Catawba Drops Out of Regional Rankings

1. Delta State 7-1
2. Wingate 8-1
3. North Alabama 8-1
4. Valdosta State 6-2
5. Tusculum 6-3
6. Arkansas-Monticello 7-2
7. Carson-Newman 6-2
8. Albany State (Georgia) 5-3
9. Mars Hill 6-3
10. Ouachita Baptist 5-3

With a 4-4 record, Catawba has been replaced by a 6-3 Mars Hill team. Catawba soundly defeated the Lions this season at Mars Hill, but the Indians have lost three of its last four games. Full Story

Wingate Beats Catawba 34-24

0 for 11 on third down conversions. A 27.9 yard average on seven punts. A turnover on a kickoff return that was picked up and ran in for a score.

It does not take long to figure out how Catawba lost on Saturday to a Wingate team that is now 8-1 overall. The Bulldogs will be in the playoffs if they can win one of their last two, at Carson-Newman and at home to Mars Hill.

The offense could never recover after dominating the line of scrimmage on the first two scoring drives. Jamelle Cuthbertson finished the game with 57 yards on 15 carries. The bulk of those yards came in the first quarter.

The passing game was not a factor for the Tribe. Patrick Dennis played through the third quarter 8-15 for 99 yards and an interception. Redshirt-freshman Daniel Griffith from North Rowan threw his first collegiate touchdown in a 31-yard pass to Brandon Bunn.

The Catawba defense did all that they could, but they were routinely put into bad spots. Perhaps the biggest turning point in the game was a penalty on Catawba's Aaron Cauble for roughing the punter. That swing of momentum virtually ended all hope of a comeback.

The Indians were led by freshman Lakeem Perry with 13 total tackles, Charles McAfee with 10 total tackles, and Brandon Sutton with four tackles for loss and two sacks.

Catawba will be hosting Brevard College (1-7, 0-5)this Saturday at 1:30 PM. The last game of the 2008 season will be on the road at Lenoir-Rhyne in Hickory, NC. Full Story

D2Football.com SAC Column: Week 9

Now it's just a mess in Super Regional 2.

Then #2 Wingate lost.
Then #4 North Alabama lost.
Then #5 Tusculum lost.
Then #7 Benedict lost.
Then #8 Albany State lost.

Here is where things now stand in the region.

1. Delta State 6-1
2. Valdosta State 6-1
3. Wingate 7-1
4. North Alabama 7-1
5. Arkansas-Monticello 6-2
6. Newberry 4-3
7. Albany State (Georgia) 5-2
8. Tusculum 5-3
9. Carson-Newman 5-2
10. Catawba 4-3

In the South Atlantic Conference, the only three teams that are officially done in this race are Mars Hill, Lenoir-Rhyne, and Brevard.

While Wingate may appear to be in the driver's seat with a 7-1 record, it is simply not so. Carson-Newman has a schedule consisting of playing at Brevard, home to Wingate, and at Tusculum. The Eagles are going to the playoffs. With only two losses and a very favorable schedule left, their odds are somewhere between 99.9 and 100.0%.

Wingate must play Catawba at home, on the road to Carson-Newman, and home to Mars Hill. If the Bulldogs lose two of those games, they will be yesterday's news.

What are we going to do with Newberry, Catawba, and Tusculum? Each of these teams have three losses. Newberry has the head to head with Catawba, and Catawba has the head to head with Tusculum.

One more loss by any of these teams will end their season. If both Catawba and Newberry win out, Newberry will get the nod. If Catawba and Tusculum win out, Catawba will get the nod.

Newberry does not have to worry about outside games as of this moment. Catawba absolutely needs Newberry to fall to Tusculum. The Pioneers need the Indians to lose while winning the rest of their games.

While it is important for the SAC to have Arkansas-Monticello lose to North Alabama on the road, a possible fourth loss to a team like Harding would make things much clearer.

Even if Arkansas-Monticello finished with three losses, I would find it extremely unlikely that the Boll Weevils would finish above a possible second SAC team. UAM has a strength of schedule index that is rated 92nd in the nation, while SAC teams have much stronger SOS numbers. Newberry and Tusculum are tied for third while Catawba's schedule is 34th. To grant the Gulf South Conference four postseason bids by way of a fourth team with the same number of losses, but a much lower SOS index is something I cannot see happening.

Week Eight Recaps

Actual Score: Newberry: 32 Wingate: 21
Timmy's Predicted Score: Newberry: 27 Wingate: 21

Although Newberry's passing game struggled mightily (only 76 yards) against a solid Bulldog pass defense, it was Newberry's ability to play smash-mouth football to secure the win. The combination of Tharry Salley and Gerald Legree on the ground produced well over 200 yards rushing and helped control the clock.

JD Moore was under fire the whole night by the Newberry front four, resulting in two interceptions and eight quarterback hurries. Moore did throw for 266 yards and three touchdowns in the losing effort, while feared running back Nelson Woods was held in check for 75 yards on 20 carries.

Actual Score: Carson-Newman: 62 Lenoir-Rhyne: 21
Timmy's Predicted Score: Carson-Newman: 38 Lenoir-Rhyne: 21

A 35-7 halftime score, in Carson-Newman's favor, indicated the large gap between these two teams. The Eagles out-rushed a fellow option-oriented SAC team 363 yards to 180 yards, and they capitalized on all five red zone opportunities.

Seven different Carson-Newman players rushed for touchdowns. Is that some kind of record? Guinness, get to work on that.

Alex the Great (He played better than good) had an impressive 80-yard touchdown scamper early in the first quarter and did not see action after halftime.

Actual Score: Catawba: 37 Tusculum: 35
Timmy's Predicted Score: Catawba: 24 Tusculum: 14

Some may say that Indian quarterback Pat Dennis out shined Corey Russell on Saturday.

In his second career start, Dennis threw for 357 yards and a pair of third quarter touchdowns to lead the Tribe past a high-flying spread Tusculum team.

Russell's arm should have been in a sling after the afternoon was over, throwing for 402 yards and four touchdowns in the loss.

Five Catawba sacks combined with 121 rushing yards by Jamelle Cuthbertson enabled the Indians to double the Pioneer's time of possession 40:00 to 20:00.

Actual Score: Mars Hill: 28 Brevard: 14
Timmy's Predicted Score: Mars Hill: 42 Brevard: 21

Give credit to Brevard, they keep fighting each and every week.

They fought Tusculum tooth and nail last week, and they did the same this Saturday against the Lions.

Quarterback Trey Wilborn did not complete a pass all afternoon, but he did lead the Tornados with 90 yards on sixteen attempts.

The one-two power rushing attack of "The Georges" Washington and Stripling boasted 165 rushing yards and two scores. Stripling in the fourth quarter churned out six consecutive carries, followed by four straight rushes by Washington in a scoring drive.

Week Nine Previews

For the first time this season I went undefeated in picking South Atlantic Conference games. All it took was new batteries in my magical Magic 8 Ball. My prediction record is now 33-11.

#16 Carson-Newman (5-2, 3-1) at Brevard (1-6, 0-4)

October 25th 2:00 PM ET Weather Forecast: 60 degrees, showers, 7 MPH wind, 60% chance of rain

Brevard is playing much better than it was early in the year. However, they no longer pose a threat in the air.

The Tornados did not complete a pass, but still hung tough with Mars Hill in a 28-14 loss. This says that while Brevard may be one-dimensional, they feel its possible to compete in this manner.

This matchup of Brevard and Carson-Newman will closely mirror the Eagles' contest with Lenoir-Rhyne last week.

Brevard will not pass as much as LRU, which even then was only eleven throws.

The line of scrimmage will be thoroughly controlled by C-N on Saturday. There is always a chance of coach Ken Sparks' team coming out sluggish and sloppy, but it isn't likely since the Eagles know they are playoff bound.

Quarterback Alex Good will involved in several big plays in the first half, something similar to the Concord game early in the season. Backup signal caller Joel Statham can expect to test the airwaves in mop up duty and account for some hard runs.

Tailbacks Buck Wakefield and Tony Richardson could average over 15 yards on the ground for the second week in a row. Quite an impressive feat.

Of course, with Brevard presumably stacking the box on Saturday, C-N wideouts Reggie Hubbard and Otis Miller can be home run threats on deep streaks or simple screen patterns.

Brevard wants to establish the option game with sophomore Trey Wilborn as the quarterback. The question is if the Tornados pass on Carson-Newman when they load up the box?

The answer? Check below.

Carson-Newman: 63 Brevard: 14

Catawba (4-3, 2-2) at #23 Wingate (7-1, 3-1)

October 25th 1:30 PM ET Weather Forecast: 70 degrees, showers, 9 MPH wind, 60% chance of rain

This is one of two South Atlantic Conference games that the rest of the region will be watching with extreme interest.

Catawba is coming off a 37-35 win against Tusculum. The Indians have now found an identity in sophomore quarterback Patrick Dennis. He has so many weapons at receiver in Antwan Strong, Brandon Bunn, Geron Bryant, Eric Morman, Brian Terwilliger, and tight end Grayson Downs.

Wingate must bounce back from its set back to Newberry last weekend. If the Bulldogs lose this weekend, their playoff hopes are virtually gone. Mainly because Carson-Newman still looms on the schedule.

The Bulldogs were not able to run against Newberry's defensive line with Nelson Woods and Patrick Pinchinat.

Just like last week, this game will come down to WU quarterback JD Moore. He will be going up against possibly the best defensive line in the league. The Indians are expecting the return of defensive lineman Julian Hartsell, who did not play last week.

The Tribe was able to put pressure on Tusculum quarterback Corey Russell late in the contest to decide the game. Moore will not be able to avoid half of the sacks in the same manner Russell did.

Woods will have great difficulty against the defensive line as well. No team has been able to run on Catawba this season.

Wingate's biggest question mark may be its defensive line. The Bulldog defensive line allowed 316 yards on the ground to Lenoir-Rhyne, 248 yards to Newberry, and 213 yards to Tusculum.

Catawba's running game features senior Jamelle Cuthbertson, a tailback that has ran for at least 100 yards in his last four games.

Make it five straight.

Catawba: 28 Wingate: 14

Newberry (4-3, 2-2) at Tusculum (5-3, 2-2)

October 25th 2:00 PM ET Weather Forecast: 60 degrees, showers, 7 MPH wind, 40% chance of rain

The health of Tharry Salley's knee is not known as of the release of this column. Regardless, fellow running backs Gerald Legree and Josh James will need to play even better this week to win.

Tusculum scored 35 points and Corey Russell threw for over 400 yards and suffered a loss.

The Pioneers have a score to settle with Newberry after the Scarlet Gray have beat them three times in a row in games decided by five, four, and three points respectively.

Tusculum is due to win a close game this year. Coach DeBusk's team has two losses on the road by four and two points.

Quarterback Corey Russell is simply too good to end his Pioneer career without a win against Newberry.

Newberry head coach Zak Willis has decided to give Eric McCollom the keys to offense as of now. The senior signal caller did his job by taking better care of the football in their big 32-21 win over Wingate last Saturday.

Tusculum receivers Ryan Tallent, Nate Binder, and Calvin Britt will catch plenty of passes on homecoming Saturday.

Newberry has played two road games this season. Both were losses, a 24-10 loss at Midwestern State, and a 27-6 loss at Mars Hill.

Newberry's lack of a passing game compared to Tusculum's attack will prove to be the difference.

Tusculum: 34 Newberry: 24

Mars Hill (5-3, 2-2) at Lenoir-Rhyne (3-5, 1-3)

October 25th 7:00 PM ET Weather Forecast: 53 degrees, partly cloudy, 9 MPH wind, 40% chance of rain

Mars Hill's offense has played much better since its loss to Catawba to start off the conference season. Running backs George Washington and George Stripling are still the premiere focus of head coach Tim Clifton's attention, but they have received more help.

Quarterback Ricky Spradling has been able to connect with star wideout Tyrea Allen and Frankie Waters in the past three games.

The Lions must be ready to play from behind like they did last week. Brevard scored the first touchdown of the game at Meares Stadium, but the ground game of Washington and Stripling wore down the Tornados.

Lenoir-Rhyne will also concentrate on the running game. Quarterback Justin Sanders has the ability to make enough plays to beat Mars Hill. The problem isn't L-R's offense. It will be inability of coach Fred Goldsmith's defense to stop to run or deep pass off of play action.

This one will come down to turnovers, a problem Lenoir-Rhyne fans are too familiar with this season.

Mars Hill: 38 Lenoir-Rhyne: 27 Full Story

Catawba Ranked #10 in Regional Rankings

Catawba is now ranked in the Super Regional 2 Rankings at number ten. The top six teams in each of the four regions make the Division II playoffs. Wingate dropped one spot to number three after its loss at Newberry last week. Tusculum fell three spots after its 37-35 loss at Catawba. Carson-Newman moves up one spot with the absence of Benedict, which suffered its fourth loss of the season.

The process of Earned Access has been tweaked this season. It is no longer sufficient to be in the top 10 for a conference to get an automatic bid to the highest ranked team. This season, for conferences to qualify for earned access, it must have a team in the top eight in the region.

Super Regional Two
Overall Record Division II Record
1. Delta State 6-1 6-0
2. Valdosta State 6-1 6-1
3. Wingate 7-1 7-1
4. North Alabama 7-1 7-1
5. Arkansas-Monticello 6-2 5-2
6. Newberry 4-3 4-3
7. Albany State (Georgia) 5-2 5-2
8. Tusculum 5-3 4-2
9. Carson-Newman 5-2 5-2
10. Catawba 4-3 4-3 Full Story

Patrick Dennis Named SAC Offensive Player of the Week

Catawba quarterback Patrick Dennis was named the SAC Offensive Player of the Week for his performance against the Tusculum Pioneers.

Dennis, a 6-1, 175-pound sophomore from Durham, N.C., threw for a career-high 357 yards and two touchdowns in a 37-35 win over Tusculum. The Cedar Ridge High School graduate completed 19-of-27 passes with no interceptions to up his QB rating to 171.8. Dennis’ touchdown tosses both came in the third quarter, covering 36 and 51 yards to erase a 21-16 halftime deficit. Full Story

Catawba vs Tusculum Pictures

IndianHuddle.com would like to thank James Sipes for providing these pictures of the Catawba-Tusculum game. Please visit the link below to view the picture gallery.

Catawba vs Tusculum Picture Gallery Full Story

Catawba Beats Tusculum 37-35

Catawba's offense needed to play its best game of the season to beat Tusculum.

After compiling 543 yards of total offense on Saturday afternoon's homecoming game, the Indians still have playoff hopes. These hopes are now realized after Wingate lost to Newberry, and both SIAC teams in Albany State and Benedict also lost on Saturday. The loss gives Tusculum three defeats this season, which is equaled to the Tribe, but Catawba now has the head to head.

Senior running back Jamelle Cuthbertson provided Catawba a spark early in the first quarter with a 63-yard touchdown run. Sophomore quarterback Patrick Dennis filled in for the injured Howard Williamson. Dennis went 19 of 27 for 357 yards and two touchdowns in the conference win.

Catawba's defensive line is firing on all cylinders right now. The Indians sacked Tusculum's Corey Russell five times. Although Russell threw for 402 yards and four scores, Catawba's defense would not allow the offensive show to continue.

The Tribe will visit Wingate University this Saturday.

* Picture provided by James Sipes
Full Story

D2Football.com South Atlantic Conference Column

The second release of the Super Regional 2 Rankings provided no drama this week.

Carson-Newman is finally ranked at number 10, but the concerning news for South Atlantic Conference fans is the placement of Benedict and Albany State at seventh and eight respectively. It is almost completely certain that the SIAC will have one representative in the playoff field this season.

After establishing that, only five spots remain. Three of the top five teams are from the Gulf South Conference in No. 1 Delta State, No. 3 Valdosta State, and No. 4 North Alabama.

It is looking like only two SAC teams will receive bids this year at a best case scenario. As of now, Wingate, Tusculum, Newberry, and Carson-Newman are the players in this game.

Week Seven Recaps

Actual Score: Mars Hill: 27 Newberry: 6
Timmy's Predicted Score: Newberry: 33 Mars Hill: 21

Newberry was thumped by two individuals, running back George Stripling and outside linebacker Zach Johnson.

Stripling, (I know, I know, that Louisville transfer) had 13 carries for 96 yards and two touchdowns, but his final score was a 70-yard run early in the fourth quarter that had Newberry fans flocking towards the exits.

What is so special about Lion outside linebacker Zach Johnson? Well, he earned league defensive player of the week accolades for bruising up Tharry Salley quite a bit, all the while racking up nine tackles and pair of sacks.

Oh yeah, a first quarter interception by Johnson helped to set up the Lion's first points of the contest too.

Actual Score: Carson-Newman: 21 Catawba: 14
Timmy's Predicted Score: Carson-Newman: 42 Catawba: 17

A blocked punt for a touchdown and holding the Eagles to a mere seven points in three quarters just wasn't enough to contain Carson-Newman last Saturday night.

Alex the Good, (He wasn't great by any means) threw a pretty 29-yard touchdown pass to tight end Mo Whitten to essentially end the game with 44 ticks left.

Not only did the Eagles force two turnovers, but five different Carson-Newman defenders recorded sacks against Catawba's pair of quarterbacks.

Actual Score: Wingate: 35 Lenoir-Rhyne: 27
Timmy's Predicted Score: Wingate: 38 Lenoir-Rhyne: 17

Wingate is still the lone unbeaten team in the SAC, and rightfully so.

JD Moore is really starting to challenge Tusculum QB Corey Russell as the conference's most feared pistol-shooter, throwing for 292 yards and a trio of touchdowns on Saturday.

Although Nelson Woods, perhaps a dark-horse Harlon Hill candidate, rushed for 83 yards on nearly twenty attempts, it is tight end Delric Ellington that is becoming a huge asset for the 'Dawgs.

Ellington hauled in the game's opening touchdown pass on Wingate's first drive that set the tone for the afternoon.

Actual Score: Tusculum: 55 Brevard: 42
Timmy's Predicted Score: Tusculum: 42 Brevard: 7

There were good and bad things to take away from this victory for Tusculum.

We all know that Corey Russell totaled six touchdowns on the afternoon and 400 yards of total offense, but what happened to their talented defense?

Trey Wilborn went back to his duties at quarterback for the injured Kye Hamilton, a role he excelled at last season.

Wilborn helped Brevard pound the football for an astonishing 356 yards and four scores.

Week Eight Previews

My record is now 29-11 in predicting South Atlantic Conference games in 2008. I went 3-1 last week with my only loss being the Newberry-Mars Hill upset.

And for those of you that love "Dumb and Dumber", you might recall this infamous Jim Carrey line after he was robbed by a sweet old lady on a motorized cart.

"I didn't even see it coming."

#16 Wingate (7-0, 3-0) at Newberry (3-3, 2-1)

October 18th 7:00 PM ET Weather Forecast: 60 degrees, partly cloudy, 10 MPH wind, 30% chance of rain

Newberry's terrible showing at Mars Hill last week has severely impacted its playoff chances. Of course the Scarlet and Gray must win out, but it may also need extra help the rest of the way through this season.

Wingate is in the most advantageous position of all South Atlantic Conference teams right now as it sits at No. 2 in the regional rankings. The teams remaining on the Bulldog's schedule won't make this finishing stretch easy by any stretch. Wingate must go to Newberry, host Catawba, go to Carson-Newman, and host Mars Hill.

If WU head coach Joe Reich's team can win at least two of their four remaining games, they should be in the postseason.

It all starts this Saturday night at Setzler Field where opponents rarely win. Then No. 1 ranked Valdosta State counted its blessings as it walked away with a very close win to open the season at Newberry.

Also, it doesn't help matters that Newberry is coming off a rather embarrassing loss to Mars Hill 27-6 last week.

Newberry quarterbacks Eric McCollom and Brandon Gantt played awful games, combining for two interceptions, 10-26 passing for 84 yards, and four sacks.

While Scarlet and Gray head man Zak Willis won't see that performance repeated at home, he is probably more concentrated with his defense at the moment.

Wingate comes to town with clutch players at its disposal in tailback Nelson Woods and receiver Jordan Softcheck. I still recall a very Wes Welker type play from Softcheck against UNC-Pembroke in the fourth quarter. It was a third and six deep in UNC-P's territory with the Bulldogs nursing a 17-13 lead. He created great separation on the right side of the field to give JD Moore an easy toss for six points.

Wingate will need plenty of clutch plays this Saturday night. Newberry's fast and hard hitting defense will force Reich's offense into uncomfortable third down situations and distances that are too far for Woods to handle.

A match up featuring linebackers Mike Grase or Will Newell on tight end Delric Ellington will summarize the night for the two playoff hopeful teams.

Newberry is due for a good game.

You can't pick against an angry team with speed playing at home.

Newberry: 27 Wingate: 21

Lenoir-Rhyne (3-4, 1-2) at # 17 Carson-Newman (4-2, 2-1)

October 18th 3:00 PM ET Weather Forecast: 60 degrees, partly cloudy, 7 MPH wind, 20% chance of rain

This has the potential to be one of the quickest games this season in college football.

Lenoir-Rhyne may throw eight or nine passes on Saturday, while Carson-Newman could pass around 15 times.

The rest of the afternoon will be spent like college football Saturdays should.

Watching the line of scrimmage turn into a battlefield for every yard.

Carson-Newman had great difficulty with the "give" on its split back veer attack. With the exception of a Buck Wakefield touchdown run, the Eagles had trouble gaining more than 2 yards on the handoffs.

Quarterback Alex Good also had trouble completing the deep pass and going down the line on option runs.

Lenoir-Rhyne's defense is not built to stop the veer, but LRU head coach Fred Goldsmith's team will focus mainly on keeping the C-N offense off of the field. The quarterback position should be shared between Major Herron and Justin Sanders for yet another week as it is a difficult to continually get knocked down play after play. Running back Anthony Silvers played one of his best games ever last week against Wingate by tallying 114 yards on 17 carries.

Carson-Newman will be able to incorporate Otis Miller and Reggie Hubbard this week in the deep passing game off of playaction.

Lenoir-Rhyne will be able to shorten this game quite a bit with its forceful running game.

Carson-Newman: 38 Lenoir-Rhyne: 21

Tusculum (5-2, 2-1) at Catawba (3-3, 1-2)

October 18th 1:30 PM ET Weather Forecast: 60 degrees, partly cloudy, 10 MPH wind, 30% chance of rain

Tusculum cannot afford to lose to Catawba this week if it wants to make the playoffs because they still have to play Carson-Newman later on in the season.

The Indians will be playing spoiler the rest of the way after a close loss to Carson-Newman last Saturday.

TC head coach Frankie DeBusk has owned the Tribe lately by winning the past two nail biters.

The job this week for Catawba head coach Chip Hester will be for his Indians to pressure senior all-conference quarterback Corey Russell. The defensive line of Marqus Davis, Melquan Fair, Brandon Sutton, and Julian Hartsell controlled the line of scrimmage last week against the Eagles.

The Tribe's secondary is not a weakness but certainly not the strength of the defense like its front seven. It will come down to whether Russell has enough time to exploit Catawba on Saturday afternoon.

Russell's numbers this season include 2,243 passing yards, 19 passing touchdowns, and nine interceptions. He is also the Pioneer's leading rusher with 315 yards and four scores.

There are two things that Tusculum should be worried about when arriving to play the Indians for its homecoming.

First, Russell was sacked four times in each game by Wingate, Lenoir-Rhyne, and Elizabeth City State. Urbana was able to bring him down three times in the backfield. Catawba's defensive line may be the best in the conference this year by far.

Second, Tusculum was not able to slow down Lenoir-Rhyne's running game or Brevard's. Catawba is very one-dimensional this season like L-R and BC, but not by choice.

Catawba quarterback Howard Williamson has only played two complete games, while usually suffering an injury in the first half against his opponents such as Mars Hill, Newberry, and Carson-Newman.

This game will come down to the impressive running of senior running back Jamelle Cuthbertson for Catawba. Tusculum will get big plays from Ryan Tallent, but the Indians are determined to not make this a shoot out.

Catawba: 24 Tusculum: 14

Brevard (1-5, 0-3) at Mars Hill (4-3, 1-2)

October 18th 1:30 PM ET Weather Forecast: 57 degrees, partly cloudy, 9 MPH wind, 20% chance of rain

Mars Hill sent a message loud and clear last Saturday. They are not giving up on this season just yet.

Lion head coach Tim Clifton has two winnable games on the docket and can up its record to a possible 6-3 overall. It sounds nice and it can most definitely be done with its offensive weapons.

Brevard is another story entirely. A bright spot is the reemergence of running back John Taylor last week at Tusculum. While the Tornados aren't a threat in the airwaves, their damage on the ground is most definitely severe.

A nice coaching adjustment by head coach Paul Hamilton is the switch at quarterback. He has brought sophomore Trey Wilborn back as the signal caller.

He has responded.

Wilborn carried for 116 yards for a score and passed for a touchdown against the regionally ranked Pioneers on the road.

Brevard's 42 point output is light years away from its shutout loss to UNC-Pembroke and its collapse at Chowan earlier in the season.

The game will not be won on offense for Brevard. Mars Hill will be able to trade scores with the Tornados easily. Brevard does not have an answer for the speed of Tyrea Allen at receiver or the two tailbacks of George Washington and George Stripling. Expect Washington and Allen to have several plays longer than 40 yards on Saturday.

Mars Hill continues to click on all cylinders.

Mars Hill: 42 Brevard: 21

The Passing of a Strong Woman

My grandmother, Elizabeth Hall Readling, passed away at the age of 83 on Tuesday, the morning of October 14th. She was the mother of two sons, one being my father Gary Readling. Even at a very young age, she was a mother figure to her sisters.

I will always miss her. Full Story

Carson-Newman Rallies to Beat Catawba 21-14

On a night where everything went right for the stout Catawba defense, the #21 ranked Carson-Newman Eagles found a way to come out on top in a physical 21-14 contest.

Jamelle Cuthbertson led the Indians on the ground with 125 rushing yards on 17 carries, but he, unfortunately, coughed up the football with a little under 4:30 left in the fourth quarter.

The score was tied at 14-14, when Cuthbertson was hit forcefully from behind by All-SAC cornerback Otis Ballard, causing the ball to fumble forward upfield and into the awaiting hands of Carson-Newman's Corey Parks.

In the ensuing drive by the Eagles, quarterback Alex Good melted nearly four minutes off the clock with quarterback keepers until he hooked up with a streaking Otis Miller in the back of the endzone for a 29-yard touchdown strike.

"I feel bad that fumble happened there at the end," said an optimistic Chip Hester. "We played well enough to win tonight and the majority of these players will be playing against Carson-Newman for years to come."

No one puts blame on Cuthbertson for the turnover, because Catawba would not have been in a position to win the game without the aggressive rushing style by the senior running back.

Coach Hester said in staff meetings all week they felt that if the Indian defense held Carson-Newman to under 200 rushing yards, Catawba had a great chance to send the Eagles leaving Salisbury, NC, with a loss.

Eagle coach Ken Sparks saw his veer-option offense grind out 219 ground yards, a great number by all means, but nowhere near the 300 yards they rushed for a year prior against Catawba.

Carson-Newman's Good led all rushers with 129 rushing yards and a touchdown, while also tossing for 106 passing yards and the all-important fourth quarter touchdown to Miller.

For more than three and a half quarters, the Catawba front four on the defensive line whipped the Eagles offensive line by splitting inbetween their gaps and harrassing Good.

Sophomore defensive tackle Brandon Sutton was like a rock in the middle for the Indians, playing beside fellow interior lineman Melquan Fair, recording a career-high ten tackles.

Sophomore safety Aaron Cauble sprinted off the edge as a gunner in a punt block formation against the Eagles on a fourth down punt, blocking Chris Jones' attempt at the fifteen yard-line.

True freshman Tyon Bennett, who earned the start at free safety on Saturday night, picked up the rejected punt and raced in for the game's first score at the 2:34 mark of the opening quarter.

Nearly a quarter later, Carson-Newman answered with a Good five-yard touchdown run on a five play, 80-yard drive. That particular scoring drive was stimulated by a 42-yard scamper by Good before he was corralled by true freshman outside linebacker Kewone Harris.

One of the most exciting pass plays of the season by the Tribe took place in Saturday's contest when quarterback Pat Dennis threw a perfect fade pass to sophomore wide out Gerron Bryant for a 34-yard touchdown with 9:20 left in the third quarter.

Dennis came in to relieve starting quarterback Howard Williamson who appeared to have injured one of the fingers on his throwing hand at the end of the first half.

Outside linebacker Charles McAfee made a name for himself against Carson-Newman two years ago when he stepped in for the injured Darryl Locklear, and was named SAC Defensive Player of the Week in the 24-22 win.

McAfee led the team in tackles in that 2006 win over the Eagles with 14 stops, and again last season with seven hits.

It was the same story on Saturday night as McAfee led the Catawba defense with a dozen tackles against rival Carson-Newman, but he was more focused on energizing the crowd for a big home victory instead.

The senior linebacker would much rather have finished out his Indian career with three wins against the team from Jefferson City, TN, rather than lead the team in tackles and other statistics.

Everyone needs the heart of a champion. Everyone needs the heart of a Charles McAfee. Full Story

D2Football.com SAC Column

The October surprise is already here.

In the form of Super Regional 2 Rankings. Of course, Super Regional 2 is the NCAA code word for Southeast Region.

Benedict is #9 in the region with a record of 3-3 while two loss Carson-Newman and Catawba are absent?

Surprise.

The South Atlantic Conference has three ranked teams in the top ten by way of Wingate at number two, Tusculum number five, and Newberry at sixth.

A new and fascinating change of the playoff system this season is the implementation of Earned Access.

Earned Access is the concept of all conferences getting a shot at the postseason. In 2007, if a team from conference X was in the top 10, and was the highest rated team from its conference, it would receive a berth into the postseason. Now, in 2008, Earned Access will only apply to those in the top 8 in the region, making the leap into the playoffs a little more difficult for "weaker" teams.

It should also be pointed out that the CIAA has been moved to Super Regional 1, which used to be known as the Northeast Region.

Week Six Recaps

Actual Score: Carson-Newman: 61 Mars Hill: 49
Timmy's Predicted Score: Carson-Newman: 38 Mars Hill: 28

Hope everyone took the "over" in this high-scoring affair, as defense was honestly optional.

1,076 yards were accounted for in Saturday's game (Give that statistician a Purple Heart), one penalty, and zero turnovers as well.

Carson-Newman running back Buck Wakefield went bonkers on the ground, taking nine handoffs for 154 yards and three touchdowns.

Alex Good had an equally impressive outing against Mars Hill, completing six of eight passes for 238 yards and four touchdowns.

Actual Score: Newberry: 33 Catawba: 14
Timmy's Predicted Score: Catawba: 21 Newberry: 10

Catawba quarterback Howard Williamson threw an interception on the game's first play from scrimmage that set the tone for Newberry's dominating defensive performance.

On the two rare occasions where the Indians did reach the end zone, Newberry rejected the extra points like Dikembe Mutombo swats away lay ups.

Four Catawba turnovers undoubtedly helped Newberry offensively, although Brandon Gantt's 94-yard touchdown hook up to Kelton Tindal was a thing of beauty in the third quarter.

Actual Score: Wingate: 44 Brevard: 13
Timmy's Predicted Score: Wingate: 42 Brevard: 10

Life without Kye Hamilton behind center for Brevard quickly spelled disaster, even when the name of your program is the Tornados.

All-SAC running back John Taylor did not suit up as well, and Wingate pounced on them early and often last Saturday.

The Bulldogs yielded just three completed passes, while Ed Doughty registered 2.5 sacks for conference's lone unbeaten team.

The dynamic rushing duo of Wingate's Nelson Woods (Make him an All-American) and Patrick Pinchinat combined for well over 200 yards and three scores.

Actual Score: Tusculum: 48 Lenoir-Rhyne: 19
Timmy's Predicted Score: Tusculum: 35 Lenoir-Rhyne: 14

Corey Russell is lighting the world on fire with his play thus far this season.

The All-SAC senior quarterback tossed for 375 yards and four devastating touchdowns in the Pioneer's route of Lenoir-Rhyne.

Tusculum also got some help in the running game behind Marcus Foster, who recorded 20 carries for 96 yards and a couple of scores.

Bear outside linebacker Scott Turbeville upped his season sack total to six quarterback pummels with two more sacks this weekend.

Week Seven Previews

My prediction record is now 26-10. Work with me people.

#22 Newberry (3-2, 2-0) at Mars Hill (3-3, 0-2)

October 11th 2:30 PM ET Weather Forecast: 73 degrees, few showers, 6 MPH wind, 30% chance of rain

What exactly is Newberry's reward for defeating both nationally ranked Carson-Newman and Catawba in back-to-back weekends?

A road trip to an upset Mars Hill team for their homecoming.

Newberry head coach Zak Willis must stress to his team that this opponent should not be taken lightly. Mars Hill is winning and losing based upon the long ball from quarterback Ricky Spradling. When the senior signal caller can connect with Tyrea Allen, the Lions can take out anybody in this conference.

The Scarlet and Gray defense concerned me with the deep pass to Catawba's Travis Landrum early in the first quarter last week. It is that type of play that will allow Mars Hill running backs George Washington and George Stripling to get the ground game going.

Newberry reminds me of, gasp, the 2005 Presbyterian team that rolled through the SAC. Of course, Newberry is loaded with more talent and speed than the Blue Hose could ever imagine. But the similarity between these two teams is that they are parasitic in nature. Coach Willis' team will be ready to pounce on the opponent's mistake. If the other team does a relatively good job of securing the football and not making big mistakes, they can beat Newberry. The only two that have done that are Valdosta State and Midwestern State.

The rest all fell victim to the Scarlet and Gray.

Brandon Gantt appears to be the man at quarterback for now because Eric McCollom, unfortunately, does not seem to be 100% after leg injuries.

Tharry Salley needs to help take pressure of the Newberry passing game by running the ball about 15 times. Whether he will be successful remains to be seen as Mars Hill is not afraid to blitz the middle, regardless of the down and distance.

This game really is a gamble and a toss up. This will not be an easy win for Newberry. This game will be won or lost based upon the success of Mars Hill's blitzes and long balls.

Newberry's speed will hurt Mars Hill in the end.

Newberry: 33 Mars Hill: 21

#16 Carson-Newman (3-2, 1-1) at Catawba (3-2, 1-1)

October 11th 7:00 PM ET Weather Forecast: 58 degrees, partly cloudy, 2 MPH wind, 20% chance of rain

The premiere conference game has arrived. The Cr?me de la Cr?me. Power against power.

The meaning of this game has shot its way to being all or nothing. After the release of the regional rankings, it is apparent that a three loss SAC team isn't going to get a chance at the postseason most likely.

At this point last year, both teams were undefeated and in the top ten by some polls. Now, both teams have two Division II losses at the midway point of the season.

Everybody is wondering how Catawba will react after playing terribly at Newberry last Saturday night.

Carson-Newman's offense is beginning to pick up steam after stumbling at Newberry as well two weeks ago. Quarterback Alex Good is a threat every time he is under center. Running backs Buck Wakefield and Ricky Harris present both speed and power troubles against Catawba's defense.

The Eagle passing game must get on track to beat the Indians' defense. Carson-Newman must make this game a track meet. This contest cannot be a grind it out defensive battle for a C-N victory.

Catawba's offensive strength is running the football. Senior running back Jamelle Cuthbertson is a home run threat every time he touches the football. He is known to routinely get 6-7 yards before he burns a defense for a 50 plus yard run.

The X factor in this game will be the Catawba passing game and Howard Williamson's status. Williamson is the starting quarterback for the Indians, but he did not take one snap in the second half against Newberry. It is believed that his throwing shoulder may still be giving him problems. Catawba coach Chip Hester has stated that he has a ton of confidence in backup Patrick Dennis.

Carson-Newman's secondary and overall pass defense has been questioned by the rest of the country after the North Alabama game in which the Lions threw for over 400 yards.

The only reason Catawba beat C-N last year was Brad Roach's golden arm caught fire much like previous Indian signal callers against the Eagles.

Catawba does not have that triggerman to take advantage of possible breakdowns.

Newberry's passing game was able to hit Catawba deep for a 94-yard pass play last week. The Eagles had six touchdowns that were 43 yards or longer last week against Mars Hill.

Catawba's defense will be on the field too much to stop C-N.

Carson-Newman: 42 Catawba: 17

Lenoir-Rhyne (3-3, 1-1) at #17 Wingate (6-0, 2-0)

October 11th 1:30 PM ET Weather Forecast: 77 degrees, few showers, 5 MPH wind, 30% chance of rain

Wingate is not ready to wake up from its dream season just yet.

The Bulldogs control their destiny to win the SAC title, go to the playoffs, and host a playoff game. Coach Joe Reich's team can realistically jump three more spots in the national polls if things work out the right way.

First, they must take care of Lenoir-Rhyne at home. The Bears are coming off a game in which they played better as a team than they did last year, but it still resulted in a blowout loss.

Can quarterback Justin Sanders and his option offense slice and dice the Wingate defense?

Well, Brevard tried 47 times and only got 13 points. The Tornadoes only threw eight passes. We will see nearly the same philosophy from LRU head coach Fred Goldsmith this week.

Lenoir-Rhyne wants to control the ball and keep Wingate's offense on the sidelines. The Bears will be able to score on a couple of possessions, more than likely early in the ball game.

It is important for Wingate to dump L-R early in the game. Quarterback JD Moore had some struggles against Brevard's defense last week, but he does face a pass defense that was torched by Tusculum.

As long as Bulldog tailback Nelson Woods gets his mandatory twenty touches, it won't matter if Moore throws a couple of picks.

L-R will run, run, and run on Saturday.

Turnovers will be the story in this game.

Wingate improves to 7-0 and vies to be in the top 10 nationally.

Wingate: 38 Lenoir-Rhyne: 17

Brevard (1-4, 0-2) at Tusculum (4-2, 1-1)

October 11th 1:30 PM ET Weather Forecast: 76 degrees, partly cloudy, 5 MPH wind, 20% chance of rain

It is amazing what two weeks can do.

Tusculum was essentially written out of the playoff picture with the emergence of Newberry as a true contender and Carson-Newman as, well, Carson-Newman.

The Pioneers had just lost to Wingate 37-33 and was feeling down about the two losses. But now, Tusculum is fifth in the region ahead of Newberry, and is in the driver's seat in this race. They get both Newberry and Carson-Newman at home.

Let's not count the chickens just yet though.

Well, they can this week. They are playing Brevard, but starting next week, that needs to stop.

It will be the Corey Russell air show this Saturday.

Brevard's defense was able to pick off Wingate's JD Moore two times last Saturday, but the Pioneers pass attack is much more lethal.

The star quarterback should throw for well over 300 yards on Saturday depending on playing time. Wide outs like Ryan Tallent, Jarrell NeSmith, Nate Binder, and Rashaad Carter will present Russell with opportunities for big plays.

For Brevard to win, which would be rival being the biggest upset in conference history, the Tornados need to be able to throw the ball. With Kye Hamilton's status being uncertain as of now for this week's game, it will be even tougher to establish the air waves.

That really is the story of Brevard this season.

Injuries.

Losing a star player like running back John Taylor has made a season that started off on a sour note that much tougher to endure.

This isn't the Brevard team that BC fans and coach Paul Hamilton envisioned just over a month ago.

BC, however, will plug away with running back Tyrone Arrington, who is playing like he was in 2006.

Tusculum's defense is too strong for a one-dimensional attack. Tusculum's offense will have its way with the Tornados.

Tusculum: 42 Brevard: 7 Full Story

Catawba Drops out of D2Football.com Poll

After suffering a 33-14 loss at Newberry on Saturday night, the Catawba Indians have been dropped from the D2Football.com Top 25 Poll. The remaining South Atlantic Conference teams left in the poll are #16 Carson-Newman, #17 Wingate, and #22 Newberry.

Catawba hosts #16 Carson-Newman this Saturday night at 7 PM. Neither team is ranked in the top in the regional rankings. And here is the rest of it. Full Story

Regional Rankings are Released

1. Delta State University 4-1
2. Wingate University 6-0
3. Valdosta State University 4-1
4. University of North Alabama 6-0
5. Tusculum College 4-2
6. Newberry College 3-2
7. Arkansas Tech University 3-2
8. Univ. of Arkansas-Monticello 4-2
9. Benedict College 3-3
10. Albany State University 4-1

Carson-Newman and Catawba are not listed in the first Super Regional 2 Rankings. Full Story

St. Augustine's Put on Probation

The NCAA Division II Committee on Infractions has penalized St. Augustine College for major violations in its athletics program. The infractions, which included a lack of institutional control, began in the 2003-04 academic year and continued through 2007-08. St. Augustine was found to have allowed 29 student-athletes to practice or compete while ineligible to do so. Of the 29 ineligible student-athletes, 15 participated in football.

Penalties for the violations include three years of probation; a vacation (forfeiture) of wins; a $2,500 financial penalty; and a reduction in scholarships for seven sports for the next two years.

This case was resolved through the summary disposition process rather than a formal hearing before the Committee on Infractions. Summary disposition is used when there is an agreement among the university, the NCAA enforcement staff and involved individuals regarding the facts of the case. The committee adopted the findings agreed upon by the institution and the enforcement staff as well as penalties recommended by the institution. The institution agreed to the imposition of further penalties by the committee.

Some of the ineligible student-athletes in this case received impermissible benefits in the form of athletic scholarships and travel expenses. The student-athletes were ineligible for a variety of reasons, including participation in their 11th semester of full-time enrollment (a maximum of 10 semesters is allowed in Division II); participation in a fifth season; deficient grade-point averages; mistakes by the college staff in certification of transfers; and a failure to obtain financial initial eligibility certification for academics and amateurism. One track student-athlete participated while ineligible in the NCAA Division II 2007 Indoor Track Championship while another track student-athlete participated while ineligible in the NCAA Division II 2007 Indoor and Outdoor Track Championship.

The eligibility problems and subsequent lack of institutional control resulted from a deficient certification system, particularly for football, according to the committee. The system was in place when football, which had been discontinued in 1967, was reinstated and resumed competing in 2002. Due to errors in completing various forms used to track eligibility, and because the individuals charged with tracking eligibility were not adequately educated regarding NCAA eligibility rules, mistakes were made and the ineligible student-athletes were allowed to compete. The lack of institutional control violation was also based on the college's failure to report a violation involving the ineligible participation of a football student-athlete in three dates of competition.

The penalties adopted and imposed by the committee include three years of probation beginning October 3, 2008 and concluding on October 2, 2011, vacation of all wins in which ineligible student-athletes participated, reduction in scholarships in football, men's basketball, softball, volleyball, men's tennis, men's track and women's track for 2009-10 and 2010-11. and a financial penalty of $2,500 to the NCAA. Full Story

Newberry Beats Catawba 33-14

Catawba could never fully take the momentum away from Newberry in a 33-14 loss.

The Tribe once led the second quarter 8-7, but an attempted extra point by freshman Thomas Trexler was blocked by Newberry. It was returned for a two-point score, which put Newberry ahead 10-9. That was the theme of the loss Saturday night for the once-nationally ranked Indians. Great plays were only followed by a lack of execution and turnovers. Catawba suffered an interception on its first play of the game. Senior linebacker Will Newell of Newberry picked off his first pass in his illustrious collegiate career. Although Newberry did not score on the drive, that play really set the tone for the rest of the game. If something could go wrong, it did for Catawba. In a game reminiscent of the Indians' playoff performance against Valdosta State last year, the Tribe had a punt blocked, two extra points blocked, a missed field goal, one extra point blocked was returned for a score, three interceptions, and a fumble.

Catawba's Howard Williamson did not play one snap in the second half, which left Brian Terwilliger and Patrick Dennis to finish out the game.

Freshman middle linebacker Lakeem Perry finished the contest with a game-high 17 tackles.

Melquan Fair and Julian Hartsell shared a sack in the loss at Newberry, while freshman cornerback Bryant Vennable downed a first quarter punt inside the 5-yard line.

Nationally ranked Carson-Newman visits Catawba this Saturday night at 7 PM.
Full Story

D2Football.com SAC Column

We need a rescue plan or some kind of bailout.

The South Atlantic Conference is in turmoil, and my confidence in the teams is running low.

Where is this turmoil coming from?

Well, Carson-Newman lost. Tusculum lost. Lenoir-Rhyne won a conference game 40-14. Wingate is the only unbeaten South Atlantic Conference team at 5-0. First team all-conference running back George Washington of Mars Hill rushed for 11 yards last week. Carson-Newman is 1-2 in its last three games.

It is my promise to you that I will figure out this jumbled mess that is the South Atlantic Conference right now. Don't sell this conference's stock just yet.

Week Five Recaps

Actual Score: Catawba: 24 Mars Hill: 7
Timmy's Predicted Score: Catawba: 28 Mars Hill: 21

The Tribe capitalized on the powerful leg of freshman punter Thomas Trexler on Saturday, downing three of his punts inside the twenty yard line. Mars Hill was always stuck in a rut, sometimes inside their own five-yard line, and could never establish a running game.

Lion quarterback Ricky Spradling managed to throw for 239 yards in the losing effort, but he was sacked on three different occasions and harassed the entire contest.

Jamelle Cuthbertson churned out 115 yards on the ground, while quarterback Howard Williamson accounted for 115 total yards of offense and two scores in the victory. Backup quarterback Patrick Dennis threw a pretty touchdown pass to Brandon Bunn early in the fourth quarter to put Catawba ahead for good.

The superb defensive effort was led by senior outside linebacker Charles McAfee, who had seven tackles for the Indians, three of them for loss, and a sack. Defensive tackle Brandon Sutton has the gift of gab and the ability to punish quarterbacks. The sophomore finished the game with a forced fumble, a sack, and a 38-yard return on an unbelievable interception.

Actual Score: Newberry: 27 Carson-Newman: 21
Timmy's Predicted Score: Carson-Newman: 42 Newberry: 24

An overtime fiesta was witnessed at Setzler Field on Saturday afternoon when Newberry upended Carson-Newman on a gutsy third down play call.

The Eagles could not execute on their initial possession of the overtime period, missing a 24-yard field goal wide left.

Carson-Newman's defense stood strong for the first two downs, holding Newberry for no gain. Coach Zak Willis then rolled the dice.

Instead of playing it safe and placing the ball in the middle of the turf, Newberry gambled with a risky lob to David Pressley in the end zone.

It was game over when Pressley pulled down the "immaculate reception" and was piled on by the entire Newberry sideline.

Three-hundred rushing yards just weren't enough for Ken Sparks and company, not when you fumble the ball away four times.

Actual Score: Wingate: 37 Tusculum: 33
Timmy's Predicted Score: Tusculum: 35 Wingate: 24

Four turnovers by the Tusculum offense plagued quarterback Corey Russell and the Pioneers on Saturday.

If the four turnovers plagued coach Frankie DeBusk, then Wingate running back Nelson Woods made the Tusculum defense suffer from the Bubonic Plague with 125 yards and two touchdowns on a healthy dose of 28 carries.

In the losing effort, Russell did break the school's all-time total offense record with 463 yards and three touchdowns (341 passing, 122 rushing).

I have always bragged about this league having special combinations between senior quarterbacks and senior receivers, like something always starts to click this time of year.

Well it clicked for Dawg gunslinger JD Moore, as he threw for 215 yards and three touchdown passes, all to 6'4 senior wide out Shawn Barrett. Obviously, Barrett was honored as the league's offensive player of the week.

Both teams combined for well over 900 yards of total offense, while Wingate outside head hunter Greg Harmon posted 16 tackles and the game-saving interception at the three-yard line as time expired.

Actual Score: Lenoir-Rhyne: 40 Brevard: 14
Timmy's Predicted Score: Lenoir-Rhyne: 27 Brevard: 10

One statistic really jumps out to viewers of the game and it is in the rushing column. The disparity was overwhelming to coach Paul Hamilton and his struggling Tornado program, as they were out rushed 222 yards to 49 yards last Saturday.

The time of possession was also heavily one-sided as the Bears held on to the pigskin for more than 41 minutes, while Brevard only touched the ball for 19 minutes.

Bear quarterback Justin Sanders is finally looking like, well, Justin Sanders. The former SAC Freshman of the Year lived up to the billing behind center last week, completing 12 of 15 passes for an even 200 yards in the air, and rushing for two scores with his feet.

Poor Stanley.

No, not Stanley Roper from Three's Company, but Stanley Jones, the inside linebacker from Brevard.

Jones had to deliver a career-high 21 tackles for a defense that only used three down linemen against an option-loving Lenoir-Rhyne team.

Week 6 Previews

I am 23-9 on the season in predicting South Atlantic Conference games. I suffered two close losses last week that I sincerely blame on my Magic 8 ball. How else do you explain Carson-Newman coming away with no points in three redzone trips? I am feeling a lot better about my picks this week. I know I will come away with at least three wins.

Right?

Mars Hill (3-2, 0-1) at #17 Carson-Newman (2-2, 0-1)

October 4th 1:00 PM ET Weather Forecast: 78 degrees, sunny, 3 MPH wind, 0% chance of rain

It will be a beautiful October day in Jefferson City, Tennessee, for an intense conference game.

Two teams that were expected by many to win last week are now in a fight to get their first conference win.

We now know a little bit more about each team since league play is a wonderful measuring stick.

Carson-Newman should come out hungry after suffering their second loss of the season. It is almost hard to believe that one more loss this year will probably all but end the Eagles' chances of a playoff bid. I will never say never, but coach Ken Sparks and his Eagles know not to place the destiny of a season into a committee's hands.

It won't be doom and gloom for Mars Hill this week. Sure, C-N QB Alex Good will gash the Lion defense for a couple of big runs like he did against Newberry, but the Lions will concentrate on trading scores with the Eagles.

Do they have the weapons to attempt such a feat?

They really don't have a choice. Carson-Newman is going to be good for at least 28 points at home we suspect, so the Lions will need quarterback Ricky Spradling to connect on the long balls. Last week against Catawba, the senior signal caller's accuracy was just not there. Mars Hill can definitely produce fireworks, see the West Liberty game, and wide out Tyrea Allen will be the man responsible for trying to keep this one close.

The way Carson-Newman's defense played last week would earn them a victory most weeks, but the offensive inconsistencies cost the Eagles a win.

The final play of the game, in overtime, caused me to seriously step back and think about my prediction for this week. Newberry quarterback Eric McCollom's 25 yard lob pass to David Pressley to win the game raises a concern of mine about Carson-Newman. Can the Eagles' secondary continually prevent huge scoring strikes? Another twist to this game is the status of Louisville transfer running back George Stripling. He was injured during the Furman game, but finally played significant time against Catawba. He is a very physical back that is good for at least four hard yards a carry.

A blitz by the Eagles may result in a big passing play off of play action.
Everybody's favorite running back, George Washington, should get back on track in terms of production for this week as well.

I can't pick against Carson-Newman at home. Even if the Eagles were playing Oklahoma, I would at least have to think about it for a moment.

Carson-Newman: 38 Mars Hill: 28

#18 Catawba (3-1, 1-0) at Newberry (2-2, 1-0)

October 4th 7:00 PM ET Weather Forecast: 62 degrees, clear sky, 6 MPH wind, 3% chance of rain

What a difference a week can make.

The plan was for these two teams to fight for a possible second place finish behind a virtually invincible Carson-Newman team. Now, after both teams pulled out wins many predicted they would not, it is a clash for an upper hand in this race.

Both teams have questionable losses however. These setbacks still define Catawba and Newberry in 2008 until they can both go on a run through the conference. Catawba's humiliating loss was to St. Augustine's, while Newberry's falter was on the road to a solid Midwestern State game. MSU is a respectable opponent, but that was a game the Scarlet and Gray needed bad for playoff considerations.

I feel that history will play a part in this game. Just as it did in the Catawba-Mars Hill game. The Tribe had previously won 11 of their last 12 against the Lions before last week. That one loss was in 2006, quite possibly Catawba's worst performing team in nearly a decade. Newberry's dream season in 2006, equipped with Josh Stepp and Tymere Zimmerman, almost suffered a loss to the Indians.

History shows that a blowout will not take place this week. Newberry's strong defense will be the key for a Homecoming win this Saturday night. Senior linebacker is fresh off of a SAC Defensive Player of the Week honor after his terrific performance against Carson-Newman. The only concern I have in Newberry's defense is their run defense. After having to replace basically the entire defensive line from last year, the Scarlet and Gray have been questionable against the run. Newberry has been out gained by their opponents this season 487 yards to 604 yards.

This isn't good news with the Indians' Jamelle Cuthbertson, Antonio Hall, and George Bell visiting Newberry this week.

Newberry true freshman quarterback John Carnell did not play last week. Eric McCollom and Brandon Gantt filled in for him, but it did not come without some mistakes. Gantt threw one pick against C-N, while McCollom threw two interceptions. I do not seem them being very effective in this game.

Catawba's offense has been very efficient with both Howard Williamson and Patrick Dennis taking snaps. Williamson is still the starter, but Dennis is a very capable backup after proving a lot these past two games. Williamson has yet to throw an interception this season and has five touchdowns.

Catawba's defense must be able to stop Newberry running back Tharry Salley to win this weekend. The Tribe was able to slow down the rushing attack of Mars Hill and forced them to make plays in the passing game. The same must be done this week.

Newberry cannot allow Catawba to get its ground game going either.

This game should be a tight one for a long time. There is a history of many teams suffering from post-Carson-Newman victory syndrome. It is simply hard to refocus on another opponent after knocking off the king of kings.

Catawba: 21 Newberry: 10

Brevard (1-3, 0-1) at #21 Wingate (5-0, 1-0)

October 4th 6:00 PM ET Weather Forecast: 60 degrees, clear sky, 2 MPH wind, 5% chance of rain

Wingate University's football program is beginning to gain true national recognition and respect. The Bulldogs earned a hard-fought victory against Tusculum last weekend by a score of 37-33.

Head coach Joe Reich's team is 5-0, but 7-0 is clearly in sight. Taking this another step would mean that Wingate could conceivably be ranked in the top 15 more than likely.

What a great job Reich has done so far in turning around this program.

Wingate was once in the conference cellar, a position now belonging to the Brevard Tornados.

Brevard will not be able to slow down star running back Nelson Woods or his backup Patrick Pinchinat. Those two will be able to run for over 200 yards. WU quarterback JD Moore has done a better job this season of protecting the football.

Brevard needs junior John Compton to produce for the injured tailback John Taylor. Compton is a 6'2 215 pound back transfer from Charleston Southern. He was stopped before he really ever got started last week against Lenoir-Rhyne.

Quarterback Kye Hamilton needs to be put in position of having manageable third down situations, but that won't be happening on the road at Wingate.

Wingate improves to 6-0 and is the conference's only unbeaten team.

Wingate: 42 Brevard: 10

Tusculum (3-2, 0-1) at Lenoir-Rhyne (3-2, 1-0)

October 4th 2:00 PM ET Weather Forecast: 74 degrees, sunny, 2 MPH wind, 0% chance of rain

Lenoir-Rhyne quarterback Justin Sanders vs. Tusculum's defense.

It's one of those stories that remind us of many historical battles in which one man helps to lead a charge against the enemy.

In this case, the enemy is fast.

The enemy is big.

The enemy is good.

It was a walk through the park for Sanders and the running-oriented Lenoir-Rhyne Bears against Brevard last Saturday.

Tusculum is in no mood for walks in parks or for reminiscing about missed extra points last week. Head coach Frankie DeBusk's team is ready to get its first conference win of the year. The offense is exactly what we expected: high-powered and productive. In fact, Tusculum is ranked seventh in Division II in passing offense so far this season. Star quarterback Corey Russell had a busy week in the loss at Wingate last Saturday. He went 28 of 45 for 341 yards and two touchdowns while rushing for 122 yards and a score.

If Tusculum has a better than average record, Russell should receive consideration for being a Harlon Hill candidate.

Expect Russell to find receivers Nate Binder and Ryan Tallent early and often this weekend. The senior gunslinger should be able to pass for over 300 yards again.

Tusculum's defense was unable to put clamps on Wingate's Nelson Woods, so the Bears rushing attack may have some success with Sanders running around the field. Running backs James Pone and Anthony Silvers must have big days for any chance of an upset happening.

It is an attractive upset pick, but Tusculum wins this game.

Tusculum: 35 Lenoir-Rhyne: 14 Full Story