Playing a weaker non-conference schedule than many of its Mid-American Conference competitors is a double-edged sword for the Ball State University soccer team.
"We now have some confidence as far as getting some results with a young team," coach Ron Rainey said. "But now we have to see if we're fast enough to keep up with MAC teams."
Although the Cardinals head into conference play this weekend with a 7-1 record, the best in the conference, a quick schedule comparison between teams shows that Ball State didn't play against the best teams during non-conference play.
"Some MAC teams have been playing opponents that would probably win the MAC outright such as Michigan or Oklahoma," Rainey said, "while we've played some teams that would just be competitive in the MAC."
Today's game against Kent State will help give Ball State some idea of where its at as a team in relation to the rest of the MAC.
Kent State (3-4-1) lost its season opener 2-1 against Ohio State, the eighth-ranked team in the Great Lakes Region. MAC school Western Michigan pulled an upset last weekend by toppling No. 10 Michigan State 1-0.
This is first season in three years the Cardinals did not play a Big Ten team during their non-conference schedule. The toughest team on this year's schedule was Illinois State, a game Ball State lost 1-0.
Even without the test of playing ranked teams, Ball State will enter this MAC season with another handicap. Kent State's soccer field is 12 yards shorter and six yards narrower than Ball State's field, giving the home team a significant playing advantage.
"[Kent State's] field makes you play very fast, and players have to be quick in transitions from offense to defense," Rainey said. "This game allows for the least amount of rhythm we will have all season."
In order to help his players prepare for the shortened field, Rainey closed in the boundaries of Ball State's practice field this week.
Ball State is 0-3 all-time at Kent State and Rainey said the preparation they've made this week should help the Cardinals overcome the obstacle.
"I think we have enough players that have played there before to help control the game for us," Rainey said. "But it's still going to be very hectic."
Read More
Three Air Jam teams take home the win
October 12, 2012Nineteen teams shimmied, shook and flipped for a sold out John R. Emens Auditorium on Thursday night during the 25th annual Air Jam.
Bill Clinton Speaks at North Central High School
October 12, 2012Former President's Speech Could Have Effect on State Senate Race
