Ave Maria, Fla. - Coming off of their bye week and win over #5 Lindsey Wilson, St. Thomas Football is back in action Saturday night, as they travel across Alligator Alley for their Sun Conference opener at Ave Maria.
Game Details
Teams: #10 St. Thomas University (4-0 Overall, 0-0 Sun) at Ave Maria University (2-2 Overall, 0-0 Sun)
Date: Saturday, October 3 | 7:00 pm
Location: Ave Maria, Fla. | Gyrene Field
Media Coverage: Live Video | Live Stats
Matchup History
St. Thomas leads the all-time series against Ave Maria, 6-1. The Bobcats' only loss to the Gyrenes came in 2019 in the first matchup between these two schools. Last season at AutoNation Field, St. Thomas shut out Ave Maria, 59-0.
St. Thomas's Strong Defense
Entering Saturday's game, the Bobcats defense ranks near the top of many NAIA leaderboards. St. Thomas has allowed the sixth-fewest points of any team in the NAIA, allowing just 11.3 points. In the Bobcats' last game, they allowed just 37 net yards on the ground to one of the country's best rushing teams in Lindsey Wilson. On the season, the Bobcats have allowed the second fewest total yards per game in the NAIA (209.5) and the second fewest rushing yards per game (44.5). With 26 pass breakups, the Bobcats are tied for third in the NAIA in that stat.
Leonard's Impactful Game
Against Lindey Wilson, freshman safety Leonardez Leonard has an impressive game. He had five total tackles, two forced fumbles, and two pass breakups. The fumbles and pass breakups came in high-leverage situations that halted the Blue Raiders' offense. With his two forced fumbles, Leonard is currently tied for fourth in the NAIA in forced fumbles this season.
Scouting Ave Maria
Ave Maria has played three of their four games against common opponents with the Bobcats. They started their year with a 46-point loss to Lindsey Wilson and a 21-point loss to Cumberland. They also beat Fort Lauderdale by 19 points. The Gyrenes are tied for third in the NAIA with seven field goals made, and they have a 90% red-zone scoring percentage.
