Manogue-Carson prediction box

BISHOP MANOGUE (4-0) AT CARSON (3-0)

Today, 7:30 p.m.

OFFENSE

Both teams come into the game with some impressive stats. Bishop Manogue averages 32.5 a game, while Carson is averaging 39.6. Carson's ground game is potent, averaging 7.4 a carry led by Dylan Sawyers' 520 yards and seven touchdowns. Manogue is averaging 7.71 a carry led by Gino Rossi's 390 yards and four scores. Manogue QB Zach McElroy is dangerous, especially when he gets flushed out of the pocket. He's thrown for five TDs and run for two others. Trey Jensen is coming off a 201-yard effort against Hug.

EDGE: I give a slight edge to Carson, especially if the offensive line can open some seams for Sawyers and Connor Beattie. The latter may have to have a big game because the Miners will be keying on the speedy Sawyers.

DEFENSE

Carson is allowing 15 a game and Manogue 17. The Senators have given up some big chunks of yardage at times, but seem to tighten up when needed. The Senators have seven interceptions this year. Ricky McDonald is a tough customer in the middle for Manogue, while the Senators have gotten strong defensive play from Jon Parker, Chance Quilling, Bryce Altus, Caleb Jeffers, Logan Peternell and Tyler Collins.

EDGE: Very slight to Carson. The Senators have been more consistent.

SPECIAL TEAMS

Carson fared well despite the absence of kicker-punter Austin Pacheco, who had back spasms. Wher pacheco is missed most would be on kickoffs and field goals. Braock Pradere was solid on PATs last week. Sawyers has barely touched the ball on kickoffs, going 78 yards the only time a team was stupid enough to kick it to him. Gabe Pongasi has fared well on kickoff returns. Manogue averages 15 a return.

EDGE: CARSON

PREDICTION: Carson 31, Manogue 27. This could come down to who has the ball last or what defense can get the most stops. One thing is certain, it should be entertaining.