After last week’s weather shortened game against Michigan, the Broncos return to Waldo Stadium for their home opener against FCS opponent Nicholls State. For the second straight year, Nicholls State travels to Kalamazoo to take on the Broncos in the home opener. In last year’s matchup, WMU won 49-14.

5 Keys to the game:

1. Focus on this weekend.  We all know what next weekend is. And after last year’s heartbreaking loss to Central Michigan, the Broncos want nothing more than to defeat that school from up-north. But that’s next weekend. The Broncos must stay focused on Nicholls and not look past this game or an upset could happen. The Colonels kept it close with the Broncos in last year’s matchup, trailing by only 7 at halftime. Don’t look past this weekend’s game, take care of business on the field this Saturday, and then put all your attention towards CMU and winning the Battle For The Cannon.

2. Pound the ball. Against Michigan, the Broncos running backs were able to average 6 yards per carry. They must continue to run the ball to keep the offense balanced. Coach Cubit has a tendency to get away from the run later in games, but if the Broncos are able to take an early lead, they’ll need the running game to be effective to slow down the game and take time off the clock late in the game.

3. Contain LaQuintin Caston. Caston is a poor man’s Denard Robinson. Against Evangel last week he rushed for 137 yards and 2 touchdowns but only threw for 39 yards. Keep Caston in the pocket and the Colonels offense will be all but neutralized   

4. Take advantage of special teams. Dervon Wallace might be one of the best return men in the MAC. He should have a big day today and don’t be surprised if he returns one to the house.

5. Protect Alex Carder. The last thing the Broncos need is for Carder to go down with an injury before CMU next weekend. Carder took some big hits last week at Michigan and can’t afford to get hit hard against Nicholls.

Prediction: Western Michigan 41 Nicholls State 7

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