The Shippensburg University football team looks to extend its undefeated record heading into homecoming weekend. With a matchup against visiting LIU Post, SU will look for its first victory against the Pioneers since 2008. Two players to be on the lookout for this weekend will be senior wide receiver Jacob Baskerville and senior defensive end Jake Metz. SU will have to be on top of its game on both sides of the ball, and these two look to have big games.

Jacob Baskerville

Baskerville has put up solid numbers this season. Scoring in all five of SU’s games, Baskerville is a consistent target. With a season high seven receptions last game against Lock Haven University you would have to think Baskerville will get targeted more often. In this high-scoring pass-offense, wide outs are going to get in a lot of work. The Pioneers gave up a season high 347 passing yards to Edinboro last Saturday, which is not good when SU is averaging over 300 yards per game. Baskerville, who averages a little over 88 yards per game, should see a spike in performance Saturday. Look to see Baskerville with nine receptions for 125 yards and a touchdown. The way things seem to look Baskerville should have a big day as always.

Jake Metz

Metz is going to provide a huge boost on defense. Over his last three games Metz has recorded a total of five sacks and an interception. Metz is a key weapon for SU, with 26 total tackles and two forced fumbles. Keeping Pioneer quarterback Steven Laurino in the pocket is huge. Laurino likes to run, and will not be afraid to scramble for a touchdown- having six on the season.

Metz needs to lead the defensive charge to keep Laurino in check. If Metz can carry his consistent numbers into Saturday’s game, look for an SU victory. Look to see Metz racking up at least two sacks for a loss of nine yards and forcing a fumble. Also, he should have at least five tackles and prove to be a strong force on the outside. If Metz can stop the Pioneers run game on the edge then SU’s defense should be able to contain Laurino.

SU will look for big games from these two if they want to stay undefeated. Baskerville and Metz should be two cornerstones for SU as they try to make some noise on Homecoming.

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