Nicholls State Colonels Set to Battle Texas Rio Grande Valley in Historic Matchup
The Nicholls State Colonels are preparing for their inaugural visit to Edinburg, Texas, as they gear up to face the Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV) in a pivotal Southland Conference showdown. Set to kick off at 5 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 8, this match holds not just local interest but crucial implications for the conference standings.
Game Preview: Nicholls vs. UTRGV
As the Colonels enter this game with a record of 3-6 overall and 3-2 in Southland Conference play, they arrive on the heels of a substantial 31-7 victory against Houston Christian. UTRGV, however, presents a significant challenge with a 6-3 record, although they are reeling from a recent 41-17 loss to the 23rd-ranked Stephen F. Austin. Notably, they currently occupy the fifth position in the Southland standings, one slot behind Nicholls.
Conference Championship Stakes
The match serves as more than a typical contest; it’s essentially an elimination game for both teams concerning their hopes for a conference championship. With Nicholls having faced and lost to both Stephen F. Austin and Lamar—teams currently ahead of them in standings—the stakes are high. For the Colonels to keep their championship aspirations alive, they will require both rivals to falter in their remaining games while also needing to win their last three, including a rivalry game against Southeastern Louisiana, who is currently in second place in the conference.
Offense Making Strides
One of the most encouraging developments for Nicholls in recent weeks has been the resurgence of their offense. The team has scored over 30 points in consecutive games while limiting their opponents to just seven points each time. This transformation can be largely attributed to the impressive performances of sophomore quarterback Ean Rodrigue, who has emerged as a mobile playmaker. In his first two starts, Rodrigue has averaged an impressive 167.5 passing yards and 83 rushing yards per game, accounting for five total touchdowns.
Key Offensive Improvements
Recent improvements in time of possession and third-down conversions have been instrumental in Nicholls’ recent success. Before their matchup against McNeese, the Colonels were among the bottom tier in the FCS for third-down efficiency. However, the past two games have seen them convert 65% of their third downs while maintaining an average time of possession exceeding 37 minutes. This change has allowed Nicholls to control games more effectively, an essential strategy as they face a formidable opponent in UTRGV.
Strategies for Success
Control the Clock
Nicholls’ offensive game plan relies heavily on their rushing attack and maintaining possession of the football. The presence of key players such as Rodrigue, Shane Lee, and Miequle Brock Jr. in the backfield creates a significant challenge for opposing defenses, making it pivotal for the Colonels to implement a clock-controlling strategy.
Minimize Turnovers
Currently ranked 21st nationally in turnover avoidance, Nicholls has been successful in keeping the ball secure, particularly since Rodrigue took the helm. In his short tenure as a starter, the team has yet to commit a turnover, and maintaining this trend will be crucial for their prospects in Edinburg.
Preparation for Long Travel
The trip to Edinburg involves a lengthy 10-hour journey, which could impact the players mentally and physically. Coach Tommy Rybacki will need to implement strategies that ensure the team arrives rested and ready to compete, overcoming the toll of travel.
Score Prediction
While the Colonels come into this match with newfound momentum, the reality of facing UTRGV—a team recognized for having one of the top scoring offenses in the nation—poses a significant challenge. Predicted Score: Nicholls 23, UTRGV 31. While optimism remains with the emergence of the new offense, achieving a victory on the road will demand extraordinary efforts from the entire team.
As the Colonels prepare for this critical clash, fans eagerly anticipate whether they can overcome the obstacles ahead and secure a crucial victory in their quest for conference recognition.
