Week 11 Preview - Eastern Michigan at Central Michigan

After their 56-14 drubbing of Ball State under the lights and fireworks of Rynearson Stadium, the Eastern Michigan Eagles head west on I-94 to US-127 where they will turn north to head to Mt Pleasant to face the Chippewas of Central Michigan. These two teams faced each other last year at Rynearson Stadium with Eastern Michigan pulling off the thrilling victory with a pass from Roback to Bailey. The victory was sealed with an interception by Jeremiah Harris. The Eagles currently stand at 3-5.

The Eagles are facing the 5-4 Chippewas who are coming off a 35-28 comeback victory against the Broncos in Kalamazoo. Central Michigan will need some help to make the MAC Championship in Detroit.

When Central Michigan has the ball.

Expect the Central Michigan offense to be led by Michigan transfer Quarterback Shane Morris. He has a 55.2% completion rate and throws an average of 245 yards per game. His main target is Mark Chapman but he also throws to running back Johnathon Ward. Central scores an average of 26.8 points per game.

They are facing a defense that gives up an average 20.33 points per game. They have forced 13 turnovers. The defense is led in tackles by Vince Calhoun. Sack duty is split between Maxx Crosby and Jeremiah Harris who have 5 each.

When Eastern Michigan has the ball.

The Eagles offense is lead by Brogan Roback. I really can’t say enough about him this year. His leading receiver is Sergio Bailey but he does a pretty good job of delivering the ball around his receiving corps. The leading Eagles rusher is Ian Eriksen, who is averaging 59 yards per game. He was able to run for 114 yards against Ball State in last week’s game though.

The Eagles face a defense that has given up an average of 27.1 points per game. They give up 205 yards per game on the ground and 178 yards in the air. The leading Chippewa tackle is Malik Fountain and their sack leader is Joe Ostman with 10.

What to Expect.

For some reason, I like the Eagles chances to pull out their first victory in Mt. Pleasant since 2011. Even though their weakness is on the ground, that is playing to the Chippewa weakness. Roback has been able to pick apart defenses in the air (when the plays allow it). That being said, I expect a close game.

Kenneth Bailey