Findlay (1-7, 1-8) at #17 Hillsdale (6-2, 7-2)
For Findlay, only two weeks remain in a season that they, no doubt, hope to look upon as "that nightmare season a while back". The Oilers posted a 7-4 mark last year, including a complete dismantling of a Hillsdale club that was on its way to the playoffs. While UF had some holes to fill in 2010, few expected the struggles they've endured, especially on offense where they have scored ten points or less eight times in nine games. For Hillsdale, the Chargers need to win out against two clubs they have overmatched in order to secure a share of the GLIAC South, and they are also looking to secure a second consecutive playoff berth in the process.
Findlay Keys:
- Ten won't cut it - As I mentioned earlier, getting past the ten-point plateau seems to be tough for Findlay. It's no secret that Hillsdale's offense tends to score a little bit, and I'm not seeing the Oiler defense shutting off what the Chargers want to do completely. UF must find a way to score multiple touchdowns if they want to have a chance in this one.
- Big Day for Monterae - The Findlay running back must find a way to post his sixth 100-yard game of the season, and the Oilers must possess the ball for at least 35 minutes. Hillsdale scores a lot, but they like to be methodical about it. In order to win, UF must keep the Charger offense on the sidelines.
Hillsdale Keys:
- Troy at the Ready - While the Hillsdale offense typically starts with Joe Glendening grinding out tough yards on the ground, quarterback Troy Weatherhead and his receiving corps have proven to be plenty potent throughout the year. Findlay is decent against he run, but last in the league against the pass. Given the match-up and the weapons available to exploit it, I'd look for the passing game to crank things up in this one.
- Eyes on the Prize - Hillsdale has games left against Findlay and Tiffin. If they want to make the playoffs, winning is the only thing they can do to help themselves. No doubt, Findlay's players remember beating Hillsdale last year and believe they can do it again. Hillsdale losing focus and letting Findlay complete a repeat of last year would be a disaster for the Chargers.
Prediction - I'm not trying to be a "Dismal Dora", but facts are facts. Findlay is last in the league in scoring offense, total offense, and passing defense. These are all areas that Hillsdale is more than equipped to exploit. I like the Chargers, and I like them big. Hillsdale 44, Findlay 10.
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