3 Matchups to Watch: USD


This game week has drug along.  The anticipation for both fan bases is huge.  The trash talk between fan bases is getting to the point where it is no longer friendly.  Saturday, 2pm, needs to get here now.   Besides the off-field garbage, there is so much to play for.  SDSU with a win, could be a 4, 5, or 6 seed. They would also share the MVFC conference title for the 2nd year in a row if NDSU were to lose to Illinois State. USD with a win would basically assure itself a spot in the playoffs.  They would also clinch their first winning record in MVFC play.  USD would have an outside shot of getting a seed and having a first round bye if they were to win.  This is by far the biggest matchup since the rivalry renewed 5 years ago in terms of playoff implications for both teams.

3 Matchups to Watch
1.  The 3 Amigos vs. the USD secondary
Taryn, Jake, and Dallas have picked up this nickname from opposing coaches on the MVFC conference call.  The USD secondary is down three players due to suspension.  Last week Easton Stick and his pass catchers had a career day against this group of defenders.  It will be interesting to see how USD deals with the Jackrabbit stockpile of talented pass catchers.    
 
2. The Jackrabbit offensive line vs. the USD defensive line
USD's defensive strength is their front four.  Darin Greenfield is a really good player from his defensive end position and has 6 sacks on the season.  On the interior, Taylor Lambert has 4.5 sacks and Nathan Schultz has 4 sacks.  This line isn't huge like Illinois State's, but they are quick and athletic.  SDSU will have to have the #605Hogs eliminate the mistakes that have plagued the group the past few weeks and dominate the much smaller USD defensive line. 

3. Jackrabbit defense vs. Chris Streveler
As I shared in my preview, Streveler has the ability to win this game on his own.  For a transfer, he has really embraced being a Coyote and the rivalry and has had his eye on this game for awhile.  The Jacks will need to respect his running ability, take good angles, and create turnovers when the opportunity presents itself.  Streveler has a talented group of pass catchers at his disposal and is not afraid to spread the ball around to anyone who steps on the field.  I'm curious how the Jacks defend this fast paced offense  If the Jackrabbit defense can force a few punts and a turn over or two, they should be in good shape to win this game.

If I didn't have to drive to Vermillion to watch this game, I would feel a lot better about it!

Go Jacks!
-Matt

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