A victory by Ball State University on Saturday against Central Michigan University will put the Cardinals in a three-way tie for the Mid-American Conference West Division lead.
If it's going to happen, tight end Darius Hill will no doubt play a big part.
The 6-foot-6 sophomore has become quarterback Nate Davis' go-to receiver, and Hill has stepped up in the role. He has caught 29 passes for 551 yards and eight touchdowns.
"There is a lot of weight on my shoulders every week to help produce for the team and open up other guys," Hill said. "I create mismatches and double teams so that it will free other people up a little bit more hopefully."
The Ball State offense uses a lot of two tight end sets, putting Hill and Michael Steinhaus on the field together. The two will be used as safety valves for Davis as the Ball State offensive line contends with CMU defensive end Daniel Bazuin, who was last season's MAC Defensive Player of the Year. He is third in the conference in sacks with four.
Hill loves to use his height to the greatest advantage possible. More often than not, Hill is paired against a 6-foot defensive back, giving him a huge advantage in single coverage or jump ball situations. The Cardinals will also attempt to take advantage of Central Michigan's defense, which has struggled at times, much like Ball State's. The Chippewas give up more than 400 yards a game, which is 105th in the nation.
"I believe when the ball's in the air, I'm going to do all I can to catch it," Hill said. "My hunger for the ball is a big difference."
He has certainly shown that, as Hill is 12th in the nation in receiving yards per game with a 91.83 mark.
Another thing Hill has improved is his blocking. Having played wide receiver in high school, the ability to run routes and make proper cuts wasn't an issue. Hill credits Steinhaus for the improvement in the run-blocking department.
"The toughest part has always been blocking bigger, stronger guys," Hill said. "[Steinhaus] helps me all the time. He's like another coach right here giving me tips and telling me what's wrong."
SCOUTING CENTRAL MICHIGAN
After an improved performance against the University at Buffalo, the defense will look for that to carry over Saturday. Quarterback Dan LeFevour leads Central Michigan offensively. The freshman has thrown for 1230 yards and 11 touchdowns while also running for 160 yards.
"He has very good timing with his passing game," Ball State coach Brady Hoke said. "He seems to know when to get rid of the football. He has got good running back skills. [Central Michigan coach] Brian [Kelly] does a good job of accentuating what he does well."
The leading rusher is Ontario Sneed with 234 yards.
LeFevour also has a solid core group of receivers to throw to. Bryan Anderson (504 yards) and Damien Linson (384 yards) lead the way for the Chippewas and have three touchdowns apiece. Hoke said their height will present the biggest problem for his secondary. Anderson is 6-foot-4 while Linson is 5-foot-11.
"Our biggest guy in the back end is [safety Erik] Keys, and they're big guys who run well," Hoke said.
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