Williamsburg, KY – The Patriots will return to action at home this weekend for their biggest test of the season so far. They will host the 14^th ranked Eagles of Reinhardt University at 1:30 PM here at James H. Taylor II Stadium. UC comes into the week a perfect 3-0 while the Eagles are currently 1-1.
 
Dominant Defense
UC's defense ranks sixth in the NAIA in points allowed as they have held their opponents to just nine points a game this year. All levels of the defense have been strong through three games this season. The secondary has six interceptions, which is second most in the nation, and the defensive line is making their presence known with eight sacks as well. Nate Hancock came up huge for the Pats a week ago with a 52-yard pick-six and the only touchdown of the game in their 10-7 victory over Union. Zyan Hollis and Major Newman have also been big names on defense as they are both ranked in the top-5 for sacks in the Mid-South. 
 
Establish the Run
The Patriots have found success on the ground early this season and hope to continue this heading into their first ranked matchup. Darius James has been a major contributor in the backfield, averaging just over 100 yards per game. The offensive line will have to win the battle upfront against an Eagles defense that has allowed 13 points per game and just 113 rushing yards a game as well.
 
Superior Special Teams
Cumberlands have been great on special teams so far this year. Job Matossian has been named Conference Special Teams Player of the Week three straight weeks as the kicker/punter for UC. He averages 43.6 yards per punt, which is sixth in the country, and has pinned opponents inside the 20 nine times. This week's matchup will be a fun one to watch as Reinhardt currently leads the NAIA in average punt return yards. Both teams look to control field position, and the kicking game will play a major role in that.
 
This matchup has gone in favor of the Eagles in the past, as they have won their last three matchups with the Pats. UC's last win against RU came back in 2013 where they took the contest with a score of 28-24 on the road. Cumberlands looks for the same result on Saturday to start the year 4-0 for the second time in three years.
 
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