Top Small College games for 10-25
All 276 of my predictions for this weeks games can be found on the Football Gazette website [use link on the right side to get there] and then click on Don's predictions.
First, I will list the Top Game, as I see them, for each of the four divisions (NCAA 1-AA, II, III and NAIA) this Saturday.
NCAA 1-AA Top Game
at Villanova (6-0) over Massachusetts (6-1). UMass struggled at home last week before pulling out a 27-22 win over Hofstra while Villanova had the week off. The UMass defense is anchored by senior DB Steve Costello with 35 tackles, including five for lost yardage, five interceptions and three passes batted down, while Villanova’s defensive leader, sophomore linebacker, Brian Hulea has 77 tackles on the year. The UMass offense is headed by 6’3” senior quarterback, Jeff Krohn, 125-223-13-9 for 1,481 yards, while junior FB Rich Demers has rushed for 402 yards, including four TDs and caught 19 passes with three TDs, sophomore TB Steve Blylark has rushed for 624 yards and seven TDs. Villanova will counter with Sophomore QB Joe Casamento who is 143-199-12-7 for 1,517 yards. Casamento’s favorite target is sophomore WR, J.J. Outlaw, with 33 catches for 457 yards and two TDs. Nova’s running game is led by sophomore RB, Martin Gibson, with 61 carries for 426 yards and four TD’s. It’s homecoming and Hall of Fame day for Villanova. I don’t feel that the UMass defense will be able to hold down the Villanova offense enough to capture the victory. I like Villanova, 27-21.
NCAA II Top Game
at Tusculum (6-1) over Carson-Newman (7-0). Can Tusculum pull it off? I think they can, but it won’t be easy! Tusculum leads the nation (all divisions), allowing just 20.3 yards rushing per game! Now rushing is what Carson-Newman does best. Something has to give here. Tusculum’s defense is headed by senior DB/KR, Ricardo Colclough, who has 34 tackles, 7 pass breakups and has returned his five interceptions for an average of 21.8 yards each, including one touchdown. As a KR, Colclough has 12 KR’s with a 34.1 average and two TDs, and 5 PR’s an average of 21.8 yards with one score. The Pioneers’ rotate at QB with Juniors Tony Colston, 110-151-9-2 for 1,264 yards, and Carson Bradley, 97-149-8-6 for 1,064 yards. Their favorite receiver is senior WR, Kevin Wolcott, with 58 catches for 508 yards and 4 scores, while the running game features Chris Mosley, with 344 yards and 8 TDs, and 10 catches with one more TD. Carson-Newman’s running attack is hosted by sophomore, J.J. Chatman with 83 carries for 573 yards and 7 TDs. The Eagles’ junior QB Shane Kelley has 77 carries for 380 yards with 5 scores, and is 43-78-6-0 for 916 yards passing. Sophomore DB Deonte Bolden has 6 interceptions, including one returned for a score for the Eagles. I wish I were at this game, it should be a real thriller. I think this is the year that Tusculum will finely pull it off and win the conference title. C-N does have a potent running game and Tusculum can put the ball in air with authority. I think Colclough will make the difference in this game. I’m taking Tusculum, 28-24.
NCAA III TOP GAME
at Mount Union (6-0) over Capital (6-0). It would be nice if Capital could have this game at their place. Oh well. Anyway, this should give Mount Union a stern test. Both teams have productive passing attacks. The Raiders rotate at QB with senior Jesse Burghardt, 47-66-10-2 for 891 yards, and junior, Zac Bruney, 49-78-10-2 for 981 yards. Leading receivers are, WR Randell Knapp, 34 rec. 793 yards and 7 tds, and 6’4” senior WR Nick Sirianni, 25 rec. 476 yards and 8 tds. The Raider defense is shouldered by senior LB Shaun Spisak, 51 tackles, and junior, Jason Cavell is averaging 13.8 yards on 12 punt returns. Capital is guided by freshman QB Rocky Pentello, who leads the OAC in passing, 138-191-19-4 for 1,816 yards. Receiving most of Pentello’s receptions is junior WR, Matt Friesner, 45 rec. 656 yards, 11 TDs, with junior WR Ura Clerk, who has pulled in 30 rec. 452 yards, 4 TDs. The Crusaders’ freshman DB Thom Hausler leads the conference in interceptions with 5 for 124 yards and 2 TDs, and punt return average (15 ret,15.1 ypr), and junior LB Ron Swearingin has 55 hits, 9 TFL, 3 sacks. Capital’s junior PK Tyler Kazee leads the OAC in FG’s (35-of-37 pats/7-of-7 fgs) and points scored (56 pts). What it comes down to is experience and tradition. Mount Union is going after their 49th straight win, and this should be their last, real regular season challenge this year. Capital will find their task unbearable, and will succumb after putting on a good show. Mount Union, 28-13.
NAIA Top Game
Sioux Falls (6-0) over at Midland Lutheran (5-1). Midland Lutheran was upset last week at Dakota Wesleyan, 35-28, while Sioux Falls rocked Dana at home 47-7! Midland is having one of the best season’s that I can ever remember, but Sioux Falls is a dynamic power player. Sioux Falls 6’4”, senior quarterback Jon Burckhardt has completed 129 of 226 passes for 2,060 yards, 16 touchdowns, with just seven interceptions. He also has a pass efficiency rating of 154.4. He leads the GPAC in both passing and pass efficiency. Burckhardt’s favorite targets are, redshirt-freshman WR Dusty Hovorka, with 37 catches for 693 yards and nine touchdowns and senior WR, Grant Brecher with 38 receptions for 634 yards and two touchdowns, and he has averaged 13.6 yards on 17 punt returns. Kicker, junior T.C. Fraser has converted 9-of-11 field goal attempts, with a long of 52 yards, and is 24-of-27 on PAT kicks. Midland Lutheran’s ground game is quartered by junior RB Chris Strehle with 128 carries for 710 yards and 6 TDs, and co-hosting at FB is senior Tyler Paulsen with 78 carries for 446 yards and a team-leading 7 TDs. The QB for this Warrior outfit is junior Josh Lanik who has 99 carries for 294 yards and one score and also has completed 55 of 117 pass attempts for seven TDs. The MLC standout on defense is senior LB Clint Eikmeier with 62 tackles, 3 sacks and 6 passes defensed. With these two obviously dissimilar offenses, Midland Lutheran needs to get the lead with their rushing game and control the ball to have any chance at grabbing a win, playing catch-up, with primarily a running game, can prove tough to accomplish. Sioux Falls has an outstanding quarterback and a number of fine receivers. This game is at Midland Lutheran, but Sioux Falls has too many offensive and defensive weapons, though at times USF’s defense has been suspect, but it should not make too much difference in this game, and they will win, 45-26.
Other significant games in each division follow
NCAA 1-AA
at Western Illinois (5-2) over Northern Iowa (6-1). This is the third straight week that WIU has hosted a Top 10 team. The Leathernecks’, who pass a little more than they rush with the ball, are led by Walter Payton Award candidate, senior QB Russ Michna who has completed 102 of 182 passes for 1,554 yards and 12 TDs with 8 interceptions.. Senior RB Travis Glasford, 145 carries for 649 yards and 12 TDs leads WIU’s running game, and on defense, senior LB Lee Russell has 80 tackles, 13 for losses, 4 fumble recoveries and has blocked two kicks. Western Illinois’ punt return unit leads all 1-AA schools, averaging 19.47 yards per return, with the help of James Norris, who is leading the nation at 20.31 yards per attempt, and also has 29 receptions for 434 yards. Western Illinois will celebrate it's 100th season of leatherneck football this weekend with the first 1,000 fans through the gates Saturday receiving a commemorative leatherneck football poster. The Panthers’ favor the ground venue with sophomore TB Terrence Freeney leading the way with 167 carries for 818 yards and 10 scores. UNI’s CB/KR Bennie Sapp is a threat when he can get his hands on the ball. Sapp has two interceptions, returning one 100 yards for a TD, averaging 26.8 yards on six kick returns and has returned a fumble for 22 yards. Leading the Panthers’ in interceptions with 4 is DB Dre Dokes, who also has 25 tackles. I favor Western’s passing game over UNI’s rushing attack in this game. Michna will be the difference if the Leathernecks can stop the Panthers’ running game. Uni’s Sapp is the man to keep your eye on when he gets the ball---very dangerous. I like Western Illinois, 24-21.
at Pennsylvania (5-0) over Yale (4-1). I remember a few years ago watching Yale play Valparaiso while sitting in the press box at old Soldiers’ Field in Chicago. In the second half they jumped all over Valpo, and I think that was the start of Yale’s return to the upper echelon of the Ivy League. This isn’t Soldiers’ Field, nor a neutral site, but will be played at the Quakers, non-forgiving Franklin Field in Philadelphia. The Quakers’ rushing attack is led by sophomore RB Sam Mathews who has gained 578 yards on 127 carries and scored 4 TDs while also pulling in 19 receptions for 191 yards and three more scores. Penn’s QB senior Mike Mitchell has completed 85 of 145 pass attempts for 1,021 yards and 13 TDs. Mitchell’s number one target is junior WR Dan Castles, who has 39 catches for 512 yards and scored 5 times. The Quaker defense is anchored by junior LB Ric San Doval with 41 tackles and 2 pass break-ups. The Bulldogs on offense will counter with team leader and senior QB Alvin Cowan who has passed for 1,323 yards and 11 TDs, completing 94 of 152 pass attempts. Tight End and punter Nate Lawrie has caught 33 of Cowan’s tosses for 336 yards and one TD, and junior wide receiver Ralph Plumb has 21 catches for 331 yards and 4 scores. The Bulldogs’ TB/KR Robert Carr has 81 carries for 409 yards and 6 TDs, and returned 10 kickoffs for an average of 24.8 yards. The Eli’s defense is in capable hands with senior DB Greg Owens, who owns 6 interception. Can Cowan and his fine receiving corps pull off the upset? The Bulldogs will need to double-team the Quakers’ wide receiver Castles. I reflected on this for a little while, and have come to the conclusion that Penn’s defense will hold back Yale’s offense just enough to pull out the win, 27-22.
at Colgate (7-0) over Bucknell (4-3). Despite Bucknell’s lackluster record, they are still very dangerous. Primarily a running team, the Bison are led on the ground by junior QB Daris Wilson with 658 yards on 139 carries and 4 TDs while also completing 40 of 62 passes for 580 yards and one score. The other leading rusher for the Bison is sophomore FB Blamah Sarnor with 119 carries for 468 yards and the 3 TDs. The defensive thrust will be spearheaded by junior LB Kevin Ransome who has 72 tackles. The BU defensive backfield is led by junior DB Joe Glenn with his 6 interceptions and he averaging 21.0 yards per return, including one for a TD, and has 23 tackles and 3 pass deflections. Freshman PK Ryan Korn has converted 10-of-14 field goal tries with a long of 40 yards and 14-of-15 extra point kicks for Bucknell. Colgate’s all-American candidate, junior TB Jamaal Branch has 180 carries for 1,121 yards and scored 16 TDs. Directing the Raiders' offense is junior QB Chris Brown. Brown has completed 98-of-176 passes for 1,276 yards and 7 TDs while claiming 271 yards on the ground on 71 carries and scoring 4 TDs. Brown has two favorite targets to throw at, including Luke Graham who has snatched 33 balls for 520 yards and 3 TDs, and J.B. Gerald with 35 catches for 368 yards and 3 scores, he also handles punt and kickoff returns. The defense stars senior LB Tem Lukabu with his 56 tackles, 9.5 for losses, including 5 sacks and 4 Passes defensed. Of course, Bucknell’s biggest problem, is going to be stopping Colgate’s tailback Jamaal Branch. I conceive Branch as being the difference in this game, and can see that Bucknell’s linebacker Kevin Ransome will be very busy chasing down Branch all day. I like Colgate, 21-9.
at Wofford (6-1) over Appalachian State (4-3). Appalachian State started out slow, but have improved with each game. Wofford has also been picking up steam as the season has progressed. The Mountaineers ground attack is headed by freshman RB Alan Atwater with 105 carries for 497 yards and 2 TDs. App State’s sophomore QB Richie Williams has posted 283 yards rushing on 99 carries and scored 6 TDs, while also completing 65-of-120 passes for 792 yards and 5 scores. Helping maintain the Mountaineers’ defense are two freshmen stalwarts, starting with DB Jeremy Wiggins who has totaled 57 tackles, including 4 for losses with one interception, while DB Corey Lynch has picked up 32 tackles, including 3 interceptions and 4 fumble recoveries. The Terriers’ power plays come from their running game in which they have a bevy of running backs. Wofford averages 242.3 yards rushing per game, with at seven running backs having no less than 130 yards and 29 carries! Heading that list of running backs is freshman HB Kevious Johnson with 62 carries for 292 yards and 6 TDs, and junior QB Jeff Zolman has 62 carries for 248 yards and one score while also completing 24-of-39 passes for 303 yards and a TD. Rotating at QB for the Terriers is junior Trey Rodgers with 41 carries for 177 yards and 3 TDs while also completing 15-of-28 passes for 246 yards with 3 scores. The Terriers’ defense is also well represented with some players with very good stats, the bulwark is handled by senior FS Matt Nelson’s 95 tackles, 2 interceptions and 9 pass break-ups, another major hitter on the defense is junior LB Timmy Thrift with 76 tackles, 7 behind the line of scrimmage, and he did return his interception for 100 yards and a TD. With so many different running backs coming at you, the Mountaineers will have a major problem deciphering who to pick on! Appalachian State will need to continue to mix up their offense as they have been doing to make any kind of dent in the Terrier defense. Timmy Thrift will be in their face all afternoon, and the Mountaineer passing game will have to contend with Matt Nelson. Wofford just needs to do what they do best, control the ball and clock with their ground attack. Wofford here, 23-14.
NCAA 1-AA Mid-Major
at Robert Morris (5-2) over Wagner (4-3) Let me try this one more time to see if I can’t get the Robert Morris game correct! It won’t be easy though! Robert Morris and I took it on the chin last week, as Sacred Heart defeated them, 24-20. Wagner is coming off an easy win over Siena, 34-6. The Colonials rely heavily on their senior RB Sam Dorsett to move the ball on the ground, and he has responded with 847 yards on 166 carries and scored 4 TDs. Quarterbacking the RMU squad is sophomore Drew Geyer with 82 completions on 148 pass attempts for 1,153 yards and 7 TDs, his favorite target being junior WR Tyjuan Massey with 19 catches for 268 yards and 2 scores, he also serves as a kick returner with 13 punt returns for a 9.2 average per return and 9 kickoff returns with an average of 26.3 yards per return with one for a score. The defense is manned by their two leading tacklers, junior LB James Noel with 72 tackles with 11 for losses, while senior SS Robb Butler has 52 stops, including 7 behind the line, 2 interceptions and 7 pass deflections. The Seahawks count on senior RB Chris Davis to gain needed yardage on the ground and has proved capable, gaining 627 yards on 103 carries and picking up 5 TDs while piling up more offensive yardage with his 7 catches for 83 yards and one more TD. Wagner’s leader is junior QB David Bateman with his 1,315 yards passing and 10 TDs by completing 106-of-215 passes, with senior WR Sean Simmons staying in Bateman’s graces by capturing 45 of his tosses for 557 yards and 5 TDs. The Seahawk defense is led by sophomore LB Craig Romano who has corralled 57 enemy, including 9 for losses and broke up 3 passes. Romano will have his hands full with his attempts at stopping a shifty Dorsett. It’s my opinion that Wagner needs to use the tandem of Bateman to Simmons, and connect frequently enough to defeat Robert Morris. Robert Morris needs to rely more heavily on the running of Dorsett to be able to control the clock. Here I go again, I’m taking Robert Morris, 20-17.
NCAA II
at Saginaw Valley State (7-0) over Ferris State (5-2). Saginaw Valley seems to always have trouble with Ferris State. Coming off a big win over No. 1-ranked Grand Valley, 34-20, SVSU cannot afford any type of letdown in this one. Ferris State romped over Mercyhurst last week, 33-7. The Cardinals are averaging 252.0 yards passing per game. Leading the way on offense for SVSU is junior QB Mark Radlinski with 1,756 yards passing, completing 137-of-215 with 20 TD tosses, and has mustered 93 yards on 25 carries with 3 TDs. Radlinski has several good hands to throw to, I only have room to mention two of them, senior WR Ruvell Martin who leads the team with 32 catches for 380 yards and 3 scores, and sophomore WR Stan Spencer who has grabbed 27 balls for 358 yards and 5 TDs. The Cardinal defense is headed and patrolled by junior DE Neil Baumgartner with 48 tackles, including 9 behind the line of scrimmage with 5 sacks, also on patrol at his LB spot is sophomore John DiGiorgio who has 65 stops and captured 3 for losses and recovered 2 fumbles. The Saginaw Valley special teams is led by a couple of top-notch kickers, including junior PK Eric Houle who has had 12 of his 17 field goal tries go through the uprights, including a long of 49 yards, and is 27-for-28 on PAT kicks while. Sophomore punter Dustin Esslin is averaging 42.2 yards per punt on 64 kicks. The Bulldogs leading ground gainer is senior TB Derek Fudge with 183 carries for 925 yards and 11 TD, plus he has also caught 22 passes for 136 yards and one more TD. Directing the Bulldog offense is junior QB Tom Marson with 1,193 yards passing on 112-of-202 pass attempts with 7 TDs, he also has gained 97 yards on 40 carries with 2 scores. FSU’s leading receiver is sophomore flanker Carlton Brewster with 38 catches for 312 yards and 4 TDs, he also returns kickoffs and punts. The defense is in good hands for Ferris State with this duo, first, at LB senior Luke Piepkow with 87 tackles, 6 tackles for loss, including 4 sacks, and junior DE John Hazel with 49 tackles, 13 for losses with 9 sacks. Without knowing the history of this series, I would have no problem in picking SVSU as the winner, but knowing the spirited battle these two arch-rivals have had in the past, it’s not that easy. Is there anyway that Ferris State can stop the Cardinal passing game? I really don’t think so, and yet, Ferris State, if they could give the ball to Fudge often enough, and control the clock, who knows. I simply collaborated with myself, and have come to the conclusion, that Saginaw Valley just has too many weapons. The Cardinals to win, 31-14.
Northwest Missouri State (5-2) over at Missouri Western (5-2). This will be a brawl! I’m picking the upset in this one. Northwest head coach Mel Tjeerdsma is in his 10th season at Northwest and his 20th as a collegiate head coach. Tjeerdsma has a record of 93-28 (.769) at Northwest, including NCAA Division II Championships in 1998 (15-0) and 1999 (14-1). Tjeerdsma has always been a favorite coach of mine, and by coincidence a Football Gazette long-time subscriber. Back in about 1950 I lived in Maryville, well, very close to Maryville, in Clyde, Missouri. So far this year, when I picked Northwest to win, they lost and when I chose them to lose they won! Northwest and Southern are just 37 miles apart and this is a major arch-rival game. Regulating the Bearcat offense is sophomore QB Josh Lamberson who has completed 74-of-136 pass attempts for 1,068 yards and 8 TDs and rushing 62 times for 207 yards and 3 scores. Lamberson’s main target has been junior WR Jamaica Rector who has tucked-in 40 passes for 659 yards and 5 TDs, while also returning 22 punts for an average of 8.1 yards and 11 kickoffs an average of 35.8 yards. Junior RB Shon Wells has also been a recipient of 11 tosses by Lamberson, good for 46 yards. Wells also is the leading rusher with 396 yards on 97 carries and 3 TDs. A stalwart on defense for Northwest is senior LB John Edmonds with 55 tackles, including 8 in the enemy backfield. The Griffins’ rushing game is generated by senior RB Derrick Pitts with 132 carries for 559 yards and 8 TDs. MWSC’s defense has standout senior DB Pierre Thomas with 39 tackles and he has returned his 9 interceptions a total of 298 yards and scored once, while on special teams he has returned 19 punts an average of 11.5 yards while scoring once, and has 10 kickoff returns for a 19.9 average per return. The Griffons freshman P/PK Tristan Blagg has converted all 6 of his field goal tries with a long of 44 yards and is averaging 41.4 yards per kick on punts. This should be a defensive battle, with the Griffons holding an edge as I observe it. However, I think that the Bearcats Jamaica Rector will have made the difference when the final buzzer sounds. Both Rector and the Griffons Pierre Thomas are a threat to score every time they get their hands on the ball. I’m sticking with Northwest Missouri here in a close one, 27-24.
at Nebraska-Omaha (6-2) over St. Cloud State (6-2). Heading the Mavericks dangerous and explosive offense is sophomore QB Brian Masek who has completed 113-of-176 passes for 1,559 yards and 16 TDs, while rushing for 267 yards on 92 carries and scoring 9 TDs. However, Omaha’s main rushing threat is senior RB Justin Kammred with 191 carries for 1,152 yards and 8 scores. The leading receiver for UNO happens to be senior WR Ryan Krause with 50 catches for 716 yards and 8 TDs. The defense is handled admirable, and keyed by a brother duo, with sophomore LB Taiwo Onatolu having 75 stops, 15 tackles for loss, 5 sacks and 3 pass deflections, with brother, RS-freshman SS Kenny Onatolu having 72 tackles, 6 for losses, 4 sacks and recovered 3 fumbles. St. Cloud State is just as dangerous on offense with senior QB Keith Heckendorf leading the way with completing 148-of-231 pass attempts for 1,938 yards and 22 touchdowns and picking up another 120 yards and 2 TDs on the ground. The Huskies ground forces are led by sophomore RB Matt Birkel with 92 rushes for 715 yards and 7 scores, with teammate, senior Josh Williams who has picked up 580 yards rushing on 116 carries and caught 8 passes for 138 yards and a TD. The Huskies defensive unit is sparked by senior LB Shane Rohman with 61 tackles and 13 for losses, and sophomore LB Mark Henderson has 63 stops and 10 hits behind the line of scrimmage. Junior punter Scott Dirkes is averaging 42.1 yards per punt on 38 kicks and sophomore PK Shaun Braunagel has converted 9-of-13 field goal tries with a long of 41 yards. Well, I might be out-of-line here, especially with two potent offenses, but I think the scoring will be held somewhat in check. I’m predicting that The Mavericks have the edge on defense, I’ll go with Nebraska-Omaha, 24-14.
Concordia-St. Paul (6-1) over at Minnesota-Duluth (5-2). I’m starting to think that this is really a long-shot, especially being hosted by Minnesota-Duluth, and quite frankly, Concordia is coming off a great win over Northern State in an offensive shootout, 59-52, while Duluth buried Minnesota-Crookston, 28-0 last week. Heading the Bears crushing offense is senior RB Chris Washington with 160 carries for 907 yards and 11 TDs, while he has also claimed another 173 yards on 7 catches. The Bears’ also have an all-star QB with sophomore James McNear, who has completed 118-of-200 passes for 1,684 yards and 11 TDs, while rushing 59 times for 255 yards and 5 scores. Concordia’s leading receiver is senior Joseph Mapson with 50 catches for 707 yards and 6 TDs, and has returned 13 punts, averaging 20.5 yards per return including one for a TD, and 18 kickoff returns for a 27.7 average with one TD. The defense is anchored by junior LB Brian Doyle with 61 tackles, 9 tackles for loss, including 4 sacks and 3 fumble recoveries. The Bulldogs running game is headed by junior RB Dave Rufledt with 88 carries for 619 yards and 8 TDs while also catching 7 passes for 40 yards and another score. Duluth’s leading receiver is Tim Battaglia with 37 catches for 670 yards and 6 scores. The Bulldog defense is headed by senior LB Dave Otto with 39 stops with 4 for losses, and junior DL Russel Rabe with 34 tackles, including 13 behind the line of scrimmage with 9.5 sacks. I might be a foolhardy so-and-so, but I think the tandem of the Bears McNear and Washington can pull off the surprise party. Concordia, 34-29.
at East Stroudsburg (5-2) over West Chester (5-2). Well, here I go again picking a team that many feel will lose. Hey, who doesn’t love the underdog? East Stroudsburg’s Warriors are guided by their young freshman quarterback Jimmy Terwilliger who has completed 122-of 201 passes for 1,921 yards and 21 TDs, while also rushing for 309 yards on 66 carries with 4 scores. The leading receiver is senior WR John Jeffries with 33 catches for 500 yards and 6 scores and he also leads the Warriors with an average of 10.5 yards on 15 punt returns. ESU’s defense is led by senior LB Ryan Vermillion with 62 tackles and Junior LB Matt Rapa with 61 tackles. The Golden Rams are directed by junior QB Bob Findora who has completed 83-of-149 pass attempts for 1,413 yards and 11 TDs, while gaining 120 yards on 32 carries with one TD. Senior WR George Caroulis has tucked in 28 passes for 404 yards and 3 scores, and junior WR Cory DeForrest has caught 22 passes for 437 yards with 4 TDs for the Rams. The Rams running back tandem of senior Mike Eckmeyer, 102 rushes, 649 yards with 4 scores, and redshirt FR Osagie Osunde with 85 carries for 601 yards and 11 TDs lead the team in rushing yardage. On defense WCU’s sophomore LB Chris Tagye heads the list of tacklers with 36. Terwilliger, though only a freshman, I'm confident can direct the ESU offense to a win over a tough West Chester defense. It’s the Warriors, 35-26.
NCAA III
at Millikin (5-1) over Augustana IL (4-2). Will the Big Blue defeat their second-straight ranked opponent? I think they will. The Vikings have a very long-standing tradition though, so it won’t be easy. Both teams like to run with the ball, especially Augustana who is only averaging 69.3 yards a game passing. Augustana will control the game with their strong running attack and very good defense. The Vikings won four straight D-III titles in the mid ‘80’s using almost exclusively their ground attack and stellar defense. Handling the quarterbacking chores for the Big Blue is senior Donnell Brown with 981 yards passing, completing 64-of-111 passes with 7 TDs, and has rushed 35 times for 130 yards and one score. Their ground attack is led by sophomore RB, Jemel Shepherd with 101 carries for 544 yards and 8 TDs, and freshman RB Nathan Wallick, 80 carries for 453 yards and 6 scores. The Big Blue’s defensive standouts are senior LB Jason Harvey, 49 tackles, 6 for losses and senior DB Lee Clayton, 31 tackles, 11 pass break-ups. The very dangerous Natha Chandler, sophomore, KR/WR, has returned 8 punts for an average of 13.2 yards with one TD, 11 kickoff with a 31.0 average per return with one score, and has also caught 9 passes for 64 yards. The Vikings’ running game is led by senior RB Kyle Zick with 90 carries for 382 yards and 3 TDs and, Aaron Kuzniar with 54 carries for 281 yards and 2 scores. The Augie defensive leaders are, junior LB Steve Szpejnowski with 54 tackles, 6 for losses and, senior DB Matt Furlong, 47 tackles, 7 behind the line, 4 pass deflections and 2 fumble recoveries. To pull this game out, the Big Blue will need to pass the ball more than they are used to. The Vikings will try and control this game on the ground by pounding the ball through the defensive line. Augie has a very strong defense, but I expect Millikin will be able to put enough points up to pull this game out. Millikin, 27-17.
at St. John’s (6-0) over Concordia-Moorhead (5-1). This will be St. John’s strongest test to date. SJU head coach John Gagliardi continues his "march to history" as he gained career win number 406 in his 55-year career. Gagliardi is now three wins away from setting the all-time career win record, currently held by former Grambling State coach Eddie Robinson. Gagliardi, another very strong supporter of the Football Gazette, is just amazing, and last week he presented the Johnnies with their 500th school football win, in the 63-9 victory at Augsburg. The Johnnies are averaging 208.7 yards rushing and 265.7 yards passing while holding their opponents to just 84.8 yards rushing. Talk about you running game, Concordia has a great one, they are averaging 323.3 yards rushing per game. What will give here! St. John’s is guided by their all-American quarterback candidate, senior, Ryan Keating with 117-of-172 pass completions for 1,332 yards and 15 TDs, and he has only been intercepted 3 times. The recipient of the majority of Keating’s passes is super-speedster and all-American senior WR/KR Blake Elliott with 54 catches for 638 yards and 8 TDs. Elliott has also returned 9 punts an average of 13.1 yards with one TD and has 6 kickoff returns averaging 36.8 yards with one TD, along with rushing for 201 yards on 20 carries and had one more score. Junior WR, Lee Clintsman has pulled down 20 passes for 283 yards and 5 TDs for SJU. St. John’s running tandem of sophomore RB Jake Theis, and senior RB Josh Nelson have been heavy duty men, as Theis has 83 carries, for 479 yards and 6 TDs while Nelson has gained 308 yards on 49 carries with 6 scores. The Johnnies defense is maintained by three standouts, starting with senior LB Cameron McCambridge, 47 tackles, 5 for losses, one interception and two passes defended. Freshman LB Jamie Steffensmeier, 51 tackles, 8 for losses, one interception and 3 pass deflections is also a Johnnie standout and junior LB Paul Gans has 44 tackles, 4 interceptions returned for 139 yards total and one TD, and blocked 3 other passes. The Cobbers running attack is headed by senior RB Robert Clark, 92 carries, 628 yards, 3 TDs and he also has 16 punt returns, averaging 10.9 yards a return and 8 kickoff returns for an average of 24.1 yards. Leading the way for Concordia’s potent rushing game is senior QB Ryan Hebrink who has 95 carries for 520 yards and 4 scores and has completed 45-of-96 pass attempts for 692 yards and 9 TDs. The Cobbers senior RB Jeremy Hinderks has 46 carries for 251 yards and 7 TDs. Concordia’s defense is anchored by junior LB Josh Dietz with 52 tackles, 7 for losses, one interception and one pass deflection. St. John’s, and coach Gagliardi, are making history, and with Elliott, the all-everything player, I will pick the Johnnies in this one, although they will have to stop the Cobbers very electrifying rushing attack. St. John’s 34-21.
at Hardin-Simmons (5-1) over East Texas Baptist (5-1). Coach Ralph Harris has brought ETSU a long way since the football program was started a few years ago. Coach Harris has built a solid program in these few short years, and has put them in a position to contend for the American Southwest conference title. This is a team to watch in the future. Hardin-Simmons has had a solid program and is a conference contender and playoff proven team for many years now. The Tigers of East Texas Baptist are supervised on offense by junior QB Brandon Nelson with 1,045 yards passing, completing 57-of-107 pass attempts, while the beneficiary of most of his throws has been senior WR Jabori Jackson with 22 catches for 401 yards and 4 scores, he also has returned 6 punts an average of 11.5 yards and 8 kickoffs for an average of 23.4 yards per return. The Tigers ground assault is focused on sophomore RB RoShawn Johnson who has made 156 carries for 854 yards and 6 TDs, and has caught 6 passes for 110 yards and one more score. The ETSU defense is sustained by junior LB Greg Washington with 53 tackles, 10 for losses and three sacks, also a leader on defense is Chad Glover with 27 tackles, 13 tackles for loss, 4 sacks, 4 pass deflections, one fumble recovery that he returned 18 yards for a TD. The Tigers punter, senior Scott Verhalen has averaged 41.9 yards on his 19 kicks with 8 dropping inside the 20. Hardin-Simmons has quite a running game and is led by junior SB Lance Moore with 512 yards on 71 carries with 6 scores, also a major player is junior RB Donta’ Hayward whose 320 yards gained rushing, place him second on the team. Directing this Cowboys outfit from his QB spot is sophomore Jordan Neal who has completed 115-of-169 passes for 1,402 yards and 11 TDs, while also rushing 34 times for 84 yards and 3 scores. The Cowboys leading receiver is senior WR Joe Lemberg with 35 catches for 526 yards and 5 scores, while also handling the punt return chores with 15 returns for an average of 12.9 yards with one TD. The defense is in vary capably being led by HSU’s top tackle man in sophomore LB Jason Rupert with 48, including 3 for losses. Rounding out the Cowboy defensive leaders is all-American junior CB Alex Hansen whose numbers have been impressive throughout his career. So far this year Hansen has 29 tackles, 5 pass deflections, one forced fumble and 5 interceptions that have been returned for a total of 87 yards. East Texas Baptist is only allowing 54.0 yards rushing, so it would seem that as good as the Cowboys passing attack is they will need to pick it up another notch. The Tigers Greg Washington will need to penetrate the HSU offensive line frequently enough to hurry the quarterback into mistakes. The difference may come down to the defensive leadership and prowess of Alex Hansen. I’ll take the Cowboys in a close one, 29-24.
at Linfield (5-0) over at Menlo (5-1). This is another game that I really wish I could be in attendance at. Menlo is determined to break through, and get into the D-III playoffs, they’ve been on the bubble four different years, and failed to make it each time. This just might be the year the Oaks’ football team makes it! (If) they can defeat a very legitimate D-III power like Linfield, it could come true. This will be a bruising battle! Both team favor the passing game. Menlo is fortunate to have a dynamic leader as their QB, junior Frank Borba who has completed 127-of-183 passes for 1,644 yards and 15 TDs and has also contributed in rushing with 43 carries for 144 yards and 3 scores. Sparking the Oaks receiving corps is senior WR Andre O’Neil with 25 catches for 248 yards, while the running attack features, senior RB Duane Miller with 129 carries for 664 yards and 9 TDs, he also has pulled in 9 passes for 84 yards. Lining up at a running back slot is junior Mike Andreacchi with 16 carries for 66 yards, but more importantly, he is the leading receiver for the Oaks with 25 catches for 295 yards and 2 scores and does double duty as a punt and kickoff return specialist. The defense is being led by the capable hands of junior DB Brandon Springer, 30 tackles, 5 pass break-ups and with his 4 interceptions he is averaging 12.5 yards per return. Another defensive leader is Galen Perry, 36 tackles, 4 pass deflection and 2 fumble recoveries, returning each 12 yard for touchdowns. The Oaks leading tackler is junior DB Kenny Wolfe with 42 tackles, including 8 behind the line. Linfield relies heavily on their senior QB Tyler Matthews to direct them to victory. Matthews has completed 93-of-140 pass attempts for 1,465 yards and 20 TDs. Also a major cog in the Wildcats offensive scheme is junior WR George Carter with 33 catches for 688 yards and 8 TDs. The Wildcats leading rusher is junior RB Thomas Ford with 67 carries for 368 yards and one score. On the defensive side of the ball for Linfield are two fine leaders, starting with, junior DE Kelley Bertrand with 24 tackles, 7 behind the line of scrimmage including 3.5 sacks. Senior LB Harrison Bertsch has totaled 29 tackles for the Wildcats. Can’t forget about the Wildcats very dangerous return man and CB, junior Erik Hillison who has 11 kickoff returns for an average of 34.1 yards with one TD, and on defense he has contributed with 17 tackles. Both teams will be put in a pressure cooker at this game. With both squads favoring the passing attack, I deem that the difference will be the Wildcats DB Brandon Springer and/or the ever dangerous Erik Hillison. The Oaks Frank Borba has a chance to really shine in this game provided his receivers can break away from Linfield’s defenders. This should have enough excitement and scoring in it to satisfy the fans. I’ll pick Linfield 35-28.
Baldwin-Wallace (5-1) over at Muskingum (5-1). This should be a defensive battle and a low scoring affair. The Yellow Jackets of Baldwin-Wallace are guided on offense by senior QB Dan Larlham who has completed 71-of-123 passes for 863 yards and 11 TDs, and he is also active in their ground game with 432 rushing yards on 66 carries and 4 scores. B-W’s leading receiver is junior WR Dave Erhman with 21 catches for 287 yards and 4 TDs. The Jackets main threat, rushing with the ball on offense, is senior RB Mark Anders who has gained 656 yards on 91 carries and scored 12 TDs, and he also has caught 12 passes for 102 yards and one more score and is also serving as a kickoff return man, having an 18.5 return yard average on 6 kickoff returns. B-W’s other top rusher is Randale Richmond with 49 carries for 207 yards and 2 TDs. The leading tackler for the Yellow Jackets is sophomore Justin Princehorn with 59 stops, including 7 for losses, and senior DE Nate Mitchell has 42 tackles, 18 for losses, including 8.5 sacks, 3 pass deflections and 14 quarterback hurries. The Muskingum offense is led by junior RB Trevor Cooper with 163 carries for 771 yards and 4 TDs, and 7 pass receptions for 100 yards. The Muskies junior WR has caught 11 passes. On defense, junior LB Todd Filtz is the leading tackler with 55. Also, a defensive standout for Muskingum is senior DB Ryan Spicer with 41 tackles, 6 pass break-ups and 3 interception that were returned for a total of 101 yards, including 2 for TDs. Baldwin-Wallace defense has allowed just 83.3 yards rushing per game. I ‘m sure the Muskies are going to have to contend with B-W’s defensive end Nate Mitchell in their backfield throughout the game. The Muskies also have a very good defense, and with defensive back Ryan Spicer they could create some problems for B-W’s passing game, but I see the Yellow Jackets defense pretty much shutting down the Muskies offensive attack. I like B-W, 21-7.
at Waynesburg (6-1) over Washington & Jefferson (6-0). Waynesburg is looking to get a big win at home this Saturday. This is the last stellar test for W & J, and if they get the win here, it should be smooth sailing for their remaining three games, which will notch them an undefeated regular season. Waynesburg’s Yellow Jackets will try to surprise the Generals at home. Waynesburg’s offense is headed by junior QB Jeff Dunn who has completed 113-of-171 pass attempts for 1,356 yards and 18 TDs, and has rushed for 49 yards and one score. WC’s rushing attack is led by a trio of freshmen, and all three have had the opportunity to carry the ball just about the same number of times. The freshman running back with the most yardage so far this season is Eric Daniels with 550 yards on 87 carries and has scored 8 TDs, second on the list is Dennis Gearhart with 411 yards on 89 carries but has yet to score, and the third freshman is Ryan Abels with 404 yards on 84 carries and 8 scores. The Yellow Jackets leader on defense with 54 tackles and 4 sacks is senior LB Sean Ross, also a leader on defense is senior DL Phil Thomas with 30 stops, 10 for losses and one interception. The Presidents’ offensive leader is sophomore QB Jeff Edwards who has thrown for 1,385 yards completing 86-of-165 pass attempts and has hit for 12 TDs. Edwards primary target is senior WR Mike Virgin who has pulled down 31 balls for 514 yards and scored 6 times, he has also returned 7 kickoffs for an 18.8 yards per return average. The W & J defense is anchored by junior LB, Eric Field and junior DB Frank Pilato. Field has 72 tackles to his credit along with 4 sacks and Pilato has 59 stops, 2 forced fumbles, 9 pass deflections and 4 interceptions with 100 return yards, including one for a score. Waynesburg is allowing just 88.3 yards rushing by their defense. I don’t think they can hold W & J to just 88 yards rushing, but they might be able to hold down their rushing attack enough to pull out a win. The Presidents defensive back Frank Pilato will present a major problem for the Waynesburg passing attack, but the Yellow Jackets three freshmen running backs are tricky, and so Pilato may find that he is having to guard against them to stop any long gainers on the ground which would leave things a more open for the pass. W & J needs to mix it up with their running and passing attacks. I’m looking for an upset here and will choose Waynesburg, 27-21.
at Trinity TX (5-1) over Centre (6-1). Too bad this game is at Trinity, or Centre would have a better chance to pull off the upset. As it is, Centre should still put up a good challenge in this game. Trinity’s Tigers are guided by senior QB Dan DesPlaines who has connected on 124 of his 191 pass attempts for 1, 701 yards and 14 TDs. The man with the most receptions for the Tigers is sophomore WR Robert Kelner who has pulled in 32 for 439 yards and 2 scores and he has also returned 19 kickoffs. Though not much of a rushing team, Trinity does have a few good ground gainers, starting with sophomore RB Ray Valencia with 52 carries for 267 yards and 2 TDs, and sophomore RB Jerrold Jones with 209 yards and 2 scores on 64 carries. The Tigers strong defense is headed-up by senior DL Jarrod Smith with 30 tackles, 9 for losses, 6 sacks, one interception, 3 pass deflections and 20 quarterback hurries. The leading tackler for the Tigers is Wacey Clarke with 64 and senior DB Matt Woodchick has 51 tackles, one interception and 4 pass break-ups. The Colonels have an exceptional QB in junior Brian Behrendt who has completed 147-of-236 pass attempts for 1,524 yards and 15 TDs. Behrendt’s top receivers are junior David Crowley with 32 catches for 320 yards and 4 tds and he also returns kickoffs, and senior Adam Schneider has 31 receptions for 343 yards and 3 TDs. The Colonels top ground gainer is senior RB Lorenzo Engleman with 111 carries for 615 yards and 3 scores. Centre’s defense is commanded by senior DB John Ortega with 76 tackles, 5 tackles for loss, one interception and 3 pass deflections, while senior DB Kevin Tytus has totaled 24 tackles, 6 pass break-ups and 3 interceptions for 97 return yards and 2 touchdowns. Will anyone besides Trinity ever win the Southern Collegiate Athletic Conference? It’s not that the conference is that weak, it’s just a fact that Trinity is always in the hunt for the NCAA III title, they are that strong. Both schools have very good defenses and more than capable offenses, but Trinity’s defensive line is a menace to their opponents offenses. Trinity must step up their rushing attack to compete against Centre, and Centre will need to mix it up more. The difference will be whose defense comes up big. I’m going to say it will be Trinity’s. I like Trinity, 21-7.
NAIA
at Walsh (6-1) over Geneva (4-2). Walsh has been coming on strong ever since their loss to a very good St. Xavier squad earlier this year. Geneva has also improved during the season. Both schools are still in the conference race for first place, but Geneva cannot afford to lose another one as they already have one conference loss. The Cavaliers from Walsh are led by their all-America candidate, senior TB Derek Besgrove who has 209 carries for 1,317 yards and 19 scores and has caught 4 passes for 27 yards and one more TD. Sophomore QB Dan Kane directs the Walsh offense and has completed 68-of-127 pass attempts for 1,006 yards and 10 TDs. The majority of Kane’s passes have been thrown to senior WR Adam Copeland and senior TE Chris Brink. Copeland has caught 27 passes for 335 yards and 3 scores, while Brink has chased down 26 for 414 yards and 6 TDs. On defense for the Cavaliers is sophomore LB Brian Rogers who is leading the way with 70 tackles, 9 for losses and 3 pass break-ups. Also a defensive standout for the Caveliers is junior LB Matt Beebe with 36 tackles, 13.5 for losses, 6 sacks, 3 pass deflections and 3 fumble recoveries. The Golden Tornados offense is maneuvered by senior QB Ben Swallow who has completed 72-of-138 passes for 928 yards and 6 scores with junior WR Matt Nowaczynski corralling 36 balls for 475 yards and 6 TDs, and has returned 21 punts for an 11.4 yards per return average, returning one for a TD. Geneva’s defensive backfield relies heavily on senior DB Mark Villella who has 4 interceptions and 9 pass break-ups. The Golden Tornados senior LB Dan Glaze has 54 tackles, 3 sacks and 2 fumble recoveries, and sophomore DB Brian Hall has 54 tackles and 3 sacks. Walsh’s tailback Derek Besgrove will be hard for Geneva to contain and he should make the difference in the game. Geneva will need for Ben Swallow to throw more passes this game to have any shot at winning because I don’t see their running game being able to penetrate well enough to move at a game-winning pace. Walsh has a little too much offense and defense. I pick Walsh to win, 28-14.
St. Xavier (5-2) over at Oliver Nazarene (4-2). Both schools are sporting have 3-0 marks conference marks. This will be a battle-royal. I might be going to this night game. St. Xavier knocked off No. 2-ranked McKendree last week 24-14, and Oliver Nazarene defeated an improved Iowa Wesleyan team 29-13. The Cougars from St. Xavier are led on offense by their exciting and shifty RS-freshman Luke Schillo who has 93 carries for 453 yards and 10 TDs. The Cougars’ offense is generated by sophomore QB John Perryman who has completed 106-of-186 pass attempts for 1,328 yards and 8 scores with his favorite target being Jarrod Nowman who has caught 31 passes for 501 yards and 5 TDs, and he also runs back punts and kickoffs. St. Xavier’s RB/WR Guy Smith has rushed for 292 yards on 62 carries and scored 3 times while also catching 13 passes for 97 yards and one more TD. The defense is guarded by sophomore LB Rick King with 37 tackles, 6.5 tackles behind the line of scrimmage, one interception and one pass block, and junior DB Matt Derry has 37 tackles, 5 for losses, 2 interceptions and 2 fumble recoveries. The Tigers offense is directed by sophomore QB Joe Boseo who has completed 83-of-181 passes for 996 yards and 8 scores. Boseo’s main target is sophomore WR Tim Vettel who has pulled in 23 passes for 318 yards and 4 TFs. Tops in the running game for the Tigers is freshman RB Billy Lawrence with 76 carries for 389 yards and 4 TDs and 6 catches for 90 yards. Also for the Tigers at running back is junior Allen Swilley with 73 carries for 322 yards and 3 scores and 10 catches for 94 yards. ONU’s defense is anchored by junior LB Paul Berge with 69 tackles, 6 for losses and 6 pass deflections and senior DB Ben Richardson has 52 tackles, 2 interceptions and 6 pass break-ups. St. Xavier’s Luke Schillo will need to find openings to help pull the Cougars to victory. Olivet Nazarene will have to do more passing, because it is hard to run against St. Xavier, just ask McKendree about that. I think that Schillo will make the difference in a very close game. I like St. Xavier, 27-24.
First, I will list the Top Game, as I see them, for each of the four divisions (NCAA 1-AA, II, III and NAIA) this Saturday.
NCAA 1-AA Top Game
at Villanova (6-0) over Massachusetts (6-1). UMass struggled at home last week before pulling out a 27-22 win over Hofstra while Villanova had the week off. The UMass defense is anchored by senior DB Steve Costello with 35 tackles, including five for lost yardage, five interceptions and three passes batted down, while Villanova’s defensive leader, sophomore linebacker, Brian Hulea has 77 tackles on the year. The UMass offense is headed by 6’3” senior quarterback, Jeff Krohn, 125-223-13-9 for 1,481 yards, while junior FB Rich Demers has rushed for 402 yards, including four TDs and caught 19 passes with three TDs, sophomore TB Steve Blylark has rushed for 624 yards and seven TDs. Villanova will counter with Sophomore QB Joe Casamento who is 143-199-12-7 for 1,517 yards. Casamento’s favorite target is sophomore WR, J.J. Outlaw, with 33 catches for 457 yards and two TDs. Nova’s running game is led by sophomore RB, Martin Gibson, with 61 carries for 426 yards and four TD’s. It’s homecoming and Hall of Fame day for Villanova. I don’t feel that the UMass defense will be able to hold down the Villanova offense enough to capture the victory. I like Villanova, 27-21.
NCAA II Top Game
at Tusculum (6-1) over Carson-Newman (7-0). Can Tusculum pull it off? I think they can, but it won’t be easy! Tusculum leads the nation (all divisions), allowing just 20.3 yards rushing per game! Now rushing is what Carson-Newman does best. Something has to give here. Tusculum’s defense is headed by senior DB/KR, Ricardo Colclough, who has 34 tackles, 7 pass breakups and has returned his five interceptions for an average of 21.8 yards each, including one touchdown. As a KR, Colclough has 12 KR’s with a 34.1 average and two TDs, and 5 PR’s an average of 21.8 yards with one score. The Pioneers’ rotate at QB with Juniors Tony Colston, 110-151-9-2 for 1,264 yards, and Carson Bradley, 97-149-8-6 for 1,064 yards. Their favorite receiver is senior WR, Kevin Wolcott, with 58 catches for 508 yards and 4 scores, while the running game features Chris Mosley, with 344 yards and 8 TDs, and 10 catches with one more TD. Carson-Newman’s running attack is hosted by sophomore, J.J. Chatman with 83 carries for 573 yards and 7 TDs. The Eagles’ junior QB Shane Kelley has 77 carries for 380 yards with 5 scores, and is 43-78-6-0 for 916 yards passing. Sophomore DB Deonte Bolden has 6 interceptions, including one returned for a score for the Eagles. I wish I were at this game, it should be a real thriller. I think this is the year that Tusculum will finely pull it off and win the conference title. C-N does have a potent running game and Tusculum can put the ball in air with authority. I think Colclough will make the difference in this game. I’m taking Tusculum, 28-24.
NCAA III TOP GAME
at Mount Union (6-0) over Capital (6-0). It would be nice if Capital could have this game at their place. Oh well. Anyway, this should give Mount Union a stern test. Both teams have productive passing attacks. The Raiders rotate at QB with senior Jesse Burghardt, 47-66-10-2 for 891 yards, and junior, Zac Bruney, 49-78-10-2 for 981 yards. Leading receivers are, WR Randell Knapp, 34 rec. 793 yards and 7 tds, and 6’4” senior WR Nick Sirianni, 25 rec. 476 yards and 8 tds. The Raider defense is shouldered by senior LB Shaun Spisak, 51 tackles, and junior, Jason Cavell is averaging 13.8 yards on 12 punt returns. Capital is guided by freshman QB Rocky Pentello, who leads the OAC in passing, 138-191-19-4 for 1,816 yards. Receiving most of Pentello’s receptions is junior WR, Matt Friesner, 45 rec. 656 yards, 11 TDs, with junior WR Ura Clerk, who has pulled in 30 rec. 452 yards, 4 TDs. The Crusaders’ freshman DB Thom Hausler leads the conference in interceptions with 5 for 124 yards and 2 TDs, and punt return average (15 ret,15.1 ypr), and junior LB Ron Swearingin has 55 hits, 9 TFL, 3 sacks. Capital’s junior PK Tyler Kazee leads the OAC in FG’s (35-of-37 pats/7-of-7 fgs) and points scored (56 pts). What it comes down to is experience and tradition. Mount Union is going after their 49th straight win, and this should be their last, real regular season challenge this year. Capital will find their task unbearable, and will succumb after putting on a good show. Mount Union, 28-13.
NAIA Top Game
Sioux Falls (6-0) over at Midland Lutheran (5-1). Midland Lutheran was upset last week at Dakota Wesleyan, 35-28, while Sioux Falls rocked Dana at home 47-7! Midland is having one of the best season’s that I can ever remember, but Sioux Falls is a dynamic power player. Sioux Falls 6’4”, senior quarterback Jon Burckhardt has completed 129 of 226 passes for 2,060 yards, 16 touchdowns, with just seven interceptions. He also has a pass efficiency rating of 154.4. He leads the GPAC in both passing and pass efficiency. Burckhardt’s favorite targets are, redshirt-freshman WR Dusty Hovorka, with 37 catches for 693 yards and nine touchdowns and senior WR, Grant Brecher with 38 receptions for 634 yards and two touchdowns, and he has averaged 13.6 yards on 17 punt returns. Kicker, junior T.C. Fraser has converted 9-of-11 field goal attempts, with a long of 52 yards, and is 24-of-27 on PAT kicks. Midland Lutheran’s ground game is quartered by junior RB Chris Strehle with 128 carries for 710 yards and 6 TDs, and co-hosting at FB is senior Tyler Paulsen with 78 carries for 446 yards and a team-leading 7 TDs. The QB for this Warrior outfit is junior Josh Lanik who has 99 carries for 294 yards and one score and also has completed 55 of 117 pass attempts for seven TDs. The MLC standout on defense is senior LB Clint Eikmeier with 62 tackles, 3 sacks and 6 passes defensed. With these two obviously dissimilar offenses, Midland Lutheran needs to get the lead with their rushing game and control the ball to have any chance at grabbing a win, playing catch-up, with primarily a running game, can prove tough to accomplish. Sioux Falls has an outstanding quarterback and a number of fine receivers. This game is at Midland Lutheran, but Sioux Falls has too many offensive and defensive weapons, though at times USF’s defense has been suspect, but it should not make too much difference in this game, and they will win, 45-26.
Other significant games in each division follow
NCAA 1-AA
at Western Illinois (5-2) over Northern Iowa (6-1). This is the third straight week that WIU has hosted a Top 10 team. The Leathernecks’, who pass a little more than they rush with the ball, are led by Walter Payton Award candidate, senior QB Russ Michna who has completed 102 of 182 passes for 1,554 yards and 12 TDs with 8 interceptions.. Senior RB Travis Glasford, 145 carries for 649 yards and 12 TDs leads WIU’s running game, and on defense, senior LB Lee Russell has 80 tackles, 13 for losses, 4 fumble recoveries and has blocked two kicks. Western Illinois’ punt return unit leads all 1-AA schools, averaging 19.47 yards per return, with the help of James Norris, who is leading the nation at 20.31 yards per attempt, and also has 29 receptions for 434 yards. Western Illinois will celebrate it's 100th season of leatherneck football this weekend with the first 1,000 fans through the gates Saturday receiving a commemorative leatherneck football poster. The Panthers’ favor the ground venue with sophomore TB Terrence Freeney leading the way with 167 carries for 818 yards and 10 scores. UNI’s CB/KR Bennie Sapp is a threat when he can get his hands on the ball. Sapp has two interceptions, returning one 100 yards for a TD, averaging 26.8 yards on six kick returns and has returned a fumble for 22 yards. Leading the Panthers’ in interceptions with 4 is DB Dre Dokes, who also has 25 tackles. I favor Western’s passing game over UNI’s rushing attack in this game. Michna will be the difference if the Leathernecks can stop the Panthers’ running game. Uni’s Sapp is the man to keep your eye on when he gets the ball---very dangerous. I like Western Illinois, 24-21.
at Pennsylvania (5-0) over Yale (4-1). I remember a few years ago watching Yale play Valparaiso while sitting in the press box at old Soldiers’ Field in Chicago. In the second half they jumped all over Valpo, and I think that was the start of Yale’s return to the upper echelon of the Ivy League. This isn’t Soldiers’ Field, nor a neutral site, but will be played at the Quakers, non-forgiving Franklin Field in Philadelphia. The Quakers’ rushing attack is led by sophomore RB Sam Mathews who has gained 578 yards on 127 carries and scored 4 TDs while also pulling in 19 receptions for 191 yards and three more scores. Penn’s QB senior Mike Mitchell has completed 85 of 145 pass attempts for 1,021 yards and 13 TDs. Mitchell’s number one target is junior WR Dan Castles, who has 39 catches for 512 yards and scored 5 times. The Quaker defense is anchored by junior LB Ric San Doval with 41 tackles and 2 pass break-ups. The Bulldogs on offense will counter with team leader and senior QB Alvin Cowan who has passed for 1,323 yards and 11 TDs, completing 94 of 152 pass attempts. Tight End and punter Nate Lawrie has caught 33 of Cowan’s tosses for 336 yards and one TD, and junior wide receiver Ralph Plumb has 21 catches for 331 yards and 4 scores. The Bulldogs’ TB/KR Robert Carr has 81 carries for 409 yards and 6 TDs, and returned 10 kickoffs for an average of 24.8 yards. The Eli’s defense is in capable hands with senior DB Greg Owens, who owns 6 interception. Can Cowan and his fine receiving corps pull off the upset? The Bulldogs will need to double-team the Quakers’ wide receiver Castles. I reflected on this for a little while, and have come to the conclusion that Penn’s defense will hold back Yale’s offense just enough to pull out the win, 27-22.
at Colgate (7-0) over Bucknell (4-3). Despite Bucknell’s lackluster record, they are still very dangerous. Primarily a running team, the Bison are led on the ground by junior QB Daris Wilson with 658 yards on 139 carries and 4 TDs while also completing 40 of 62 passes for 580 yards and one score. The other leading rusher for the Bison is sophomore FB Blamah Sarnor with 119 carries for 468 yards and the 3 TDs. The defensive thrust will be spearheaded by junior LB Kevin Ransome who has 72 tackles. The BU defensive backfield is led by junior DB Joe Glenn with his 6 interceptions and he averaging 21.0 yards per return, including one for a TD, and has 23 tackles and 3 pass deflections. Freshman PK Ryan Korn has converted 10-of-14 field goal tries with a long of 40 yards and 14-of-15 extra point kicks for Bucknell. Colgate’s all-American candidate, junior TB Jamaal Branch has 180 carries for 1,121 yards and scored 16 TDs. Directing the Raiders' offense is junior QB Chris Brown. Brown has completed 98-of-176 passes for 1,276 yards and 7 TDs while claiming 271 yards on the ground on 71 carries and scoring 4 TDs. Brown has two favorite targets to throw at, including Luke Graham who has snatched 33 balls for 520 yards and 3 TDs, and J.B. Gerald with 35 catches for 368 yards and 3 scores, he also handles punt and kickoff returns. The defense stars senior LB Tem Lukabu with his 56 tackles, 9.5 for losses, including 5 sacks and 4 Passes defensed. Of course, Bucknell’s biggest problem, is going to be stopping Colgate’s tailback Jamaal Branch. I conceive Branch as being the difference in this game, and can see that Bucknell’s linebacker Kevin Ransome will be very busy chasing down Branch all day. I like Colgate, 21-9.
at Wofford (6-1) over Appalachian State (4-3). Appalachian State started out slow, but have improved with each game. Wofford has also been picking up steam as the season has progressed. The Mountaineers ground attack is headed by freshman RB Alan Atwater with 105 carries for 497 yards and 2 TDs. App State’s sophomore QB Richie Williams has posted 283 yards rushing on 99 carries and scored 6 TDs, while also completing 65-of-120 passes for 792 yards and 5 scores. Helping maintain the Mountaineers’ defense are two freshmen stalwarts, starting with DB Jeremy Wiggins who has totaled 57 tackles, including 4 for losses with one interception, while DB Corey Lynch has picked up 32 tackles, including 3 interceptions and 4 fumble recoveries. The Terriers’ power plays come from their running game in which they have a bevy of running backs. Wofford averages 242.3 yards rushing per game, with at seven running backs having no less than 130 yards and 29 carries! Heading that list of running backs is freshman HB Kevious Johnson with 62 carries for 292 yards and 6 TDs, and junior QB Jeff Zolman has 62 carries for 248 yards and one score while also completing 24-of-39 passes for 303 yards and a TD. Rotating at QB for the Terriers is junior Trey Rodgers with 41 carries for 177 yards and 3 TDs while also completing 15-of-28 passes for 246 yards with 3 scores. The Terriers’ defense is also well represented with some players with very good stats, the bulwark is handled by senior FS Matt Nelson’s 95 tackles, 2 interceptions and 9 pass break-ups, another major hitter on the defense is junior LB Timmy Thrift with 76 tackles, 7 behind the line of scrimmage, and he did return his interception for 100 yards and a TD. With so many different running backs coming at you, the Mountaineers will have a major problem deciphering who to pick on! Appalachian State will need to continue to mix up their offense as they have been doing to make any kind of dent in the Terrier defense. Timmy Thrift will be in their face all afternoon, and the Mountaineer passing game will have to contend with Matt Nelson. Wofford just needs to do what they do best, control the ball and clock with their ground attack. Wofford here, 23-14.
NCAA 1-AA Mid-Major
at Robert Morris (5-2) over Wagner (4-3) Let me try this one more time to see if I can’t get the Robert Morris game correct! It won’t be easy though! Robert Morris and I took it on the chin last week, as Sacred Heart defeated them, 24-20. Wagner is coming off an easy win over Siena, 34-6. The Colonials rely heavily on their senior RB Sam Dorsett to move the ball on the ground, and he has responded with 847 yards on 166 carries and scored 4 TDs. Quarterbacking the RMU squad is sophomore Drew Geyer with 82 completions on 148 pass attempts for 1,153 yards and 7 TDs, his favorite target being junior WR Tyjuan Massey with 19 catches for 268 yards and 2 scores, he also serves as a kick returner with 13 punt returns for a 9.2 average per return and 9 kickoff returns with an average of 26.3 yards per return with one for a score. The defense is manned by their two leading tacklers, junior LB James Noel with 72 tackles with 11 for losses, while senior SS Robb Butler has 52 stops, including 7 behind the line, 2 interceptions and 7 pass deflections. The Seahawks count on senior RB Chris Davis to gain needed yardage on the ground and has proved capable, gaining 627 yards on 103 carries and picking up 5 TDs while piling up more offensive yardage with his 7 catches for 83 yards and one more TD. Wagner’s leader is junior QB David Bateman with his 1,315 yards passing and 10 TDs by completing 106-of-215 passes, with senior WR Sean Simmons staying in Bateman’s graces by capturing 45 of his tosses for 557 yards and 5 TDs. The Seahawk defense is led by sophomore LB Craig Romano who has corralled 57 enemy, including 9 for losses and broke up 3 passes. Romano will have his hands full with his attempts at stopping a shifty Dorsett. It’s my opinion that Wagner needs to use the tandem of Bateman to Simmons, and connect frequently enough to defeat Robert Morris. Robert Morris needs to rely more heavily on the running of Dorsett to be able to control the clock. Here I go again, I’m taking Robert Morris, 20-17.
NCAA II
at Saginaw Valley State (7-0) over Ferris State (5-2). Saginaw Valley seems to always have trouble with Ferris State. Coming off a big win over No. 1-ranked Grand Valley, 34-20, SVSU cannot afford any type of letdown in this one. Ferris State romped over Mercyhurst last week, 33-7. The Cardinals are averaging 252.0 yards passing per game. Leading the way on offense for SVSU is junior QB Mark Radlinski with 1,756 yards passing, completing 137-of-215 with 20 TD tosses, and has mustered 93 yards on 25 carries with 3 TDs. Radlinski has several good hands to throw to, I only have room to mention two of them, senior WR Ruvell Martin who leads the team with 32 catches for 380 yards and 3 scores, and sophomore WR Stan Spencer who has grabbed 27 balls for 358 yards and 5 TDs. The Cardinal defense is headed and patrolled by junior DE Neil Baumgartner with 48 tackles, including 9 behind the line of scrimmage with 5 sacks, also on patrol at his LB spot is sophomore John DiGiorgio who has 65 stops and captured 3 for losses and recovered 2 fumbles. The Saginaw Valley special teams is led by a couple of top-notch kickers, including junior PK Eric Houle who has had 12 of his 17 field goal tries go through the uprights, including a long of 49 yards, and is 27-for-28 on PAT kicks while. Sophomore punter Dustin Esslin is averaging 42.2 yards per punt on 64 kicks. The Bulldogs leading ground gainer is senior TB Derek Fudge with 183 carries for 925 yards and 11 TD, plus he has also caught 22 passes for 136 yards and one more TD. Directing the Bulldog offense is junior QB Tom Marson with 1,193 yards passing on 112-of-202 pass attempts with 7 TDs, he also has gained 97 yards on 40 carries with 2 scores. FSU’s leading receiver is sophomore flanker Carlton Brewster with 38 catches for 312 yards and 4 TDs, he also returns kickoffs and punts. The defense is in good hands for Ferris State with this duo, first, at LB senior Luke Piepkow with 87 tackles, 6 tackles for loss, including 4 sacks, and junior DE John Hazel with 49 tackles, 13 for losses with 9 sacks. Without knowing the history of this series, I would have no problem in picking SVSU as the winner, but knowing the spirited battle these two arch-rivals have had in the past, it’s not that easy. Is there anyway that Ferris State can stop the Cardinal passing game? I really don’t think so, and yet, Ferris State, if they could give the ball to Fudge often enough, and control the clock, who knows. I simply collaborated with myself, and have come to the conclusion, that Saginaw Valley just has too many weapons. The Cardinals to win, 31-14.
Northwest Missouri State (5-2) over at Missouri Western (5-2). This will be a brawl! I’m picking the upset in this one. Northwest head coach Mel Tjeerdsma is in his 10th season at Northwest and his 20th as a collegiate head coach. Tjeerdsma has a record of 93-28 (.769) at Northwest, including NCAA Division II Championships in 1998 (15-0) and 1999 (14-1). Tjeerdsma has always been a favorite coach of mine, and by coincidence a Football Gazette long-time subscriber. Back in about 1950 I lived in Maryville, well, very close to Maryville, in Clyde, Missouri. So far this year, when I picked Northwest to win, they lost and when I chose them to lose they won! Northwest and Southern are just 37 miles apart and this is a major arch-rival game. Regulating the Bearcat offense is sophomore QB Josh Lamberson who has completed 74-of-136 pass attempts for 1,068 yards and 8 TDs and rushing 62 times for 207 yards and 3 scores. Lamberson’s main target has been junior WR Jamaica Rector who has tucked-in 40 passes for 659 yards and 5 TDs, while also returning 22 punts for an average of 8.1 yards and 11 kickoffs an average of 35.8 yards. Junior RB Shon Wells has also been a recipient of 11 tosses by Lamberson, good for 46 yards. Wells also is the leading rusher with 396 yards on 97 carries and 3 TDs. A stalwart on defense for Northwest is senior LB John Edmonds with 55 tackles, including 8 in the enemy backfield. The Griffins’ rushing game is generated by senior RB Derrick Pitts with 132 carries for 559 yards and 8 TDs. MWSC’s defense has standout senior DB Pierre Thomas with 39 tackles and he has returned his 9 interceptions a total of 298 yards and scored once, while on special teams he has returned 19 punts an average of 11.5 yards while scoring once, and has 10 kickoff returns for a 19.9 average per return. The Griffons freshman P/PK Tristan Blagg has converted all 6 of his field goal tries with a long of 44 yards and is averaging 41.4 yards per kick on punts. This should be a defensive battle, with the Griffons holding an edge as I observe it. However, I think that the Bearcats Jamaica Rector will have made the difference when the final buzzer sounds. Both Rector and the Griffons Pierre Thomas are a threat to score every time they get their hands on the ball. I’m sticking with Northwest Missouri here in a close one, 27-24.
at Nebraska-Omaha (6-2) over St. Cloud State (6-2). Heading the Mavericks dangerous and explosive offense is sophomore QB Brian Masek who has completed 113-of-176 passes for 1,559 yards and 16 TDs, while rushing for 267 yards on 92 carries and scoring 9 TDs. However, Omaha’s main rushing threat is senior RB Justin Kammred with 191 carries for 1,152 yards and 8 scores. The leading receiver for UNO happens to be senior WR Ryan Krause with 50 catches for 716 yards and 8 TDs. The defense is handled admirable, and keyed by a brother duo, with sophomore LB Taiwo Onatolu having 75 stops, 15 tackles for loss, 5 sacks and 3 pass deflections, with brother, RS-freshman SS Kenny Onatolu having 72 tackles, 6 for losses, 4 sacks and recovered 3 fumbles. St. Cloud State is just as dangerous on offense with senior QB Keith Heckendorf leading the way with completing 148-of-231 pass attempts for 1,938 yards and 22 touchdowns and picking up another 120 yards and 2 TDs on the ground. The Huskies ground forces are led by sophomore RB Matt Birkel with 92 rushes for 715 yards and 7 scores, with teammate, senior Josh Williams who has picked up 580 yards rushing on 116 carries and caught 8 passes for 138 yards and a TD. The Huskies defensive unit is sparked by senior LB Shane Rohman with 61 tackles and 13 for losses, and sophomore LB Mark Henderson has 63 stops and 10 hits behind the line of scrimmage. Junior punter Scott Dirkes is averaging 42.1 yards per punt on 38 kicks and sophomore PK Shaun Braunagel has converted 9-of-13 field goal tries with a long of 41 yards. Well, I might be out-of-line here, especially with two potent offenses, but I think the scoring will be held somewhat in check. I’m predicting that The Mavericks have the edge on defense, I’ll go with Nebraska-Omaha, 24-14.
Concordia-St. Paul (6-1) over at Minnesota-Duluth (5-2). I’m starting to think that this is really a long-shot, especially being hosted by Minnesota-Duluth, and quite frankly, Concordia is coming off a great win over Northern State in an offensive shootout, 59-52, while Duluth buried Minnesota-Crookston, 28-0 last week. Heading the Bears crushing offense is senior RB Chris Washington with 160 carries for 907 yards and 11 TDs, while he has also claimed another 173 yards on 7 catches. The Bears’ also have an all-star QB with sophomore James McNear, who has completed 118-of-200 passes for 1,684 yards and 11 TDs, while rushing 59 times for 255 yards and 5 scores. Concordia’s leading receiver is senior Joseph Mapson with 50 catches for 707 yards and 6 TDs, and has returned 13 punts, averaging 20.5 yards per return including one for a TD, and 18 kickoff returns for a 27.7 average with one TD. The defense is anchored by junior LB Brian Doyle with 61 tackles, 9 tackles for loss, including 4 sacks and 3 fumble recoveries. The Bulldogs running game is headed by junior RB Dave Rufledt with 88 carries for 619 yards and 8 TDs while also catching 7 passes for 40 yards and another score. Duluth’s leading receiver is Tim Battaglia with 37 catches for 670 yards and 6 scores. The Bulldog defense is headed by senior LB Dave Otto with 39 stops with 4 for losses, and junior DL Russel Rabe with 34 tackles, including 13 behind the line of scrimmage with 9.5 sacks. I might be a foolhardy so-and-so, but I think the tandem of the Bears McNear and Washington can pull off the surprise party. Concordia, 34-29.
at East Stroudsburg (5-2) over West Chester (5-2). Well, here I go again picking a team that many feel will lose. Hey, who doesn’t love the underdog? East Stroudsburg’s Warriors are guided by their young freshman quarterback Jimmy Terwilliger who has completed 122-of 201 passes for 1,921 yards and 21 TDs, while also rushing for 309 yards on 66 carries with 4 scores. The leading receiver is senior WR John Jeffries with 33 catches for 500 yards and 6 scores and he also leads the Warriors with an average of 10.5 yards on 15 punt returns. ESU’s defense is led by senior LB Ryan Vermillion with 62 tackles and Junior LB Matt Rapa with 61 tackles. The Golden Rams are directed by junior QB Bob Findora who has completed 83-of-149 pass attempts for 1,413 yards and 11 TDs, while gaining 120 yards on 32 carries with one TD. Senior WR George Caroulis has tucked in 28 passes for 404 yards and 3 scores, and junior WR Cory DeForrest has caught 22 passes for 437 yards with 4 TDs for the Rams. The Rams running back tandem of senior Mike Eckmeyer, 102 rushes, 649 yards with 4 scores, and redshirt FR Osagie Osunde with 85 carries for 601 yards and 11 TDs lead the team in rushing yardage. On defense WCU’s sophomore LB Chris Tagye heads the list of tacklers with 36. Terwilliger, though only a freshman, I'm confident can direct the ESU offense to a win over a tough West Chester defense. It’s the Warriors, 35-26.
NCAA III
at Millikin (5-1) over Augustana IL (4-2). Will the Big Blue defeat their second-straight ranked opponent? I think they will. The Vikings have a very long-standing tradition though, so it won’t be easy. Both teams like to run with the ball, especially Augustana who is only averaging 69.3 yards a game passing. Augustana will control the game with their strong running attack and very good defense. The Vikings won four straight D-III titles in the mid ‘80’s using almost exclusively their ground attack and stellar defense. Handling the quarterbacking chores for the Big Blue is senior Donnell Brown with 981 yards passing, completing 64-of-111 passes with 7 TDs, and has rushed 35 times for 130 yards and one score. Their ground attack is led by sophomore RB, Jemel Shepherd with 101 carries for 544 yards and 8 TDs, and freshman RB Nathan Wallick, 80 carries for 453 yards and 6 scores. The Big Blue’s defensive standouts are senior LB Jason Harvey, 49 tackles, 6 for losses and senior DB Lee Clayton, 31 tackles, 11 pass break-ups. The very dangerous Natha Chandler, sophomore, KR/WR, has returned 8 punts for an average of 13.2 yards with one TD, 11 kickoff with a 31.0 average per return with one score, and has also caught 9 passes for 64 yards. The Vikings’ running game is led by senior RB Kyle Zick with 90 carries for 382 yards and 3 TDs and, Aaron Kuzniar with 54 carries for 281 yards and 2 scores. The Augie defensive leaders are, junior LB Steve Szpejnowski with 54 tackles, 6 for losses and, senior DB Matt Furlong, 47 tackles, 7 behind the line, 4 pass deflections and 2 fumble recoveries. To pull this game out, the Big Blue will need to pass the ball more than they are used to. The Vikings will try and control this game on the ground by pounding the ball through the defensive line. Augie has a very strong defense, but I expect Millikin will be able to put enough points up to pull this game out. Millikin, 27-17.
at St. John’s (6-0) over Concordia-Moorhead (5-1). This will be St. John’s strongest test to date. SJU head coach John Gagliardi continues his "march to history" as he gained career win number 406 in his 55-year career. Gagliardi is now three wins away from setting the all-time career win record, currently held by former Grambling State coach Eddie Robinson. Gagliardi, another very strong supporter of the Football Gazette, is just amazing, and last week he presented the Johnnies with their 500th school football win, in the 63-9 victory at Augsburg. The Johnnies are averaging 208.7 yards rushing and 265.7 yards passing while holding their opponents to just 84.8 yards rushing. Talk about you running game, Concordia has a great one, they are averaging 323.3 yards rushing per game. What will give here! St. John’s is guided by their all-American quarterback candidate, senior, Ryan Keating with 117-of-172 pass completions for 1,332 yards and 15 TDs, and he has only been intercepted 3 times. The recipient of the majority of Keating’s passes is super-speedster and all-American senior WR/KR Blake Elliott with 54 catches for 638 yards and 8 TDs. Elliott has also returned 9 punts an average of 13.1 yards with one TD and has 6 kickoff returns averaging 36.8 yards with one TD, along with rushing for 201 yards on 20 carries and had one more score. Junior WR, Lee Clintsman has pulled down 20 passes for 283 yards and 5 TDs for SJU. St. John’s running tandem of sophomore RB Jake Theis, and senior RB Josh Nelson have been heavy duty men, as Theis has 83 carries, for 479 yards and 6 TDs while Nelson has gained 308 yards on 49 carries with 6 scores. The Johnnies defense is maintained by three standouts, starting with senior LB Cameron McCambridge, 47 tackles, 5 for losses, one interception and two passes defended. Freshman LB Jamie Steffensmeier, 51 tackles, 8 for losses, one interception and 3 pass deflections is also a Johnnie standout and junior LB Paul Gans has 44 tackles, 4 interceptions returned for 139 yards total and one TD, and blocked 3 other passes. The Cobbers running attack is headed by senior RB Robert Clark, 92 carries, 628 yards, 3 TDs and he also has 16 punt returns, averaging 10.9 yards a return and 8 kickoff returns for an average of 24.1 yards. Leading the way for Concordia’s potent rushing game is senior QB Ryan Hebrink who has 95 carries for 520 yards and 4 scores and has completed 45-of-96 pass attempts for 692 yards and 9 TDs. The Cobbers senior RB Jeremy Hinderks has 46 carries for 251 yards and 7 TDs. Concordia’s defense is anchored by junior LB Josh Dietz with 52 tackles, 7 for losses, one interception and one pass deflection. St. John’s, and coach Gagliardi, are making history, and with Elliott, the all-everything player, I will pick the Johnnies in this one, although they will have to stop the Cobbers very electrifying rushing attack. St. John’s 34-21.
at Hardin-Simmons (5-1) over East Texas Baptist (5-1). Coach Ralph Harris has brought ETSU a long way since the football program was started a few years ago. Coach Harris has built a solid program in these few short years, and has put them in a position to contend for the American Southwest conference title. This is a team to watch in the future. Hardin-Simmons has had a solid program and is a conference contender and playoff proven team for many years now. The Tigers of East Texas Baptist are supervised on offense by junior QB Brandon Nelson with 1,045 yards passing, completing 57-of-107 pass attempts, while the beneficiary of most of his throws has been senior WR Jabori Jackson with 22 catches for 401 yards and 4 scores, he also has returned 6 punts an average of 11.5 yards and 8 kickoffs for an average of 23.4 yards per return. The Tigers ground assault is focused on sophomore RB RoShawn Johnson who has made 156 carries for 854 yards and 6 TDs, and has caught 6 passes for 110 yards and one more score. The ETSU defense is sustained by junior LB Greg Washington with 53 tackles, 10 for losses and three sacks, also a leader on defense is Chad Glover with 27 tackles, 13 tackles for loss, 4 sacks, 4 pass deflections, one fumble recovery that he returned 18 yards for a TD. The Tigers punter, senior Scott Verhalen has averaged 41.9 yards on his 19 kicks with 8 dropping inside the 20. Hardin-Simmons has quite a running game and is led by junior SB Lance Moore with 512 yards on 71 carries with 6 scores, also a major player is junior RB Donta’ Hayward whose 320 yards gained rushing, place him second on the team. Directing this Cowboys outfit from his QB spot is sophomore Jordan Neal who has completed 115-of-169 passes for 1,402 yards and 11 TDs, while also rushing 34 times for 84 yards and 3 scores. The Cowboys leading receiver is senior WR Joe Lemberg with 35 catches for 526 yards and 5 scores, while also handling the punt return chores with 15 returns for an average of 12.9 yards with one TD. The defense is in vary capably being led by HSU’s top tackle man in sophomore LB Jason Rupert with 48, including 3 for losses. Rounding out the Cowboy defensive leaders is all-American junior CB Alex Hansen whose numbers have been impressive throughout his career. So far this year Hansen has 29 tackles, 5 pass deflections, one forced fumble and 5 interceptions that have been returned for a total of 87 yards. East Texas Baptist is only allowing 54.0 yards rushing, so it would seem that as good as the Cowboys passing attack is they will need to pick it up another notch. The Tigers Greg Washington will need to penetrate the HSU offensive line frequently enough to hurry the quarterback into mistakes. The difference may come down to the defensive leadership and prowess of Alex Hansen. I’ll take the Cowboys in a close one, 29-24.
at Linfield (5-0) over at Menlo (5-1). This is another game that I really wish I could be in attendance at. Menlo is determined to break through, and get into the D-III playoffs, they’ve been on the bubble four different years, and failed to make it each time. This just might be the year the Oaks’ football team makes it! (If) they can defeat a very legitimate D-III power like Linfield, it could come true. This will be a bruising battle! Both team favor the passing game. Menlo is fortunate to have a dynamic leader as their QB, junior Frank Borba who has completed 127-of-183 passes for 1,644 yards and 15 TDs and has also contributed in rushing with 43 carries for 144 yards and 3 scores. Sparking the Oaks receiving corps is senior WR Andre O’Neil with 25 catches for 248 yards, while the running attack features, senior RB Duane Miller with 129 carries for 664 yards and 9 TDs, he also has pulled in 9 passes for 84 yards. Lining up at a running back slot is junior Mike Andreacchi with 16 carries for 66 yards, but more importantly, he is the leading receiver for the Oaks with 25 catches for 295 yards and 2 scores and does double duty as a punt and kickoff return specialist. The defense is being led by the capable hands of junior DB Brandon Springer, 30 tackles, 5 pass break-ups and with his 4 interceptions he is averaging 12.5 yards per return. Another defensive leader is Galen Perry, 36 tackles, 4 pass deflection and 2 fumble recoveries, returning each 12 yard for touchdowns. The Oaks leading tackler is junior DB Kenny Wolfe with 42 tackles, including 8 behind the line. Linfield relies heavily on their senior QB Tyler Matthews to direct them to victory. Matthews has completed 93-of-140 pass attempts for 1,465 yards and 20 TDs. Also a major cog in the Wildcats offensive scheme is junior WR George Carter with 33 catches for 688 yards and 8 TDs. The Wildcats leading rusher is junior RB Thomas Ford with 67 carries for 368 yards and one score. On the defensive side of the ball for Linfield are two fine leaders, starting with, junior DE Kelley Bertrand with 24 tackles, 7 behind the line of scrimmage including 3.5 sacks. Senior LB Harrison Bertsch has totaled 29 tackles for the Wildcats. Can’t forget about the Wildcats very dangerous return man and CB, junior Erik Hillison who has 11 kickoff returns for an average of 34.1 yards with one TD, and on defense he has contributed with 17 tackles. Both teams will be put in a pressure cooker at this game. With both squads favoring the passing attack, I deem that the difference will be the Wildcats DB Brandon Springer and/or the ever dangerous Erik Hillison. The Oaks Frank Borba has a chance to really shine in this game provided his receivers can break away from Linfield’s defenders. This should have enough excitement and scoring in it to satisfy the fans. I’ll pick Linfield 35-28.
Baldwin-Wallace (5-1) over at Muskingum (5-1). This should be a defensive battle and a low scoring affair. The Yellow Jackets of Baldwin-Wallace are guided on offense by senior QB Dan Larlham who has completed 71-of-123 passes for 863 yards and 11 TDs, and he is also active in their ground game with 432 rushing yards on 66 carries and 4 scores. B-W’s leading receiver is junior WR Dave Erhman with 21 catches for 287 yards and 4 TDs. The Jackets main threat, rushing with the ball on offense, is senior RB Mark Anders who has gained 656 yards on 91 carries and scored 12 TDs, and he also has caught 12 passes for 102 yards and one more score and is also serving as a kickoff return man, having an 18.5 return yard average on 6 kickoff returns. B-W’s other top rusher is Randale Richmond with 49 carries for 207 yards and 2 TDs. The leading tackler for the Yellow Jackets is sophomore Justin Princehorn with 59 stops, including 7 for losses, and senior DE Nate Mitchell has 42 tackles, 18 for losses, including 8.5 sacks, 3 pass deflections and 14 quarterback hurries. The Muskingum offense is led by junior RB Trevor Cooper with 163 carries for 771 yards and 4 TDs, and 7 pass receptions for 100 yards. The Muskies junior WR has caught 11 passes. On defense, junior LB Todd Filtz is the leading tackler with 55. Also, a defensive standout for Muskingum is senior DB Ryan Spicer with 41 tackles, 6 pass break-ups and 3 interception that were returned for a total of 101 yards, including 2 for TDs. Baldwin-Wallace defense has allowed just 83.3 yards rushing per game. I ‘m sure the Muskies are going to have to contend with B-W’s defensive end Nate Mitchell in their backfield throughout the game. The Muskies also have a very good defense, and with defensive back Ryan Spicer they could create some problems for B-W’s passing game, but I see the Yellow Jackets defense pretty much shutting down the Muskies offensive attack. I like B-W, 21-7.
at Waynesburg (6-1) over Washington & Jefferson (6-0). Waynesburg is looking to get a big win at home this Saturday. This is the last stellar test for W & J, and if they get the win here, it should be smooth sailing for their remaining three games, which will notch them an undefeated regular season. Waynesburg’s Yellow Jackets will try to surprise the Generals at home. Waynesburg’s offense is headed by junior QB Jeff Dunn who has completed 113-of-171 pass attempts for 1,356 yards and 18 TDs, and has rushed for 49 yards and one score. WC’s rushing attack is led by a trio of freshmen, and all three have had the opportunity to carry the ball just about the same number of times. The freshman running back with the most yardage so far this season is Eric Daniels with 550 yards on 87 carries and has scored 8 TDs, second on the list is Dennis Gearhart with 411 yards on 89 carries but has yet to score, and the third freshman is Ryan Abels with 404 yards on 84 carries and 8 scores. The Yellow Jackets leader on defense with 54 tackles and 4 sacks is senior LB Sean Ross, also a leader on defense is senior DL Phil Thomas with 30 stops, 10 for losses and one interception. The Presidents’ offensive leader is sophomore QB Jeff Edwards who has thrown for 1,385 yards completing 86-of-165 pass attempts and has hit for 12 TDs. Edwards primary target is senior WR Mike Virgin who has pulled down 31 balls for 514 yards and scored 6 times, he has also returned 7 kickoffs for an 18.8 yards per return average. The W & J defense is anchored by junior LB, Eric Field and junior DB Frank Pilato. Field has 72 tackles to his credit along with 4 sacks and Pilato has 59 stops, 2 forced fumbles, 9 pass deflections and 4 interceptions with 100 return yards, including one for a score. Waynesburg is allowing just 88.3 yards rushing by their defense. I don’t think they can hold W & J to just 88 yards rushing, but they might be able to hold down their rushing attack enough to pull out a win. The Presidents defensive back Frank Pilato will present a major problem for the Waynesburg passing attack, but the Yellow Jackets three freshmen running backs are tricky, and so Pilato may find that he is having to guard against them to stop any long gainers on the ground which would leave things a more open for the pass. W & J needs to mix it up with their running and passing attacks. I’m looking for an upset here and will choose Waynesburg, 27-21.
at Trinity TX (5-1) over Centre (6-1). Too bad this game is at Trinity, or Centre would have a better chance to pull off the upset. As it is, Centre should still put up a good challenge in this game. Trinity’s Tigers are guided by senior QB Dan DesPlaines who has connected on 124 of his 191 pass attempts for 1, 701 yards and 14 TDs. The man with the most receptions for the Tigers is sophomore WR Robert Kelner who has pulled in 32 for 439 yards and 2 scores and he has also returned 19 kickoffs. Though not much of a rushing team, Trinity does have a few good ground gainers, starting with sophomore RB Ray Valencia with 52 carries for 267 yards and 2 TDs, and sophomore RB Jerrold Jones with 209 yards and 2 scores on 64 carries. The Tigers strong defense is headed-up by senior DL Jarrod Smith with 30 tackles, 9 for losses, 6 sacks, one interception, 3 pass deflections and 20 quarterback hurries. The leading tackler for the Tigers is Wacey Clarke with 64 and senior DB Matt Woodchick has 51 tackles, one interception and 4 pass break-ups. The Colonels have an exceptional QB in junior Brian Behrendt who has completed 147-of-236 pass attempts for 1,524 yards and 15 TDs. Behrendt’s top receivers are junior David Crowley with 32 catches for 320 yards and 4 tds and he also returns kickoffs, and senior Adam Schneider has 31 receptions for 343 yards and 3 TDs. The Colonels top ground gainer is senior RB Lorenzo Engleman with 111 carries for 615 yards and 3 scores. Centre’s defense is commanded by senior DB John Ortega with 76 tackles, 5 tackles for loss, one interception and 3 pass deflections, while senior DB Kevin Tytus has totaled 24 tackles, 6 pass break-ups and 3 interceptions for 97 return yards and 2 touchdowns. Will anyone besides Trinity ever win the Southern Collegiate Athletic Conference? It’s not that the conference is that weak, it’s just a fact that Trinity is always in the hunt for the NCAA III title, they are that strong. Both schools have very good defenses and more than capable offenses, but Trinity’s defensive line is a menace to their opponents offenses. Trinity must step up their rushing attack to compete against Centre, and Centre will need to mix it up more. The difference will be whose defense comes up big. I’m going to say it will be Trinity’s. I like Trinity, 21-7.
NAIA
at Walsh (6-1) over Geneva (4-2). Walsh has been coming on strong ever since their loss to a very good St. Xavier squad earlier this year. Geneva has also improved during the season. Both schools are still in the conference race for first place, but Geneva cannot afford to lose another one as they already have one conference loss. The Cavaliers from Walsh are led by their all-America candidate, senior TB Derek Besgrove who has 209 carries for 1,317 yards and 19 scores and has caught 4 passes for 27 yards and one more TD. Sophomore QB Dan Kane directs the Walsh offense and has completed 68-of-127 pass attempts for 1,006 yards and 10 TDs. The majority of Kane’s passes have been thrown to senior WR Adam Copeland and senior TE Chris Brink. Copeland has caught 27 passes for 335 yards and 3 scores, while Brink has chased down 26 for 414 yards and 6 TDs. On defense for the Cavaliers is sophomore LB Brian Rogers who is leading the way with 70 tackles, 9 for losses and 3 pass break-ups. Also a defensive standout for the Caveliers is junior LB Matt Beebe with 36 tackles, 13.5 for losses, 6 sacks, 3 pass deflections and 3 fumble recoveries. The Golden Tornados offense is maneuvered by senior QB Ben Swallow who has completed 72-of-138 passes for 928 yards and 6 scores with junior WR Matt Nowaczynski corralling 36 balls for 475 yards and 6 TDs, and has returned 21 punts for an 11.4 yards per return average, returning one for a TD. Geneva’s defensive backfield relies heavily on senior DB Mark Villella who has 4 interceptions and 9 pass break-ups. The Golden Tornados senior LB Dan Glaze has 54 tackles, 3 sacks and 2 fumble recoveries, and sophomore DB Brian Hall has 54 tackles and 3 sacks. Walsh’s tailback Derek Besgrove will be hard for Geneva to contain and he should make the difference in the game. Geneva will need for Ben Swallow to throw more passes this game to have any shot at winning because I don’t see their running game being able to penetrate well enough to move at a game-winning pace. Walsh has a little too much offense and defense. I pick Walsh to win, 28-14.
St. Xavier (5-2) over at Oliver Nazarene (4-2). Both schools are sporting have 3-0 marks conference marks. This will be a battle-royal. I might be going to this night game. St. Xavier knocked off No. 2-ranked McKendree last week 24-14, and Oliver Nazarene defeated an improved Iowa Wesleyan team 29-13. The Cougars from St. Xavier are led on offense by their exciting and shifty RS-freshman Luke Schillo who has 93 carries for 453 yards and 10 TDs. The Cougars’ offense is generated by sophomore QB John Perryman who has completed 106-of-186 pass attempts for 1,328 yards and 8 scores with his favorite target being Jarrod Nowman who has caught 31 passes for 501 yards and 5 TDs, and he also runs back punts and kickoffs. St. Xavier’s RB/WR Guy Smith has rushed for 292 yards on 62 carries and scored 3 times while also catching 13 passes for 97 yards and one more TD. The defense is guarded by sophomore LB Rick King with 37 tackles, 6.5 tackles behind the line of scrimmage, one interception and one pass block, and junior DB Matt Derry has 37 tackles, 5 for losses, 2 interceptions and 2 fumble recoveries. The Tigers offense is directed by sophomore QB Joe Boseo who has completed 83-of-181 passes for 996 yards and 8 scores. Boseo’s main target is sophomore WR Tim Vettel who has pulled in 23 passes for 318 yards and 4 TFs. Tops in the running game for the Tigers is freshman RB Billy Lawrence with 76 carries for 389 yards and 4 TDs and 6 catches for 90 yards. Also for the Tigers at running back is junior Allen Swilley with 73 carries for 322 yards and 3 scores and 10 catches for 94 yards. ONU’s defense is anchored by junior LB Paul Berge with 69 tackles, 6 for losses and 6 pass deflections and senior DB Ben Richardson has 52 tackles, 2 interceptions and 6 pass break-ups. St. Xavier’s Luke Schillo will need to find openings to help pull the Cougars to victory. Olivet Nazarene will have to do more passing, because it is hard to run against St. Xavier, just ask McKendree about that. I think that Schillo will make the difference in a very close game. I like St. Xavier, 27-24.
posted by Don @ 10/23/2003 10:41:00 PM
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