2008 Woodie Awards
MU prepares for Golden Flashes
'Hawks go for 2nd win Saturday at Kent State
Adam Hainsfurther
Issue date: 10/5/07 Section: Sports
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The 'Hawks are coming off just their second win of the season, after nicking Syracuse University 17-14 at Yager Stadium.
The RedHawks are looking to maintain their perfect Mid-American Conference record this weekend, and will have to do it against the Golden Flashes' running attack, which is ranked 11th in the nation. Kent State is led by sophomore running back Eugene Jarvis' 769 yards and seven touchdowns through just five games this season.
"We've got to be very sound on defense, and we've got to make sure we're where we're supposed to be on every different scheme against every formation," said Miami Head Coach Shane Montgomery. "We've got to really tackle the Jarvis kid, who's leading the MAC in rushing, one of the best in the country. He's a very elusive kid. Kind of like how Brandon Murphy was for us. He's not overly fast, but he's very, very quick. He doesn't need much of a hole."
Jarvis isn't the only one who can push the ball downfield for Kent State. Golden Flashes quarterback, Julian Edelman, has racked up 222 yards on just 73 carries. Edelman has also been lighting up teams through the air as well, throwing for 881 yards and six touchdown passes this season.
"We've got to make sure we account for their quarterback," Montgomery said. "He hurt us with his feet last year and he's their second leading rusher. So we've got two guys we need to worry about."
Last week Kent State won a huge game, knocking off defending MAC East champion Ohio in a thrilling 33-25 game in Athens.
However, the RedHawks are coming off a big victory of their own. Last week, senior Mike Kokal was back under center, throwing for 150 yards while running for 63 yards. Miami's running game was also sparked by senior Cory Jones, who racked up 125 yards in just his third career game.
"Well, we played really well up front and we got the running game going," Montgomery said. "Even though we didn't have a great passing game Saturday we were able to do what we wanted to do. When you run the ball very effectively, like we did Saturday, then it gives you a bunch of options. You don't have to drop back and throw the ball every down."
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