Game of the week: Kaneland at Geneva

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October 17, 2008

Beacon News staff

Geneva is destroying teams offensively, averaging 38 points per game. The Vikings have surpassed 40 points four times and have been held below 34 points just once. Junior QB Brandon Beitzel (503 yards, four TDs) is steady, but make no mistake -- this group literally goes as RB Michael Ratay does. The senior has 24 TDs and 1,456 yards on the ground, so expect him to see carry 24 times a game, the number he averages. The Knights give up an average of 25 points per game, but they might load up the box and dare Beitzel to throw.

Key matchup: Geneva WR Brandon Lee vs. Kaneland DB Blake Kendrick

Lee, along with Jason Holmes, are Beitzel's two primary targets -- can they get open if needed?

What to watch for: Will the Vikings try and open up the passing game to prepare for the playoffs?

Kaneland offense vs. Geneva defense

This is really the marquee matchup of the day, as the Knights average 28.7 points per game and the Vikings allow only 9.7. In fact, only two teams have scored in double digits on the Geneva "D." Knights sophomore QB Joe Camiliere has really developed in this offense and routinely spreads the ball to several receivers. Kaneland doesn't run as much as in the past, but its receivers get open. The Vikings are excellent at rushing the passer, but Camiliere can move to create time.

Key matchup: Geneva DB Sean Grady vs. Kaneland WR Ryley Bailey

Bailey is an experienced wideout and is Camiliere's favorite target with 34 catches and five TDs.

What to watch for: Does Geneva have enough DBs to cover the Knights? They have three WRs with 20 or more catches and one more with 19.

Geneva special teams vs. Kaneland special teams

This is an area of the game that hasn't really mattered for the Vikings on offense, as they just pile on points. But when needed, they can buckle down and defend against field goals and extra points. The Knights have the better kicker.

Key matchup: Kaneland K Chris Ott vs. Geneva kick defense

The Vikings defensive group is long up front and can block any kick.

What to watch for: Every now and then, the Vikings put Ratay back on kick returns. Neither team really is explosive on its returns, but if it's close, don't be surprised he breaks one.