Ball State University Athletics
Pete Lembo Press Conference - Northern Illinois Week
October 06, 2015 | Football
Recapping the Toledo Game …
“Good effort, but we need more consistent execution and we need more focus throughout the game. The guys are doing fine, a little banged up after a physical game, but their morale is very good. I don't ever make excuses with them. We take responsibility and try to own up to things.”
On the first five games overall …
“We have played a pretty tough schedule here. We need to keep that in perspective and keep in perspective that there are going to be growing pains with a younger quarterback, young kicker and some other younger guys in the lineup.”
Facing Northern Illinois …
“Along with Toledo, Northern is one of the premier programs in the MAC. They do a great job in all aspects. It is a great combination of talented players, excellent coaches, and tremendous institutional commitment. This is an institution that is all about competing and succeeding at a high level every year.”
“I don't know why more people aren't talking about #44, Perez Ford. He is really impressive to watch. He's got really quick hands and quick feet and he is so powerful. He is disruptive both in the run game and rushing the passer.”
On the progress of the younger players on the squad …
“It is important that we have a balance of patience along with a sense of urgency that we want to improve. We don't want to make those young players scared to play because at the end of the day we just want them to go out there and play. It is important to show them through your demeanor and your consistency of how you deal with them that you have confidence in them to do their job.”
“I am really pleased with our freshmen class. They are a really good group of kids. They are bright, thoughtful, mature and excited to be here. I really like their work ethic, their demeanor, their attitude. I look at some of these young guys and I see a maturity and a focus that you just don't always see.”
