Oct. 16, 2002

‘Rider Offense Meets Tough Delta State Defense

Magnolia, Ark.-When Southern Arkansas University meets Delta State University here Saturday in a Homecoming clash, it will be the irresistible force vs. an immovable object. The Muleriders are ranked 10^th in the nation in rushing offense with an average of 232.7 yards a game while the Statesmen are 12^th in rushing defense by holding opponents to only a 73.5 per game average. SAU is 21^st nationally in scoring offense with a 34-point average per game and are 32^nd nationally in total offense with 398.3 yards a contest.

Individually, SAU linebacker Keenan Washington is tied for fourth in the nation in forced fumbles with three in six games. Running back Donald Butler is second nationally in kickoff returns with an average of 32.9 yards a return. Wide receiver Nik Lewis is 16^th in punt returns with an average of 15.1 yards a return. Punter John Weaver of DSU is 29^th in punting average with 39.7 yards a kick, which creates another interesting match-up.

Lewis is 16^th in receiving yards a game with 34 receptions for 599 yards, an average of 99.8 yards an outing. He is 31^st in receptions per game with a 5.7 average, which he has turned into a lot of yardage after a catch.

The 1952 and 1972 AIC champion Muleriders will be recognized at halftime for the titles they won 50 and 30 years ago.

Kickoff time is scheduled for 2:30 p.m. in Wilkins Stadium with a capacity crowd expected.