Tech @ SVSU

After strong showings in their first two weeks, Tech struggled last week. It appeared that their ability to be balanced on offense hasn't quite developed, at least not compared to what they've been able to do in recent years. The Cards also lost for the first time last Saturday, and the circumstances were similar...they got off schedule, fell behind, and simply didn't have the firepower to catch up. That said, SV certainly showed a greater ability than Tech to be able to throw the ball when necessary. So, even if they are held down early, they showed they can be more explosive than what it appears the Huskies can be. Plus, I don't see Tommy Scott being held down for two weeks in a row...especially when they're at home. This one will likely be entertaining, and we've seen these two fight to the wire repeatedly over the years. Cards at home in a close one.


Davenport @ Northern

While this one features a couple of clubs yet to post a win, the game actually has some fun story lines. It's Davenport's first trip to the U.P., it's the home-opener for the 'Cats, and we have a battle of former Ferris assistants who are now head coaches. Neither team has shown an ability to effectively stop opposing offenses, but Northern has at least shown some life offensively. Add in the Dome effect, and the fact that the Panthers have yet to generate a turnover on defense, and it seems like Northern has a decided advantage.


Wayne @ Tiffin

When you look at these clubs statistically, they appear similar: they are both scoring 32 points per game, and are nearing 400 yards per game offensively. Where they differ is Tiffin's D has been a bit stingier...at least statistically. Closer inspection, however, reveals that Tiffin has played games against a couple of weaker teams. Wayne has faced two legit squads in three outings, and has shown an ability to move the ball consistently against tougher defenses. Plus, teams that can physically control the line of scrimmage and run the ball have given the Dragons difficulty over the years...that's Wayne's bread-and-butter. No GLIAC games are easy, particularly on the road, but I like Wayne here.


Ferris @ Ashland

Sheesh. What the heck do we do with this one? While I have no doubt Ashland can win (they did last year), it's so hard to ignore how over-the-top explosive Ferris is. Of course, then I go back to what Travis Tarnowski and Company can do when they have the ball. Man... I can talk myself around this game about a 100 different ways. I'm kind of with a few others here...if Reggie Bell can go, it's hard for me not to favor Ferris. If he's rolling, Ferris can overcome any mistakes that may come along. If he's not, I'm not convinced they'll stay clean enough for four quarters to outscore the Eagles. I'm keeping an eye on this one as much as I can...I'm taking Ferris now, despite being on the road, but if Bell isn't playing I think the Eagles quickly become the favorite.


Northwood @ GVSU

After a strong start, the Woodies got embarrassed last week by Ashland. The Lakers looked a bit more like what most were expecting at Tech, and if the GV offense continues to progress it's seems hard to think that Northwood can keep up points-wise. The Woodbone is about controlling pace and keeping the ball on the ground. If the Woodies fall behind, catching up is not their forte. Making things tougher on NU is that GV's defense seems to be settling in after an awful go of it week 1...AND, like Ferris, NU has questions surrounding the health of their QB. If Joe Garabino is less than 100%, or possibly can't go, this one gets decidedly more tilted toward Grand Valley.


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