By: Andrew Weeks
Cincinnati, Ohio—After the lone bye-week of the 2021 season for the Mount St. Joseph University Football program, the Lions look forward to beginning their chase of an HCAC championship. The first game of their Heartland Conference slate is against the Beavers of Bluffton. Bluffton comes into this game carrying a (1-2) record with a win over MIAA opponent Kalamazoo.
Bluffton will showcase a defense that currently ranks top in the HCAC in scoring. Through three games this defense is allowing opponents to score 26 points per game. Along with keeping opposing offenses out of the end-zone, defense has been disruptive registering 6 sacks, forcing 3 fumbles and 3 interceptions. On the other hand the Beavers offense has appeared to struggle so far this season, scoring an average of 13 points per game over their first three contests.
Through the first three games of the season, the Lions defense has shown signs of improvement across the board. Currently this defense is second in the conference in scoring, holding opponents to 27 points per contest. This can be attributed to the nine total turnovers forced by the Lions, with six interceptions and three fumble recoveries. This defense includes the Heartland Conference leader in interceptions, DeShawn Starks, who has recorded 3 picks in as many games.
The offense looks to improve off of an impressive start to the season. Currently the unit boasts a rushing attack that is averaging 157 yards per game, off of 4.1 yards per carry. In the passing attack the Lions have been efficient, as Josh Taylor has thrown for nine touchdowns to only one interception, making him the HCAC leader in both passing categories. Wide-out Austin Brock accounts for the majority of this production, with 21 total receptions and a league high 5 touchdown receptions.
Overall the Lions believe that the can start their HCAC slate strong. While the Lions are (1-2) currently they still hold the belief that they can compete for the conference championship. This game will serve as a great test for the Lions.
This game is scheduled for Saturday, October 3 with kickoff at 1:30PM at the campus of Bluffton University. For continued coverage of this game and all other MSJ athletics continue to follow msjlions.com
