The stage is set for a late season clash in the Appalachian Athletic Conference, as the Rams of Bluefield University prepare to lock horns with the Eagles of Reinhardt University. As the regular season curtain draws to a close, the stakes couldn’t be higher for both teams, with playoff implications on the line.
Bluefield comes off a hard-fought victory over Union College, where they clinched the game with a 20-12 scoreline. This win was emblematic of their season, showcasing a blend of grit and flair. Quarterback Nathan Herstich was pivotal in the win, completing 15-of-25 passes for 187 yards and two touchdowns. The Rams’ offense managed to amass 247 total yards against the Bulldogs, while their defense stood tall by winning the turnover battle with two interceptions and a fumble recovery.
NAIA GAME BROADCAST INFO:
2023 Regular Season, NAIA Conference Game
Bluefield Rams vs Reinhardt Eagles
Date: November 11th | Time: 12:00pm EST
Location: University Stadium – Waleska, Georgia
TV: Southeast Sports Network | TV: Reinhardt SN
Radio: Unavailable | Stats: Eagles Athletics
Announcer(s): Gabriel Schray, N/A
The Rams have been riding on the back of their dynamic passing game, led by Herstich, who has orchestrated an offense averaging 312.9 passing yards per game. Nate Monroe, with a game-high six catches for 74 yards against Union, has been a consistent target, while Logan Patron leads a defense that has combined for 11 tackles and a mix of aggression and astuteness.
On the other side, the Eagles of Reinhardt have been nothing short of dominant, obliterating Kentucky Christian with a 56-0 shutout in their last outing. The Eagles’ offense has been a high-flying unit, averaging 418.8 yards per game, with a balanced attack comprising 214.2 yards in the air and 204.6 on the ground. Their defense has equally impressed, allowing a mere 14.7 points per game, and they will look to stifle Bluefield’s potent passing game.
Reinhardt’s Taylor Jackson stands out as a marquee player, having thrown for 191 yards and a touchdown in their last game. He has been complemented by the explosive Jerdavian Colbert, the AAC’s top rusher, who has been averaging 7.2 yards per carry. This duo, along with the likes of Luis Morris and Collin Fletcher, who has been a revelation at wide receiver, could spell trouble for the Rams’ defense.
Looking ahead to the matchup, the contrasting styles of both teams will be on full display. Bluefield’s air raid offense will test Reinhardt’s secondary, which has been stingy throughout the season. The Rams’ defense, which has shown vulnerabilities against the run, allowing 198.9 rushing yards per game, will be put to the test against an Eagles’ running game that has been nothing short of explosive.
The special teams battle could also play a significant role in this matchup. Bluefield’s Riley Stubbs has been reliable, but the Eagles’ Alex Hardy has been near perfect, particularly on extra points, which could prove crucial in a tight contest.
As we approach this titanic tussle, it is clear that both teams have the firepower and defensive mettle to claim victory. The Rams, with a 5-4 overall record and a 3-2 mark in the conference, have the momentum of a two-game winning streak. However, the Eagles, with a 7-2 record and undefeated in the conference, have been a juggernaut, particularly during their six-game winning streak.
This game not only promises to be an electrifying encounter but also has significant implications for the AAC standings and the NAIA Football Playoffs. Reinhardt, currently ranked 21st in the NAIA, can secure their playoff berth with a win. For Bluefield, this game presents an opportunity to disrupt the conference hierarchy and end their season on a high note.
As the countdown to kickoff begins, all eyes will be on these two titans of the AAC. Will the Rams’ aerial assault prove too much for the Eagles, or will Reinhardt’s balanced and explosive offense continue to dominate? Only time will tell, but one thing is for sure: this game will be a must-watch for college football enthusiasts.
Tune in at 12:00 PM via the Southeast Sports Network. Links to additional platforms and options are above under game broadcast information.
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