3 Matchups to Watch: WIU



Tomorrow at 1pm the Jackrabbits take on Western Illinois University.  I'm nervous for this game.  Mathematically this isn't a "must win" but mentally it is.  WIU is a good and balanced offense.  They have an experienced offensive line with two skilled running backs.  Their defense is okay but is susceptible to the big play.

3 Matchups to Watch     
1. Jackrabbit defensive line vs. WIU running game
To be frank, this is the matchup that will decide the game.  In the Jacks two losses, the opponents controlled the time of possession and kept the Jackrabbit offense on the sidelines for long stretches.  The WIU offensive line is big and experienced.  They come in averaging 172.9 rushing yards per game and out perform their opponents in time of possession.  The Jackrabbit defense is yielding 172.3 yards per game but it is not a higher number because of strong efforts in the non-conference season.  In the four MVFC games, the Jacks have allowed 310, 84, 218, and 235 yards on the ground.    If the Jacks can stack the line of scrimmage and limit the rushing yards WIU gains on first and second down, I like the Jackrabbit's chance.  If WIU is repeatedly in 3rd and short, I think it will be another long day.  The defensive line has to get off blocks and make plays.  I visited practice earlier this week and that was a message that I regularly heard.   
 
2. Jackrabbit passing game vs. WIU cornerbacks
WIU is okay on defense and has play makers at every level.  They give up an average of 242.14 yards per game passing but did give up 342 yards against UNI and 328 against USD through the air.  They can be beaten by the outstanding skill players that the Jackrabbits posses.  I expect another big game out of Dallas and Jake.  They have also been susceptible to the run recently.  In four of their last five games they have allowed more than 170 yards rushing.  

3. Jackrabbit offensive line vs. WIU defensive end Khalen Saunders
With the injury to Wes Genant there will be some shuffling on the line.  WIU also deploys a unique 3-4 defense that features Brett Taylor and Quentin Moon as play makers from the inside line backer positions.  However, the Jacks cannot forget about Khalen Saunders.  He is likely one of the biggest defensive linemen in the Valley and is freakishly athletic for his size.  Whatever combination of players lines up at guard and tackle will need to be ready.  Taryn will need time to analyze the defense and getting Saunders blocked up will be key.


Go Jacks!
-Matt  

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