[blazin_ky]

Get there early and get with phs for some tailgate grub. The tailgating at Belfry is second to none and they will gladly welcome any Jumpers who are brave enough to show up.

If Belfry only rushes 3 Somerset will run all over them. I am afraid they will for the first few drives at least.

One thing that will surprise Jumpers who saw Belfry a couple seasons ago is this is not your standard issue Wishbone "run it down their throat" team. That team had Dustin May and Ivan Lee who were like two box trucks coming at them, this Belfry team is built on speed, misdirection, and creating mis-matches on the edge. Belfry will spread the field a little more and force teams from just putting 10 guys around the power holes.

The Pirates start with their Two Headed Monster of Willis and Runyon at FB (Willis is quicker and more explosive, Runyon is more powerful and tougher to bring down) and try to suck the defense in, then they will use Robinson, Pruitt, and the QB Williams thereafter. The Pirates run a lot more option than year's past as well. They won't run over you, but they will outflank you or cause you to guess.

Belfry is very young and very talented. Considering their youth a State Semi's experience has already met or surpassed most expectations, but right now their offense is firing on all cylinders and they have finally found their timing. The defense has been a work in progress all year long, but they have stepped up big time the past two weeks. Belfry's issue, as most young teams have, has been mental errors in Special Teams and penalties, as well as numerous costly fumbles that have been unforced.

Despite the youth movement, IMO the guys who will determine Belfry's fate Friday are:

#10 SR DB Josh Dixon
#56 SR DL Micah Mahon

Dixon has been unbelievable this season with his ability to be a playmaker on defense and he has emerged as one of the best DB's in the EKY.His physicality and tackling have saved Belfry big plays numerous times on defense and special teams.

Mahon is Belfry's best pass rusher and is fantastic in run support. If Manning gets to stand flat footed and pick his spots he will eat Belfry alive, Mahon has to make him move and throw on the run.

I totally agree with you EKU...However...I think #11 Josh Francis will have to show up on defense also...he is excellent when defending the pass...when he is on his game...passes aren't completed! How about that O-line? They have to continue to open those holes and do what they do best...block! I will take Belfry 27-14..