From the Bird’s Nest: Five Keys to Beating FIU
Louisiana heads to Miami to take on the undefeated Panthers of FIU this Saturday. Gametime is just after 5pm and can be heard on the Louisiana Ragin’ Cajuns Radio Network (ESPN1420, KHXT 107.9 in Lafayette, KANE (1240am) in New Iberia, KTUX-FM (98.9) Shreveport and KJEF/KLCL in the Lake Charles area. The Cajuns are a whopping 17 point underdogs against the Panthers, who have impressive wins at Louisville and at home last week against UCF. For the Cajuns to pull the upset against the defending Sun Belt co-champions, here are five things that have to happen:
- 1
TURNOVERS
The Cajuns defense has done a great job in turning over the opposition. Problem is, FIU doesn’t turn the ball over (no interceptions, two lost fumbles in three games.) The Cajuns have to find a way to get a takeaway or two. Conversely, Louisiana has seven turnovers in three games. They can’t afford any turnovers this week.
- 2
THROW THE POTATO
Running the ball against this FIU defense will be a chore the Cajuns may not be able to perform. The passing game has to click this week….and Quarterback Blaine Gautier has to have the time to throw it.
- 3
FIND LADARIUS GREEN
Mark Hudspeth says part of the problem is Green hasn’t been healthy. And, while I’m sure that’s true, if he’s good enough to play, the Cajuns have to get him the ball. They tried a couple of times last week without success. He has to show up this week if the Cajuns are going to have any chance.
- 4
SURGING SURGENT
If FIU has shown to be vulnerable anywhere, it’s in kick coverage. The Cajuns need a big game from Darryl Surgent to give the Cajuns good field position. He’s shown he can be a weapon. This would be a good time for a breakout performance.
- 5
CONTROL T. Y.
They call him “Goodbye” for a reason. His ability to hurt you as a wideout, running in the Wildcat and in the return game make him the biggest weapon perhaps in the history of the league. He tweaked a hamstring last week and didn’t play in the second half. But word is he’ll play this weekend. The Cajuns can’t let him beat them.