Saturday, September 15, 2007

Southern U--PVAMU Matchups




SU Video: http://media.swagit.com/s/wbrz/The_Advocate_Sports/09062007-10.high.flash8.html

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Southern LB Johnathan Malveaux

19 tackles, 1 pass breakup

Other than DT Joseph Selders, the junior is the most experienced defender among the Jaguars’ front seven. And like Selders, Malveaux is getting the job done. Malveaux leads SU with 19 tackles. His career has been held back by a series of minor injuries, but Malveaux seems to be at his healthiest and strongest these days. That’s a huge plus, because he’s always been a relentless, ferocious tackler and has plenty of speed.

PVU QB Chris Gibson

26-for-49, 248 yards, 2 INTs; 199 yards, 2 TDs on 24 carries

Gibson, a senior, is charged with both improving a horrendous passing game and shoring up the running game. Though suffering from a shoulder injury, Gibson came off the bench in the fourth quarter to help the Panthers to a stunning 26-23 overtime win over Southern. He scored on a 1-yard run and then marched PV to the tying and winning touchdowns.

WHO HAS THE EDGE?

Quarterbacks: SU

Running backs: SU

Offensive line: SU

Wide receivers: SU

Tight ends: SU

Defensive line: PVU

Linebackers: SU

Defensive backs: SU

Kickers: PVU

Kick returners: PVU

Intangibles: SU

Coaching: SU

PREDICTION

Southern has to prove to itself after the debacle that unfolded last season. SU’s offense — balanced and diversified — will get a test from a defense that was the best in the SWAC last season. PV’s offense begins and ends with QB Chris Gibson. The Panthers have also been getting contributions from special teams, a factor they didn’t have last year. Both teams, losers a year ago, bring a lot of confidence tonight.

Southern 34, Prairie View 9

-- Joseph Schiefelbein

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