3 Matchups to Watch: MSU


This week has been pretty quiet. There hasn't been much talk from Missouri State or SDSU, coaches or players. I'm very interested to see how the Jacks start the game. Can the Jacks start fast again like they did against SIU? I'm really curious to see how the team comes out.

 3 Matchups to Watch

1. Jordan Brown vs. Malik Earl
The last few weeks, Jordan has played exceptional football.  He has locked up with the opponents top receiver and has almost played perfect football.  Again, he could have made a play on the TD pass to Fountain last week, but otherwise covered him well.  Malik Earl is a beast.  He stands 6'3 and is physical.  Earl has 506 yards on the season with 2 TD's.  He is the primary target in the passing game.  I expect this to be a fun matchup.  With the MSU QB tossing a few picks this year, I would love to see Jordan get one.


2. Tyler Weir/Evan Greeneway vs. Colby Isbell
 Weir and Greeneway struggled last week at the right tackle position.  Whether it was the scheme (UNI in a 3-4 instead of a 4-3) or the elements, they struggled both in the run and pass game.  Up to that point, they had played pretty well.  Isbell is coming off a big game against WIU (2 sacks and a forced fumble) and had 6.5 sacks in 2016.  I'm curious to see how Weir and Greeneway respond to a down game, especially against a high quality player like Isbell.  If the offensive line can hold up in pass protection, there will be open receivers.

3. Jackrabbit run defense vs. MSU option 
The Jacks faced a high powered option attack once this season against Montana State.  They did a great job stopping the option, but the Montana State quarterback had great success passing and running when the pass option wasn't there and the pocket collapsed.  I'm curious to see what the Jackrabbit defense learned from that experience.  Hopefully the defense holds MSU to a number of 3 and outs.  It'd be great for the offense to find their rhythm this week.  Both sides have to play "complimentary football".  Offense scores and controls the ball.  Defense forces 3 and outs.  Special teams limits turnovers.





I'm sticking with my previous prediction of a big Jackrabbit victory. 


Go Jacks!
Matt

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