3 Matchups to Watch: UNH


Similar to last week, I am growing more and more anxious as the week goes along.  As I’m writing this, we are about 29 hours until kickoff.  The weather forecast still calls for highs in the mid to upper 20’s which is about as good as we can hope for this time of year.  News broke yesterday afternoon that UNH would indeed have their starting quarterback Trevor Knight who passed through the concussion protocol.

3 Matchups to Watch
1.  Jackrabbit interior offensive line vs. #72 Rick Holt and #71 Ryan Sosnak
As I mentioned in the preview, Holt and Sosnak are big dudes that can collapse the pocket.  When they don’t create pressure, they get their hands up and are able to deflect passes and create interceptions or incompletions.  The Jackrabbit interior has stymied a number of high quality defensive tackles this season; the shutout of Illinois State’s Dalton Keene would be the highlight.  If the Jacks can limit the impact of Holt and Sosnak they should be in a good position to dictate the game either via run or pass.

2.  Jordan Brown vs. #82 Neil O’Connor
O’Connor has had a huge season for the Wildcats earning an All-CAA selection along the way.  He is a solid receiver that is clearly the #1 option for Knight.  Brown has blanketed his share of outstanding wide receivers this fall.  If he can limit O’Connor’s impact it will go a long way towards a victory.

3. Ryan Earith vs. UNH tackles
Earith has had a huge second half of the season for the Jacks.  He is healthy and is playing at a very high level.  UNH has struggled in pass protection this season giving up 3.8 sacks per game.  In pass situations, I expect to see Earith get to Knight a number of times.

Dress warm, show up, bring a friend, get loud.  This should be another fun environment.  Obviously we will know the outcome of the JMU game before kickoff.  Should make for a great atmosphere!

Go Jacks!
Matt

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