What to Watch: Delaware



1. Control TOP

Last week the Jackrabbits scored quickly and SIU used long methodical drives where if felt like they converted on every 3rd down opportunity.  This resulted in SIU being +10 in time of possession.  The defense responded well but we don't think we should put them in this position again.  The defense is deep but it would be nice to give them some more time off the field which obviously means our offense is grinding down their defense.

2. No Turnovers

Delaware is dang good at forcing turnovers.  11 interceptions along with 17 forced fumbles is pretty incredible in just a 7 game season.  In addition, the weather forecast shows a chance of rain developing around kickoff over Brookings.  Ball security will be key for everyone who handles the ball.  In a big game like this, a turnover can swing the momentum quickly.  The Jacks have been pretty good at taking care of the ball in the last half of the season and we trust that trend will continue.    

3. Tighten up in the Secondary

Against Holy Cross and SIU receivers were too often finding holes in the Jackrabbit zone or beating their man in the 1 on 1 matchup.  Delaware has a good quarterback who can make all the throws.  As we have repeatedly expressed, we don't know exactly what is going wrong in the secondary but it has to be better in this game.  We're guessing the secondary has heard all of us chirping from the outside and will be ready to prove us all wrong.  Can they tighten up?  We will see.  

4. Ground and Pound

The Jackrabbit offensive line has been excellent since the Jackrabbit offense fully committed to the run.  Sam Herder shared that he thinks they are the best unit in the FCS.  If true, this should be their time to shine.  The Delaware run defense has been really good for most of the season so this will be "good on good" as they are allowing just 114 yards per game.  Now is the time for the #605Hogs to claim that title as the best offensive line in the FCS. 

5. Keep Special Teams Special

In the lone Jackrabbit loss this spring, the special teams fell apart.  For the most part, they have played even or have been the better team.  Last week, the kick return did a phenomenal job, Keaton Heide was great on the holds, and the coverage units were mostly good besides one decent punt return.  Getting Ben Dinkel back would be a boost.  Delaware is okay on special teams with starting running back, Dejoun Lee, having one kick return touchdown to his credit this year.  The Jackrabbits cannot afford to allow any huge momentum changing plays and need to be the ones to make the plays that move the needle.  Watch out for a punt or fg block at some point this game.  

6. Just Win Baby

We are to the point in the season where it doesn't matter how you win, it just matters if you do.  There are no extra points for style and the voter polls don't matter. The only thing that matters is winning.  The Jacks have been in the spotlight and on the big stage before and we've walked away with "L's".  If we want to change how the program is thought of on the national level and even amongst the casual Jackrabbit fans then we have to win a game in the big moment.  Saturday might as well be the day.

Go Jacks!

Ben, Brendan, Chad, Dallas, Kyle, and Matt

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