After a loss to Washburn University (2-3,2-3 Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics Association), the Tigers prepare for a homecoming game with Missouri Western State University (3-2, 3-2 MIAA).
MWSU was ranked in the top 25, but MWSU dropped out of the top 25 and the Tigers are no longer receiving votes. With that said, there are four teams in the MIAA with a 3-2 record, so it’s still a must-win situation for the Tigers.
Both teams have a big, fast, and physical defensive front.
The Griffons are second in the MIAA in sacks with 18 and have the fourth best rush defense in the conference. The Tigers are third in the MIAA in sacks with 15 and have the third best rush defense in the conference. The teams rank third and fourth in total defense in the MIAA with MWSU giving up 347 yards a game and FHSU giving up 356 yards per outing.
MWSU is last in total offense with 274.4 yards per game and FHSU is just three yards better per game, putting them second to last. Both teams get the bulk of their yards on the ground.
The Griffons average 19.2 points a game, with the most points scored this season coming off a 30-0 win over Northeastern State University (0-4, 0-4 MIAA). The Tigers average just over 21 points per game with their biggest point outing achieved against NSU in a 48-13 win.
On the MWSU side, Raphel Spencer is second in the MIAA in rushing with 109.8 yards per game. Spencer rushed under 100 yards twice this season.
Freshman quarterback Skylar Windmiller is last in the conference completing just 50 percent of his passes and four interceptions compared to three touchdowns.
Both Spencer and Windmiller play behind an offensive line that has given up the third least sacks and negative yard plays in the conference.
On the Tigers’ defensive side, preseason All-American defensive back Micheal Jordan, Kerens Texas, senior should be available for the entire game after missing the last game and due to a suspension regarding violation of team rules.
Although defensive back Raheem Dumas, Lakeland, FL., junior, has been in a boot since the Lindenwood game, but he may be cleared to play for the upcoming game this week. It is uncertain at this point if he was still in a boot for Wednesday’s practice.
FHSU was able to put up 372 yards offensively last week.
Quarterback Treveon Albert, Atlanta, GA., junior, went 20-32 for 217 yards and two touchdowns. He did sustain an ankle injury during the game, but continued to lead the Tigers during the game. Since last week’s game, his ankle has healed without complications.
There are still six games left in the Tigers’ season. Prediction for the game is FHSU 17 MWSU 10