Football preview – Northern Arizona at Portland State

The Lumberjacks have split their first two Big Sky games, losing their most recent to Sacramento State 39-9 last weekend. During the game, Northern Arizona’s junior starting quarterback Lance Kriesien was injured, and his status is unknown for Saturday’s matchup with Portland State.

Northern Arizona will lean heavily on its two running backs to generate offense. Alex Henderson and Lionel Scott have combined for 103 carries for 586 yards and four touchdowns this year. The Lumberjacks are second in rushing in the Big Sky, averaging 184.6 yards per game.

An elusive runner in his own right, Kriesien has also bolstered the rushing attack, compiling 261 yards on 56 carries. This three-headed ground game means head coach Jerry Glanville’s defense will need to be at its best to contain the Lumberjacks’ explosive runners.

Glanville’s defensive unit has held opponents to just 113.2 rushing yards per game, placing the Vikings second in the Big Sky. With the Lumberjacks’ propensity to run the ball, currently the conference leader for carries, the Vikings should be especially focused on stopping the run first and thinking pass defense second.

Senior quarterback Brian White seems comfortable throwing in the run-and-shoot offense of late, as he was honored with the Big Sky Offensive Player of the Week award for a 329-yard, three-touchdown performance against Eastern Washington last Saturday.

On offense, the Vikings’ game plan will continue to be throwing the ball and moving the chains. This may not be easy though, as Northern Arizona has one of the top pass defenses in the Big Sky.

The Lumberjacks are third in total defense, and top corner K.J. Gerard has hauled in four interceptions. Moving the ball should not be difficult for the Vikings’ powerful offense, but making mistakes against this defense will not be easy to overcome.

Northern Arizona at Portland State Saturday, Oct. 6, 1:35 p.m. PGE Park