The MSU-Northern football Lights (1-5, 0-4 in the Frontier) are back at home to face the Southern Oregon Raiders (3-3, 2-2 Frontier) on Saturday afternoon. New Media Broadcasters caught up with head coach Jerome Souers and he explained what the downfall of some of the recent defeats have been about.
“We try to bring an attacking defense that is opportunistic; trying to create turnovers, be disruptive, create a short field for our offense,” Souers said. “When we’re successful, we’re playing that way.”
“Where we have struggled is sustaining that kind of an effort,” Souers continued. “Our defense has been put into some tough situations with turnovers or quick three-and-outs by our offense and then time of possession becomes an issue.”
Souers is a Southern Oregon coaching alum, having coordinated the Raiders defense during the 2021 season. He saw the familiarity with specific players who were there during his tenure that are playing on Saturday and also previewed what that defense brings to the table.
“I counted; there were seven guys that were sophomores when I was there. They’re seniors now,” Souers said.
“They’re very well coached,” Souers continued. “Southern Oregon has done a nice job with their defense, refining their craft.”
“Across the board, they have a really solid defense. The defensive line, the linebackers, the secondary all have good physical development,” Souers said. “They have experience and they play well together.”
The Lights still haven’t won a game since the opener against Mayville State. Coach Souers had a message for the people who are feeling the sting in the present and wants them to know about what these results will do for future development.
“We’re looking for a great effort out of our guys and we appreciate everybody that understands that we’re in a growing process,” Souers said. “We’re hoping to see a lot of improvement on Saturday and it would be a great place to get a win.”
The Lights will try and get win No. 2 when they face off with the Raiders on Saturday afternoon. Kickoff is scheduled for 1pm and can be heard on KPQX-92.5FM with Noah Friedman and Isreal Hale on the call.
