ACU is ranked No. 10 behind North Alabama

Houston junior defensive lineman David Oke goes after the quarterback. (Photo by Daniel Curd)

October 10, 2024 by Roman Raffaeli Leave a comment

The Wildcats look to extend their momentum against North Alabama University in Florence, Ala., after picking up a 41-34 win over #5 University of Central Arkansas last week.

The Wildcats were able to get an early lead and build on it as the game went on, something they will continue to do in conference play. Slow starts cost the team against Texas Tech University and the University of Idaho in the team's two losses so far this season.

Despite North Alabama's 2-5 record, both of their wins came against United Athletic Conference opponents, defeating the University of West Georgia 25-16 and showcasing their offensive prowess in a 60-14 win over Utah Tech.

“They’re athletic on both ends,” head coach Keith Patterson said. “In terms of formation, they are very diverse and we have to have a simple game plan against that.”

Since taking over as the team's starting quarterback, TJ Smith has led the team to a 2-0 record.

The Lions had thrown nine interceptions in their first five games, resulting in a record of 0-5. During their fifth loss, they traded for redshirt senior quarterback Smith.

He will enter the game against ACU with 527 yards, six touchdowns, no interceptions and a quarterback rating of 154.

Before the game, Patterson said the team continued to take a one-game approach and looked for ways to improve as the season progressed.

“If we can just eliminate the explosive plays and the gaps in coverage, we have a chance to be a really good defense,” Patterson said.

The team has given up several such plays in recent weeks, including two 50-yard runs against the University of Central Arkansas and three 40-yard plays against the University of Idaho three weeks ago.

Patterson said his players are looking to continue their success in the red zone this weekend, saying the offense is scoring about 87% of the points available. Patterson also said the defense managed to get stops in the red zone and forced opponents into field goals on 13 of 26 red zone appearances. Third downs will also be important for Patterson's squad, as they only allowed conversions 38% of the time and left the field on defense about 62% of the time.

“If we can get that number closer to 70, we will be one of the best third defenses in the country,” Patterson said.