Ohio Offense vs. Southern Miss Defense
Ohio has run the ball far more than it passed it and don't expect a change in that approach because the Bobcats haven't lost when running back Kalvin McRae has rushed for more than 100 yards. McRae is a physical between-the-tackles runner who has excellent vision and rarely goes down with the first hit. That's not good news for Southern Miss fans because the Golden Eagles' run defense isn't strong in the middle. Though DTs Sean Merrill and Martavious Prince are active, they take too long to shed blocks and have problems holding their ground when they get reached. A strong interior offensive line led by OC J.J. Knabb should be able to neutralize the two tackles and get a body on undersized MLB Gerald McRath. McRae isn't the most explosive runner in the nation, but Ohio should have some success attacking the perimeter. LOT Matt Coppage and David Shelby have good quickness and athletic ability for their size so they should have some success sealing DEs Matthew Chatelain and Robert Henderson inside. The Bobcats should also mix in some option and the Southern Miss linebackers have been caught out of position at times this year.
| Ohio vs. Southern Miss |
|
|
 |
vs.
|
 |
When: Jan. 7, 2007, 8 p.m. ET (ESPN)
Where: Mobile, Ala.
|
It's unclear who will start at quarterback at this point and that's never a good sign. QB Austen Everson is listed as probable and should be available after missing the Miami game and leaving the MAC Championship game with an ankle injury. However, coach Frank Solich could opt for backup Brad Bower even if Everson is healthy because both have been inconsistent at best and have thrown more interceptions than touchdowns. Regardless of who gets the start, the Bobcats will need their quarterback to make sound decisions. This should be a close game with field position playing a big role in the outcome so protecting the football should be essential. Everson and Bower must take what the defense gives them and be willing to throw the ball away when nothing is available downfield. The good news is both are capable of picking up yards with their feet and Southern Miss' pass rush hasn't been all that productive. It's also worth noting that the Golden Eagles greatly improve their chances of winning if they can prevent the big play because neither quarterback has shown the ability to consistently move the offense. Keeping that in mind, DCs Jasper Faulk and Caleb Hendrix can't get caught biting on play action when they line up opposite WR Scott Mayle. Mayle doesn't get a lot of opportunities to make plays, but he has good speed.
|
