Sat, Nov 22 2008
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Published August 28, 2008 12:13 am - NSU tries to open season with win Jeremy Short Phoenix Correspondent The Northeastern State football team will try to open the season with a win for the first time since 2002 when they take the field Thursday at Arkansas Tech.
“Arkansas Tech may be the best football team on our schedule,” said NSU head coach Kenny Evans. “It’s a tough place to play and they’re a very well-coached team.” The Wonder Boys have not helped that streak for the RiverHawks beating them in five consecutive season openers. The last three have been decided by a touchdown or less including last season’s 20-13 loss at Gable Field. They (NSU players) think this is their year,” said Evans. For the RiverHawks to be successful they will have to find a way to slow down Arkansas Tech’s potent offensive attack. The Wonder Boys averaged 32 points per game last season despite losing starting quarterback Steve Barthel (6-2, 215, Sr.) for the second half of the season to injury. Barthel is a former University of Arkansas transfer who has passed for over 2,000 yards and 26 touchdowns in his career. Barthel’s primary target is Tracey Stiger (5-9, 180, Sr.), coming of a solid season despite playing with three different quarterbacks. Stiger finished last season with 656 yards and 10 touchdowns. Another advantage the Wonder Boys will have is up front where the average weight of the offensive line is one of the highest in Division 2, 308 pounds. “Their offensive line is as big as anyone we’ll play all season,” said Evans. “We’re not going to play a bigger football team than they are.” The big key for the RiverHawks will be the play of quarterback Kaelin Woods (6-1, 205, Jr.), starting his first game for NSU. Woods will have the advantage of going against a Wonder Boys defense that was suspect at times last season, giving up 32 points per game. Another focal point will be the play of the inexperienced offensive line that features no returning starters. “They have changed their defensive scheme,” said Evans. “I’m sure they’re trying to take advantage of the speed that they’ve brought in.” “It’s going to come down to which team has the best execution,” said Evans. “Whichever team can cut down on mistakes will be the winner.” 
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