Mike Woodley
Grand View’s run defense has been a key in the Vikings’ six-game winning streak but that unit will be tested this weekend when they visit Peru State in a Heart of America Conference game. Grand View is yielding only 104 yards on the ground per game but must find a way to slow down a Peru State triple option attack that is averaging over 285 yards of rushing per game.
Vikings’ coach Mike Woodley says preparing for the triple option comes with unique challenges.
“You have got to change your whole scheme to play against a team like this with a short week and you can’t simulate it in practice with your scout teams”, said Woodley. “If we can weather the storm in the first quarter usually we can settle in and get our responsibilities done correctly.”
Grand View will counter with a balanced offense that averages more than 38 points per game and Woodley says getting the lead on an option team is always a key to the outcome.
“They are usually not as great at the throwing game as most teams”, added Woodley. “To me that is the whole key if we can get up on them and make them feel uncomfortable in doing some of the things that they will have to do to catch up. That is kind of the game plan.”
Grand View is ranked seventh in the latest NAIA Poll and is 6-1 on the season.