By: Bo Kidd
Williamsburg, KY – UC Football had to scrape and grind last week, but came away with a 14-7 win over Georgetown College to move to 8-0 on the year and 5-0 in MSC Bluegrass Division play. With two games remaining in the regular season, Cumberlands aims to finish out strong, keeping their high national ranking and stay a hopeful to host in the NAIA Football Championship Series. This week, the Patriots take their final regular season trip north to face the Saints of Thomas More University. Kickoff is set for 1:30 PM Saturday afternoon. With game day just around the corner, here are six things to watch for in this weekend's contest.
- Do not be their first for anything.
Thomas More is looking for many firsts during this contest. The Saints are still looking for their first win at home, their first win over a ranked opponent, let alone their first over an NAIA Top 10 team. Do not be their first.
- Slowdown their high-powered offense.
Although 3-6 on the season, Thomas More is equipped with a very high-powered offense that averages well over 400 yards per game. Do not allow them to get comfortable offensively and begin to move the ball up and down the field at-will.
- Score early and often.
Dating back to the beginning of the season, the Saints do not seem to have a letdown if you jump out to a large lead early. Thomas More seems to like the quick-hitting style of offense much more than to grind out time and points. UC's best friend may be their ability to put together elongated drives that end with points on the board.
- Beware the three-headed monster at wide receiver.
The Saints have three prolific wide receivers that are responsible for over 1,200 yards through the air and 14 of Justin Post's 19 passing touchdowns. The secondary of the Patriots must slow down the trio of Mitchell Hogue, Da'marco Canty, and Johnny McNally.
- Continue to be a top defensive team in the NAIA.
UC continues to be ranked in the top ten in the NAIA in a number of categories. Use a plethora of blitz packages once again to keep the Saints' quarterback on his toes as well as plugging running lanes from Monalo Caldwell.
- Make some of your own history.
With a win today over the Saints, UC can write some history of their own. It would be just the third time in school history that UC would begin a season 9-0. A win will also give them the right to play for a MSC Bluegrass Division Championship next week against Lindsey Wilson. Simply put Patriots, go out and play your game and the rest will take care of itself.
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