What to Watch: Indiana State


As the week has gone along I am becoming more and more nervous for this game.  Maybe it is because our fans are already marking this down as a "W."  Maybe it is because I have watched too much Indiana State on ESPN+ and am over analyzing.  Maybe it is because we are coming off a super physical game against YSU.  Don't get me wrong, I think the Jacks will win but I also see plenty of reasons why they may not.  Even if this game is close, I'm nervous how our fans will react given the fact that USD beat ISU 38-0 just two weeks ago.

What to Watch
1. This will be a big test for the Jackrabbit run defense.  They have been pretty good against the run for most of the year.  Indiana State's third string quarterback appears more mobile then their second stringer and he gave Western Illinois fits in the second half.  Indiana State also has a very big offensive line and a solid trio of running backs.  Last week against Western Illinois, their offensive line took over in the second half and really mauled the Leathernecks.  The Jackrabbit defensive line is significantly better than the Leathernecks but I can't help but worry a little about it.

2. I'm excited to see the Jackrabbit offensive line against the Sycamore front 7.  Indiana State has a couple of straight up studs, even if Jonas Griffith doesn't play.  The #605Hogs were actually pretty decent last week (contrary to the Twitter reaction) and the second half was really good.  Matt Clark played his best game since returning and appears to have fully knocked off the rust of not playing the past two years.  Indiana State brings pressure from all levels so the  uncovered linemen and backs will have to be ready for a late charging blitzer. 

3. J'Bore had a really good game last week.  He was recognized as MVFC offensive player of the week and has had a half dozen news stories written about him.  Can he stack success and make it two weeks in a row?  I think the Jackrabbit wide receivers have a huge advantage in this game and if J'Bore can get time in the pocket I like his chances to put up some big numbers on Saturday. 

4. Injuries and rest are key at this point in the season.  It is hard to believe but the regular season is half over. The last few weeks we have seen a number of big injuries.  Luckily the Jacks have good depth.  Can they make it out of Terre Haute without suffering anymore?  If the Jacks do get up big, I hope that we are able to rest our starters and give some MVFC experience to the backups. 

5.  Penalties were a big factor last week and allowed YSU to start with good field position or keep drives alive multiple times.  I'm looking for the Jacks to clean up this area of the game.  Championship teams don't beat themselves.  The sloppiness and undisciplined play have to stop.  This team has bigger goals than just getting a win this week.  Start cleaning up the little things.

Go Jacks!
Matt

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