Headed to MaryvillePanthers End Season on the Road

It seems like the season just began at Emory and Henry. Saturday, Ferrum travels to Maryville TN to close the 2009 season against the Maryville Scots. Coming off of a triple overtime loss to Averett, Ferrum looks to end this season on a high note and secure a .500 record. In order to do that, they must get past a tough Maryville team that is coming off of their programs first ever win against Christopher Newport. This will not be an easy game for the Panthers. Statistically, both teams match up similarly. The Conference's number 1 rated rushing offense, against the conference's number 1 rated rushing defense. Ferrum averages 295.0 yards per game on the ground, and Maryville gives up only 133.8 yards per game. The Maryville offense averages 333.1 yards per game (Rushing and Passing) ranking them 4th offensively in the conference, While the Ferrum defense is giving up 358.8 yards per game, ranking them 7th in the conference. Since this series began in 2005, Ferrum and Maryville are tied with 2 wins each. Ferrum won last year 24-10.
Against common opponents, their records too are almost identical...Both teams beat Methodist and Shenandoah, but both teams lost to North Carolina Wesleyan, Averett, and Greensboro, The one glaring difference is that Maryville beat CNU on the road, and Ferrum lost to CNU at home.
While this game does not have playoff implications, look for this to be the best, most exciting game of the weekend!

So what are the keys to a Ferrum victory?

Ball control
Control time of possession

Ball Protection
6 fumbles last week is not something that can happen again- Do not give this team anything but a handshake at the coin toss.

Be prepared to throw the ball
MC has a suspect pass defense, and this can be taken advantage of.

Defend the pass
Maryville will put it up. Let's see some interceptions

Special Teams will be key here.
The game may be decided by a field goal or by field position. All opportunities must count.

Stay loose, and have fun
How about some razzle dazzle? Hook and Ladder, Halfback pass to the QB. Have fun. This is the last time for the Seniors- Make it a win- Make it memorable.

Go Panthers!

My Prediction:

Ferrum 30
Maryville 27