[Raji]

Another shootout?



This game marks a rematch of last season’s 34-31 OT victory by Ball State at Annapolis. That game jumped over the 57-point total and Ball State was the surprise winner as a 7-point underdog.



Both offenses had their way in that one, with the teams combining for 1,124 total yards. Navy ran for 521 yards - the third highest total ever for a losing team in an NCAA football game.



Niumatalolo in ‘08



While key players return for both squads, one significant difference from 2007 is that first-time head coach Ken Niumatalolo now helms for Navy.



Niumatalolo has big shoes to fill.



Previous coach Paul Johnson, now with Georgia Tech, led Navy to five consecutive bowls after having been to one in the previous 21 years.



Ball State firepower



The Cardinals return eleven starters from a 2007 offense that averaged 31.5 points and 433 yards per game.



The squad is led by QB Nate Davis, a cannon-armed blue chipper and legit NFL prospect. Davis threw for 3,667 yards with a 30-6 TD-INT ratio last season. The junior already holds the school record for TD passes and is third all-time in yardage at Ball State.



Davis has no shortage of weapons to work with. The top receiving corps in the MAC is led by all-conference senior WR Dante Love and 2007 Mackey Award semifinalist TE Darius Hill. Running back MiQuale Lewis leads a deep backfield that runs behind a seasoned offensive line.



Navy ground attack



Although the Midshipmen return only five starters on offense, their unique running attack, featuring a fullback and two slotbacks, remains difficult to defend.



In 2008 the team will be looking for its fourth straight NCAA rushing title.



Both teams stepping up in class



Ball State and Navy both opened last week with decisive wins over 1-AA squads.



Nate Davis led the Cards to a 48-14 romp over Northeastern, completing 21 of 24 for 290 yards and 3 TDs with no picks. Dante Love was the primary beneficiary with 171 receiving yards on nine receptions including one TD.



Not to be outdone, Navy beat up on Towson 41-13. With the overmatched Tiger defense focusing on FB Eric Kettani, the Middies turned to SB Shun White, who proceeded to set a single-game team record with 348 rushing yards on only 19 carries.



Navy backup QB at the helm



For the second week in a row, Navy will be without starting QB Kaipo-Noa Kaheaku-Enhada. While backup Jarod Bryant is not as dynamic, he is considered a better passer and has gained significant experience subbing for the oft-injured starter in the past.



Bryant played the entire second half last season against Ball State after Kaheaku-Enhada sprained both ankles in the first half.



The team runs a true triple-option with the explosive Kaheaku-Enhada, but Bryant is more of an inside runner who lacks the speed to get outside so that could be a concern.



Cards could be more special



With both teams explosive on offense and less distinguished on defense, special teams could make the difference.



While the Midshipmen return no specialists and look to be in transition in this area, Ball State should have the edge with All-MAC punter Chris Miller returning along with dangerous return man B.J. Hill.



Line moves



Covers.com lists the opening line at 7 1/2 with some Vegas books opening at 8. Early action weighted towards the dog has driven the number down to an even 7.



After opening at 58 1/2, over bettors have driven the total up to 59 1/2.


Raji