No. 8 UTC AT PRESBYTERIAN
7 p.m. > Bailey Memorial Stadium, Clinton, S.C. > 96.1 FM/Big South Network
THE MATCHUP
The UTC defense answered the bell against Samford, holding the potent Bulldogs to half of their season average. The Mocs have a different challenge against the Blue Hose, who prefer to run the ball to set up the occasional pass. They were balanced in both aspects in last week's win against Campbell, with 148 yards rushing and 150 passing.
ONE TO WATCH
Presbyterian running back Darrell Bridges, a Ridgeland High School alumnus, is in the top 15 nationally in rushing attempts as well as yards. He went to Red Bank before transferring to Ridgeland, so he is familiar with a number of players on the Mocs, including defensive end Keionta Davis. Injuries to other backs have forced Blue Hose coach Harold Nichols and staff to start featuring Bridges more prominently, and he starred against Campbell with 148 yards on 30 carries and a pair of scores.
IN THE END
The Mocs are 0-5 in road night games (7 p.m. start or later) under coach Russ Huesman. Not all of those games have been against comparable competition, but UTC could use a nonconference win against a conference that is similar in the caliber of play. That win comes tonight.
PREDICTION
UTC 21, Presbyterian 10