SEMO keys to victory against Gardner Webb

SEMO recently celebrated a significant victory against the Charleston Southern Pirates, highlighted by kicker DC Pippin, who successfully made four field goals. Quarterback Paxton DeLaurent had an impressive performance, throwing 55 passes for 335 yards and one touchdown. Receiver Tristan Smith contributed with 90 receiving yards and added a rushing touchdown. With the running back position dealing with injuries, true freshman Jacorey Love stepped up as the lead back, finishing with 65 rushing yards.

Gardner-Webb currently holds a 2-5 record, with a 1-2 mark in OVC play. They secured a victory last week during their homecoming against the Lindenwood Lions. The team showcases a balanced offense, effectively mixing both aerial attacks and a strong ground game.

Keys to victory-

Stop the run game-

Gardner-Webb boasts a well-balanced offense, but it all begins with their run game, averaging 146.1 rushing yards per game. Leading the charge is fifth-year senior Saydee Edward, who has accumulated 455 rushing yards this season along with two touchdowns. In contrast, SEMO has a strong run defense, allowing just 111.9 yards per game. Bryce Norman, the Redhawks' leading tackler with 74 total tackles, will be a crucial player in their effort to contain Gardner-Webb's ground attack.

Offensive line play-

In every game, regardless of the circumstances, it all begins up front. SEMO has performed well in this area, but their starting offensive line has been inconsistent week to week due to injuries. The most significant loss has been All-American center Zack Gieg, who is out for the season following an injury against EIU. Despite these challenges, SEMO's offensive line remains one of the best in the OVC, allowing the fewest sacks and keeping quarterback Paxton DeLaurent’s jersey clean. Additionally, they have helped the running game average 91.4 yards per game, even with SEMO's air raid approach this season.

Let DeLaurent toss the ball-

Senior quarterback Paxton DeLaurent has been one of the top players in the nation this season, playing a key role in the Redhawks achieving a program-high No. 6 ranking as they head into homecoming. He has thrown for 2,422 yards and 21 touchdowns, leading the OVC in both categories by a wide margin. Averaging 302.75 passing yards per game, DeLaurent has plenty of receiving options, with his primary targets being Tristan Smith and Dorian Anderson. Anderson has recorded 44 catches for 640 yards and 7 touchdowns, while Smith has contributed 39 receptions for 515 yards and 3 touchdowns.

SEMO’s highly anticipated homecoming showdown against Gardner Webb will kick-off at 3:00 PM in Houck Stadium.