Lembo's Language is a weekly article, where chief football reporter David Polaski dissects statements made by Ball State head football coach Pete Lembo in his press conference.
What is it like preparing to face off against a staff that includes Jay Bateman, who was here and helped build a lot of what you guys have here, and does that allow for some mutual knowledge and understanding?
Lembo: “We know a lot about how Jay thinks philosophically on defense and things he likes to do, doesn’t like to do, potential answers he might have to defending us, and he certainly knows a lot about us and our personnel.”
David: Jay Bateman serves as the Army defensive coordinator, but spent the previous three seasons coaching the Ball State defense. Because of this, Lembo and Bateman know how each other operates their teams which could play into the chess match on the field. Depending on how much of Ball State's old defense current defensive coordinator Kevin Kelly uses, some things may be slightly tweaked to prevent Bateman from gaining too much of an advantage. At the same time, Lembo and offensive coordinator Joey Lynch will be using their previous knowledge of Bateman’s tendencies to capitalize on a struggling Army defense.
Considering the complexity of the Army offense, did this bye week come at a good time?
Lembo: “It came at a good time on all fronts. We’ve had a lot of injuries early … you can start introducing some of this stuff last week. It's really helpful because now it’s Tuesday, but they’ve been doing it for a few days already.”
David: Army runs one of the most complex offenses Ball State will see all season, primarily a triple option team that creates big plays off confusion and misdirection. The Black Knights are averaging over 300 yards rushing per game this season and have been held below 21 points just once this season. An extra week of practice allows Lembo’s defense time to focus on defending the triple option and staying disciplined during misdirection and play action plays.
The bye also came at the end of a pretty tough run with three losses…is it a moment where you can take stock and get back to doing what you do?
Lembo: “Absolutely. It’s a great opportunity as a staff to sit down and take a hard look at everything you’re doing, what’s been effective and what isn’t.”
David: Ball State’s bye week came after a loss to Toledo that sent the team to 1-3. The timing of the bye was a positive, as it allows the team to catch its breath and reflect on what is going on for all three phases of the team, offense, defense, and special teams. The Cardinals are able to make some adjustments heading into a game that isn’t against a conference opponent, meaning the stakes are a little lower, but still important because Ball State can’t afford many more losses if it wants to stay in contention for a bowl game.
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