Annapolis, Md. - After relying heavily on its passing game during the first two weeks of the season, Ball State University's offense was finally able to find success in the running game.
The Cardinals used the dual attack of sophomore running back MiQuale Lewis and freshman Frank Edmonds to tally 262 yards on 42 carries. Though the Cardinals' defense allowed 521 rushing yards to Navy, Ball State used its rushing production to sustain three touchdown drives of at least nine plays. The Cardinals also neutralized Navy's run-oriented offense by equalizing the time of possession, 29:51 compared to 30:09 for Navy.
Hoke said he stressed the importance of being successful in the rushing game all week to his players.
"The offense controlling the football and having long drives was an important part of this game," Hoke said.
Lewis recorded his first 100-yard rushing game in a Ball State uniform, leading the Cardinals with 161 yards on 27 carries. The sophomore also had two receptions, including Ball State's last touchdown, which knotted the score at 31 with 3:34 remaining in regulation.
Though Lewis had a career day, he credited the offensive line for his performance.
"Our offensive line got hammered all week by the coaches telling them we had to run the ball," Lewis said. "They came out and were aggressive at the point of attack. They were more aggressive than Navy's defensive line. They gave us - the backs - holes and creases to hit all day."
Edmonds, a true freshman from Cleveland, Ohio, complemented Lewis' production with nine carries for 68 yards, an average of 7.6 yards per attempt. Davis also scrambled three times for 22 yards, including a five-yard touchdown run.
Hoke said having multiple running threats in the backfield - particularly Edmonds - allows Lewis to be even more successful as the Cardinals' featured back.
"I think it gives us a huge advantage to have two guys back there who can run the football," Hoke said. "That really pushes them to compete, and I think it obviously helps us as a team."
Davis, who paces the Mid-American Conference with eight touchdown passes and 781 passing yards, said he wasn't ready to call Ball State a run-oriented offense like Navy. However, he said it was crucial for the offense to have success in the running game to help set up the pass.
"We want to run the ball and throw the ball because that opens our offense perfectly," Davis said. "Throwing the ball is our thing, but if we run the ball well, then the pass will be open."
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