I personally don't use first downs to cap games. First down is an important factor for the success of a team moving the ball. But as far as number of first downs go, I've seen a team pick up 15 first downs to their oppnents 25 andf still win the game by 4 TD's. For a fast and high scoring team like Missouri, If you had seen their box score last week and Missouri had 24 first downs and Nebraska had 21 you wouldn't have dreamed that it was a 35 point blowout. But I'm sure their numbers of yards on first down is very high since they haven't had a 3 and out all year..If I had rather have the one stat out of this bunch it would be offensive yards on first down. It means your more than likely controlling the ball and the game and keeping the opposing offense off the field.
