After studying both teams here, I see two areas for both teams that will play a huge role in deciding this game. First on the Shepherd side, is the play of the defensive line. I've stressed this in previous threads, but without Adam McLean in there yet, the defensive line is a little undersized. Both Ricky Robinson and Scott Dixon bring plenty of game experience and both are motors in the middle. Today OD brings a huge offensive line and a solid running game. The offense is a balanced attack and put up over 41 points a game last year. That defensive line will need to hold their running game in check and force them to throw. Shepherd has an experienced secondary who can create turnovers.
On the OD side of the ball, their secondary will need to step up. It is true Shepherd has some new receivers in the mix, but their new receivers are lightning in a bottle. As a whole, this is the fastest corp we have seen. A good many are game experienced transfers who understand how to get open. I would also argue that Shepherd's type of offense eliminates some of the timing issues because the plays are quick hitters. Usually the long seam plays are the two TE's exploiting that area. OD's secondary will need to make the initial tackles or it could be off to the races.
On the OD side of the ball, their secondary will need to step up. It is true Shepherd has some new receivers in the mix, but their new receivers are lightning in a bottle. As a whole, this is the fastest corp we have seen. A good many are game experienced transfers who understand how to get open. I would also argue that Shepherd's type of offense eliminates some of the timing issues because the plays are quick hitters. Usually the long seam plays are the two TE's exploiting that area. OD's secondary will need to make the initial tackles or it could be off to the races.
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