No. 22 Rock takes top ranked defense to Lock Haven

Slippery Rock University will take its No. 1 ranked defense to Lock Haven University of Pennsylvania tomorrow and look to remain undefeated in Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference West play against the Bald Eagles.

The Rock has gained national attention in the American Football Coaches Association poll after their win against California University of Pennsylvania. The Rock is now ranked No. 22.

Head coach George Mihalik is excited about the ranking, but is not looking past the goal, which is winning.

"I'm happy for the players and the staff," Mihalik said. "Their hard work has been recognized, but we have to keep winning so we can stay in the national polls."

Despite the Bald Eagles' winless record, coach Mihalik knows he must keep the team focused and not overlook this week's game.

"We are approaching this game just like it's another PSAC West game," Mihalik said. "Our goal every week is to add another win to our conference record. It's another opponent that wants to take away our goals and dreams. We can't let that happen, we have to be ready to play."

The Rock continues to play like the No. 1 defense in the nation and will face a Lock Haven offense that averages 10.2 points a game, averages 204 yards per game, 59 rushing and 145 passing.

Lock Haven's offense is led by running back Brandon Brader, who has rushed for 561 yards this season.

"Brader can be a productive back," Mihalik said. "When he gets an opportunity to gain yards, he has produced."

Rock senior linebacker Zach Sheridan remains the leader of the defense and knows the importance of not overlooking this week's game.

"We can't look past any team," Sheridan said. "We will prepare for this game like we do every team. Coach Mihalik always says preparation makes perfect."

Sheridan is also pleased with the No. 22 ranking.

"I've been waiting for this moment since 2007," Sheridan said. "Since I was a freshman, I've wanted to be nationally ranked and be nationally known and get this Slippery Rock name out there."

The Bald Eagles passing game is led by quarterback Jarryd Burkett.

Burkett has thrown only four touchdowns on the year but takes care of the ball, as he's only thrown four interceptions, as well.

"You got to look at the fact that Burkett hasn't turned the ball over a lot," Mihalik said. "He protects the ball."

The Rock, offensively, will again be without starting running back, redshirt junior Akeem Satterfield who is still bothered by a knee injury. Sophomore  running back Jimmy Zubik will continue to shoulder the workload with help from sophomore running back LaQuinn Stephens-Howling.

Defensively, the Bald Eagles give up 42.8 points per game and average 244.5 yards rushing and 173 yards passing.

"Their interior defensive players are strong and have good size," Mihalik said. "Their safety Raymond Mosby and linebacker Ibrahim Smith are active players. Offensively, we have to do a better job of reducing our turnovers and protecting the ball."

Senior receiver Devin Goda continues to produce numbers in the passing game and looks to continue his strong play this week.

"I feel like I can physically dominate this game," Goda said. "I am personally excited about this game. I think it can be a big game for me."

After facing the Bald Eagles, the Rock (6-1 overall, 4-0 PSAC) will host the Mercyhurst College Lakers (3-4 overall, 1-3 PSAC) on October 29 at 1 p.m. at Mihalik-Thompson Stadium.