Williamsburg, KY – UC Football fell victim to defeat for the first time this season last week to now sixth-ranked Reinhardt University 27-10. Now, Cumberlands must face another MSC Appalachian Division foe in the Battle for the Brass Lantern against Union College, who are 1-3 on the season. Kickoff is set for 7 pm in Barbourville, Kentucky at Williamson Stadium and Burch/Nau Field. Here are six things to watch for in this rivalry matchup.
 

1. History speaks for itself.

This will be the 34^th straight season that Cumberlands and Union have locked it up on the gridiron. The Patriots hold a 22-11 series advantage entering the game, including nine of the last 12, but when it comes to a rivalry game, throw records out the window. This contest gives you more than just another W in the win column. This gives you the bragging rights for another season that the coveted Brass Lantern trophy stays at your respective school for another year.
 

2. Forget about last week.

The Patriots must come out with a fresh mindset this week against the Bulldogs. Yes, Cumberlands fell to the Eagles last week, but that was last week. UC must let that game go from their minds and come out energized against a Union team that will definitely be well-prepared for them as the Bulldogs had a bye the previous week.
 

3. Prevent the deep threat.

Cumberlands must expect the Bulldogs to come out looking to pass. With Union averaging nearly 250 yards through the air per contest, the Patriots must contain quarterback Kendrick Furness as he looks for a plethora of receiving threats including Tyler Toombs, Bradley Elkins, Darian Patterson, and running back Izayah Riettie out of the backfield.
 

4. Get on the scoreboard early.

Over the last three contests, UC has averaged scoring just 10 points per game in the first half. Union is averaging just 12 points per game during that same span. The team that comes out and sets the tone early on the scoreboard should definitely have an advantage in the game in the final 30 minutes of play. Ironically, the winning team in the series has scored 14 or less points in the first half eight times in the last 12 contests.
 

5. Control your emotions.

Games like this bring out the best and sometimes the worst in athletes. It will be another game where tempers will flare and the emotions of the players will be on an epic rollercoaster ride. UC must keep their composure during the game and not rack up penalty yardage, especially those of the 15-yard variety such as personal fouls and unsportsmanlike conducts, as these will prove to be most detrimental in possibly a key point in the game.
 

6. It's Cumberlands vs. Union.

That should be enough to get anyone that enjoys NAIA football pumped up for the game. This is one of the longest tenured rivalries in the country. This is for bragging rights. This is for pride. This is the Battle for the Brass Lantern.
 
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