What to Watch: NDSU



This week has been fun but I'm ready for the game.  One more sleep and it will be GameDay.

1. I'm really counting on the Jacks to contain Trey Lance's running ability.  He's averaged 69 yards per game on the ground.  I think if the Jacks can keep him under that, they have a good shot of winning.  The key will be keeping him from scrambling for first downs on third and long.  That is a scenario that has hurt the Jacks in past matchups against the Bison.  Hopefully, the Jacks have identified an answer.

2. The SDSU tackle combination of Aron Johnson and Evan Greeneway has to hold up against the excellent edge rushers for NDSU.  They have both had moments of brilliance this season, and have been tested often, but they also have struggled at times.  NDSU can trot a number of talented defensive ends out there so they will have to stay ready no matter who is across from them.

3. The Jacks will need to limit turnovers on offense.  This NDSU offense is especially stingy with the ball (0 interceptions and 4 fumbles).  Ending every drive with a kick (XP, FG, or punt) will be a crucial factor to watch on Saturday.

4. For the 6th week in a row, we are wondering if the playbook from the Minnesota game will return.  That game featured formations and personnel groupings that the Jacks haven't shown since.  The offense featured in that game was awesome and had every Jackrabbit drooling for what might be.  We haven't seen that since, just a blip here and there.  If this isn't the week we see it, maybe we didn't see what we thought we saw that night.

5. The #Chaingang (defensive line) has to win.  They have to go out and beat the crap out of the NDSU offensive line.  They were embarrassed in the playoff loss last season and it can't happen again. This group has decided that they can set the tone for the entire defense.  We need that tomorrow.

6. The #Wolfpack (safeties) has to stay home on the play-action fakes.  NDSU has been running a lot more explosive plays in 2019 and they frequently come off of play-action.  As we detailed in the preview the targets off of that play-action are tight ends and running backs.  The safeties will play a keep role in stopping this attack. 

Go Jacks!
Matt

PS: Still predicting a Jackrabbit victory!

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