Game Preview: Oxford Chargers (2-1) at Lafayette Commodores (3-0)

Edward Brown, Editor-in-Chief|September 11, 2019

Grace Logan

The Commodores’ offensive line goes against the Chargers’ defensive line in last year’s “Crosstown Classic.” Last year, the Chargers won 29-27.

Last week’s MVP: ATH JJ Pegues (111 YDS, 2 TD)

For the 2019 “Crosstown Classic,” the Oxford Chargers will travel across town to William L. Buford Stadium to play the undefeated Lafayette Commodores. Both teams are coming off of wins as the Commodores beat Horn Lake 28-14 and the Chargers defeated Grenada 33-14. In last year’s matchup, the Chargers won a thriller in Oxford 29-27.

Players to watch:

Oxford WR Derrius “BabyDe” Pegues: In last year’s “Crosstown Classic,” Pegues caught a pass on fourth down which set up the game winning field goal. Pegues had his best game of the season last week against Grenada making five catches for 87 yards, including one touchdown.

Lafayette QB Tyrus Carmichael–White: Much like last year, Lafayette’s offense relies on their quarterback’s ability to make plays with his feet. Carmichael–White has performed well in his first three starts at quarterback, rushing for 353 yards and three touchdowns.

Oxford LB Kiyon Williams: The Commodore offense features a system based around the quarterback running the ball. With a team-leading 22 total tackles on the year, Williams will play a huge role in stopping Carmichael–White and Lafayette’s run heavy offense.

Lafayette ATH Randy Anderson: Debatably the most dynamic and talented player on the Lafayette offense, Anderson started as the quarterback last year amassing over 1300 yards through the air and 1500 on the ground. This year, Anderson has become a Swiss Army knife on the Commodore offense, playing anywhere he is needed, including quarterback, running back and wide receiver.

X Factor:

Oxford Linebackers: This will be the toughest offensive line and run game that the Charger linebackers have faced all year. If they can contain the ground game, not allowing many breakaway runs, they can force the Commodores into passing plays on third–and–long. 

Prediction:

So far this year, the Commodores have beaten every 6A team that they have come up against. This Friday should not produce the same result. The Chargers bring a more talented and experienced team than last year’s team whereas the Commodores lost many of their leading seniors to college football. It may be closer than it should due to the game being a rivalry, but Oxford should take care of business. Chargers win their third straight “Crosstown Classic” 38-21.