Game 5 of the Night - Season 141
Previous GotN Prediction: Fairmont State 33 - West Liberty State 24
Result: West Liberty St 42 - Fairmont St 17
Intro/comments/match-up: Since the conversion gave all of us a day off, the "smart dog" can take advantage of it and post the GotN that he couldn't yesterday. But before we showcased tonight's game, let's travel back to the previous game where West Liberty State made short work out of Fairmont State and coach Jibe showed he was leaving WIS with a bang and a possible deep playoff run. After a three-and-out by Fairmont St, WLSC marched down the field behind seven passes and one 5-yard rush for the 7-0 lead. Then following a fumble on Fairmont State's next play, WLSC took six passes to score, take a 14-0 lead, and basically won the game.
Tonight's game features two of the top D-II teams in Rockne over the past 17 seasons. Between them, they have won 12 championships during that time; albeit many of them by a coach that is currently taking a sabbatical for hopefully not too much longer. Without further ado the heavyweight GotN has Texas A&M-Commerce going north to challenge Northern Michigan in a pivotal out-of-conference game.
Team: Texas A&M-Commerce
Coach: Akua29 # of Seasons: 14
Roster Breakdown:
Seniors: 11
Juniors: 8
Sophomores: 18
Freshmen: 13
Offensive Formations: I
Defensive Formations: 3-4
Key Wins: N/A
Losses: N/A
Comments: Coach Akua29 has not lost a regular season game since way, way back in season 128, his first season at TAMC. Tonight's game will be the first test for them and let the coach know what type of team he has. Last season had the team being eliminated from the playoffs in the second round after winning the championships the two seasons prior to that. But before we start projecting the demise of the TAMC dynasty, take note the last time Coach Akua29 started his offseason early, he came back to win those consecutive titles.
Team: Northern Michigan
Coach: Mrbig987 # of Seasons: 3
Roster Breakdown:
Seniors: 13
Juniors: 11
Sophomores: 11
Freshmen: 15
Offensive Formations: Pro-set
Defensive Formations: 4-3
Key Wins: N/A
Losses: N/A
Comments: Coach Mrbig987 has been a perfect 30-0 during regular season games since taking the helm at NMU. He has won both conference championships and won a playoff game each season before seeing his seasons end in the second round. NMU has the top rated senior class in D-II so it will be up to the coach to get his team over the second round hurdle and make a final four appearance. Team will be challenge some in conference play but should get thru that portion undefeated.
Tonight's Prediction: Tonight's game is one of those where you wish you could relax in your comfortable recliner, have a bag of popcorn, and a drink or two and watch the game. Although both teams will be making the playoffs, this game will helped the winner earn a higher seed. Additionally the winning coach keeps their regular season winning streak going and gain bragging rights. Both coaches are probably hoping the "smart dog" use his profound knowledge and pick the "other" team. That being said NMU puts up a tremendous home-field stand but sees TAMC drive down the field late and etched up a dramatic 31-28 come from behind win.