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Around FCS: 2009 Playoff Previews
By Brett Kahn, FCS Assistant

Philadelphia, PA (Sports Network) - Here are the matchups for the first round of the 2009 FCS playoffs and other selected games. All games are Eastern time


SATURDAY'S FIRST-ROUND PLAYOFF GAMES

No. 7 South Carolina State (10-1) at No. 5 Appalachian State (9-2), 12 p.m.

Appalachian State and South Carolina State faced each other in the first round last season and will officially kickoff the 2009 FCS playoffs on ESPNU's nationally televised broadcast.

The Mountaineers prevailed in last season's meeting, earning a 37-21 win, as Payton Award winning quarterback Armanti Edwards (3,079 yards of total offense, 26 TDs, three interceptions) passed for a career-high 433 yards and four touchdowns. He also ran for another score.

However, after an early exit in last year's playoffs due primarily to the knee and hip injuries suffered by Edwards, Appalachian State is healthy this season and riding a nine-game winning streak (third longest streak currently in FCS) and has lost just once in FCS competition. ASU earned its fifth straight Southern Conference title and playoff appearance this season.

The Mountaineers are coming off a 19-14 win over Western Carolina, once again preserving their possession of the Old Mountain Jug. Edwards sat out as a precaution due to a slight ACL strain he suffered during a 27-10 SoCon clinching win over Elon.

The 2008 Payton Award winner, who ranks second in FCS in scoring, will start Saturday for an ASU offense that ranks second in total offense and fourth in scoring.

Possession receiver Matt Cline (66 catches, 11.4 average) leads the Mountaineers in receptions and yards, and is joined on the receiving corps by standout Brian Quick (43 catches, 22.7 average, three TDs). Slot receiver/returnman CoCo Hillary (4,100 total yards for his career) is out for the remainder of the season after undergoing .

Running back Devon Moore (1,054 yards rushing, 15 TDs, 28 catches, 8.9 average) paces an ASU rushing attack that ranks seventh in FCS. The junior scampered for a career-high 191 yards and two scores against Western Carolina.

The Mountaineers' improving defense ranks 39th in FCS and held the Catamounts to just 236 yards.

Standouts on the unit include Buchanan Award finalist Mark LeGree (six pass breakups, six interceptions) at safety and All-Americans D.J. Smith (107 tackles, 11 tackles for loss, seven pass breakups) and Jacque Roman (87 tackles) at linebacker and Cortez Gilbert (75 tackles, three pass breakups) joining LeGree in the secondary at cornerback.

South Carolina State followed its 2008 Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference championship - it's first title since 1983 and playoff appearance in 1982 - with a 2009 league title and second straight playoff appearance.

The Bulldogs held tough against the Mountaineers in last year's playoff meeting, trailing 24-21 after three quarters before losing by 16. Payton Award candidate Will Ford (1,010 yards rushing, eight TDs) led the offensive effort in the loss, rushing for 117 yards and a touchdown.

Ford has helped the SCSU offense rank 28th nationally this season in total offense and 16th in scoring. In a 28-10 win over North Carolina A&T, Ford broke the all-time MEAC rushing record (4,650 yards) with a season-high 156 yards on the ground.

Bulldogs' quarterback Malcolm Long (2,424 yards of total offense, 25 TDs) and wide receiver Tre Young (58 catches, 15.6 average, nine TDs) have been solid for SCSU's improving offense. Young has caught 12 balls for 289 yards and four scores in his last two games, while Long has thrown for at least two touchdown passes in five straight games.

South Carolina State's defense has been the true force behind the team's success. The unit ranks fifth nationally in total defense, seventh in pass defense and ninth in scoring defense.

The unit features leading tackler David Erby (77 tackles, five tackles for loss) at linebacker, defensive tackle La'Taris Douglas (35 tackles, six sacks) and secondary standouts in safeties Markee Hamlin (47 tackles, three interceptions) and Phillip Adams (11 pass breakups, three interceptions, two touchdowns).

Both teams are more prepared for one another after facing each other last season, but South Carolina State should keep this game closer. However, the Mountaineers thrive under playoff pressure and are more healthy as a team then they were one year ago.

APPALACHIAN STATE 34, SOUTH CAROLINA STATE 27

No. 17 Holy Cross (9-2) at No. 2 Villanova (10-1), 12 p.m.

No. 2 seeded Villanova and Holy Cross will play for the first time in 20 years when the two conference champions face off in the first round of the 2009 FCS playoffs.

Holy Cross took the 1989 matchup, 38-17, on the way to the Crusader's third Patriot League title in four years.

The Crusaders are making its first playoff appearance since 1983 and captured their first Patriot League title since 1991. Holy Cross clinched the title with a 28-26 win over Lafayette two weeks ago, but fell to Bucknell, 23-17 last weekend while resting a number of starters.

Payton Award nominated quarterback Dominic Randolph (3,903 yards of total offense, 37 TDs) is the nation's leader in total offense and leads Holy Cross' third-ranked passing offense.

The senior is the active career leader in total offense and touchdowns and has thrown at least 30 touchdowns in three straight seasons. He also holds the record for most consecutive games with a touchdown pass (41 games), breaking the late Steve McNair's all-time mark. Randolph continued his streak with one touchdown pass against the Bison.

The Crusaders' receiving group features a corps of solid performers in Luke Chmielinski (56 catches, 12.9 average, four TDs), Bill Edger (42 catches, 17.0 average, four TDs) and Freddie Santana (42 catches, 13.7 average, eight TDs). Chmielinski led the group with four catches against Bucknell.

Running back Matt Bellomo (436 yards rushing, four TDs) is the Crusaders' leading rusher behind Randolph. The unit ranks 76th in FCS and racked up just 102 yards against a less than stellar Bucknell squad.

Defensively, the Crusaders have surrendered 21 points and 376 yards per game. The unit has allowed at least 20 points in five straight games, putting pressure on the offense.

Linebacker Marcus Rodriguez (97 tackles, six pass breakups), defensive tackle Mude Ohimor (33 tackles, 8.5 tackles for loss) and cornerback Michael Wright (13 pass breakups, three interceptions) are key performers. Wright picked off a pass against Bucknell.

Villanova capped off its first title since 1997 by beating Delaware 30-12 and will make its second straight post-season appearance.

The Wildcats took down Colgate, 55-28, in last year's first round before falling to James Madison, 31-27 in the second round.

The 2009 Colonial Athletic Association offensive player of the year Matt Szczur (1,475 combined yards, 10 TDs) returned the opening kickoff 91 yards to the house against Colgate and racked up 111 combined yards and two touchdowns against James Madison.

Szczur leads the 2009 Wildcat offense that ranks sixth in rushing and 20th in total offense. He also ranks fourth nationally kickoff returns (27.4 average).

All-CAA performer Chris Whitney (2,141 yards of total offense, 19 TDs, three interceptions) is a solid duel-threat quarterback for this multifaceted offense. Running back Aaron Ball (563 yards rushing, five TDs) trails Whitney and Szczur on the team in rushing, but is the Wildcats' top pure running back.

Wide receiver Brandyn Harvey (47 catches, 12.9 average, five TDs) stands out in Villanova's receiving corps and is capable of stretching the passing game with his size, speed and route-running ability.

Villanova's defense ranks 36th in FCS, and has given up 12 points or less in the past four-of-five games.

The unit features Buchanan Award candidate Tim Kukucka (51 tackles, 14.5 tackles for loss) at defensive end, linebackers Osayi Osunde (71 tackles, seven tackles for loss) and Terence Thomas (88 tackles, 8.5 tackles for loss), safeties John Dempsey (53 tackles, four pass breakups, four forced fumbles) and Ross Ventrone (56 tackles, five pass breakups) and cornerback James Pitts (eight pass breakups, four interceptions).

Both teams can score, but Holy Cross is likely to have a harder time containing Villanova.

VILLANOVA 31, HOLY CROSS 21

No. 9 Elon (9-2) at No. 4 Richmond (10-1), 1 p.m.

Elon and Richmond faced off in the season opener in 2008 and will meet again for just the third time ever in the first round of the 2009 FCS playoffs.

Richmond took the contest 28-10 last season in a game that was not as lopsided as the score indicates, the first of 13 wins that culminated with a national championship victory.

This year, Richmond comes into the playoffs as the No. 4 seed, after sharing the CAA crown with Villanova.

Last year's Elon-Richmond meeting came down to a handful of plays, with quarterback Eric Ward (2,227 yards of total offense, 18 TDs) completing 17- of-22 passes for 236 yards and two scores.

Ward hasn't been as consistent as last season for the Spiders' run-dominated offense, but the third-team All-CAA quarterback has helped his team back to the playoffs for a second consecutive year as an at large squad.

The Spiders' rushing attack ranks 41st in FCS and features standout Justin Forte (903 yards rushing, six TDs), who rushed for a career-high total this season en route to earning All-CAA honors. The senior tallied a touchdown in a regular season-finale 13-10 win over William & Mary.

Tre Gray (45 catches, 13.4 average, three TDs), Kevin Grayson (38 catches, 11.7 average, two TDs) and Donte Boston (30 catches, 16.0 average) have paced Richmond's wide receiving unit all season and combined for 16 catches and 171 yards against the Tribe.

Richmond's defense is the most experienced group on the team and paced the team to the 2008 national championship. The unit ranks third in rushing defense and eighth in scoring defense.

Standouts include Buchanan Award nominee Martin Parker (64 tackles, 15 tackles for loss) at defensive end, linebacker Collin McConaghy (83 tackles, five quarterback hurries) and All-American cornerback Justin Rogers (seven pass breakups, three interceptions).

Return specialist Derek Hatcher leads the Spiders in punt returns and ranks 18th in FCS (9.9 average, one touchdown).

Elon is making its first trip to the FCS playoffs under fourth-year coach and former Robinson Award winner Pete Lembo. Lembo's squad is in the midst of its most successful season since winning back-to-back NAIA national titles in 1980-81.

The Phoenix finished off the 2009 regular season taking care of Samford, 27-7. Elon boasts the nation's eighth-ranked total offense and seventh-ranked passing offense.

Payton Award nominee Terrell Hudgins (111 catches, 13.2 average, 15 TDs) exploded at wide receiver this season, leading the nation in both receptions and receiving yards.

The senior also broke Jerry Rice's Division I records for most games with 100- plus receiving yards (26) and the career-receiving yards mark (5,083) of Jacquay Nunnally. He also holds school records for career receptions (383) and touchdowns scored (51).

Quarterback Scott Riddle (3,036 yards passing, 25 combined TDs) has gotten the ball to Hudgins as many times as possible and kept his turnovers limited with just three interceptions. Against Samford, Riddle completed 27-of-41 passes for 278 yards and a touchdown.

Running backs Jamal Shuman (677 yards rushing, three TDs) and Brandon Newsome (435 yards rushing, seven TDs) anchor Elon's rushing attack.

Newsome has run for six scores in his last three games, with Shuman is still nursing a shoulder injury and a concussion that kept him out against Samford. His status is uncertain for this weekend.

Elon's ranks second nationally in total defense and scoring defense. The unit also boasts the fifth best pass defense and sixth-ranked pass rush.

Defensive end Andre Campbell (37 tackles, 16.5 tackles for loss), cornerback Karlos Sullivan (31 tackles, four interceptions) and linebacker Joshua Jones (88 tackles, seven tackles for loss) pace an Elon defense that has held opponents to under 13 points per game this season.

Look for a potential upset in this matchup as Elon's offense and defense have outplayed both units for Richmond this season. A normally solid Spiders' secondary has had some cover issues this season and now faces one of the most dangerous wide receivers in FCS history.

ELON 31, RICHMOND 24

No. 15 Weber State (7-4) at No. 6 William & Mary (9-2), 1 p.m.

Two teams from different regions that have never faced meet up in what could be one of the most entertaining games in the first round of the 2009 FCS playoffs.

The Tribe are making their first playoff appearance since 2004 when they fell in the national semifinals to James Madison.

William & Mary fell in the regular season finale, 13-10, to Richmond, losing their chance at a share of the CAA. The teams took a 3-3 tie into the fourth quarter, but the Spiders outscored the Tribe 10-7 in the final frame for the win.

All-CAA running back Jonathan Grimes (963 yards rushing, six TDs) paces the Tribe's 26th-ranked rushing attack. The sophomore finished off back-to-back 900-yard seasons.

Quarterback R.J. Archer (2,369 yards of total offense, 18 TDs) earned All-CAA honors in his first season as William & Mary's starting quarterback. His wide receiving corps features D.J. McAulay (42 catches, 11.4 average, three TDs), Chase Hill (31 catches, 13.8 average, four TDs) and tight end Rob Varno (39 catches, 9.5 average, three TDs).

The Tribe lead the nation in rushing defense, rank second in sacks and third in total defense. The defense hasn't allowed over 17 points since an early October loss to William & Mary.

Buchanan Award nominee Adrian Tracy (64 tackles, 19 tackles for loss, 10 sacks) leads the unit and is joined by CAA defensive rookie of the year, cornerback B.W. Webb (19 tackles, five interceptions), linebacker Evan Francks (74 tackles, 6.5 tackles for loss) and defensive tackle Sean Lissemore (58 tackles, 11.5 tackles for loss).

Weber State is making its second straight playoff appearance as an at large team from the Big Sky. The Wildcats clobbered Cal Poly, 47-14 to earn their way into the post-season field.

WSU boasts the nation's sixth-ranked passing offense, led by Payton Award candidate Cameron Higgins (3,154 yards passing, 30 TDs). Higgins ranks 13th nationally in total offense and passed for 364 yards and four touchdowns against the Mustangs.

The Wildcats' wide receiving corps is one of the best in the league and features All-American Tim Toone (77 catches, 13.7 average, 10 TDs), Mike Phillips (37 catches, 18.3 average, six TDs) and Joe Collins (44 catches, 9.3 average, four TDs). Toone caught 11 balls for 176 yards and three scores against Cal Poly and leads FCS in punt returns (21.2 average).

Payton Award candidate Trevyn Smith (979 yards rushing, seven TDs) leads the Wildcats' rushing attack and has a chance to rush for 1,000 yards for the fourth straight season.

The Wildcats took a hit to their offensive line when All-American center Kyle Mutcher went out with a leg injury against Cal Poly and is likely to miss the rest of the season.

Weber State's defense ranks 32nd nationally in scoring and has kept opponents to just 23 points in the past two games. Defensive end Kevin Linehan (57 tackles, 12.5 tackles for loss), linebacker Taylor Sedillo (99 tackles, 5.5 tackles for loss) and safeties Jordan Brown (90 tackles, three interceptions) and All-American Beau Hadley (71 tackles, three forced fumbles).

With the way William & Mary has performed on defense this season, the Tribe have the edge in this matchup and should be able to move the ball effectively against an average Weber State defense.

WILLIAM & MARY 31, WEBER STATE 21

No. 19 Eastern Illinois (8-3) at No. 1 Southern Illinois (10-1), 2 p.m.

Two in-state schools will meet for the 65th time overall and the third time in the postseason since 2005 as Eastern Illinois takes on Southern Illinois in the first round of the 2009 FCS playoffs.

EIU and SIU last met in 2007 in the first round on the playoffs, with the Salukis advancing at home, 30-11. Southern Illinois would go on to lose in the semifinals against Delaware.

They also met in the 2005 playoffs at Eastern Illinois, with SIU winning its first playoff game in 22 years, 21-6, before losing to eventual national champion Appalachian State.

No. 3 seeded Southern Illinois earned its seventh straight playoff appearance, winning the MVFC title and earning the auto bid for the first time since 2004. The Salukis closed out the regular season with a 42-24 win over Southeast Missouri State.

Payton Award nominee Deji Karim (1,512 yards rushing, 16 TDs) leads SIU's offense at running back and compiled 155 yards and two scores against SEMO. The senior ranks second nationally in rushing and third in all-purpose yards (2,068 yards). His 2009 rushing total ranks fourth in school history.

Freshman quarterback Paul McIntosh (1,160 yards of total offense, 10 TDs) has stepped in nicely for Chris Dieker, who is out until at least the semifinals with a broken left clavicle. McIntosh threw for a career-high 181 yards against SEMO.

Wide receivers Joe Allaria (48 catches, 13.8 average, three TDs) and Bryce Morris (11.8 average, two TDs) lead the Salukis' receiving corps and combined for eight catches and a touchdown against the Redhawks.

Defensively, Southern Illinois ranks 11th nationally in both scoring defense and sacks. The unit has held opponents to 16 points per game, but has surrendered 48 points in the past two games.

Standouts on SIU's defense are Buchanan Award nominee Brandin Jordan (70 tackles, 7.5 tackles for loss, seven quarterback hurries) at linebacker and Kyle Walker (35 tackles, seven sacks) at linebacker and All-American cornerback Korey Lindsey (54 tackles, six interceptions).

Eastern Illinois earned the Ohio Valley Conference crown and league auto bid for the third time in four years.

The Panthers clinched the accolades with 21-10 loss to Tennessee State, as Eastern Kentucky also lost to hand the Panthers the title and the bid.

Quarterback Jake Christensen (2,191 yards passing, 19 TDs) leads Eastern Illinois' offense that ranks 47th nationally in scoring offense. The senior transfer from Iowa struggled against Tennessee State throwing three interceptions, but threw for a career-high 322 yards and four scores the week before against Tennessee-Martin.

Christensen's top targets at wide receiver are Charles Graves (24 catches, 13.9 average, three TDs), freshman Kenny Whittaker (27 catches, 12.2 average, two TDs) and Lorence Ricks (19 catches, 20.1 average, three TDs).

Running back Mon Williams (763 yards rushing, nine TDs) leads the Panthers' rushing attack. However Williams has compiled just two games with 100 yards rushing for EIU's 74th-ranked unit.

The Panthers have been solid defensively, ranking 21st nationally in scoring defense and 23rd in total defense. The unit features cornerback CJ James (51 tackles, four interceptions), defensive end Perry Burge (6.5 tackles for loss, six quarterback hurries), defensive tackle Trevor Frericks (39 tackles, 14.5 tackles for loss) and linebacker Nick Nasti (69 tackles).

Eastern Illinois really struggled down the stretch, while Southern Illinois could be the hottest team heading into the post-season with its balanced offensive attack.

SOUTHERN ILLINOIS 28, EASTERN ILLINOIS 16

No. 11 South Dakota State (8-3) at No. 3 Montana (11-0), 2:05 p.m.

Top-seeded Montana has never lost to South Dakota State and faces the Jackrabbits in the first round of the 2009 FCS playoffs.

These two teams last squared off in 2005 with the Grizzlies winning, 7-0. Montana owns a 6-0 record against SDSU, but will meet a much different Jackrabbit program.

This season, Montana capped of an undefeated season for is 12th straight Big Sky title and 17th straight playoff appearance. The Grizzlies finished the regular season with a 33-19 win over Montana State in the Brawl of the Wild.

Montana boasts the nation's eighth-ranked scoring offense and ninth-ranked total offense, led by Payton Award nominated running back Chase Reynolds (1,159 yards rushing, 15 TDs). The All-American ranks seventh nationally in rushing and has recorded 1,000 yards and 15 touchdowns in back-to-back seasons.

Quarterback Andrew Selle (1,941 yards passing, 19 TDs, three interceptions) has been impressive in his first season as the starting quarterback for a Montana offense that took a little while to click this season. The junior had a fine game against the Bobcats, completing 17-of-22 passes for 163 yards and three scores.

Selle has split time with Oregon transfer Justin Roper, who has 977 yards of total offense and eight touchdowns.

All-American wide receiver Marc Mariani (50 catches, 19.6 average, nine TDs) leads a Grizzlies' receiving group that has made life easy for the quarterbacks. Montana's pass-catching group also features a groups of six receivers with at least 20 catches. Mariani also ranks fourth nationally in punt returns (18.8 average).

Defensively, Montana ranks 19th in opponents' scoring, keeping opponents to under 18 points per game. The unit had allowed opponents to just 10 points in three straight games, before allowing 19 against a solid Montana State offense.

Linebacker Shawn Lebsock (73 tackles), defensive tackle Tyler Hobbs (five tackles for loss, three sacks) and free safety Shann Schillinger (51 tackles, five pass breakups) lead Montana's defense.

South Dakota State earned an at-large bid and is making its first playoff appearance in just the team's second season of eligibility after transferring from Division II.

The Jackrabbits won the Great West conference in 2007, but didn't make the playoffs due to the fact that the GWC doesn't offer an auto bid. SDSU's eight wins are the most since 1999.

The Jackrabbits' offense is paced by running back Kyle Minett (1,173 yards rushing, 14 TDs), who ranks fifth nationally in rushing. In a 27-7 win in the regular season finale against Western Illinois, the junior rushed for 147 yards and two scores. This is Minett's second straight 1,100-yard and 14- touchdown season.

After Ryan Crawford went down with a knee injury, freshman quarterback Thomas O'Brien (1,250 yards passing, eight TDs) has filled in nicely. With Minett carrying the workload on offense O'Brien needs to just effectively manage the passing game.

O'Brien is helped in the SDSU passing game by wide receivers Glen Fox (60 catches, 12.0 average, four TDs) and Mike Steffen (37 catches, 17.7 average, four TDs). Fox caught a touchdown pass against WIU.

The Jackrabbits' defense comes into the postseason as one of the top units in FCS. The group ranks fifth in opponents' scoring, first in pass efficiency defense and 16th in total defense.

Buchanan Award nominee Danny Batten (80 tackles, 17 tackles for loss, nine sacks) leads the unit at defensive end and is joined by linebacker Derek Domino (87 tackles, eight tackles for loss, five interceptions) and safety Conrad Kjerstad (77 tackles, four interceptions).

South Dakota State has been a dominant force on the offensive and defensive lines this season and could hold a strong advantage against Montana, if the Jackrabbits can keep their composure at noisy Washington-Grizzly Stadium.

One benefit for SDSU could be its trip to Minnesota just two weeks ago, where the Jackrabbits stayed in the game until losing 16-13 late, largely due to three turnovers. They played before a crowd of 50,805.

If South Dakota State can avoid turnovers in this one, the Jackrabbits have the talent to pull off a first-round upset. Montana lost as an undefeated, top-seeded team to Wofford in 2007 and could face a similar fate this season.

SOUTH DAKOTA STATE 28, MONTANA 27

No. 10 New Hampshire (9-2) at No. 8 McNeese State (9-2), 3 p.m.

McNeese State and New Hampshire have never faced off before, but will meet in the first round of the 2009 FCS playoffs.

The Cowboys are making their first playoff appearance since winning back-to- back Southland Conference title in 2006 and 2007. McNeese fell to Montana in the first round in 2006 and lost as the No. 2 seed to Eastern Washington in the same fashion in 2007.

MSU earned an at-large bid this season, after sharing the league title with Stephen F. Austin.

McNeese State is coming off of a 21-17 win over Central Arkansas to clinch its piece of the SLC title. The Cowboys managed just 250 yards of total offense against the Bears, but scored three touchdowns on the ground, with Payton Award nominee Todd Pendland (992 yards rushing, 17 TDs) compiling 44 yards rushing and a four-yard touchdown run in the second quarter. The All-American ranks 12th nationally in rushing and leads FCS in scoring.

Quarterback Derrick Fourroux (2,914 yards of total offense, 25 TDs, six interceptions) had his 11-game streak with at least one touchdown pass broken against UCA as he picked up just 83 yards through the air.

But the multi-talented senior ran for 50 yards and a score. Fourroux ranks 13th nationally in passing efficiency and 18th in total offense.

The Cowboys wide receiving corps features five players with at least 24 catches, including Immanuel Friddle (28 catches, 14.5 average) and tight ends Corday Clark (24 catches, 16.2 average, five TDs) and Wesley Mangan (28 catches, 10.6 average, four TDs).

McNeese State ranks 64th nationally in total defense and allows almost 26 points per game.

The unit does rank 35th in sacks. Standout players include freshmen, safety Malcolm Bronson (62 tackles, four pass breakups) and Seth Thomas (four pass breakups, three interceptions) and defensive end Joshua Ellison (29 tackles, 11 tackles for loss).

New Hampshire is making its sixth straight playoff appearance. UNH has made it to the second round in four of those appearances, including last season in which the Wildcats beat Southern Illinois, but fell to Northern Iowa, 36-34 in the quarterfinals.

This season, the Wildcats earned an at-large bid for the fourth consecutive season, taking down Maine, 27-24 in the regular season finale to win the CAA North Division crown.

The UNH rushing attack picked up steam against the Black Bears, with Chad Kackert (727 yards rushing, nine TDs) leading the way with 85 yards and one score. UNH's rushing attack ranks 37th nationally.

New Hampshire quarterback R.J. Toman (2,158 yards of total offense, 15 TDs, 11 interceptions) has not had the season he was expected to have, but helped secure the Wildcats' 14th-ranked scoring offense. The senior has only passed for over 200 yards in four games this season and is coming into the playoffs having tossed five interceptions in his last four games.

All-American tight end Scott Sicko (48 catches, 13.4 average, seven TDs) is the most dangerous pass catcher on the team and possibly the best tight end in FCS. Sicko has racked up at least seven touchdown catches in three straight seasons.

Only one other receiver has over 20 catches for the Wildcats this season in J.T. Wright (29 catches, 12.1 average).

After a strong start of 2009 for the New Hampshire defense, the unit has stumbled as of late, giving up over 20 points in four straight games, including 42 points to a struggling Rhode Island squad.

Key performers include linebackers Devon Jackson (91 tackles, eight tackles for loss), Sean Ware (90 tackles, 5.5 tackles for loss) and Terrence Klein (70 tackles, 7.5 tackles for loss, five interceptions) and All-CAA cornerback Dino Vasso (70 tackles, six pass breakups, five interceptions).

Both defenses have struggled late, but the consistency of McNeese State's offense might be able to lead the team to the second round.

MCNEESE STATE 28, NEW HAMPSHIRE 24

No. 13 Eastern Washington (8-3) at No. 12 Stephen F. Austin (9-2), 3 p.m.

Stephen F. Austin and Eastern Washington meet for the first time in 20 years in the first round of the 2009 FCS playoffs.

In 1989, SFA beat EWU 42-36 on the way to the Lumberjacks' first ever Southland title and playoff appearance. Stephen F. Austin lost in the national championship game, 37-34, to Georgia Southern.

This is Stephen F. Austin's first playoff appearance since reaching the 1995 semifinals and its first league crown since 1999.

The Lumberjacks ended the regular season with a 19-10 win over Northwestern State to regain possession of the seven-foot six-inch Chief Caddo statue.

The top-ranked scoring offense put up 410 yards against the Demons, with Payton Award nominated quarterback Jeremy Moses (3,488 yards passing, 36 TDs, 14 interceptions) throwing for 333 yards and two scores. Moses capped off his second straight season with at least 3,500 yards passing and 35 TDs and ranks fourth this season in total offense.

SFA's top-ranked passing offense is also aided by the wide receiving corps that has four players with at least 45 catches. Duane Brooks (95 catches, 9.5 average, six TDs), freshman Gralyn Crawford (43 catches, 15.5 average, seven TDs) and Contrevious Parks (45 catches, 10.3 average, five TDs) all stand out.

Aaron Rhea (54 catches, 13.8 average, 11 TDs) is also a solid wide receiver for SFA, but has battled through an ankle injury all season that kept him out of last week's game. His status is uncertain for this weekend.

Running back Vincent Pervis (747 yards rushing, two TDs) leads a Lumberjacks' rushing attack takes a backseat to the strong passing game.

Stephen F. Austin ranks fifth nationally in sacks, 27th in scoring defense and 32nd in total defense.

The unit has surrendered just 20 points in the past two games and features Buchanan Award candidate Tim Knicky (34 tackles, 12 sacks) at defensive end, All-American Jabara Williams (87 tackles, 5.5 tackles for loss, five pass breakups) and Devin Ducote (112 tackles, nine tackles for loss) at linebacker and safety Cory Barlow (86 tackles, nine pass breakups, three interceptions).

Eastern Washington is making its first playoff appearance since 2007, when the Eagles knocked off No. 2 seed McNeese State in the first round, but were beaten by eventual national champion Appalachian State, 38-35.

EWU is led by Payton Award nominated quarterback Matt Nichols (3,369 yards passing, 32 combined TDs, five interceptions).

Nichols broke the Big Sky and school record for career passing yards (12,155) this season, pacing Eastern Washington's fourth-ranked total offense and ninth-ranked scoring offense.

Nichols finished the regular season ranked fourth nationally in passing efficiency and fifth in total offense and led the Eagles to a 49-45 win over Northern Arizona to secure an at-large playoff spot. The senior capped off his fourth straight game with at least four touchdown passes, throwing for five and 408 yards against NAU.

The Eagles receiving corps has also been solid this season with big contributions from Tony Davis (67 catches, 12.4 average) and tight end Nathan Overbay (43 catches, 11.3 average, 12 TDs). Wide receiver Aaron Boyce (39 catches, 16.3 average, six TDs) suffered a season-ending and likely career- ending injury as he ruptured his Achilles tendon against Montana.

Running back Taiwan Jones (1,095 yards rushing, 14 TDs) had a breakout season for the Eagles at running back, running for 100 yards in four games, including 115 yards and a score against Northern Arizona. Jones ranks second nationally in all-purpose yards (2,145 yards, 18 TDs) and 11th in rushing.

Eastern Washington's defense has been fairly dismal in 2009, allowing over 30 points in five games and surrendering an average of 416 yards of total offense. However, one star has emerged in Buchanan Award nominee J.C. Sherritt (154 tackles, four pass breakups). The junior linebacker's tackle total set a new school record.

Other standouts on the Eagles' defense are defensive tackle Renard Williams (29 tackles, 12 tackles for loss) and safeties Matt Johnson (88 tackles, six interceptions) and Kevin Hatch (57 tackles, seven tackles for loss, three interceptions).

If SFA's offense shows up, Eastern Washington's struggling defense should be in for a long day with the high-octane Lumberjacks' passing attack. Although Nichols and the Eagles' offense can hang with anyone.

STEPHEN F. AUSTIN 38, EASTERN WASHINGTON 31

OTHER GAMES OF NOTE

Southern (6-3) vs. Grambling (6-4), 2 p.m.

Southern and Grambling will meet in the 36th annual State Farm Bayou Classic in the Superdome in New Orleans, one of the most heated rivalries in college football.

The Bayou Classic dates back to 1974 with the event annually drawing more than 50,000 fans. Southern leads the classic 18-17 and has won 12 times since 1993. Grambling won last season, 29-14, in front of 59,874 fans.

Overall, Grambling and Southern are tied 28-all in their all-time series.

Grambling is coming into the matchup after taking down Texas Southern, 47-33, in a wild game two weeks ago.

The nation's 10th-ranked scoring offense put up 385 yards on TSU, with offensive efforts coming from running back Frank Warren (760 yards rushing, five TDs) and quarterback Greg Dillon (1,891 yards of total offense, 17 TDs).

Wide receiver Kiare Thompson (25 catches, 13.5 average) leads Grambling in receptions and receiving yards. Thompson also ranks second nationally in punt returns (20.4 average).

Defensively, 45th-ranked unit is led by Buchanan Award nominee Christian Anthony (67 tackles, 14 tackles for loss, five interceptions) at defensive end. Other performers are linebacker Cliff Exama (87 tackles, 10.5 tackles for loss) and cornerback Nigel Copeland (nine pass breakups, three interceptions).

Southern is coming off a 34-24 win over Alabama State two weeks ago, in which Payton Award nominated quarterback Bryant Lee (2,425 yards of total offense, 26 TDs) threw for season-highs 384 yards and four touchdowns.

Wide receiver Juamorris Stewart (69 catches, 13.6 average, 10 TDs) and running back Brian Threat (486 yards rushing, four TDs) are also key performers on Southern's offense.

The Jaguars' defense ranks 48th nationally and features the nation's leader in interceptions, free safety Jason House (31 tackles, eight interceptions), as well as defensive end Jordan Miller (43 tackles, 7.5 tackles for loss).

There have been rumblings around Southern that 17-year coach Pete Richardson could have his job on the line, if the Jaguars don't beat Grambling.

But even with that motivation for Southern, if Grambling's defense plays to its potential, the Tigers should win its second straight game in this series.

GRAMBLING 28, SOUTHERN 24

Arkansas-Pine Bluff (5-4) vs. Texas Southern (4-5), 2 p.m.

These two Southwest Athletic Conference squads face off in the annual Dallas Lone State Classic at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Texas.

This is just the second annual Classic, drawing over 14,000 people last season. The event is likely to draw more than double that amount this season.

Texas Southern is coming off a 47-33 loss to Grambling, two weeks ago. The offense ranks 18th nationally passing and features quarterback Arvell Nelson (2,109 yards of total offense, 13 TDs), wide receivers Brian Haith (45 catches, 13.1 average, two TDs) and Joe Anderson (38 catches, 10.3 average, five TDs) and running back Martin Gilbert (453 yards rushing, four TDs).

The TSU outgained the Tigers 385 yards to 214, but turned the ball over three times.

TSU's defense ranks 12th nationally in pass efficiency defense, tied for 12th in sacks and 17th in tackles for loss. The unit features linebacker Dejuan Fulghum (76 tackles, 13.5 tackles for loss) and safety Curtis Thomas (30 tackles, six interceptions.

Arkansas-Pine Bluff is coming into the matchup after falling 49-17 to Prairie View A&M last weekend. The offense managed just 296 yards against the Panthers and ranks 101st nationally in total offense.

Standouts on the Golden Lions' offense are running back Mickey Dean (437 yards rushing, five TDs) quarterback Josh Boudreaux (825 yards of total offense, 10 TDs), tight end Remo Gray (25 catches, 17.5 average, two TDs) and wide receiver Raymond Webber (33 catches, 11.5 average, four TDs).

Arkansas-Pine Bluff ranks 43rd nationally in total defense and features cornerback Kevin Thornton (seven pass breakups, six interceptions) and linebacker Freddy Fairchild (76 tackles, 6.5 tackles for loss).

The Golden Lions have won the past six meetings, including a 28-7 meeting last season, but Texas Southern has improved on offense.

TEXAS SOUTHERN 24, ARKANSAS-PINE BLUFF 21

North Dakota (5-5) at Central Arkansas (5-6), 2 p.m.

North Dakota and Central Arkansas close out their 2009 seasons in the first ever meeting between the two schools.

Both are transitional Division II teams and are starting to build their resumes. North Dakota nearly won the Great West Conference title this season, while UCA finished atop the Southland Conference unofficially last season.

The Bears are coming off a 21-17 loss to McNeese State. UCA's offense has struggled of late, but features standouts in quarterback Robbie Park (2,170 yards passing, 13 TDs), All-SLC running back Brent Grimes (1,085 yards rushing, 17 TDs) and wide receiver Preston Echols (37 catches, 11.9 average, two TDs). The unit has scored just 31 points in the past two games.

Defensively, the Bears are more sound with Buchanan Award nominee Larry Hart (29 tackles, 10 tackles for loss) carrying the unit at defensive end. He is joined by linebacker Jacob Bane (85 tackles, 10.5 tackles for loss) and free safety Derrick Boyd (54 tackles, three pass breakups.

North Dakota fell to UC Davis, 28-20 in the Great West title game last weekend. The Fighting Sioux offense has put up 81 points in the past three games, with quarterback Jake Landry (1,768 yards of total offense, 12 TDs) leading the effort. He is joined on the unit by freshman running back Mitch Sutton (609 yards rushing, six TDs) and wide receiver Ismael Bamba (51 catches, 15.9 average).

Defensively, UND has struggled to keep opponents' from putting up points. The unit has surrendered at least 28 points in five games this season. The unit features cornerback Joel Schwenzfeier (52 tackles, five interceptions) and linebacker Ryan Kasowski (32 tackles, 7.5 tackles for loss).

The Bears are likely the favorite in this matchup, due to the fact they play in a tougher conference are better on offense.

CENTRAL ARKANSAS 38, NORTH DAKOTA 21

11/25 18:55:33 ET

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Around FCS: 2009 Quarterfinal Playoff Previews
By Brett Kahn, FCS Assistant

Philadelphia, PA (Sports Network) - Here are the matchups for the quarterfinal round of the 2009 FCS playoffs and other selected games. All games are in EST.

SATURDAY'S PLAYOFF GAMES

No. 6 William & Mary (10-1) at No. 1 Southern Illinois (11-1), 12 p.m.

Two teams that have never played will meet for the first time in the quarterfinal round of the 2009 FCS playoffs.

This is Southern Illinois' fourth quarterfinal appearance in five seasons and first second-round berth for William & Mary since 2004.

No. 3 seeded and Missouri Valley Football Conference champion Southern Illinois blew out Eastern Illinois 48-7 in the first round last weekend.

The Salukis outgained the Panthers 389-189, with 2009 Payton Award finalist Deji Karim (1,667 yards rushing, 18 TDs) running for 155 yards and two scores, including a 58-yarder in the fourth quarter.

Karim ranks second nationally in rushing, is tied for second in scoring and is third in all-purpose yardage (2,234 yards). His 2009 rushing total ranks third in SIU history.

Freshman quarterback Paul McIntosh (1,341 yards of total offense, 13 TDs) compiled 181 yards and three scores against EIU and has filled in nicely for Chris Dieker, who is out for at least one more game after suffering a broken left clavicle earlier in the season. McIntosh's 115 yards rushing against the Panthers was a career-high.

Joe Allaria (50 catches, 13.4 average, three TDs) leads SIU's wide receiving corps that also features Bryce Morris (37 catches, 11.2 average, two TDs). The duo didn't produce a lot in the opening round game, because of the success of a rushing attack that racked up 323 yards.

Southern Illinois ranks eighth nationally in scoring defense and seventh in sacks allowed. The unit played extremely well against the Panthers, holding EIU to just seven points and under 200 yards of total offense.

The Salukis' defense features Buchanan Award nominee Brandin Jordan (76 tackles, 7.5 tackles for loss, seven quarterback hurries) and Kyle Walker (40 tackles, 9.5 tackles for loss, six quarterback hurries) at linebacker and All- American Korey Lindsey (58 tackles, six interceptions) at cornerback.

SIU leads the nation in kickoff returns, with Karim (32.9 average, one TD) carrying the effort.

William & Mary, an at-large selection from the Colonial Athletic Association shut out Weber State in the first round, 38-0 to advance. The offense outgained a very solid Wildcats' unit 408-161, with All-CAA running back Jonathan Grimes (1,102 yards rushing, six TDs) compiling 139 yards rushing on 23 carries.

All-CAA Tribe quarterback R.J. Archer (2,585 yards of total offense, 20 TDs) racked up 216 yards of total offense and two rushing scores in the win. It was the first time Archer had rushed for more than one touchdown in a game since facing Villanova in October of last season.

Archer's top receivers include D.J. McAulay (45 catches, 11.3 average, three TDs), Chase Hill (31 catches, 13.8 average, four TDs) and tight end Rob Varno (42 catches, 9.5 average, three TDs).

William & Mary's defense rank No. 1 FCS in fewest rushing yards allowed, is second in total defense and fourth in sacks. The unit showed its dominance against the Wildcats, shutting out a WSU offense that hadn't been held to zero points all season.

Buchanan Award nominee Adrian Tracy (68 tackles, 20 tackles for loss, 10 sacks), defensive tackle Sean Lissemore (63 tackles, 12.5 tackles for loss) and CAA defensive rookie of the year, cornerback B.W. Webb (21 tackles, seven interceptions, two TDs) lead this stingy Tribe defense. Webb had two picks and returned one 58 yards for a touchdown against Weber State.

Both defenses have held their own all season, making this matchup about which offense can be most effective. But William & Mary's offensive balance with Archer could tip the game the Tribe's way.

WILLIAM & MARY 24, SOUTHERN ILLINOIS 14

No. 12 Stephen F. Austin (10-2) at No. 3 Montana (12-0), 2:05 p.m.

Montana has beaten Stephen F. Austin in the only three times they've played and will have a chance to advance to the semifinals of the 2009 FCS playoffs for second straight season.

The last time these squads got together was in 1998, in a 49-42 Grizzlies win at SFA. Montana would head to the playoffs that season, only to fall to Western Illinois, 52-9 in the first round.

There was also a 1995 semifinal playoff encounter, where the Grizzlies dominated the Lumberjacks 70-14 in Missoula, MT., on the way to Montana's first national championship.

The top-seeded Grizzlies recovered from one of the biggest deficits in FCS playoff history last week, scoring 34 points in the fourth quarter to beat South Dakota State, 61-48. Montana looked dreadful early in game, falling behind 41-14 and 48-27 before making its comeback.

Montana's offensive explosion in the fourth quarter was paced by quarterback Andrew Selle (2,250 yards passing, 21 TDs, five interceptions), who tossed two touchdown passes in the final frame, finishing the game with 309 yards passing, three touchdown passes and two interceptions. Selle ranks sixth nationally in passing efficiency.

Running back Chase Reynolds (1,193 yards rushing, 18 TDs) was limited in yardage (34 yards), but found the end zone three times, twice in the fourth quarter.

Grizzly All-American wide receiver Marc Mariani (62 catches, 18.6 average, 11 TDs) was the sparkplug for the historical comeback, racking up 389 all- purpose yards and three scores, including a 98-yard kickoff return near the end of the third quarter. Mariani ranks fourth nationally in punt returns (16.3 average) and 11th in all-purpose yards (1,823 yards).

Mariani is joined in the Montana receiving group by senior Tyler Palmer (34 catches, 12.9 average, four TDs).

Montana's defense has been its Achilles heel this season, although the unit had held opponents to under 20 points in the previous four games before the playoffs. However, the defense was put under pressure by SDSU's rushing attack for much of the afternoon.

The Grizzly defense features linebacker Shawn Lebsock (82 tackles), cornerback Andrew Swink (25 tackles, interceptions) and defensive end Jace Palmer (32 tackles, nine tackles for loss, six pass breakups).

SFA earned its first playoff win since 1995 by winning a share of the Southland Conference title and the automatic bid. The Lumberjacks took down Eastern Washington, 44-33, at home in the first round.

The nation's top-ranked scoring offense and second-ranked scoring offense put up 563 yards of total offense, with Payton Award nominee Jeremy Moses (3,920 yards passing, 40 TDs) throwing for 432 yards and four touchdown passes.

Moses spread the ball around to nine different receivers, with Duane Brooks (110 catches, 9.3 average, six TDs), Gralyn Crawford (47 catches, 15.3 average, seven TDs) and Brandon Scott (24 catches, 11.4 average, five TDs) leading the effort. The three combined for 30 catches, 302 yards and three scores.

Wide receiver Aaron Rhea (54 catches, 13.8 average, 11 TDs) missed his second straight game with an ankle injury, but is expected to play this weekend along with Contrevious Parks (45 catches, 10.3 average, five TDs), who also missed the EWU game due to injury.

The Lumberjacks' rushing attack takes a back seat to the air attack, but Vincent Pervis (872 yards rushing, two TDs) played well against the Eagles, compiling 177 all-purpose yards in the win.

SFA's defense struggled against Eastern Washington, allowing a blistering 595 yards of total offense and 33 points, its most this season.

The unit features Buchanan Award nominee Tim Knicky (37 tackles, 15 tackles for loss) at defensive end, All-American linebacker Jabara Williams (102 tackles, eight tackles for loss, seven pass breakups) and defensive tackle Kenneth Charles (43 tackles, 11 tackles for loss, nine sacks).

Both teams are clearly explosive on offense, but the lack of SFA's rushing attack could provide a disadvantage for the Lumberjacks.

MONTANA 44, STEPHEN F. AUSTIN 34

No. 10 New Hampshire (10-2) at No. 2 Villanova (11-1), 3:30 p.m.

Villanova and New Hampshire will meet in a rematch from the regular season in the quarterfinal round of the 2009 FCS playoffs.

UNH handed Villanova its lone loss this season, taking down the VU Wildcats 28-24. On an extremely windy day at UNH's Cowell Stadium, New Hampshire took advantage of VU's miscues to build a 23-7 first-half lead, fell behind 24-23 and then won it on a pair of Tom Manning field goals in the fourth quarter.

Quarterback R.J. Toman completed 15-of-28 passes for 292 yards and tight end Scott Sicko caught three passes for 135 yards and a 32-yard touchdown for New Hampshire.

Villanova, however, won the last time the teams played in the Philadelphia area, 24-13 last season behind 222 rushing yards overall and 150 yards of total offense from quarterback Chris Whitney.

New Hampshire is making its second straight quarterfinal appearance and third in the past four seasons, but the team has never advanced to the semifinals in seven previous FCS postseason appearances. Last season, UNH fell to Northern Iowa, 36-34 in the second round.

New Hampshire took down McNeese State, 49-13 to advance last week. The nation's ninth-ranked scoring offense racked up 460 yards of total offense, with Toman (2,135 yards of total offense, 19 TDs) throwing for 204 yards and scoring a season-high four times.

UNH's rushing attack ranks 37th in FCS and compiled 183 yards against the Cowboys. Running back Chad Kackert (790 yards rushing, 10 TDs) leads the attack and carried 14 times for 63 yards and a score against MSU.

Sicko (53 catches, 13.1 average, nine TDs) is the team's best receiver and hauled in two Toman touchdown passes against the Cowboys. Wide receiver J.T. Wright (34 catches, 11.4 average) is another capable pass catcher for New Hampshire.

UNH's defense got off to a very strong start in 2009, but fell off late, surrendering 42 points to a poor Rhode Island team. The looked to get back to form, surrendering just 326 yards against a formidable McNeese State offense.

New Hampshire's defense features linebackers Devon Jackson (97 tackles, eight tackles for loss), Sean Ware (93 tackles, 5.5 tackles for loss) and Terrence Klein (75 tackles, 8.5 tackles for loss, six interceptions) and All-CAA cornerback Dino Vasso (70 tackles, six pass breakups, five interceptions).

Villanova, the No. 2 seed and the auto-bid winner from the CAA, took care of business against Holy Cross, 38-28 to advance to its second straight quarterfinal round.

CAA offensive player of the year Matt Szczur (1,716 combined yards, 13 TDs) led the offensive effort, compiling 238 all-purpose yards and a touchdown run. Szczur ranks fourth nationally in kickoff returns, averaging 27.3 yards and is always a threat to break one.

Whitney (2,442 yards of total offense, 21 TDs, three interceptions), the first-team All-CAA quarterback, has been solid all season for Villanova's versatile offense which ranks 14th nationally in scoring.

Running back Aaron Ball (662 yards rushing, six TDs) racked up 99 yards and a touchdown against the Crusaders and is the team's leading running back. Finally healthy after battling with a turf toe most of the season, Angelo Babbaro (237 yards rushing, four TDs) is another rushing threat and ran for 75 yards and a touchdown in the first round win.

Wide receiver Brandyn Harvey (50 catches, 12.6 average, five TDs) poses a size advantage in Villanova's receiving corps, but has hauled in just seven balls in his last three games.

Villanova's defense settled down after the first quarter against Holy Cross and started pressuring quarterback Dominic Randolph. After surrendering 14 points to the high-octane offense in the first quarter, the defense kept Holy Cross' offense to just 14 points in the final three frames.

Buchanan Award nominee Tim Kukucka (51 tackles, 14.5 tackles for loss) paces Villanova's defense, with help from fellow linebackers Terence Thomas (97 tackles, 8.5 tackles for loss) and Osayi Osunde (74 tackles, seven tackles for loss) and safeties Ross Ventrone (62 tackles, five pass breakups) and John Dempsey (59 tackles, 8.5 tackles for loss).

Villanova could be the most well-balanced team in FCS this season and with the decline of UNH's defense, should be able to make its first semifinal appearance since 2002.

VILLANOVA 28, NEW HAMPSHIRE 20

No. 5 Appalachian State (10-2) at No. 4 Richmond (11-1), 7 p.m.

Richmond and Appalachian State meet in a rematch of last season's quarterfinals in the 2009 FCS playoffs.

The Spiders went on to win the 2008 national championship after taking down the Mountaineers, 33-13, ending an FCS-record, 13-game playoff winning streak against the three-time champs.

Richmond took advantage of hip and knee injuries to ASU quarterback Armanti Edwards (26-of-41, 323 yards, one TD, five interceptions passing) to force seven Mountaineer turnovers. Josh Vaughan rushed 32 times for 133 yards and three TDs for the Spiders.

In the previous playoff meeting in the 2007 semifinals, Edwards rushed for 313 yards and four TDs and passed for 182 yards and three more scores as ASU won 55-35.

Richmond, the No. 4 seed, beat Elon, 16-13 last week to advance to the quarterfinals. The Spiders survived when the Phoenix missed a pair of field goals from 27 and 48 yards in the final two minutes. Parker Miles partially blocked the 48-yard attempt on the final play of the game, forcing the attempt to come up short.

The Spiders' offense compiled an impressive 400 yards of total offense, with third-team All-CAA quarterback Eric Ward (2,503 yards of total offense, 19 TDs, 10 interceptions) registering 276 total yards and a 76-yard touchdown run. The senior's 136 yards rushing in the contest was a career-high.

Running back Justin Forte (999 yards rushing, six TDs) adds to Richmond's 32nd-ranked rushing attack and ran for 96 yards against the Phoenix.

A strong group of wide receivers, led by Tre Gray (46 catches, 13.5 average, three TDs), Kevin Grayson (44 catches, 11.2 average, two TDs) and Donte Boston (32 catches, 15.3 average, four TDs), gives Ward some reliable targets.

Defensively, Richmond has been one of the best teams in FCS the past two seasons. The unit ranks seventh nationally in scoring defense and 14th in total defense.

The Spiders' defense hasn't surrendered more than 21 points in eight straight games and features standouts Buchanan Award nominee Martin Parker (71 tackles, 15.5 tackles for loss, eight quarterback hurries) at defensive end, linebackers Collin McConaghy (89 tackles) and Eric McBride (84 tackles) and All-American cornerback Justin Rogers (eight pass breakups, three interceptions).

Appalachian State escaped with a 20-13 win over South Carolina State, in a game littered with turnovers. ASU's third-ranked total offense was limited to just 302 yards and one offensive touchdown.

The Mountaineers scored the game-winning touchdown on a botched SCSU field goal attempt in which the snap when over the holder's head, allowing Dominique McDuffie to pick up the loose ball and take it 50 yards to the end zone.

Armanti Edwards (3,296 yards of total offense, 27 TDs, six interceptions tossed a season-high three interceptions and was caught off-guard by the SCSU pass rush most of the afternoon. Edwards is still recovering from a slight ACL sprain that he suffered against Elon, but the senior is expected to be near 100% this weekend.

Running back Devon Moore (1,115 yards rushing, 15 TDs) was limited to just 61 yards on 20 carries against Elon and was slightly banged up, but is expected to start this weekend. ASU's 10th-ranked rushing attack was limited to just 84 yards.

Wide receivers Brian Quick (49 catches, 16.7 average, four TDs) and Matt Cline (69 catches, 11.5 average) have paced ASU's talented group since slot receiver-returnman CoCo Hillary (4,100 combined yards for his career) underwent season-ending knee surgery. Quick had an acrobatic touchdown catch in the win.

Appalachian State's defense has significantly improved over the course of the season and has given up just 10 offensive points per game in the past three contests.

The unit is littered with talent in 2008 Buchanan Award finalist Mark LeGree (63 tackles, seven interceptions) at safety and All-Americans, cornerback Cortez Gilbert (68 tackles) and linebackers D.J. Smith (113 tackles, 11 tackles for loss, seven quarterback hurries) and Jacque Roman (93 tackles).

This game hinges on Edwards' health. If he is mobile and can both run and throw it will keep the Richmond defense honest and ASU should prevail.

APPALACHIAN STATE 27, RICHMOND 21

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Agian, good luck to your Grizzlies Con, if they pull it out again, we meet in the Semi's. But to be honest, I am kinda hoping you guys get upset as than Appalachian would more than likely come back home for the Semi game (just don't tell my daughter ).

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The game will be Sat. Dec. 12, 2009 at 2 pm

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Common sense presents: The National Playoffs

1. Alabama 13 - 0 SEC Champion
2. TCU 12 - 0 Mountain West Champion
3. Texas 13 - 0 Big 12 Champion
4. Cincinnati 12 - 0 Big East Champion
5. Boise State 12 - 0 WAC Champion
6. Oregon 10 - 2 Pac 10 Champion
7. Ohio State 10 - 2 Big 10 Champion
8. Georgia Tech 11 - 2 ACC Champion

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Good to hear from you again OooRah, hopefully App. can pull another one out of Armanti's bag of tricks.

Con, let's just hope it lives up to the game the last time we faced you guys in the playoffs.

Again, for any of those out there that want some good football, both games will be televised. Villinova and William & Mary is on ESPN Friday night at 8'o'clock. App. State and Montana is on ESPN Sat. at 4' o'clock (as con said).

Again guys, this is a college football championship decided the way it should be.....ON THE FIELD !!!!!!!

Good luck to your guys Con (well, not really but ), let's hope for a good an healthy game.

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I'm pulling for ya' dude,...(no one else to root for,....)

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Around FCS: 2009 Semifinal Playoff Previews
By Brett Kahn, FCS Assistant

Philadelphia, PA (Sports Network) - Here are the matchups for the semifinal round of the 2009 FCS playoffs and the Southwest Athletic Conference championship game. All games are in EST.

FRIDAY'S SEMIFINAL PLAYOFF GAME

No. 6 William & Mary (11-2) at No. 2 Villanova (12-1), 8 p.m.

Two Colonial Athletic Association teams, William & Mary and Villanova, square off in a rematch from the regular season in the semifinal round of the 2009 FCS playoffs. The game will be broadcast live on ESPN2.

Both teams are looking for their first trip to the national championship game.

Villanova earned a win in the regular season contest, 28-17, at Villanova Stadium. The Wildcats scored on their first play from scrimmage on a reverse pass from wildcat formation, with Chris Whitney hitting Brandyn Harvey on the 57-yard strike.

The Wildcats scored consistently in the red zone, while the Tribe was stifled by Villanova's red zone defense and was forced into two turnovers.

This is the Wildcats' second semifinal appearance. In 2002, Villanova fell to McNeese State, 39-28 in a game marked by a pair of controversial officiating calls.

The Tribe is making its second semifinal appearance. William & Mary hosted one of the 2004 semifinals, but fell to James Madison, 48-34.

The No. 2-seeded Wildcats dominated every facet of the game in a 46-7 snowy quarterfinal rout against New Hampshire. UNH handed Villanova its only loss of the regular season, 28-24 at New Hampshire.

Villanova's offense has revolved around the ground game lately, as the unit racked up a blistering 387 yards. The fourth-ranked rushing attack has compiled at least 275 yards rushing in four straight games.

Running back Angelo Babbaro (385 yards rushing, six TDs) led the effort against UNH with 148 yards rushing and two scores, both career highs. Aaron Ball (708 yards rushing, six TDs) is another solid threat at running back.

All-CAA quarterback Chris Whitney (2,544 yards of total offense, 22 TDs, three interceptions) passed just five times against UNH in the terrible weather conditions, but ran for 58 yards and a score. Whitney leads the Wildcats in rushing (848 yards rushing, five TDs).

CAA offensive player of the year Matt Szczur (1,836 combined yards, 14 TDs) is the most versatile player on Villanova's multitalented offense. The junior ranks fourth nationally in kickoff returns (27.7 average, 1 TD).

Harvey (50 catches, 12.6 average, five TDs) leads the Wildcats' receiving corps.

William & Mary took down No. 1-ranked Southern Illinois, 24-3 to advance to the third round. The solid offense outgained the Salukis 373 yards to 187, with All-CAA running back Jonathan Grimes (1,235 yards rushing, nine TDs) picking up 133 yards rushing and three touchdowns.

Grimes has rushed for at least 130 yards in two straight games and four times this season. He ranks 17th nationally in rushing.

All-CAA quarterback R.J. Archer (2,779 yards of total offense, 20 TDs, eight interceptions) has played well in his first season as the Tribe's starter and has complemented the rushing attack nicely with his consistent passing ability.

Wide receiver D.J. McAulay (50 catches, 11.4 average, three TDs) and tight end Rob Varno (47 catches, 9.6 average, three TDs) provide some solid targets for Archer. McAulay was particularly effective against SIU with several key catches to keep drives alive.

William & Mary's rushing defense has been the most significant reason for the team's 2009 success. The unit ranks first in FCS, holding opponents to just 53 yards per game and limited Payton Award finalist Deji Karim to just 27 yards last week in the quarterfinals.

Buchanan Award nominee Adrian Tracy (72 tackles, 11 sacks) paces the defensive line. The Tribe's second ranked total and scoring defense also features defensive tackle Sean Lissemore (64 tackles, 13 tackles for loss) and cornerback B.W. Webb (22 tackles, eight interceptions, two touchdowns).

Villanova looks to be the most consistent team in the playoffs right now and has a few more weapons offensively to challenge the Tribe.

VILLANOVA 24, WILLIAM & MARY 14

SATURDAY'S SEMIFINAL PLAYOFF GAME

No. 5 Appalachian State (11-2) at No. 3 Montana (13-0), 4 p.m.

Two of the most successful programs in FCS, Appalachian State and Montana, meet for the first time since 2000 in the semifinal round of the 2009 FCS playoffs. The game will be broadcast live on ESPN.

Montana took down the Mountaineers in the 2000 semifinals in overtime, 19-16, after ASU rallied from a 10-point deficit in the fourth quarter to tie it at 13-all. A 15-yard fade pattern from Drew Miller to Jimmy Farris lifted the Grizzlies into the title game that year.

This is Appalachian State's fifth semifinals appearance since 2000 and sixth overall, including three straight national titles in 2005, 2006 and 2007. The Mountaineers also lost in the semifinals in 1987, 24-10, to Marshall.

For Montana, its the Grizzlies' second straight semifinal appearance and sixth since 2000. The Grizzlies have been in nine previous semifinals, winning five.

ASU is coming off of a 35-31 comeback win at defending champion Richmond, scoring three touchdowns in the final nine minutes of the game.

The 2008 Payton Award winner and 2009 finalist, quarterback Armanti Edwards (2,938 yards of total offense, 30 TDs, six interceptions) was brilliant late in the game, accounting for the final two scores to take down the Spiders. Edwards finished the game with 267 yards of total offense and three touchdowns.

Running back Devon Moore (1,290 yards rushing, 17 TDs) was also clutch for ASU down the stretch, scampering for a five-yard touchdown run that gave the Mountaineers momentum to start the fourth quarter. Moore finished the night with 175 yards rushing and two scores.

Wide receiver Matt Cline (78 catches, 11.3 average, two TDs) led the corps against Richmond with nine catches for 87 yards and a score. He hauled in the game-winning touchdown from Edwards with 10 seconds left in the game.

ASU's 34th-ranked defense struggled early in the game, but clamped down late, not allowing an offensive touchdown in the fourth quarter.

The unit features 2008 Buchanan Award finalist Mark LeGree (66 tackles, seven interceptions) at free safety and fellow All-Americans, linebackers D.J. Smith (123 tackles, 13.5 tackles for loss) and Jacque Roman (103 tackles) and cornerback Cortez Gilbert (74 tackles, five pass breakups).

Top-seeded Montana is coming into the matchup after a shellacking of Stephen F. Austin, 51-0. The Grizzlies top-ranked scoring offense has now scored 112 points in the past two games and has recorded over 30 points in four straight contests.

Payton Award nominee Chase Reynolds (1,245 yards rushing, 20 TDs) paces the explosive unit at running back and has scored five touchdowns in the past two games (ranks second nationally in scoring). However, he has been limited to just 86 yards rushing in those games.

Thomas Brooks-Fletcher (438 yards rushing, three TDs) complimented Reynolds against SFA, rushing for 89 yards on 14 carries.

Quarterback Andrew Selle (2,531 yards passing, 24 TDs, five interceptions) ranks fourth nationally in passing efficiency and has tossed at least three touchdown passes in three straight games for Montana.

All-American wide receiver Marc Mariani (68 catches, 18.6 average, 12 TDs) has scored four times in the two playoff games and has racked up 282 yards receiving in those contests. Mariani is also a constant threat on special teams, ranking fourth nationally in punt returns (16.4 average, one TD, one kickoff return TD).

Montana's defense forced an astounding 10 turnovers against SFA, the most in FCS this season. Four players hauled in interceptions, including free safety Shann Schillinger (69 tackles, three interceptions).

The rest of the Montana defense features linebacker Shawn Lebsock (87 tackles), defensive end Jace Palmer (35 tackles, 8.5 tackles for loss) and cornerback Trumaine Johnson (11 pass breakups, five interceptions).

Both offenses will most likely put up points in this matchup, but ASU's defense has been more tested thus far.

APPALACHIAN STATE 38, MONTANA 31

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Armanti Edwards is also fun to watch and someone will take a chance on him late in the draft, but he is just to small I think to make it with the big boys.

Hope you guys (and gals ), watch and I hope we are all treated to some good football.

Lastly......... GO ARMY!!!!!!!!! BEAT NAVY!!!!!!!!!

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By Tommy Bowman

JOURNAL REPORTER

Published: December 13, 2009


All over for ASU Apps' rally comes up short in loss to Grizzlies

MISSOULA, Mont. -- This time, the comeback fell short.

Appalachian State, which pulled out two fourth-quarter victories to get to the NCAA Football Championship Subdivision semifinals, couldn't come up with another one yesterday. They fell to the Montana Grizzlies 24-17.

After scoring a go-ahead touchdown with 1:31 left, the Grizzlies survived one last drive by the Mountaineers that ended with Brian Quick not being able to hang on to an Armanti Edwards pass in the end zone as time expired.

The Mountaineers' season ended with a record of 11-3 and short of their attempt to play for the national title for a fourth time. The Grizzles improved to 14-0 and will play Villanova for the title on Friday night in Chattanooga, Tenn.

While the Grizzlies' season remained perfect on a cold, snowy day in front of a home crowd of 24,207, the Mountaineers weren't quite perfect.

They missed on red-zone chances. They had one field-goal attempt blocked and missed one after a bad snap, had a would-be touchdown pass pop out of Quick's hands and had a costly fourth-quarter interception by Edwards in Montana territory. And they were hampered by 11 penalties for 131 yards.

The Mountaineers had plenty of yards -- they outgained the Griz 497-373 -- but not enough points.

"We just made costly mistakes," said Coach Jerry Moore, quick to add that the crowd, 17-degree temperature and field covered by snow in the second half had nothing to do with it.

"Most of them happened near the end zone.

"But I can't say enough about Montana. It was every bit the ballgame we expected it to be. We just had numerous opportunities to score but didn't."

The Mountaineers did have one final chance, even after running back Chase Reynolds of the Grizzlies -- who rushed for 193 yards and two touchdowns -- led a late drive that provided the winning touchdown.

Andrew Selle's pass to Jabin Sambrano, who was just a step ahead of cornerback Ed Gainey, was on the money and resulted in a 25-yard touchdown pass with 1:31 left.

Edwards, who ended his career as one of the most prolific quarterbacks in FCS history, said he thought the Mountaineers would come back and match the score.

"There was no doubt," Edwards said. "We moved the ball the whole game. We've been in this situation before. We had plenty of time."

The Mountaineers responded with an impressive drive from their 25, and kept their hopes alive with a fourth-and-10 pass from Edwards to Quick that was good by mere inches.

They got to the Grizzlies' 3-yard line with six seconds left, but linebacker Brandon Fisher knocked away a pass intended for Matt Cline in the end zone.

On the final play with two seconds left, Edwards zipped a pass to a lunging Quick at the front edge of the end zone, but Quick couldn't hold on to the ball.

"We got down there," Edwards said. "We just could punch it in. When you get into the red zone, you've got to come out with points. We didn't. We just missed it."

Edwards completed 28 of 54 passes for 353 yards. Quick had 10 catches for 135 yards, and Cline had seven for 101.

Reynolds was the catalyst for the Grizzlies.

"He knows how to find the holes, he's a good back," said linebacker Jacque Roman, whose interception in the third quarter led to a touchdown drive that put the Mountaineers ahead 17-14.

Moore said: "He sees the creases. I don't know that we missed tackles as much as maybe being out of position, but he found the creases and runs hard. He sees things well."

Reynolds led the Grizzlies on a drive to open the second half that put them ahead 14-10 on his 7-yard touchdown run.

The Mountaineers got as close as the Grizzlies' 13-yard line on the ensuing drive, but stalled and had a field-goal attempt blocked.

But Roman's interception led to a 50-yard touchdown drive. Devon Moore scored on a 1-yard run to regain the lead for the Mountaineers. It was short-lived, as Brody Knight hit a tying 32-yard field goal with 14:50 left.

The Mountaineers got as close as Montana's 32- and 22-yard line on two fourth-quarter drives, but had those end on an interception and missed field goal.

The Mountaineers led 10-7 at halftime.

The Grizzlies scored on their first possession, getting a 39-yard touchdown run by Reynolds. The Mountaineers caught up with an 80-yard drive, which included Quick's leaping catch over a defender for 33 yards and ended with Moore's 3-yard touchdown run early in the second quarter.

Jason Vitaris put the Mountaineers ahead with a 46-yard field goal with 5:16 left in the half.

<span>tbowman@wsjournal.com

727-7320

Appalachian State 0 10 7 0 -- 17
Montana 7 0 7 10 -- 24

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I can't wait for Friday! I won't be watching it live unfortunately but I will be recording it and watching it as soon as I get home.

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