Hens must contain triple option

Delaware football coach K.C. Keeler says the decision to move last week’s playoff game against New Hampshire from Saturday afternoon to Friday night may end up helping his team this week.

The Blue Hens (11-2) defeated New Hampshire16-3 in the quarterfinals of the Football Championship Subdivision playoffs, a game that was televised nationally on ESPN2. The Friday night game gave Delaware a little national exposure, and a lot more says Keeler.

The switch also gave the Blue Hens an extra day to heal, and to prepare for this Saturday’s home semifinal game against Georgia Southern.

More specifically, according to Keeler, “an extra day to prepare for the triple option.”

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The triple option is Georgia Southern’s trademark offense that emphasizes the run. The Eagles have utilized the option to the tune of more than 255 rushing yards per game this season and six national titles.

Georgia Southern (10-4) beat Wofford 23-20 on Saturday.

“The extra day helps no matter what,” Keeler said. “Especially this time of year with how banged up guys are.”

The Blue Hens will need to be as spry as ever, to contend with the pitches, misdirection and swarm of blockers featured in the triple option.

Senior strong safety Anthony Bratton, a third-team All-America selection, says the key to defending the option is to “stay alive.”

“The most important thing to do is to avoid the block,” he said, “and be able to rally to the football and make a play and cause a turnover.”

 

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