[NU Sports] My concerns for this game

[Kenneth Maresco]

I am going to play the psychologist here, and say, these young men have lost
a father figure very suddenly, within the past 3 months. This man was an
anchor in their lives and their approach to football.

Coming into this season they clearly were motivated to play for him, and
their new and charismatic head coach. There have been significant growing
pains, on the field and among the coaching staff. Nothing unexpected
(inexperienced coach/new QB), and I personally want these young men to be
encouraged, and hope they are.

But I am concerned they may have a let down as they did in the Rashidi
Wheeler year, when they were I believe 4-1 going into Penn State, when he
wheels came off the wagon, in a final minute loss to Penn State, and then
multiple losses to follow. It was not so much the talent on the field that
was the problem, it was something intangible. Something that makes college
football both wonderful and perplexing. Where teams that are clearly
superior in talent don't always win.

I hope I am wrong, and Fitz can keep these young men focused. But in any
case, they will have my complete support. Cat fans this is a challenging
year of transition for Fitz and these guys. I believe this is a huge game
for the rest of our season.