Things tougher for BC-U Wildcats

Photo: Morgan State's #2 Chad Simpson steamrolled BC-U run defense in a second half run controlled offense. Expect more of the same this week from a strong DSU running game.

By SEAN KERNAN, Daytona Beach News-Journal

Just when the Bethune-Cookman Wildcats are at their lowest point in 10 seasons, and just when it seems like things can't get any tougher, the 'Cats are facing what might be their most difficult week of the season.

B-CU, winless after three Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference games, has to travel to Dover, Del., for a Thursday night nationally televised showdown with new conference power Delaware State (2-0 in league play including a 24-17 victory Saturday over three-time defending champion Hampton). The shorter amount of preparation time, coupled with the necessary travel for B-CU's longest road trip of the year, puts the 'Cats at a distinct disadvantage.

"We have our work cut out for us," Wildcats head coach Alvin Wyatt said. "It's going to take us some time to get it right. You cut two days out of your preparation and a team like us that needs to be nourished right now, that can have an effect right now. I think if we go in there with the right frame of mind and get some of these injuries behind us we can put up a good fight."

The Wildcats, 2-3 overall, played without injured defensive lineman Dennis King (knee) and fullback Justin Brannon (sprained ankle) in Saturday's 33-9 homecoming loss to Morgan State at Municipal Stadium. Additionally, slotback Corey Council, who also returns kicks and punts, left the game due to a bruised lung, and defensive lineman Dexter Jackson is out due to a shoulder injury.

Though beaten on the field Saturday, several Wildcats remained optimistic and anxious to turn things around.

"It was a difficult loss for homecoming, but we have to come right back," said linebacker Ronnie McCullough, who had 20 tackles.

Despite the short week and six-game conference losing streak, B-CU's players vow not to have a physical letdown.

"We're going to play our hearts out," defensive back James Monds promised.

Free safety Bobbie Williams admitted the team is hurting right now, but has to focus on the task at hand.

"It's a bad feeling, but we have to take every game game-by-game," Williams said. "Win, lose or draw we have to leave it all on the field. We have to follow the scheme. The coaches are putting us in the right spots, we just have to go out and execute."

B-CU at Delaware St.

WHEN: 7:30 p.m., Thursday

WHERE: Dover, Del.

RECORDS: B-CU 2-3 (0-3 MEAC), Delaware St. 3-1 (2-0)

TV: ESPNU