Wednesday, October 29, 2008

Panthers travel to take on Greensboro
Only night game of the year.

After a bye week, the USA South leading Ferrum Panthers will travel to take on the Greensboro College Pride. This 7 p.m. game will showcase two teams, that by their records, seem to be headed in opposite directions. A closer look at the statistics, indicates that this may be a closer game than one would think.
Ferrum 6-1 (4-0), is a running team that has achieved great success so far this season. Their rushing offense is ranked first in the USA South, and 7th nationally, While the Greensboro defense ranks 5th in the conference and 126th nationally against the run. By contrast, Greensboro's running game is ranked 8th in the conference and 235th nationally, while the Panther rush defense is ranked 1st in the conference, and 42nd nationally. These facts will make it difficult for the Pride, but a look at the passing statistics would show an advantage for Greensboro. The Pride's passing offense is ranked is ranked 2nd in the conference behind North Carolina Wesleyan and is ranked 84th nationally. The Panthers on the other hand are struggling against the pass. Ferrum ranks 6th in the conference, and 140th nationally. Passing Defense shows the Pride as 2nd in the conference, and 26th nationally, While Ferrum, who rarely passes, is ranked 8th in the conference, and 220th nationally through the air.

All in all, Ferrum should pick up win # 7 this weekend, but needs to maintain the consistency they have shown that they are capable of. I see the keys to the win as this:

Dominate time of possession.
Pass defense needs to be ready, as this is Greensboro's offensive strength.
Pressure the Pride Quarterback
Control the "red zone"
Create turnovers, and capitalize on them.
Convert all extra points and field goals.

With these elements of the game a priority, Ferrum should return home for Senior day, 7-1.

My prediction :

Ferrum 34
Greensboro 14

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