There was a time in 2020, no one thought that any sports would be played in the wake the COVID-19 pandemic, that has completely changed our way of life. Despite everything that has taken place, week zero of the 2020 college football season about to become a reality. This season is unlike any season that we have experienced in the history of this sport. For
Austin Peay and Central Arkansas, the significance of this game is not just about wins or losses, rather this game has the potential of setting the blueprint for all levels of football to adopt during this pandemic.
Players To Watch:
Quarterback Jeremiah Oatsvall - Austin Peay Governors
In place of star quarterback Ja'vaughn Craig, Oatsvall will be taking over as QB1 for the Govenors. In 2019, Oatsvall suffered a season ending injury in week 2 against Central Arkansas, yet had a promising start to the season, completing 24 of 39 passes for 232 yards. For his career, Oatsvall is one of only seven quarterbacks in school history to record 3,000 passing yards. In addition to being a proficient passer, his mobility could give the Central Arkansas defense issues. His 970 career rushing yards ranks him third in program history.
Quarterback Breylin Smith - Central Arkansas Bears
To many, Smith is considered a legitimate NFL prospect and for very good reasons. Last season, the 6-foot-3, 210 pound quarterback out of Conway, Arkansas, set a single-season school record with 3,704 yards and tied the school record with 32 touchdown passes. He posted back-to-back 400+ passing yard games against Lamar and Sam Houston State. This could be the season where Smith establishes himself as one nation's best quarterbacks; a solid performance in prime time against the Govenors is a good start.
Defensive Back Kordell Jackson - Austin Peay Governors
Last season, Kordell Jackson was a good as any defensive back in the college football. The 2019 Ohio Valley Conference Defensive Player of the Year had a banner year, recording seven interceptions, with two sacks and 10 passes defended. Despite being 5-foot-9, Jackson is able to overcome this with his speed, physicality, and ball skills. If the Bears as looking to win this contest, they will have to find a way to render Jackson ineffective, which should prove to be a difficult task.
Wide Receiver Tyler Hudson - Central Arkansas Bears
Last season's Southland Conference Freshman of the Year, Hudson led his team in total receptions (55), receiving yards (970), and touchdowns (12). At 6-foot-2, Hudson proved to be a viable outside threat, able to move the chains inside. For the Govenors defense, neutralizing Hudson's deep-threat abilities will be crucial to a victory. Even with their best efforts, one should expect him to make some big plays in this contest.