By Nate WoelfelWhat: Iola-Scandinavia @ Pacelli. When: 7:00 pm Friday, September 21. Records: Pacelli 1-3 overall 0-3 CWC-8; Iola-Scandinavia 2-2 overall, 1-2 CWC-8.
Three Things To Watch
Pacelli’s Rush Defense: The Cardinals have allowed over 1,000 yards of total offense in conference play and over 800 of them have come on the ground. The Thunderbirds generate over 75 percent of their offense through the rushing attack. The defense must stand tall against the run to be successful.
The Turnover Battle: Taking care of the football is a priority for every team, but it is especially crucial for the Cardinals who come into tonight’s contest with a turnover margin of -4. Pacelli has been fortunate to lose only three of their eight fumbles in CWC play, but ball security will be especially critical considering that the Thunderbirds are +4 in turnover margin.
The Cardinals’ Arial Act: Pacelli has thrown up 56 passes in three conference tilts, second only to Amherst among conference teams. Interceptions have been an issue, but the Cardinals do boast two of the top-10 receivers in the league in Isaac Elliott (5 receptions 70 yards) and Chris Poeschel (4 receptions, 66yards). If they can establish a rhythm, they can be dangerous.
By The Numbers
37.6:Yards that Iola punter Nick Wavruk averages per punt in conference play, a mark that is tops in the CWC-8.
23: Penalties that have been assessed to the Thunderbirds during conference play this season, more than any other team in the league.
449: Total yards gained by Pacelli’s offense in three CWC-games, the lowest total in the conference.
204: Rushing yards for Jesse Raczek in 42 conference attempts, a total that places him at No. 8 among CWC rushers.
