This game was close the first time, but from what I understand, it was played in a storm. Will it be close again, or was Grand View just fortunate to hang around last time?

It certainly appears to be a tough draw for the #1 team in the nation to have to play a team that played you the closest all season in the first round. I'm sure the weather had something to do with the combined 9 turnovers (I believe) in the first meeting between these two teams, I definitely do not see a repeat of that.

Grand View just keeps winning. In the past 3 weeks, they have defeated two top 10 football teams. Their defense has been a strength of their team all season and as a result they have not been blown out in any game, including against Marian. If Grand View can pressure Wiese, slow down Tevin Lake (no small tasks), limit turnovers, and keep the game low scoring, I could see them keeping it close with Marian, I just don't think they'll have enough to seal the deal IMO.

I don't think it will be that close. So what that Marian played a close game in weather @ GVU in week two. I'm pretty familiar with "play each team twice {home/away} football". While a good defense is always nice come playoff time; it won't be enough. Around a three TD win for the Knights. The better team usually does even more in the second game---let's face it, outside of a few wrinkles, the teams know each other inside out. Marian will make better adjustments and will out scheme GVU and the athletes will carry out the scheme.

... While it is easy for Marian to use the weather as an excuse, sometimes good teams just have bad games. I am sure the GV faithful will say their defense had something to do with that, and they certainly may have a point. However, Marian is looking forward to the rematch. They feel like that game was their weakest effort of the season and would very much like another shot at GV. Obviously this time the game will be played at Marian where they have given up only 4.38 pts a game. That includes holding the high powered ST X offense to 9. I don't see this one being very close at all. They have had two weeks to rest and get healthy, but they are hungry and very determined to make it to Rome. This should be a good first step.