SAMFORD (2-0, 0-0 SoCon) at NO. 3 UTC (3-0, 1-0)
2 p.m. ‘ Finley Stadium, Chattanooga
96.1 FM/SoCon Digital Network (online)
THE MATCHUP
The battle up front is going to be the key to the game. Samford’s offensive line has done a good job of protecting quarterback Devlin Hodges, who has been sacked only three times. The Mocs’ defense has 10 sacks to its credit and will have to add to that total – or at least keep pressure on Hodges all game long – or the sophomore starter will be able to get the ball to his talented skill players, who are electric in space.
ONE TO WATCH
With most of the attention being paid to defensive ends Keionta Davis and Vantrel McMillan, it could be an opportunity for a defensive tackle to have a major impact for the Mocs today. Justin King has recorded at least one tackle for loss in each of the three games, and lining up beside either Davis or McMillan could present opportunities for the 6-foot-2, 275-pounder.
IN THE END
For the first time this season, UTC is facing a legitimate offense that can put points on the board. It took a while last season for the Mocs to figure out Samford’s attack, but once they did they shut down most of what the Bulldogs were trying to do. This season’s UTC team is more experienced on the defensive side of the ball and, with the game in Chattanooga, will continue to try its best to exorcise any remaining demons from that 2013 loss that cost UTC an outright SoCon championship.
Prediction
UTC 32, Samford 18