SEMO keys to victory; Northwestern State

SEMO is riding high after their impressive victory over the former No. 7 team, the SIU Salukis. Now, with a 3-1 record and ranked No. 13 nationally, the Redhawks are set to face the winless Northwestern State Demons at home this weekend.

Northwestern State enters the matchup at 0-4, having suffered a 39-0 defeat to Weber State in their last game. Their toughest loss came against FBS opponent South Alabama, where they fell 87-10. Desperate for their first win of the season.

Keys to victory:

Get Paxton DeLaurent going early-

DeLaurent has surpassed 1,000 passing yards this season, also throwing for 12 touchdowns. In the game against rival SIU, he racked up 301 yards and four touchdowns, and prior to that, he lit up former OVC champions UT Martin with 376 yards and a school-record six touchdown passes. Connecting with standout receiver Dorian Anderson will be key for DeLaurent and the team; Anderson has accumulated 424 yards and five touchdowns, averaging 106 yards per game. Given that Northwestern State’s pass defense surrenders 290.75 yards per game, SEMO will need to exploit this weakness for a decisive victory.

Dominate the rushing attack-

True freshman Payton Brown delivered another standout performance, rushing for over 100 yards and a touchdown against SIU. Northwestern State gives up 244 yards per game on the ground, showing an area the Brown can take advantage of. Brown is also supported by a high level offensive line, including All American graduate student Zack Gieg, providing plenty of support, and openings for the freshman to exploit.

Shut down the Demons offense-

SEMO’s defense has been strong all season, stepping up in critical moments to secure tight victories. They allow an average of 170.3 rushing yards per game, while their pass defense gives up just 195.5 yards. In contrast, Northwestern State averages only 90.5 rushing yards and 133.25 passing yards per game.

It’s family weekend at Houck Stadium Saturday, with kickoff scheduled for 3:00 PM.