Cincinnati Looks Fantastic in 55-20 Drubbing of Austin Peay

Yesterday afternoon, I asked Bearcats Nation what they thought of Cincinnati’s 55-20 drubbing of Austin Peay yesterday at Nippert Stadium.

I posted polls on Twitter asking fans to grade the Bearcats’ offense, defense, special teams, and uniforms. With the exception of the uniforms (which garnered an ‘A’), Cincinnati got straight ‘B’s from the fanbase.

I think that’s a bit harsh. I’d give the Bearcats straight ‘A’s for their performance against an overmatched Austin Peay club (0-3). Cincinnati (1-0) asserted its will from the outset.

The Bearcats had the game well in hand before the half and got just about everyone on the roster significant game experience.

On offense, now veteran quarterback Desmond Ridder moved the ball efficiently, making big plays with his arms and his legs when necessary. If he goes 13 for 19 with 196 yards and 2 touchdowns every Saturday, we ought to be in good shape. Ben Bryant also looked strong in relief for the Bearcats, making exciting plays in Ridderesque fashion himself.

Cincinnati dominated the trenches on both sides of the ball for most of the game. On offense, 10 different Cincinnati ball carriers amassed 276 rushing yards. Yes, Gerrid Doaks didn’t really get it going but he did score four total touchdowns and made significant contributions as a receiver.

Other than one huge run late in the game by CJ Evans, Austin Peay didn’t get it going on the ground either.

Any time it counted, the Cincinnati defense took charge as well. Yes, Austin Peay posted more than 350 yards of offense, but the lion’s share of these yards were in garbage time.

I have no particular concerns about Cincinnati’s defense that arise from their surrendering 20 points or all of those yards in this game.

The Bearcats dominated as expected and look ready for showdown next Saturday afternoon with Army.

Thanks for your support for Down the Drive and looking forward to a big win next weekend against West Point.