By: Jared McMurry
Following a 46-0 loss to Coastal Carolina on Saturday the Gardner-Webb (3-6) football team returns home this weekend as they welcome non-conference opponent, East Tennessee State (1-8).
Gardner-Webb’s offense was shutout for the third time this season last week, but its defense continues to rank near the top in the country. The Runnin’ Bulldog defense ranks ninth nationally in red zone defense, as they have only allowed eight red zone touchdowns all season long.
Carroll McCray, the head coach of the Runnin’ Bulldogs is looking forward hosting the Buccaneers this upcoming Saturday. He realizes that East Tennessee State will be another tough opponent. “They are greatly improved the past few weeks, and we have a lot of respect for them,” he said.
The Buccaneers support a football program for the first time since 2003 and participate in the FCS as independents. The Buccaneers have a very veteran coaching staff that includes former NC State head coach Mike O’Cain.
McCray also noted that his team will have to come more prepared than they did last week or they will continue to see a lack of results on the field.
If you are planning on attending the game, kickoff is slated for 1:30 p.m. in Boiling Springs on Gardner-Webb’s campus. The game will also be streamed on the Big South Network at BSN.com.
