When Western has the ball

Washburn’s previously stout defense surrendered 405 yards and 43 points in a loss to Central Missouri last week, leaving hope for another big offensive showing for the Griffons. Western rediscovered its rushing attack last week against Pittsburg State, though continuing that success against Washburn’s hulking defensive line that averages 283 pounds will be a true test of whether the rushing attack is here to stay. The Griffons continue to pass the ball well when quarterback Drew Newhart isn’t turning the football over. However, Western coach Jerry Partridge said the Ichabods will be the best defense the Griffons have faced this season even though Washburn is third in total defense (313 yards) and fifth in scoring D (22.5 points) in the MIAA. The Ichabods certainly have the potential to shut down Western but likely won’t be quite that dominant today.

Advantage: Even

When Washburn

has the ball

The Griffons rank last in the MIAA in total defense (460.8 yards), scoring defense (40.5 points), pass defense efficiency (164.5) and rushing defense (183). In short, unless something drastic changes, the Ichabods looked primed for a big afternoon against a defense that hasn’t held an opponent under 42 points since Week 1. Jake Iverson, Washburn’s 6-5, 210 sophomore quarterback, hasn’t been terribly efficient this season, completing 42 percent of his passes, but the Ichabods still are second in the MIAA in pass offense (244 yards) and should have a big day against a struggling secondary. Iverson has a strong arm and can run when necessary. Washburn hasn’t had a 100-yard rusher this season, but senior Brandon Walker certainly could end that streak today.

Advantage: Washburn

Special teams

The Ichabods’ kicker, Garrett Cummings, is 0-for-1 this season and hasn’t attempted a field goal since Week 1. Washburn punter Austin Hills is averaging 37.6 yards, giving Western a big advantage in the kicking game with punter Jamie Hanson (42.3) and kicker Dustin Strickler (6-for-6 FGs). Cedric Houston gives the Griffons a big weapon in the punt return game, but the defense has to force a punt first — something it hasn’t done in nine quarters. Western has struggled covering kickoffs, so look for Washburn’s Casey Curran to set up the offense with good field position throughout. Still, coming off a week where they blocked two field goals, the Griffons should be stronger in this area.

Advantage: Western

Players to Watch

Drew Newhart, Western quarterback — The sophomore has turned the ball over 10 times in the past three weeks, including seven interceptions. Last season, Newhart threw just 10 interceptions in 12 games. Western’s offense certainly can score on anyone, but Newhart has to protect the football today if the Griffons hope to end their three-game slide.

Brandon Walker, Washburn running back — The senior has only averaged 66 yards a game thus far but could be a barometer for the Ichabods’ offense. Last season, Washburn’s Ra’Shawn Mosley torched Western for 210 rushing yards and two touchdowns, and the Griffons’ defense hasn’t stopped either the run or the pass this season. Washburn has picked up yards through the air all season, and if it finds running room too, it will be another long afternoon for Western’s defense.

Quotable

“As poorly as we’re playing on defense, our four D-linemen and our Mike linebacker are playing well.”

— Partridge not so subtly calling out the Griffons’ secondary and outside linebackers

— R.J. COOPER