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Wave survive shootout in Huntington

Posted on September 2, 2013 at 04:49 PM.

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Wave survive shootout in Huntington
by David Sinclair

The Green Wave traveled to Huntington, WV this week to face the Marshall Thundering Herd, in a sort of redemption game following last week's tough loss to BYU. QB Devin Powell returned to the lineup after dealing with soreness following a rib injury vs. LSU. Boy, did the team need him.

"We're glad to have Devin back." said Coach Kaelyn Willingham.
"He provides an athletic ability we've been lacking the past few weeks. He also knows the playbook better than anyone."

The offense had sputtering in its wheels the past few weeks in the absence of Powell. It was also evident that true Freshman QB Jeff Shelby wasn't ready to handle the starting duties yet. In Devin's return, the offense didn't fair much better yardage-wise. The Marshall defense was unwilling to open up many running lanes for much of the game. But when they did, the Green Wave capitalized big-time, en route to a 41-34 victory. The Wave didn't have many long, productive series in the game, but they had plenty of big plays, on offense, defense and special teams. Overall, Coach Willingham was happy with the performance.

"I'm proud of our guys today. They played hard and made the plays they had to make, when they had to make them."

Tulane jumped out to a big lead early, aided by a 95-yard kick return touchdown by RB Orleans Darkwa. But the game would go to overtime, as Marshall would make a furious rally in the second half. The Wave scored first in overtime, then CB Darion Monroe would seal the W by picking off a pass by Marshall QB Rakeem Cato. It may not have been pretty, but key players made key plays when it counted. That's all that really matters.

Powell and Monroe were both interviewed after the game. They both uttered those same words.

"Big players make big plays. That's all that matters." said Powell.

"Yup." said Monroe.

Getting their first conference win, the Wave (2-2) will return home to face Mountain West member San Diego State, in their last non-conference match of the season. The Aztecs are riding a wave of their own (no pun intended) following a big win last week; they would like their momentum to continue in the Mercedes-Benz Superdome. Tickets can be purchased through TicketMaster and the Tulane Athletic Office. The game will also be televised on local networks.

Roll Wave!

Courtesy of the Tulane Lullapalooza, Tulane's student newspaper.