Phil Bennett's Weekly Luncheon Quotes
Nov 22 | Football
Nov. 22, 2005
On the Houston win...
"The game against Houston was a good win for us and can be something to build on if handled correctly. The game was filled with peaks and valleys, but the difference was that we were able to get some turnovers to keep their advantage to four points in the first half while we struggled to find a rhythm offensively. The coaching staff made some great adjustments at halftime and the players executed, putting us in position to make some big plays. The offense had a beautiful 15-play drive for a touchdown in the third quarter. Although we were out gained in both rushing and passing yards, a decisive factor in the outcome of the game were our punt, kick, and interception returns that totaled more than 240 yards."
On UTEP...
"UTEP is similar to Houston. They now have the number one offense in Conference USA and will come down here and play strong, knowing that a win would get them to the conference championship game. Last year we didn't play well in the second half against them and the team knows that. We have a lot to play for this week. It's an emotional game for the seniors as it's their last game at Ford Stadium. They have been beaten the last two years by UTEP and would like to go out a winner and make a statement that they were part of helping this program turn around for the better."
On UTEP's Jordan Palmer
"Jordan Palmer, along with Hackney of UAB, is one of the two best quarterbacks that we will see this year. He leads the only team that is throwing over 300 yards per contest in the conference. The best thing about Palmer is his ability to throw with accuracy and how catchable of a ball he throws. He has an uncanny ability to throw with accuracy even on outside routes He is a big guy and can run well for his size and he'll be a handful."
On SMU's season to date...
"We've played hard all year and have had our chances. We can't look in the past, but we should look toward fixing the lapses and the chances lost this year. At certain points in a game or two we've lost focus or been worn out. Certain games could have gone either way, but until the team plays and wins at a bowl-game level, then we'll have to continue to fight for respect. It's been a long process in turning the program around, but it's coming."
