By: Jared McMurry
Saturday afternoon, the Runnin’ Bulldogs (4-7, 0-4) will be seeking their first conference win of the 2014 campaign as they travel to Monmouth (5-5, 0-4); another team that is win-less in Big South play.
That game will also mark the end of season two in the Carroll McCray era of Gardner-Webb football, and McCray is hopeful his team can come out on top.
The Hawks are a newcomer to the conference and McCray has realized that they have brought another good program into an already powerful football conference. “They are a very sound football team, who make very few mistakes,” he said.
McCray also noted that their play from top receiver Neal Sterling and quarterback Brandon Hill have contributed to their offensive success on the season. He also mentioned that Monmouth tends to throw multiple formations at opposing defenses, which have caused headaches for teams all season long.
Despite coming off a close loss to Presbyterian at home, McCray feels like his team has a solid attitude heading forward and is anxious to take the field Saturday in New Jersey.
“We have another chance to play a conference game,” he said. “One last game for our seniors to end their careers on a high note.”
McCray also noted that although his team failed to convert on opportunities last week, the defense played to a very high standard, and he expects that to carry over to this week. “We have improved on some things, but need to continue to show improvement,” he said.
Freshmen quarterback Tyrell Maxwell saw some action last week replacing senior Lucas Beatty. Maxwell could see more playing time this week depending on Beatty’s rhythm and how the game is progressing.
“We are going into this game just like any other, hopeful to win,” McCray said. “We will carry on over next week to recruiting and continue to build this football program.”