Previewing Wyoming’s Opponents: Ohio Bobcats

Last year's matchup was a very sloppy 34-33 loss by Ohio that featured 11 total turnovers, with seven by Wyoming and four by the Bobcats.

Ohio had a disappointing season in 2007 with just six wins, after getting nine wins in 2006.  The team was very average: They went 6-6, but they also had an even record in conference games, home games, and road games as well.  This year's game takes place Week One in Laramie.

Offense

The team returns eight starters on offense.  Last season they averaged a solid 30 points per game.  The Bobcats have to break in a new quarterback for the third straight year, but starting QB junior Theo Scott saw time in 10 games last year, so he did gain valuable experience.  In those 10 games, Scott threw five touchdowns to three picks and had a 57.8 completion percentage.

Scott is somewhat of a dual-threat quarterback.  Head coach Frank Solich says of Scott, “He understands our system and is a good combo runner and thrower.  We are able to use him in shotgun formations and as a running threat as well.”

The running game will have to replace the school's all-time leading rusher, Kalvin McRae.  The leading candidate is playmaking junior Chris Garrett, who is making the move from wide receiver to tailback this season.  Garrett is an excellent punt and kick returner with his elusive running style.  The coaches also plan to use Garrett in the short passing game to utilize all of his skills.

The other back will be sophomore Vince Davidson, who heads into the fall as part of the rotation.  Davidson appeared in seven games last season.  Another back who could get a few carries is sophomore L.J. Flintall, who Coach Solich feels has the ability to find the holes made by the offensive line.

The receiving corps has only had to be a supporting aspect of the offense because of the strength of the running game.  The Bobcats’ top returning wide receiver is junior Taylor Price, who led the team last season with 464 yards receiving and four touchdowns.  LaVon Brazill who is the only other returning starter.  He is very raw and is "learning on the fly," according to the coaches.

While the team is low on experience, the Bobcats will frequently use a two tight end formation and have a pair of solid performers returning, led by their leading returning tight end, senior Andre