Friday, July 24, 2009

Week 1 Preview: Army @ Eastern Michigan

West Point (AP) - Defensive wizard Ron English, who lead many outstanding Michigan defensive units, looks to thwart the new flexbone offense of the Army Black Knights. If his defensive unit has anything in common with those fearsome Wolverine teams, look for a solid unit who plays in the scheme and dictates to the offense.

Army coach Shaun Mason said of the Eagles, "This is my first matchup with Coach English. He has a fantastic reputation. Hopefully we can go out and execute like I know these men can. I think if we play solid defense will will be able to control the game on offense. Look for Chip (Bowden) to have a solid game, that kid is a poor mans Dan Lefavour."

Bowden stepped in last year for a injured Carson Williams and delivered some solid performances. He looks improve in his junior year. Running the new flexbone he should have some opportunities to make plays in space. Look out for converted left tackle Ali Villaneavu who may see time at wideout and tight end.

On the Eastern Michigan side of the ball, former high school quarterback Ryan Downard looks to punish opposing receivers from his safety spot. An elite athlete, Downard had an outstanding spring practice and has show signs of great things to come.

Overall this game should be a close game between two evenly matched squads.

2 comments: