Chicago, Il., -- After a disappointing loss to Augustana College, North Park (2-2, 1-2) turns the page onto Carroll University (1-3, 1-2) this weekend in Waukesha, Wisconsin when they take on the Pioneers. Carroll is coming off their first win of the season against Millikin after dropping their first three games to UW-Eau Claire, Wash U, and Wheaton, a very tough first few games for any team.
Carroll seems to lean heavily on their run game, in part because of a first year starting in sophomore quarterback Elisha Nieves, but also because of the running back room they have. Mikey Coleman heads the run game for the Pios, averaging near 6 yards per carry, 75 yards per game, and 3 touchdowns. Behind him is Carson Crouch, more of a third down back for Carroll, but nonetheless can run the ball effectively averaging 4.5 yards per carry and has a touchdown to his name. In respects to their passing game, receivers Reed Breckheimer and Daniel White are both averaging around 35 yards a game, while running back Coleman adds an additional aspect to the pass game. The Viking defense will likely focus on the run game with an emphasis on Isaac Chandler and Dylan Hughes plugging running lanes so line backers DJ Johnson, Amare Johnson, and Jaysen Perez can fill and stuff the run. Doing this will force the inexperienced quarterback to put the ball in the air so ball hawks like Ben Butler Vince Lenzy, and Sam Aguirre can force a mistake and hopefully take advantage.
Offensively, limiting turnovers is key to success. After having three turnovers last week, taking care of the ball is just as important against the Pioneers, a team that has two interceptions on the year and two forced fumbles. But the doesn't tell the whole story since they have 17 pass breakups as a team, meaning their players are in great positions to make plays. The counter to that is great protection of the quarterback which is set up well this week for the Vikings offense because of the lack of pressure Carroll's defensive line inflicts, logging only 2 sacks this season thus far. After a monster game against Elmhurst, sophomore runningback Aidan Delisi had a quiet game against Augie, as fellow sophomore Bryce Black stepped up. Look for both of these backs to have a big day against a defense that has allowed 171 rushing yards a game so far. With good protection and the receiving core the Vikings have, quarterback Cailix Dillon is primed to have good game. Having receiver Jereme Ombogo back and healthy, McCloud, and Catron, along with facing a secondary that allows over 250 passing/receiving yards a game, North Park can use this weekend as an opportunity to get into a rhythm offensively as they head into a tough stretch of their schedule.
Kick off for the game is at 2pm on Saturday, October 11th in Waukesha, Wisconsin.
