Craig Turner
Bluedeathvalley.com
Nov. 19, 2009



Three weeks ago I would have probably punched this game ticket as a rout in the making when it came to talking about going up against S.C. State.

But after I saw what the Aggies were able to do offensively against FAMU with quarterback Lewis Kindle under center, I’m not so sure that the rout scenario really fits anymore.

No doubt SCSU is one of the best teams in the country, playoff bound, and ready to send a statement. But Buddy Pough has to make a decision as to whether to try to go full bore for an impressive FCS blowout in an attempt to gain home field advantage … and risk possible injury to a key player or players right before the playoffs.

Does he instead play it conservative and let his overall talent advantage simply try to grind out a respectable win without much hullabaloo against a much younger A&T team.

It’s a conundrum that a lot of the top ten coaches in the FCS face this week after many of them wrapped up their conference championships a week ago. Most will opt for the second option but my hunch is Pough wants that first round game in Orangeburg and he wants it bad.

He saw what almost happened to a healthy FAMU team when A&T showed up. He won't make the same mistake as Joe Taylor. He’ll probably get his wish but don’t expect another 55-7 blowout like last year.

PREDICTION

SCUU – 38

N.C. A&T -24