What’s happening in the locker room at halftime?

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For 20 minutes after the end of the second quarter, football teams have a chance to rest and prepare for the second half.

During halftime, adjustments are made and sometimes an inspirational speech can follow.

After Saturday’s 33-7 loss at Northern Illinois, I am really not sure what goes on in the Chippewas’ locker room during halftime.

CMU went into half trailing by just two points. I will admit they were probably lucky to be only down by two, but the defense was playing great in the red zone and had the “bend but don’t break” scheme on full display, holding the Huskies to three field goals.

But just like all season, CMU’s offense just kept on shooting itself in the foot.

Every time the offense had a nice play, something would go wrong.

It’s hard not to look at anybody else, but sophomore quarterback Ryan Radcliff.

Radcliff had 154 yards and a touchdown in the first half, but threw two key interceptions that were deflected.

As a starting quarterback, Radcliff should know not to throw low.

So overall the first half was not bad, and I thought we might be in for a close game in which CMU might gain some respect and confidence.

But football games are not won in the first half.

I don’t know exactly what head coach Dan Enos said to his players at half, but he might want to think about trying something different.

After only allowing 65 rushing yards in the entire first half, the Chippewas defense allowed 162 rushing yards in the third quarter alone. Three Spann touchdowns later and the game was over.

The season was lost. And for the seniors on this team, an unfamiliar feeling set in.

Senior linebacker Nick Bellore continues to blame himself for missing tackles after games and Enos continues to say they are looking for guys to make plays.

Where is the team camaraderie?

I hate to sound like I am saying the same thing and asking the same questions about this team, but I am hearing the same thing from the players and coaches after every loss.

During the third quarter when the doors were being blown off the hinges by the Huskies, there was one play that really stood out to me. Trailing 16-7, the Chippewas had the ball just inside of NIU territory. At this point, they were still considered in the game and driving.

It was fourth down and inches from the left hash and Enos immediately decided to go for it, which was expected.

Radcliff handed the ball off to freshman Zurlon Tipton to the left side, the weak side of the field, and the play never had a chance. Tipton was wrapped up in the backfield as the offensive line just got bowled over.

This was one play call that really bothered me during the game.

There is only so much you can say about 33-7 loss to NIU. But it is way too early to be calling for a new coach. You have to give the guy a chance.

Although it is a drastic change, I like the scheme and mentality he brings to this team. Let’s see where things stand in a year or two.

But that does not go without saying losses to Ball State and Miami (OH) this year are inexcusable.

Now, with games remaining against rival Western Michigan, Navy and Toledo, it looks as if all three games are unattainable.

But that doesn’t mean this team doesn’t have anything to play for.

For the sake of the seniors, and for the future success of the program, Enos needs to bring this team together and show the fans there is still hope.

Even if there isn’t, just beat the Broncos. Please.