Can't glean much about Navy from the ECU game. The Pirates were gashed by the option all game, and virtually off the ECU's offensive skills positions have new starting personnel. ECU played much better vs. a traditional offense in Florida, only losing by 7, but we all know they aren't Meyer's Gators either.
From the box score, ECU seemed to play like UConn '14 vs. Army. To that end, UConn has an advantage over ECU this year because they've already seen an option heavy offense. Navy punted once and that was still after a 9 play "drive." ECU just couldn't get them off the field. Only 3 times did Navy have a drive with less than 9 plays. 1 was right before the half, and the other two were after ECU turnovers where they had a short field resulting in scores. I can certainly see Navy going for it on 4th and short. The defensive keys this week is just as it was two weeks ago. 1) Penetration up the middle, 2) stay home & set the edge, 3) finish tackles, and 4) Set up 3rd and not short and get off the field.
Navy doesn't look super stout on defense, although they held ECU on 4th down twice. Colgate (FCS) ran up almost 200 yards rushing and ECU piled up over 300 yards through the air. As expected for a service academy, Navy is well disciplined. You won't force them into making a lot of mistakes. They've only committed 9 penalties over two games. UConn committed only 9 in their 1st two games as well, but committed 8 on Saturday.
That said, if UConn can hold Navy to the low 20's or lower, I'd say they have a great shot at winning.
I'll go with UConn 26 - Navy 19.
This week I'm with those who say UConn needs 27 to win. I'll go 27-20 with us blocking a navy extra point, just because.
