Eastern Michigan University is off to a 2-0 start. But to make that a 3-0 record, the Eagles will have to travel to Ann Arbor to face the University of Michigan and steal a win. Will EMU be able to pull of the upset? If the Eagles can do the following they will get their third win.
On offense: Passing is still a work in progress for EMU as it is ranked last in the Mid-American Conference in passing offense. Wide receiver Kinsman Thomas will be back after serving a two game suspension to start the season and should be another passing option for Alex Gillett.
However, EMU holds a commanding lead in the MAC in various rushing categories. In fact, EMU is fifth in the country in team rushing yards (662) and is tied for most yards per carry with Cincinnati (7.4) thanks to the running back duo of Javonti Green and Dominique Sherrer.
The running game took a hit after Sherrer left the game Saturday with an injury. The Eagles will need him back to continue the success of their running game.
On defense: The EMU defense has been strong in the first two games, only allowing two touchdowns. EMU is tied with Temple for first in the MAC in team sacks with 10. The Eagles also have the MAC lead in rushing defense, giving up 1.4 yards per play and holding Alabama State to -13 yards rushing.
But now there is one player to focus on, and it is quarterback Denard Robinson. Coach Ron English sees a lot of preparation for trying to limit Robinson’s playmaking skills.
“[Robinson] is going to make his plays,” English said during his press conference Monday. “You want to try to limit those plays.”
Robinson also has had to adapt the pro-style offense that requires him to pass more often so EMU has to reduce Robinson’s options, and get in his face.
