As autumn foliage paints a vivid backdrop, an intense mid-season battle will unfurl on the gridiron. On Saturday, the Reinhardt University Eagles, holding a strong record of 4-2, will travel to West Point, GA, to take on the Point University Skyhawks, who are currently 3-4.
The Eagles, currently riding a three-game winning streak, are coming off a massive 57-0 thrashing of the St. Andrews Knights. They’ve displayed a balanced offensive approach, boasting an impressive 408 yards per game – splitting almost evenly between rushing (201.8 ypg) and passing (206.2 ypg). Defensively, they’ve managed to keep opponents to just 268 yards and a stingy 17.5 points per game.
Taylor Jackson and Tyress McKey have been crucial to the Eagles’ success. In the rout against the Knights, Jackson threw for 103 yards, while McKey rushed for 67 yards, further cementing their reputation as formidable offensive threats. On the receiving end, Collin Fletcher caught the eye with 2 receptions for 80 yards, including a touchdown.
NAIA GAME BROADCAST INFO:
2023 Regular Season, NAIA Conference Game
Reinhardt Eagles vs Point Skyhawks
Date: October 21st | Time: 1:00pm EST
Location: Ram Stadium – Valley, Alabama
TV: Southeast Sports Network | TV: Skyhawk SN
Radio: Unavailable | Stats: Skyhawks Athletics
Announcer(s): Gabriel Schray, Desean Bullock
However, it’s not just the offense that’s been shining. The Reinhardt defense has been a fortress. Against the Knights, Kendrick Hawkins led the team with 7 total tackles, with linebacker Orlando Gandy, Jr. closely following with 6. The defense managed to limit St. Andrews to a paltry 88 total yards, making a statement about their prowess.
On the other side, the Skyhawks might be feeling a sting after their recent 20-13 loss to Union, but they’ve shown flashes of brilliance this season. Despite their recent setback, they displayed a tenacious spirit against Union, indicating they won’t be an easy pushover for the Eagles. Mitchell Gossett, who went 7-for-17 with 116 passing yards, and Brenton White, who finished the game with 7-for-15 and 114 passing yards, have been key players for the Skyhawks.
Their rushing game also demonstrated potential, with Trey Inge III and Sensir Carnes accumulating notable yardages in the previous game. Defensively, they’ve shown they can create turnovers and pressure, with Kemorion Larkin delivering a crucial sack in the previous contest.
While stats give an insight into how these teams stack up against each other, the real drama will unfold on the field. For the Eagles, a win would cement their position as serious contenders in the conference. On the other hand, a win for the Skyhawks would be a massive morale booster, helping them bounce back from their recent loss.
The Skyhawks will be playing at home, which could provide them with the edge they need, feeding off the energy of their supporters and homecoming festivities. But the Eagles, bolstered by their recent performances, will be no easy prey.
To Watch For The Reinhardt University Eagles
- Taylor Jackson (QB) – He had a dominant game with 103 passing yards and a touchdown, and also had a notable 25-yard touchdown run against St. Andrews. Jackson’s ability to both pass and run makes him a dual-threat quarterback and one to watch.
- Tyress McKey (RB) – With a stellar performance, racking up 67 rushing yards in the game against St. Andrews, including a blistering 65-yard touchdown run. McKey seems to have explosive speed and could pose a significant threat on the ground.
- Collin Fletcher (WR) – Fletcher stood out among the receivers, having made 2 catches for 80 yards with a touchdown. He has had a touchdown reception in his last two games, making him a reliable target in the end zone.
- Jerdavian Colbert (RB) – He scored the first touchdown of the game against St. Andrews and seems to be a regular contributor in the offensive scheme.
- Kendrick Hawkins (LB) – Leading the team defensively against St. Andrews with 7 total tackles, he’s one to watch in shutting down Point’s offensive threats.
To Watch For The Point University Skyhawks
- Mitchell Gossett (QB) – Against Union, he went 7-for-17 with 116 passing yards and showed his capability on the ground with a 15-yard rushing touchdown. Gossett’s versatility can keep defenses guessing.
- Brenton White (QB) – Despite his two interceptions against Union, he still managed 114 passing yards, showing he has potential. Depending on which quarterback starts or if Point employs a two-QB system, both signal-callers could influence the game.
- Trey Inge III (RB) – Leading the backfield against Union with 66 rushing yards on 18 attempts, Inge is proving to be a consistent force in the rushing game for Point.
- Sensir Carnes (RB) – Close behind Inge, Carnes accumulated 65 rushing yards on 16 attempts against Union, making the duo a significant threat on the ground.
- Kemorion Larkin (DL) – Made critical defensive plays against Union, including a sack on fourth down, and will likely be instrumental in pressuring Reinhardt’s quarterback.
As the Saturday showdown looms, fans from both sides are in for a treat. The match promises intense action, tactical maneuvers, and moments of individual brilliance. The question remains – will the Eagles soar higher, or will the Skyhawks swoop in for a surprise? Whatever the outcome, one thing’s for sure: the atmosphere in West Point will be electric, and this game will be one to watch for all college football enthusiasts.
Tune in at 1:00 PM via the Southeast Sports Network. The mid-season may be upon us, but the heat is just getting started on the field.
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