Bethel University at UW-Eau Claire

Bethel University at UW-Eau Claire

The UW-Eau Claire Bluegolds open their 2010 season by hosting the Bethel University Wildcats on Saturday at Carson Park. Kickoff is set for 7:00 PM.

Bethel University, located in McKenzie, TN, is picked to place third in the Mid-South Conference Western Division (NAIA) in the preseason coaches poll. The Wildcats finished 5-6 overall in 2009 and lost their 2010 season opener on August 26^th, 49-32 to St. Xavier, who are ranked 4^th in the NAIA.

The Bluegolds finished 6-4 last year and 4-3 In the Wisconsin Intercollegiate Athletic Conference. The Bluegolds will be unveiling a brand new and very young backfield Saturday after losing QB Kyle Paulson and RB Cory Sartorelli from a year ago. Sophomore Austin Neu will start at QB and freshman Joel Sweeney at tailback.

What UW-Eau Claire must do to win.

The Bluegolds must slow down an offense that gained 532 yards against the 4^th rated team in the nation (NAIA) last week. The Wildcats ran an astounding 92 plays last week and will again be looking to control the ball. Diminutive Cordarious Mann (5’6” 150 lbs) is lightening quick and a big play threat out of the backfield.

Offensively, UW-EC will try to exploit a pass defense that surrendered 408 yards in their season opener. Neu and Sweeney must hit the ground running as the post Paulson-Sartorelli era begins.

Analysis

The Bluegolds are looking for defensive improvement after a subpar year on that side of the ball last year. Bethel will provide a good test. In the end, look for the Bluegolds, who have had winning seasons in the WIAC 9 of the past 10 years, to find a way to get it done.

Score projection:

UW-Eau Claire 34

Bethel University 26