Florida Atlantic vs Buffalo Q&A With UB Bull Run

Cyrus Smith: Last week Buffalo and FAU both played P5 opponents and both kept the game close going into the second half before losing. What kind of vibe are you getting from the team, knowing they went toe-to-toe with Penn State for four quarters as the get ready to visit FAU Stadium?

UB Bull Run: I believe that FAU is a way better football team than PSU. Buffalo as well as FAU has had the ability in recent history for big victories but just couldn't close the deal. The Bulls, just like the Owls against Tulsa, shot themselves in the foot with penalties against Penn State. It was maddening to see the Bulls give the game to Penn State.

CS: A lot of fanfare came with Lance Leiploid as he made the leap from Division III to FBS. How has Leiploid adapted to running an FBS program? How would you assess Leiploid through the first two games?

UBBR: Class. Lance comes to UB after the debacle of (I really had to stop and recall as I have tried to erase this tenure) Jeff Quinn. Quinn followed around Brain Kelly until Kelly went to Notre Dame and Quinn came to Buffalo. Quinn had to replace the only real coach who had success in the modern era for UB in Tuner Gill. Where Turner was a soft spoken coach, Quinn was a fire and brimstone windbag. I Ioved it when Quinn came and fired up the fan base only to lose them as soon as he started to coach.

Quinn had Khalil Mack and Bo Oliver. Think about that. You see the success they are having in the NFL. Lance is a quiet, humble individual and from everything I have heard and seen, a true teacher of the game. Blew out a FCS team so nothing really to gleam from that experience in his first contest. Very disappointed with the execution at Penn State. This game for many will really show how well the transition from  D3 to playing your Owls this weekend. The playcalling was unimaginative and we beat ourselves. I was shocked to see that from a Lance team. Again, still early in his tenure. The fan base really likes Lance and hoping for a sliver of the same success he has had in the past.  Lance will not fire up the fan base with his personality.  I just want Lance to fire up the fan base with wins.

CS: I'm gonna go out on a limb and say that a majority of FAU's fans have yet to see the Bulls play this year. Tell us about your team. What type of offense is Leiploid brining over from Wisconsin-Whitewater? What type of defense?

UBBR: The talent for the Bulls starts with five great pass catchers (including two TE's) and two change of pace running backs. Keep a look out for the two #1's for the Bulls. On offense is #1 Anthone Taylor. Anthone is more than carrying on the great running back charge of late for the Bulls - James Starks - Green Bay & Bo Oliver - Chargers. On offense, UB will try to get the two headed running back attack going to open the air attack.  You will see that UB at the end of the game will have 7-9 players with receptions.

UB Is really hoping Licata is going to have a monster year. Looked real good against Albany and really bad in tough weather conditions in Happy Valley. For UB to win, Licata needs a big game. Joe does not have a strong arm but if given time can read coverage and find an open receiver. UB has one of the largest O Lines in college football but struggled against PSU but that maybe the best D Line the Bulls face this season.

The D line does a great job against the run but really struggles to put any pressure on the QB. The linebackers were the biggest concern for the defense but Alozie, Berry, and Gilbo have made plays and is the only unit that forces any real pressure on the QB. The secondary is solid but its asking a lot when the QB has time to wait for open receivers.

UB struggles in the kicking game recently for field goals and extra points. Don't be shocked if you block or see an extra point missed.

CS: Last time Buffalo visited Florida they played UCF in 2009 and lost 23-17. What's your prediction for Buffalo's visit to the Sunshine State this go round?

UBBR: On our site I created a weekly pick ‘em game that Matt has taken to a bigger audience. So far the fan base has decidedly picked the Bulls 33-26 as the score.

I am a typical negative Bulls, Bills, and Sabres fan. I picked the Colts over the Bills last weekend. I say the storm clouds slow down and the game is played in rain. Rain will take the advantage away from the Bulls. Even with your key injuries, my prediction FAU - 21 UB 17.

CS: Who would you like to punch in the face?

UBBR: That is the best question I have ever been asked. When I reflected on this question so many faces flashed before my eye. Is that wrong? I would like to make the world a better place and punch Bill Belichick right in the face