BGs keys to the game

Appalachian State returns home Saturday, still looking for its first win at Kidd Brewer Stadium this season. The Mountaineers host a tough opponent in the Samford Bulldogs.

Samford will have its mind on keeping ASU on its downward spiral.

In order to get a better look at what the Mountaineers must do to earn a home victory, we turned to former Appalachian linebacker Brandon Grier for his keys to the game.

BG'S THREE KEYS TO THE GAME

KEY NO. 1

Defense has to step up

Appalachian's defense will have to play a big time game this weekend. Samford has an impressive offense led by senior quarterback Andy Summerlin, who was named national player of the week after last week's win over Georgia Southern. Summerlin passed for over 400 yards and three touchdowns. Our secondary will also have to have a great game as well; we will have to put pressure on the freshman receiver Kelsey Pope who caught seven passes for 201 yards and a touchdown.

KEY NO. 2

Protect the football

Offense have to protect the ball. Samford's defense leads the Southern Conference in interceptions this year, so it will be important that we keep pressure of the quarterback so that they won't be forced to throw any bad balls. It will be important that we start fast to throw the aggressive defense off track.

KEY NO. 3

Special teams play

Special teams will be important as well. We have to keep our offense and defense in good situations; Samford has a good special teams unit. As a team, Samford leads the SoCon in kickoff return average at 25.8 yards per return and third in the league in punting 37.8 yards per kick. Our special teams will have to play championship football this Saturday.