games and people have him numerous player of the week awards, but Bears will play the game everyone has been “[The record] means a lot. Like I’ve said time been talking an awful lot. While Coleman gets Russell’s mindset is clear. waiting for: the long awaited game against No. and time again, [Kendall] is a great football a ton of praise for his performances, junior “It’s nothing really right now,” Russell said. 4 TCU. player, arguably one of the best receivers quarterback Seth Russell has also performed at “It’s not until we get the national championship, The Horned Frogs have had to endure an that came through Baylor. It’s exciting to be an extremely high level. and then we can look back and reminisce. entire year of 61-58 chants after the Bears pulled mentioned with his name,” Coleman said. After initially looking a bit rusty against We have that focus and we have that goal, off an improbable comeback last season. With his play this season, Coleman has SMU and Lamar, Russell has settled into his and that’s win another Big 12 championship, The Bears will then end the season against received high praise from numerous coaches own, leading the nation in passer efficiency. and then have an opportunity to hopefully play Texas at McLane Stadium. and analysts, most recently West Virginia’s Dana The dual-threat Garland native recently had for a national championship,” Russell said. If the Bears can come out of that stretch Holgorsen. Holgorsen called Coleman the best a record setting performance of his own. Defensive linemen and unscathed, they should not only have secured player in the country. Against West Virginia last weekend, Russell were billed as top NFL draft a playoff spot but also the No. 1 seed in the “Let’s talk after 12 games,” head coach Art become only the second Baylor quarterback to prospects coming into the season, and they have playoffs. Briles said. “We knew he’s a special player. It’s throw for 300 yards and run for 100 yards. not disappointed so far. Russell torched the Mountaineers for 380 Oakman, who became an Internet sensation

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BENNETT from Page D1 mastermind who has led seven top-10 defenses. Baylor lost to Oklahoma in their next game, The two played against each other in 1976, but finally showed a spark on defense. The with Briles’ Houston squad beating Bennett’s next week against No. 1 Kansas State, Baylor Texas A&M powerhouse. The two went at it dominated from the opening whistle and made again in the mid-2000s while Bennett was a huge turn. coaching at SMU and Briles was coaching at the Over the last five games of the season, Baylor University of Houston in Conference USA. held its opponents to 462.2 yards per game, “We had some great games. Great games,” nearly 100 yards less than the previous seven Bennett said. “I thought we played them pretty games. The Bears played four ranked opponents well, but I said to myself, this was the best over that stretch, going 3-1. offensive playcaller and offensive guy I have “I still very much believe defense wins ever coached against. He didn’t care whether championships,” Gush said. “And we have he ran or passed, he would find a way to take consistently gotten better since Coach Bennett advantage. That’s the kind of guy I wanted to be has gotten here.” arou n d .” The real difference has come since the Eventually, Briles took the head-coaching beginning of the 2013 season. Bennett’s defenses job at Baylor in 2008, while Bennett was let go have held opponents to 373 yards per game after a disappointing 1-11 record in 2007. and 24.6 points. The Bears have outgained After only two years at the helm, Briles led a opponents by 250 yards per game and outscored revitalized Baylor squad to its first bowl game in teams by four touchdowns. 16 years. The Bears played at Reliant Stadium in Most importantly, Baylor football has posted the Texas Bowl. a 28-4 record with two Big 12 championships Among those in the crowd? Phil Bennett. over that three-year stretch. Bennett’s stepdaughter, Katie White, is a “Some people like to do what they do, they Baylor alumna and former varsity soccer player. really struggle with change. Phil has embraced At the time, Bennett was the interim head coach it,” Gush said. “I’ve only been anything but a at Pitt and would coach the Panthers to a BBVA defensive coordinator under Phil Bennett. I Compass Bowl win less than two weeks later. think he’s the best defensive coordinator in During his time off, Bennett sat in the end America.” zone and watched the Bears give up 38 points Baylor football brought back 18 of 22 starters and 533 yards of offense in a 38-14 upset loss this season, including nine on the defensive side to Illinois. of the ball. The Bears came into the year ranked Bennett traveled back to Pittsburgh, Penn., No. 4 in both polls. after the game, and received a phone call when The Bears might have the best team in he got back. Art Briles was on the other end. , but expectations are as high as Briles told Bennett that he was thinking they have ever been in Waco. about making a change at defensive coordinator Trey Honeycutt | Lariat Photographer Bennett acknowledged that at times, the and Bennett was at the top of his list. start to this season has been difficult. The Bears “It was like destiny,” Bennett said. “He said UNSETTLED Defensive Coordinator Phil Bennett looks onto the field during the Baylor vs. Lamar allowed a combined 52 points to one-win SMU ‘with my offense and your defense, we’d win this game on Sept. 12. Baylor defeated Lamar 66-31. and FCS Lamar the first two weeks of the season. thing.’ I’m sure at the time, not many people “I mean think about it, we lose Shawn believed him, but I believed him.” players that you have a system and you want to succeed.” [Oakman] and Orion [Stewart] right before the Briles did not get technical about why he do the same thing every week.” Under Norwood, Baylor’s defense held first game. Then the first throw, the first play of decided to bring Bennett in. These are easier said than done, especially opponents to 412 yards per game and 29 points our season, we allowed a 46-yard touchdown,” “He’s a dang good defensive coordinator, against some of the most high-powered offenses per game. Bennett’s defense allowed 493.4 yards Bennett said. one of the best in the country,” Briles said. “If in college football playing in the Big 12. and 37.2 points per game during his first two Since then, the Bears have found their stride. Baylor’s one of the best programs in the country, The first season Bennett arrived in Waco, seasons in Waco. Baylor is holding teams to only 3.1 yards per why not have the best coaches? things began to change. Robert Griffin III The struggles came to a head during the first rush and helping the Bears beat teams by an From top to bottom, Baylor defensive goals swooped in and won the Heisman Trophy half of the 2012 season. Coming off a 10-win average margin of 41 points per game. are perfectly set out. during Bennett’s first season, and the entire season, the Bears limped out to 3-4 start, with Even with the success, Bennett isn’t bothered. Force turnovers. Limit red zone tenor of the program began to change. bad losses against TCU and Iowa State. “I didn’t have to come to Baylor to prove opportunities. Force three-and-outs. Don’t While the effect was there, the defense At that point, Baylor was on pace for the myself as a defensive coordinator,” Bennett said. allow points. Limit big plays. statistically was worse than it was under former worst defense in the history of college football. “A lot of people who come here forget where “You have to have a system and you can’t just defensive coordinator Brian Norwood. “We struggled, it shakes your confidence at they’ve been. I’ve had No. 1 defenses before. change it from week to week,” Baylor linebacker “Art never lied, he never told me he was times,” Gush said. “But we never lost faith in With the way we play, I’ll probably never have coach and defensive recruiting coordinator going to change his offense,” Bennett said. what we were doing.” one again. Jim Gush said. “You can make tweaks, but you “Right from the very beginning, it was about The results finally began to show themselves “But here, I might get the ultimate goal, that have to stick with your system. When you show finding someone who could compromise and over the next few weeks. team prize. That’s what it’s all about.” Friday, October 23, 2015 The Baylor Lariat D4 Sports Men’s basketball looks to build on success

JOSHUA DAVIS Sports Writer

Baylor men’s basketball was ranked No. 21 in the 2015-16 USA Today Preseason Coaches’ Poll, marking the ninth straight year the Bears have been ranked to start the season and the fourth time BU has been listed in the preseason coaches’ poll. The No. 21 selection in the coaches’ poll is the fourth-best in program history. Last year, Baylor tied for fourth in the Big 12 and earned a No. 3 seed in the NCAA Tournament for a second consecutive season, giving the program its first-ever back-to-back NCAA Tournament appearances. Head coach Scott Drew is hopeful that the team can get back to the NCAA Tournament after a heartbreaking loss in the opening round last season. With nine returning playera, including All- Big 12 first-team selection, senior Rico Gathers, and Big 12 Sixth Man Award winner, senior Taurean Prince, the Bears look primed to reach March Madness. “I think coaches remember those losses for a lifetime,” Drew said Tuesday at the Big 12 Men’s Basketball Media Day. “When I’m 80 and 90 years old, I’ll probably still remember that game and other big losses because they just stick with you … I think coaches remember those things. But when the players have that burning desire and they’re the ones that have that experience, that’s even more beneficial. Hopefully, at the end of this year, that’s something that will have helped us.” Both returning forwards were named to the Roundup File Photo Malone Award Watch List, which recognizes the top power forwards in Division I men’s COME ON AND JAM Senior center Rico Gathers slams dunks the ball during an NCAA tournament basketball game between Baylor and Wisconsin basketball. on March 27, 2014, in Anaheim, Calif. The Bears lost 52-69. While the two seniors were selected onto the same preseason watch list, their play styles couldn’t be more different. “First and foremost, if he can become a 75 to points per game in conference play. Following the game quicker and more exciting. Gathers, a native of Laplace, LA, has been 80 percent free throw shooter, his production is the season, his production at Baylor earned him “I think a quicker clock will help with that,” described by many as a bruiser. going to go way up,” Drew said. “Second thing, a spot on Team USA for the 2015 Pan American Drew said. “Officials are going to call it closer His overpowering 6-foot-8, 275-pound because we have a lot of length in practice, him Games, where he started every game and helped this year, which will give more freedom of frame allowed him to lead the Big 12 Conference finishing over length every day is something the team win a bronze medal. movement, which will help with the scoring as and break Baylor’s single-season rebounding that will help. His jump shot has improved; it’s a “I think this summer really took his game well. Our football team scores a lot of points, record with 394 boards. lot softer, a lot better rotation.” to another level,” Drew said. “Having an and it’s fun to watch. He was the only Power-5 conference player Prince, on the other hand, relied on his opportunity to be one of eight college players on I know our basketball players like to score, to average more than 11 points and 11 rebounds quick first step and three-point accuracy (.395 the USA/Pan Am team, and just the confidence so hopefully the tweaks this year will help.” per game. last season) to average 13.9 points in just 26.3 he was able to gain from that [was huge]. The Baylor will look to get its season started on a Following his impressive 2014-2015 minutes per game. way he’s approaching each and every day at positive note when it opens the 2015-16 season campaign, Gathers was named as a second- His efficiency on the court gave him a practice, it’s great to see.” on Nov. 13 against Stephen F. Austin at the team All-American for his energetic playstyle. second-team All-Big 12 honoree selection. This will be the 13th season for Baylor’s all- Ferrell Center. Even with the noteworthy statistics last The 6-foot-7, 220 pound senior raised his time wins leader, Scott Drew, but the first season That game will tip off at 8:30 p.m. and be season, Gathers has made a point to make level of play whenever it mattered most last with a 30 second shot clock. televised on FOX Sports Southwest-Plus. improvements at the free throw line, knowing season. Drew said he believes the new timer will that he will get there a lot, Drew said. He ranked third in the Big 12 with 15.6 have its challenges, but ultimately, it will make Engineer your career …master your future

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JOSHUA DAVIS Baylor’s Corey Coleman. Sports Writer

We’re getting to the point in the college 4. WR COREY COLEMAN (BAYLOR) football season that Heisman contenders are Despite Coleman just now making an nding it di cult to move up in the rankings. appearance on many national Heisman Watch A er a week of botched punts and lists, he’s been on mine for weeks. heartbreaking losses for teams that appeared to  e Baylor receiver is undoubtedly the best be on the rise, none of my Heisman standings best wide out in the nation. A er last week’s changed. performance (10 catches, 199 yards and three Every contender turned in a solid touchdowns), West Virginia head coach Dana performance to retain their previous ranking. Holgorsen called Coleman the best player in As conference play continues, I expect at college football. least one player from the second tier to break Elliott may have edged out the 5-foot-11, through and challenge for the No. 1 spot. Here’s 190-pound receiver this week, but I expect a look at my Week 7 rankings: Coleman to move up to No. 3 next week. His Heisman status has continued to rise and he’s got the most momentum out of the 1. RB (LSU) contenders on this list. In four of his six games, For the  h week in a row, Fournette is on Coleman has caught three or more touchdowns. top of my Heisman standings. He has proved to Additionally, the junior wideout has gone be unstoppable and absolutely embarrassed a over the century mark in yards, all six games. touted defensive team in the Florida Gators (No. On the season, Coleman has 877 yards and 16 18 against the run). touchdowns (an FBS best).  e running back from New Orleans Next up for the Bears is a home game churned up yards all game to help the No. 5 LSU against Iowa State.  e Cyclones secondary has Tigers remain undefeated. Associated Press been suspect all season, and I expect Coleman At the rate he’s going, Fournette looks UP AND OVER Ohio State running back Ezekiel Elliott hurdles Penn State defender Trace to take full advantage. If he puts up another powerful enough to lead LSU to a national title McSorley during an NCAA college football game on Oct. 17, 2015, in Columbus, Ohio. three-touchdown e ort, it would give him 19 game, while also claiming Heisman honors. on the season, making the NCAA record very His 180 yards and two touchdowns against numbers through his rst seven games. Elliott ran his streak of 100-yard rushing reachable (27 receiving touchdowns). Florida last week give him 1,202 yards and 14 He currently ranks second in the nation in games up to 12 a er last weekend – an impressive touchdowns through six games this season. total o ense per game (425.6) and touchdown feat. However, his dominance is muted due to His 14 touchdowns are the second-most in the passes (25), and  h in the nation in passing the lack of  ashy numbers. 5. RB DALVIN COOK (FLORIDA STATE) country behind Baylor’s Corey Coleman. yards per game (362.7). Sure, Elliott continues to pile up yards, but A er su ering a hamstring injury against  e 6-foot-1, 230 pound RB will face an Despite the early struggles for TCU in the not in the way that some other running backs Louisville, Cook fought to display his dominance easier opponent this week in Western Kentucky game last weekend versus Iowa State, Boykin have been putting up colossal stats.  e junior’s and carry the Seminoles in the second half. before heading into a bye week to get ready for was nearly perfect from start to nish.  e rushing totals in the last two games combined  e e ciency of Florida State is night-and- the Alabama Crimson Tide. Dallas native collected 510 yards of total o ense don’t equal Elliott’s breakout 274-yard output day di erence when the sophomore running  at game will be a true test of Fournette’s and ve touchdowns, while completing 84 against Indiana on Oct. 3. back is on the eld. greatness. If he can run the Tigers to victory in percent of his passes.  e problem for Elliott is that if he wants to Last week, Cook’s e ort helped solidify his Tuscaloosa in a couple weeks, we may as well Next up for the Horned Frogs is a bye week move up the Heisman standings, he’s going to claim to the No. 5 spot by totaling 223 yards hand him the Heisman Trophy. before a home game against West Virginia. At have to put up those mind-blowing numbers. and two touchdowns.  e Miami native has 955 this point, the TCU quarterback just needs to Otherwise, he will remain a consistent No. 3 or yards rushing and 10 touchdowns through six keep up his level of play and hope Fournette No. 4 on this list all season. games. His most impressive stat is his yards per 2. QB TREVONE BOYKIN (TCU) slips up.  is week, Ohio State plays Rutgers (who carry (8.7). Boykin continues to be right on the outside As long as Boykin keeps TCU ghting for a ranks No. 30 in the nation against the run).  is week, Florida State travels to take on of the No. 1 spot. As I mentioned before, I believe playo spot, he’ll remain at the top of this list.  is would be a good time for the 6-foot-1, 225 Georgia Tech in an ACC matchup. Last season, the Heisman to be a two-horse race at this point, pound RB to make a statement and up his stock Cook amassed 177 yards and one touchdown and Boykin is gaining momentum.  e Horned in the Heisman race. against Georgia Tech. I’d say it’s a safe bet to Frogs’ quarterback has put up some astounding 3. RB EZEKIEL ELLIOTT (OHIO STATE) Otherwise, he will drop a spot behind predict a big game from Cook. Friday, October 23, 2015 The Baylor Lariat D6 Sports Cagle’s Corner: Rankings Baylor tops the list after seven weeks of college football

TYLER CAGLE and strength reside in Salt Lake City. While the Sports Writer Utes rank just 49th in terms of total defense, they are 26th in allowing only 19 points per While the college football playo committee game and rank 13th in rushing yards allowed will not release their o cial rankings until a er per game. the ninth week of the season, hypotheticals are Utah is a grindhouse, the Memphis Grizzlies always fun. of college football and if you don’t come to play, As a college football fan, you build your you will be beaten down. own rankings week a er week, hoping that the With a remaining schedule that does committee will get a clue and know what you not feature a single ranked opponent, Utah’s know. physical and consistent play could carry them A er the midway point in the 2015 season, all the way to the playo .ing fast with games I’d say it’s about time for some rankings. against Michigan State and Michigan looming Here are my top four if the season ended at the end of the season. right now: For now they hold a top four spot simply out of respect and potential but eventually, the miscues could get them knocked out. 4. LSU TIGERS LSU is 6-0 and they have the best player in the nation in running back Leonard Fournette. 1. BAYLOR BEARS  ey have won close games against Now you’re probably thinking of course Mississippi State and Florida and the magic of Baylor is at the top, this is Baylor’s newspaper Les Miles is rolling in full force. a er all.  e aforementioned Fournette, who is But the fact of the matter is that the Bears reigning supreme on just about everyone’s have been the most dominating team in the Heisman ballots, leads the Tigers’ o ensive nation and it’s not even close. force.  e Bears lead the nation in scoring o ense  e man is simply unstoppable right now by almost 14 points and they are the only team Associated Press and his rare combination of speed, power, and in the nation to rank in the top ten in both agility has helped him gain a nation-leading UNDER THE RADAR Utah quarterback Chase Hansen looks to throw during a scrimmage at passing and rushing (6th passing, 2nd rushing). 1202 rushing yards along with 14 touchdowns. Rice-Eccles Stadium on April 11, 2015, in Salt Lake City, Utah. Quarterback Seth Russell is a legit Heisman Fournette may be the best SEC back since candidate and his number one target Corey Darren McFadden (yes, better than all of Bama’s Coleman is as well. Since then, Braxton Miller has been With the rest of the PAC-12 in shambles, legends) and he could run this team to an SEC Russell leads the nation in passer e ciency explosive at the hybrid H-back position with Utah has risen up and played tremendously in championship. and yards per attempt while Coleman is third in Cardale Jones and J.T. Barrett struggling as 2015. LSU has played well on defense so far, receiving yards and  rst in touchdown catches. quarterbacks.  e Utes have four wins against quality ranking 15th in the nation in terms of yards  is could be the best o ense college football Jones was the season starter and has not opponents in Michigan, Oregon, Cal, and allowed per game. has seen since Oklahoma in 2008, with the played even remotely close to what he showed Arizona State. If they can continue that play and Fournette Bears already besting that Sooners squad on the o during last season’s playo run. While the Ducks and the Sun Devils have can continue to stay healthy with his workload, ground. Meanwhile, Barrett has received limited been relatively disappointing this season, they the Tigers will win a playo spot. While the Achilles Heel for Baylor will be the time but has also struggled. Barrett has been are still loaded with talent and the Utes have inconsistent play of its defense, the Bears have announced as the new starter for the Buckeyes shut them down. improved with each game so far in the season, due to his better e ciency through the air Utah, traditionally known as a power school 3. OHIO STATE BUCKEYES ranking 62nd in the nation in terms of average (barely) and his mobility. that doesn’t look to outscore opponents, has  is pick might take a lot of heat but the yards allowed. While the Buckeyes have remained unbeaten been incredibly  nesse in its attack this season rankings are all about who is the best team that Baylor also has one of the toughest remaining this far, the meat of their schedule is coming on o ense. week and while the Buckeyes are undefeated, schedule in the nation, with three games against fast with games against Michigan State and Running back Devontae Booker and they have not been consistent. ranked opponents. Michigan looming at the end of the season. quarterback Travis Wilson form an incredible When the season began, we all wondered With the Big 12 gauntlet looming for the tandem in the back eld, with Booker emerging how Urban Meyer would work with having Bears, if they can weather the storm and win as a true Heisman dark horse. three potential Heisman quarterbacks. out, they should top the rankings. 2. UTAH UTES Defensively, the same Utah spirit of power

SOCCER from D1

defensive teams in the conference. I know our we are good enough to create opportunities. girls are up for any challenge, but she’s a very It will just be a matter of being able to get good player.” one behind her because she is a really good  e only edge the Horned Frogs have is goalkeeper.” being fresh, Jobson said.  e main thing that the Bears have being “Talk about being beat up and fresh.  ey focusing on in training is being prepared haven’t played a game in two weeks,” Jobson physically for the tough matches the team will said. “ ey had this last weekend o , so they face in conference play, Jobson said. should be pretty fresh and probably antsy to “Our main thing this week has been play. Where as our girls are recovering a er a recovery,” Jobson said. “Trying to get our tough weekend, but I think it will be a great bodies back where they need to be. We went match up.” over little details.” With just a day of rest, the Bears will travel “For us, it’s always been about what we to Austin on Sunday, where they play the No. are able to do, and right now being fresh and 2 ranked team in the Big 12, Texas (7-3-4, .4- being recovered is going to be the main thing 1-1 Big 12). for us to give us the best chance in the two  e Longhorns have a very strong defense, games this weekend.” Jobson said. “Kind of where everybody is in this “ ey have a great defense and part of it is conference, there’s a lot on the line. Everybody their goalkeeper. She’s one of the best in the wants the championship.” country,” Jobson said. “Abby is a great player.”  e Bears play 7 p.m. Friday at the Garvey- “For us, if we play a great defensive team Rosenthal Soccer Stadium in Forth Worth and or not, we’ve been able to create opportunities. 4 p.m. Sunday at the Mike A. Myers Stadium Not any discredit to them, but I just think and Soccer Field in Austin. Friday, October 23, 2015 The Baylor Lariat Sports D7

Trey Honeycutt | Lariat Photographer Trey Honeycutt | Lariat Photographer

FUTURE BEARS Two Baylor fans cheer on the Bears with pom-poms during a football game START ‘EM YOUNG A young Baylor fan holds up his hand to do a “Sic ’em” during a football game between Baylor and Lamar on Sept. 12 at McLane Stadium. The Bears won 66-31. between Baylor and SMU on Sept. 4 at Gerald J. Ford Stadium in Dallas.

FOOTBALL from Page D1 team in America to hold top ten ranks in both.  e Richardson native has caught a school bounce o guys or spin o guys or jump over steady job. I think he’s exactly what Coach [Phil] A huge part of that o ensive  repower last record 16 touchdown passes, which is also top guys. He’s almost always going to get positive Bennett is looking for on that side of the ball at week was junior quarterback Seth Russell’s duel- in the nation. Following a 10 catch, 199-yard yards, so he’s a great back for us.” that position,” said Briles. threat ability. and three-touchdown explosion against West While the Bears are scary good on o ense, Campbell’s leadership and instinct on the Russell torched the West Virginia Virginia, Mountaineers’ head coach Dana sometimes their defense is just plain scary.  e defensive side of the ball will be key against a Mountaineers last weekend for 380 yards passing Holgorsen called Coleman the best player in the Bears have been suspect to blown coverages and solid Iowa State o ense led by freshman running and 160 yards rushing, earning numerous player nation. missed tackles all season, especially in the  rst back Mike Warren. of the week awards. “I 100 percent agree,” Russell said. “What has half. Warren has played very well for a freshman “Nervous wouldn’t be the correct way to he done not to prove that? He’s proven it every However, the Bears have played noticeably this season, rushing 93 times for 652 yards and describe my feelings,” Briles said. “I think we day he steps on the  eld.” better as of late, forcing turnovers and punts three scores. just try to be intelligent with him. We realize it’s While Coleman and Russell hold all the hype even a er the o ense gives them short rest. With a homecoming crowd expected to  ll a position that if you want to see grandma while in the passing game, junior running back Shock While the Bears returned nine starters on McLane Stadium to capacity and the Iowa State she’s knitting get up and scream, it’s usually Linwood has also developed into a top running defense this year, linebacker Bryce Hager’s defense allowing almost 462 yards of o ense, when they’re tackling the quarterback.” back in the country. Linwood has gained 803 departure le an obvious hole. expect the Bears to do just as they please. Protecting Russell is the  rst key in Baylor’s yards on just 94 carries, averaging an astounding Senior linebacker Grant Campbell has  lled Don’t expect grandma to get up and scream gameplan as the junior quarterback is  rst in the 8.5 yards per carry. the hole so far this season very well, playing while she’s knitting anytime soon this weekend; nation in passer e ciency. “Shock is one of those backs who’s always consistent throughout games. the Bears should take of business just  ne. Along with Russell, junior wide receiver going to be there,” Drango said. “He’s very “He’s been a really good leader, makes all the Kicko is scheduled for 11:00 a.m. Saturday and Corey Coleman has gained a huge following consistent and he’s always improving. One guy calls defensively, gets the guys in the right spots, television coverage will be provided by ESPN. this season. is almost never going to take him down. He’ll makes the right plays, and has done a really Friday, October 23, 2015 The Baylor Lariat D8 Sports

WEATHER UPDATE

homecoming weekend playby play #BaylorHomecoming

For a full list of Homecoming gatherings and news about other weather-related changes, visit www.baylor.edu/homecoming homecoming main events HONOR CLASS REUNIONS Friday, Oct. 23 Friday, Oct. 23 ROSENBALM FOUNTAIN DEDICATION 50th REUNION FOR HONOR 4 p.m. Fountain Mall. Join members of the Baylor CLASS OF 1965 family as we celebrate the legacy of the Rosenbalm 4-7 p.m. Barfield Drawing Room, Bill Daniel Student Center family and a beautiful fountain. (Inclement weather: McMullen-Connally Faculty Center) HERITAGE REUNION DINNER 5-7 p.m. Baylor Club, McLane Stadium EXTRAVAGANZA, PEP RALLY & for the classes of 1940, 1945, 1950, 1955 and 1960 FRIDAY NIGHT FLASHBACK 7-11 p.m. Enjoy a variety of family-friendly activities, HOMECOMING REUNION BUFFET see the new eternal flame, gather with friends and 5-7 p.m. Baylor Club, McLane Stadium cheer on the Baylor Bears. Pep Rally begins 9 p.m. for the classes of 1970, 1975, 1980, 1985, 1990, 1995, New location: Waco Convention Center 2000, 2005 and 2010 SINGSPIRATION 7 p.m. Seventh and James Baptist Church. Join in Saturday, oct. 24 fellowship, worship and praise with the Baylor family, REUNION PICNIC featuring the alumni choir. 8 a.m. All Honor Classes will enjoy a come-and-go picnic at the stadium (located in the Baylor Alumni Network Tailgate tent). Saturday, oct. 24 PARADE The parade has been cancelled due to inclement weather. Watch for information on parade float displays in the coming weeks. homecoming PARKING Homecoming parking procedures are in place. Visit FOOTBALL baylor.edu/homecoming/parking for the most 11 a.m. Iowa State vs. Baylor up-to-date information when making your plans. PIGSKIN REVUE 7 p.m. Waco Hall. Enjoy the final performance of Pigskin. Stripe McLane Stadium

- WEAR GREEN - WEAR GOLD

Help us stripe the CONGRATULATIONS stadium by wearing TO THE RECIPIENTS OF THE 2015-16 BAYLOR UNIVERSITY the color assigned to your section. Visit Meritorious Achievement Awards baylorbears.com/ stripemclane Baylor alumni around the globe reflect the very best of Baylor for your section’s color. University. The recipients of the 2015-2016 Baylor Meritorious Achievement Awards are:

Chip and Joanna Gaines Alumni of the Year Special thanks to Baylor Chamber of Commerce Victor Boutros Young Alumnus of the Year for the many hours of work that have gone into Billy and Dawn Ray Pro Ecclesia Medal of Service preparation and execution of events for this very special weekend in the life of the University. Your Sue Mayborn Pro Texana Medal of Service dedication to Baylor and the Homecoming tradition Dr. Michael Attas Contributions to the Professions in Medicine & Healthcare truly reflects your motto: “Anything for Baylor.” Dr. Harry “Fred” Tibbals III Contributions to the Professions in Research Grant and Donell Teaff Legendary Mentor Award George and Martha Chandler Baylor Legacy Award David and Shirley Lake Baylor Legacy Award Matt and Dot Miller Baylor Legacy Award

Winston Wolfe Baylor Legacy Award pinterest.com/ baylor.edu/facebook baylorproud youtube.com/ Louise Herrington Ornelas Baylor Founders Medal baylor twitter.com/baylor instagram.com/ twitter.com/baylorproud bayloruniversity