Gary Patterson 'not real happy' with TCU's performance in opener
FORT WORTH, Texas -- The TCU Horned Frogs had several questions concerning their defense this season if they would have opened the year with a healthy squad.
That's been far from the case, though.
The Horned Frogs were without their top two defensive linemen for the season opener against Minnesota and will be down three starters for Saturday's home opener against Stephen F. Austin at Amon G. Carter Stadium.
TCU head coach Gary Patterson said Tuesday that linebacker Sammy Douglas -- who started against Minnesota -- will miss the rest of the season because of an injury. Patterson also said that senior defensive end James McFarland, who had seven sacks last season, is "close" to missing the rest of the season as well.
Neither McFarland nor defensive tackle Davion Pierson played against Minnesota because of injuries and Patterson said nothing has changed with Pierson.
The Frogs, who dropped from second to third in the Associated Press poll following their 23-17 win over Minnesota, had six players make their first collegiate start in the that game.
Minnesota had just 341 yards of offensive but managed to score late and the Frogs had to recover an onside kick attempt to run out the clock.
Patterson wasn't happy with his team's play on defense or special teams.
"I wish I could be more positive, but it's better to be the way it is," Patterson said. "If you're not acting right on and off the field, then I've got a problem. Generally when we've had teams, whether we're as talented as everybody or not, if they've bought in we've had good seasons. No matter how talented we are, if we don't all buy in at TCU, we don't. Right now I'm not real happy with the buy-in."
One thing Patterson won't use as an excuse if the Frogs struggle against an overmatched SFA (0-1) team in the nationally televised game on FOX Sports 1 is injuries.
"The bottom line is everybody's got injuries," he said. "You just have to do what you need to do, and it is what it is. The next guy's got to step up. We need to grow up."
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