QB Jeske’s return could spark Flyers
It took a little longer than expected, but theDaytonFlyers (1-4, 0-2) are hoping that Alex Jeske will beworth the waitwhen he takes the field today in Des Moines, Iowa, against Drake (3-2, 2-0).
The fifth-year senior quarterback was cleared to play this week and it didn’t take Rick Chamberlin long to move Jeske back in to the starting lineup.
“I think that Alex will be mentally prepared to get back in there,” Chamberlin said. “I’m sure that it won’t be perfect because he hasn’t scrimmaged or done anything like that, but Alex is a seasoned veteran and he’s been there before.”
Jeske broke a bone in his foot during aworkout aweek beforesummercampstarted. Doctors removed a protective boot three weeks ago, butthemedicalstaffhasbeen cautious with the comeback.
TheFlyers are 1-4 withKyle Kaparos as the starting quarterback. The redshirt sophomore from Columbus has improved since he took over, but the coach says Jeske’s intangibles can’t be denied.
“Alex has a lot of confidence in what he’s able to do, plus physically his arm is stronger than Kyle’s, and with three years experience
TODAY’SGAME
Dayton atDrake, 2p.m., AM 1290, News95.7WHIO
he can read defenses faster,” Chamberlin said.
The Flyers will need every advantage they canget today. Dayton is 25-8 in the series, and most of those wins have come atWelcome Stadium.
“Wehaven’t donerealwell out there since2009,” Chamberlin said. “Just like any (Pioneer Football League) opponent, it’s tough to win on the road.”
For the second week in a row Dayton will face one of the best quarterbacks in the league. Grant Kraemer has thrown 11 touchdown passes in the first five games, averaging nearly 300 yards passing.
Dayton is riding a threegame losing streak. The Flyers haven’t lost four in a row since 2006.
“I know that everyone wants to get that next win,” defensive back AndrewLutgens said. “Idon’t think there is panic or urgency.
“You don’t want to ever start worrying or panicking or changing too much because that’swhen you get in a lot of trouble.”