Preview: A&M-Commerce (1-3, 0-1) is coming off of three losses in three “away” games (the Harvey Martin Classic is technically a neutral site game), so hopefully the site of Memorial Stadium will energize the Lions.
A&M-Commerce has struggled offensively during their losing streak, only scoring two offensive touchdowns. The Lions have been particularly inefficient through the air. In their last game against Eastern New Mexico, quarterback Adam Farkes only completed eight passes for 114 yards.
On the positive side, A&M-Commerce finally got their rushing attack going and running back Marcus Graham had 121 yards rushing on 22 carries. The Lions will need another strong effort from Graham if they hope to return to the win column.
Their opponent this week, Southeastern Oklahoma State University, is 1-3 on the season. SOSU is coming off of a tough 26-24 loss against Northeastern State. They allow more than 32 points per game to opponents, including 345 yards a game through the air.
Offensively, they’re led by senior running back Baylen Laury, who has 363 yards and three touchdowns, and sophomore quarterback Logan Turner, who has accumulated 942 yards passing with eight touchdowns.
Defensively, junior safety Steven Harris leads the team with 36 total tackles and sophomore defensive end Rodney Payne has two and a half sacks on the season.
A&M-Commerce defeated Southeastern Oklahoma State 27-17 last season, and, despite the Lions struggles this year, the result should be similar. Southeastern has a talented offense but a poor defense, and that plays into A&M-Commerce’s advantage. Expect a close game and an eventual victory for the Lions.
Prediction: A&M-Commerce 24 over SOSU 17