[EKUAlum05]

When it all boils down here are what I think are the 3 keys to the game:

- Belfry OL vs. Wayne County DL:
Belfry has a huge size advantage but this isn't Wayne's first rodeo with a bigger line. Belfry's line moves better than Bell and Southwestern's though and the backs that follow them are considerably better. If Belfry consistently creates a surge the snowball effect in this game goes toward their favor, if Wayne's quickness is able to create penetration and cause disruptions and get's Belfry off the field then it significantly goes toward their favor. IMHO, this is the SINGLE BIGGEST KEY.

- Wayne Passing Game vs. Belfry Secondary and LB's:
I have no doubt Wayne is "going to get theirs" with their precision passing game and ability to take what defenses give the. I may eat crow here, but I simply am not overly worried about Wayne's running game. I think Guffey may be able to extend some drives on his own, but by and large Belfry should have reasonable success containing Wayne's backs. Where Wayne will be able to make hay is in the short to intermediate passing game that they do so well. Belfry, IMHO, will play pretty conservative and take a "bend but dont break" approach forcing Wayne to eat clock and limit possessions basically waiting for their chance to take a calculated risk or for Wayne to make a mistake. If Belfry is able to get off the field more times than they allow TD's I like their chances.

- Slippery Football:
This is the X Factor for both teams. Looks like two teams who rely on precision in their offense must deal with a wet track and a wet ball. Whoever makes a mistake will significantly impact both of the points made above and potentially swing the game. Can Belfry hold on to the ball? Will Wayne's impeccable accuracy on their short passing game suffer? I think both teams have an equal potential for disaster.. the question is which way the ball bounces.

My Prediction:
Belfry gets a few key stops and also force Wayne to kick a FG instead of scoring 7. Pirate offense consistently has success, but a couple drives end after self inflicted wounds and general good defensive play force a punt. Belfry consistently wins the Field Position game. Trailing 24-21 in the 4th Sani Warren caps off a long scoring drive by taking an option keeper in from inside the 10.

Belfry 28
Wayne County 24

The best game of the weekend