UT-MARTIN (1-1) AT UTC (0-2)
6 p.m. › Finley Stadium in Chattanooga ESPN3 (online) & 96.1 FM
THE MATCHUP
UTC’s defensive coaches felt they made some positive strides in last week’s game against LSU. Defensive coordinator Tom Kaufman said the Mocs were “in the right place, but just had to make the play.” This evening’s challenge will start with stopping UT-Martin a running back Ladarius Galloway, who is averaging 172.5 yards through the first two games of the season, but the Mocs defense also must be mindful of Skyhawks quarterback Troy Cook, a preseason first-team All-Ohio Valley Conference selection who threw for over 2,000 yards and 22 touchdowns last year.
ONES TO WATCH
The UTC secondary was picked apart last week against the taller, more physical Tigers receivers. In a number of cases, they were in the right position to make the play — they just didn’t. The defense was able to pick off two passes in the season opener against Jacksonville State, and after being humbled it’ll be interesting to see how the Mocs respond against the Skyhawks’ wideouts.
IN THE END
In some ways, this game will be a test to see how far the Mocs have come from week one to now. Even with a loss, two of the program’s goals — to win the Southern Conference and make the playoffs — will be in reach, but that won’t be a concern today, as UTC gets out to a comfortable lead early and gets a nice win in coach Tom Arth’s home opener.