Austin Peay at Montana State
Austin Peay looked like they were shot out of a cannon against Sacramento State and the Hornets looked like they were still enjoying their bye week. It was a battle of quarterbacks in that Second Round game. The Governors’ JaVaughn Craig ruled the Hornets’ Kevin Thomson. In the end, the numbers overall showed they both had great stats, but Austin Peay took the ball out of their opponent’s hands, rushing the ball 50 times and controlling the clock for 38:15! Passing, the Craig to DeAngelo Wilson connection was as good as advertised. The Governors took a 21-0 lead in the first quarter and to halftime, extending it to 28-0 in the third before anything was score against them. By that point, the ground game was in full milk mode.
Albany scored the first touchdown in their game at Montana State, but that was the last real moment of fun they had on the afternoon, as the Bobcats scored the next 47 points. Montana State’s dual quarterback attack worked like a charm. Tucker Rovig threw three touchdowns on 24 of 30 passing and 279 yards. Travis Jonsen came in and led the rushing charge, carrying only six times but gaining 85 yards and one touchdown. Cornerback Damien Washington led the defensive charge, picking off two Jeff Undercuffler passes. A thorough, dominating performance for the home team.
This looks to be the best Quarterfinal match-up. It’s obvious, Austin Peay isn’t afraid to go on the road. It’s equally apparent that Montana State is above treating their company like their in-laws. There was two mutual opponents, good ones, Southeast Missouri State and Sacramento State. Each of these teams won against the Redhawks; Montana State, 38-17 and Austin Peay, 28-24. Austin Peay just beat Sacramento State, 42-28. Montana State lost to them, 34-21. Austin Peay is a top ten defense against the run. Neither team is good against the pass. Whoever is more balanced wins this game.
Prediction: Austin Peay 28, Montana State 27
