HUNTINGTON, W.Va—Stop and consider the statistics Marshall has accumulated through the first two games of the season and it’s hard to determine which is more impressive. The offense has rolled up numbers that would make any team in the country jealous while the defense has been stingy to the opposition.
Offensive output
Marshall has 1,100 yards of total offense in the first two games of the season with 599 yards coming on the ground and 572 yards through the air. The Herd is averaging 6.6 yards per play. The most impressive stat through the first two weeks of the season is the points Marshall is putting up. The Herd has outscored the opposition 107-14 and has scored 93 consecutive points.
Defensive Dominance
As impressive as the offense has been the defense has been even better. Since Miami scored in the second quarter of the opener, Marshall hasn’t allowed a point in six quarters. Opponents have 423 yards of total offense in two games. Gardner-Webb was limited to just 67 yards rushing while Miami (OH) managed just 74 yards rushing.
The defense has registered six sacks. It has forced seven turnovers and returned two interceptions for touchdowns.
So what does it all mean?
Nobody is claiming Marshall has put up these numbers against the likes of Alabama or LSU. However, these are the types of performances that should be expected from The Herd in these types of nonconference matchups. Marshall may not limit the likes of East Carolina to 67 yards rushing, however indications are positive that The Herd can turn in quality performances against quality opponents later this season.