TCU football wants to flip the script on this stat; plus Frogs on Senior Bowl radar
It’s no secret that winning the turnover battle usually results in wins on the football field. Over the last 16 years, TCU is 120-20 when ahead or even in turnover margin.
But the Horned Frogs had a disappointing season as far as turnover margin in 2020. In fact, they had more giveaways than takeaways finishing minus-2 in the category.
Asked about flipping the turnover margin this season, TCU coach Gary Patterson pointed to the benefit of having a more experienced defense.
Yes, TCU lost staples such as linebacker Garret Wallow and safety Trevon Moehrig to the NFL but it returns eight starters on defense. This is a unit that recovered just four fumbles to go along with eight interceptions.
“Older players react more when you talk about the defensive side,” Patterson said.
Offensively, Patterson said, it simply comes down to taking care of the football. Hopefully a more experienced running back corps cuts down on fumbles and junior quarterback Max Duggan makes the right decision.
TCU lost a Big 12-leading nine fumbles last season, including four against Oklahoma State (that TCU somehow still managed to win). The Frogs also threw five interceptions.
“You just have to hold onto the ball,” Patterson said. “If you want to play more, you can’t put the ball on the ground. It’s pretty simple. And you can’t throw it to them.”
Senior Bowl radar
TCU has sent a player to the prestigious Senior Bowl every year since 2015. Odds are in its favor that the streak remains intact.
The top all-star event released its watch list on Thursday, including five players from TCU: cornerback Noah Daniels, wide receivers Derius Davis and J.D. Spielman, offensive tackle Obinna Eze and safety La’Kendrick Van Zandt.
A player such as right guard Wes Harris could find his way onto the watch list, too, if he puts together a solid season.
For now, it’s impressive to have that many players on NFL radars.
The Senior Bowl is set for Feb. 5, 2022 in Mobile, Alabama.
This story was originally published August 13, 2021 at 5:30 AM.
