Know Your Foe: 5 things Alabama fans should know about Austin Peay
The No. 8 Alabama Crimson Tide are currently preparing for their final non-conference matchup of the regular season against the Austin Peay Governors of the FCS.
Head coach Nick Saban mentioned on Monday during his press conference, and I am sure he has mentioned every day at practice this week, that his team needs to prepare for the Governors just as they would for anyone else.
Although Alabama severely outmatches Austin Peay, the Governors are a solid FCS program that will head into the contest with a 7-3 record on the season.
Before kickoff arrives on Saturday morning, let’s take a look at a few things that every Alabama fan should know about the Austin Peay Governors.
This is Austin Peay's first game against a Power Five team this season
Syndication: The Leaf-Chronicle
This will be the most daunting challenge of the season for the Governors. Austin Peay has yet to face a team from the Power Five this season. In fact, the only FBS team they have played this season is Western Kentucky. The Hilltoppers took that contest 38-27.
Governors head coach Scotty Walden is young
Syndication: The Leaf-Chronicle
Austin Peay head coach Scotty Walden is one of the youngest coaches in college football. In fact, Walden celebrated his 33rd birthday just yesterday. Walden has done a terrific job so far Clarksville accumulating a 25-16 record through almost three complete seasons.
QB Mike DiLiello has been solid for the Governors
Syndication: The Leaf-Chronicle
The Governors have received solid quarterback play this season from Middle Tennessee State transfer Mike DiLiello. DiLiello has thrown for over 2,300 yards and 21 touchdowns on the season. DiLiello has also added another 445 yards on the ground with eight more touchdowns.
WR Drae McCray will not be easy to contain
Syndication: The Leaf-Chronicle
Austin Peay wide receiver Drae McCray is a playmaker for the Governors. The sophomore wide receiver has over 900 receiving yards and nine touchdowns on the season. It won’t be easy for the Tide to contain the 5’9″ speedster.
An Alabama legends son plays for the Governors
Marvin Gentry-USA TODAY Sports
I’m sure all Alabama fans remember former Crimson Tide receiver Nikita Stover who always seemed to come up in big in Iron Bowls for the Tide. Well, Stover’s son is now a freshman for the Governors. Tra Stover is a 6’1″ defensive back, but has not recorded any stats on the season for Austin Peay.
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