Three thoughts from Ball State's 37-26 win over Eastern Michigan in the season-opener.
Jahwan Edwards has asserted himself as Ball State's best back
Coming into the game, Edwards' best rushing game was 123 yards against Ohio last season. After a 75-yard touchdown run, his second of the game, Edwards eclipsed that mark and finished the game with a career-high 200 yards on 20 carries and three touchdowns. In a crowded backfield that includes Horactio Banks, Barrington Scott and Toney Williams, Edwards showed why he should be the feature back for Ball State this season. He isn't afraid to run straight through the defense and it paid off against Eastern Michigan.
Ball State's front seven has improved
Last season coach Pete Lembo knew his defense struggled at getting off the field on third down. Against Eastern Michigan and quarterback Alex Gillett, Ball State held the Eagles to 3-of-12 on third downs. Lembo has to be pleased with his defense's ability to get stops on third down, especially after Gillett easily picked up third downs against his defense last season. Whether this continues throughout the season remains to be seen.
Jamill Smith appears to be a favorite target of Keith Wenning
He may be the smallest player in FBS, but the wide receiver was Wenning's favorite target Thursday night against Eastern Michigan. Wenning went to Smith early in the game and finished with seven catches for 119 yards. Co-captain Connor Ryan finished with six catches for 53 yards, but Smith is more capable of making a big play because of his speed.
Final Score: Ball State 37, Eastern Michigan 26
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