Five Things to Watch in Tonight's Mules' Football Opener
Nate Taylor: Muleskinner
Issue date: 8/28/08 Section: From the Press Box
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After a long and rough training camp battle between quarterbacks Tommy Corwin and Eric Czerniewski, coach Willie Fritz picked Czerniewski as tonight's starter. Now, the starring QB must prove he can keep his job with a solid performance.
2. Will the Mules get its revenge?
The last time these two teams met was last year's season-opener. The Mules lost 23-14 in Mankato in Czerniewski's first ever career start. Field conditions were a problem as a mud-filled field slowed down the Mules' running attack.
Now, the Mules will not have to worry about the field and Czerniewski is a more experienced quarterback. Those components give the Mules a chance for a different outcome tonight.
3. Can the secondary avoid the big play?
It's almost impossible for the Mules' defense to replace three-time All-American Kendall Ricketts, but the Mules will have to find some solution. Cornerback Randy Shepherd has become the leader in the secondary this year, while Ryan Nesbitt will replace Ricketts at the free safety position. Coach Fritz's number one goal for his secondary tonight is to not allow the big play.
4. Will running back Glenn Milner carry the offensive load?
It was tough to overlook Glenn Milner last year, and this year should be more of the same. Expect Milner to get the football a lot. The only concern for Milner will be if the he can stay healthy the entire season.
5. Can the defense line dominate the line of scrimmage?
It's been advertised that the Mules defensive line might be the best core of players at a position. With defensive ends John Wood and Layne Kreter combining for 14 sacks last year, Fritz expects the Mules to put pressure on the quarterback.
(Also, look for tonight's live blog during the Mules' season-opener against Minnesota State)
-Nate
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