3 Matchups I'm Watching: Youngstown State University






Since the initial game preview, we have learned that YSU quarterback, Hunter Wells, is healthy and ready to go.  Shoulder injuries can be tricky so we will see if the Jacks can get some pressure on him and make him uncomfortable.  The Jacks should be mostly healthy with only Tyler Weir's status in the air earlier this week.  On Thursday, this game was named the "Hero Sports FCS Game of the Week."  There are lots of eyes on this matchup between MVFC powers, lets see how they perform!


Here are the 3 matchups that I'm watching this weekend.

1. Jackrabbit Offensive Line vs. the YSU pass rushers
This seems to be a theme every week.  The strengths of the three opponents we have played so far has been the defensive line.  However, YSU's line is on another level.  Their line is not huge but they are athletic, fast and tenacious.  They want to get sacks.  They rotate 5 defensive ends and have strong returning starters in the interior.  Keep a special eye on #4 Justus Reed who has four sacks on the season already.  If the offensive line can give Taryn time to scan the field, the Jacks should be able to put up some points.  Avoiding 3rd and long passing situations will be key.

2. Kane Louscher vs. MLB #42 Armand Dellovade
The Penguins have surrendered 142 rushing yards per game.  208 to Pitt, 64 to Robert Morris, and 154 to Central Connecticut State.  Last year they gave up 167 to the Jackrabbits.  With the aggressive pass rush, I think the Jacks can run on YSU.  The key to neutralize tackling machine Armand Dellovade.  In my opportunity to speak to Coach Eidsness he was very high on Dellovade for just being in the right spot.  Louscher will hopefully get a number of chances to neutralize Dellovade and take him out of the running lanes. Jackrabbit fans have been frustrated with the running attack, this may be the week they breakout.

3. Jackrabbit Wide Receivers vs. YSU Cornerbacks
YSU starts a true freshman cornerback in #7 Bryce Gibson.  I will be shocked in the Jacks don't take advantage of that.  The other starter is a converted safety, #17 Billy Nicoe Hurst.  Hurst has a nose for the ball intercepting a pass in last season's national semi-final game against Eastern Washington and having three picks in his lone season of community college ball.  The other cornerbacks are community college products and haven't been tested yet this season.  I truly think this matchup is a big advantage for the Jackrabbits.  YSU hasn't played a team yet that can pass the ball.  Again, the key is to give Taryn time to find these open receivers.

Should be a fun game regardless!

Go Jacks!
-Matt 

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