The Jackrabbits return home and are sitting at 3-0! They look to wrap up the non-conference portion of their schedule with a win against a brand new opponent in Dixie State. The Jacks did suffer another injury last week and need to stay healthy entering conference play. Here is what we are watching on Satuday!
- Jackrabbit Corners vs. Jalen Powell
Through the first 3 weeks of the season Powell has 23 receptions for 210 yards. He is finding ways to get open against quality opponents. The Jacks lost their shutdown corner, Don Gardner, during the Indiana State game. They have upcoming contests against SIU and WIU; both of which are pass happy offenses with alpha receivers (Avante Cox for SIU and Dennis Houston for WIU). Containing Powell will be a good litmus test for DyShawn Gales and Malik Lofton. We would also like to see Dalys Beanum, Steven Arrell, Abe Hoskins, and the freshmen get some extended run (if possible) in this game.
2. Come out Sharp
The Jackrabbit offense was not sharp in the first quarter against Indiana State. In the MVFC, starting slow against some of the high powered offenses may mean a loss. No penalties and sustained drives are what I want to see from the team early on in this contest. We also think it is important that the Jacks continue distributing the ball to their bevy of weapons and keeping all players engaged and the defense guessing.
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3. Wrap It Up
In his post game press conference, Coach Stig mentioned that he wanted to see better tackling from his defense. We don’t have an official count but we do remember numerous times Jackrabbit defenders bounced off of a ISUs running back and tight end. Dixie State may not have the same type of power runners BUT they are definitely coming up on the schedule. The Jacks might as well clean this area up on Saturday.
4. Fan Engagement
The opener against Lindenwood was a great and engaged crowd. In terms of attendance, it was in the top 10. The Jackrabbits are wearing their black jerseys on Saturday and promoting a “JacksInBlack” theme. Fans are encouraged to wear black shirts. It is also the Beef Bowl which is always a big crowd but with harvest in full swing it could limit attendance somewhat. The fans will be needed for the conference meat grinder of SIU, UNI, NDSU, and UND so lets hope they have a good time and come back for more!
Should be a beautiful day for tailgating and night for football! The Jacks will hopefully stay healthy and allow their depth to continue to get meaningful live reps against a different team.
