The East Texan Harvey Martin Classic preview

Overview: A&M-Commerce (1-0) started the season off well with a 33-10 victory over Upper Iowa University. The real test begins this week in the third annual Harvey Martin Classic against Lone Star Conference opponent Angelo State University (1-0). The Rams squeaked by Eastern New Mexico last week 41-38, thanks to the strong arm of quarterback Josh Neiswander. Neiswander threw for 349 yards and 5 touchdowns and no interceptions and will undoubtedly prove to be a thorn in A&M-Commerce's side. The Lion's young secondary will need to step up their game if they hope to limit the Ram's scoring attack.

On the ground, Angelo State rushed for a total of 138 yards, the bulk of that coming from Tristan Carter's 118, 1 touchdown effort. A&M-Commerce did a solid job last week against the run, holding UIU to 106 yards on the ground. The Lions must stop the Rams from establishing any kind of rushing attack if they hope to slow them down. Look for last week's leading tackler Danny Mason to have another strong game.

On the offensive side of the ball, A&M-Commerce has to get off to a faster start than they did last week when they were down by 10 points at the half. Marcus Graham and the Lions' offensive line must create a strong push and free up QB Adam Farkes and the passing game. Farkes, who threw for 289 yards last week, turned the ball over twice in opponent territory. He and the rest of the offense will have to limit turnovers against the Rams.

Wide receiver Kenzee Jackson had an excellent game against Upper Iowa, leading the Lions in receptions and receiving yards and returning a kick-off for a touchdown. The freshman has another chance to shine, this time in the Cotton Bowl.

Prediction: Angelo State has a high-powered offense and they will certainly cause A&M-Commerce some headaches on offense, but the Lions' offensive attack should have no problem moving the ball against this defense. Expect a high-scoring match with plenty of lead changes, but the Lions should ultimately triumph 34-27.