GAME PREVIEW CAPSULE
Azusa Pacific University at Dixie State University, today, Hansen Stadium, St. George, UT
Previous Meeting: October 18, 2014 — Cougars 49, Red Storm 27 (Terrell Watson gains 198 yards and scores five touchdowns against DSU. The Storm led at one point 20-14. Two interceptions late in the game turned the tide against them).
Overall Series Record: Cougars lead head-to-head series 8-3
Broadcast: ESPN SportsRadio 97.7 FM; CEC-TV; southernutahlive.com
RED STORM
Head coach: Scott Brumfield (6th year, 12-45 overall)
Offense: Pistol, Pro Set
Defense: Pro 4-3
Last Game: Lost to No. 17 nationally ranked Humboldt State 66-7 (September 19, 2015)
Players to watch: Quarterback Blake Barney leads the team in rushing. Running backs DeJon Coleman and Orlando Wallace together average over 100 yards per game. DSU does not pass the ball much, but thwen they get it to Nate Stephens good things happen. Safety Colton Olson and linebacker Robert Metz lead the defense in tackles. Safety Kahani Smith leads the team in tackles for loss.
COUGARS
Head Coach: Victor Santa Cruz (11th year at HSU, 55-46 overall)
Offense: Spread
Defense: Eagle
Last Game: Beat Simon Fraser 16-10 (September 19, 2015)
Players to watch: All-American running back Terrell Watson was lost to graduation. Trying to fill his shoes is Kurt Scoby who averages 100 yards rushing. The Cougars split their offense equally between pass and run, but their passing game garners two-thirds of the total yardage. Chad Jeffries throws for 277 yards per game. He spreads the ball around well but his favorite targets are wide receivers Blake Robertson and Ethan Zeidler. Defensively the Cougars had to do an overhaul with eight starters graduating. Linebackers Sam Flemming and Errik Manning lead the team in tackles. Defensive tackle Charles Burks has three sacks on the year. Free safety Josh Atkinson leads the team in interceptions with two.
GAME OUTLOOK
The Cougars give up over 400 yards per game on defense. They will try to outscore you with their potent offensive attack. The Storm defense will have its hands full with Jeffries. But conversely, Barney could have another big day like two weeks ago against Central Washington. Let’s face it. Humboldt blew DSU out but they are going to blow many of their opponents out this year. APU is good, but not near as good as they were last year. The Storm have an opportunity to even their season at home. The key will be how well the Dixie State defense can contain the Cougar offense. The Storm has to win the turnover battle.
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