ARLINGTON, TEXAS – After a tough loss at Sam Houston State last week, the Incarnate Word football team has a chance to get back on the winning track on Friday afternoon at 3:30 against Lone Star Conference rival Eastern New Mexico.  The two squads will be meeting up as part of the Lone Star Football Festival played at Cowboys Stadium.

The Cardinals (1-1) have struggled on offense so far this year with only 216.0 yards per game, but those numbers are a bit skewed after playing the #1 team in FCS last week.  Senior running back Trent Rios (Spring Branch/Smithson Valley HS) continues to show an ability to find the end zone after scoring his third touchdown of the year last week.  Last year, he rushed for over 200 yards and four touchdowns against the Greyhounds (1-1). 

Another positive on the offensive side of the ball for the Cardinals has been the play of senior quarterback Zach Rhodes (New Braunfels/New Braunfels HS).  He is completing over 62 percent of his passes and has developed a strong bond with tight ends Andrew Mocio (Waco/Reicher Catholic HS) and Caleb Kocian (Converse/Judson HS).  The two have combined for 14 receptions in the first two games of the year.

The Cardinal defense has been a bright spot for the team.  Senior corner back Devan Avery (Converse/Wagner HS) has been the best player on the field for UIW in each of the first two weeks.  He has recorded eight tackles and broken up five passes while also providing a deep threat as a wide receiver.  Junior linebacker Juan Asencio (Pflugerville/Hendrickson HS) continues to pile of the tackles and leads the team with 9.0 this year.

The Greyhounds have shown a strong rushing attack this year with 222.0 yards per game through the first two weeks.  They have four players averaging at least 40.0 yards per game on the ground and Christian Long leads the way with 124 total yards.  Quarterback Wesley Wood has been efficient as a passer completing 64.7 percent of his passes and has rushed for 106 yards and three touchdowns.  Running back De'Coreyon Thomas leads the team in both receptions (8) and receiving yards (73).

The ENMU defense is led by Perron Sellers.  He is averaging 12.0 tackles per game with 6.0 tackles for loss and 2.0 sacks.  They are allowing 38.5 points and 396.0 yards per game.

This is the second year of the Lone Star Football Festival and first time the Cardinals are participating.
####
pr12032smm