Saturday, September 27, 1997

Indians seeking second win in a row

By MARK WILSON / Abilene Reporter-News

GOODWELL, Okla. -- The McMurry University football team, still hurting because of injuries, will be looking for its second win in a row today, against NCAA Division II opponent Panhandle State.

The Indians, who whipped Southwestern Assemblies of God, 35-7 last Saturday, are 5-2 all-time against the Aggies and are seeking their fifth win in a row in the series.

But McMurry's injury woes have been troublesome. Defensive tackle Andy Peveto, wide receiver Reggie Sterns and linebacker Joseph Bermea are out this week, and linebacker Torbin Lancaster listed as doubtful.

McMurry coach Steve Keenum is glad to see some young players get experience as replacements for the veterans, however.

"Every time we take a snap with those guys, it's money in the bank," Keenum said. "Hopefully, they'll learn to get the job done."

McMurry, a member of the American Southwest Conference, got a career-best 370-yards passing out of quarterback Braxton Shaver in last year's 31-21 victory over the Aggies. Sterns caught six of his passes for 136 yards and two touchdowns.

But there are only three Panhandle starters back on each side of the ball from the 1996 team.

"I told our kids that this is probably the most talented team we've played (this year)," said Keenum, whose team fell to Trinity University, 38-7, in its season opener. "They have better athletes than Trinity, but they're not quite as disciplined as Trinity.

"This year, they're trying to do some things more sound defensively. They're not in the blitz mode all the time. Their defensive front may be the most sound we'll see for a while."

In last week's 46-0 loss to Western State, the Aggies allowed a total of 11 quarterback sacks. Starter Chris Phillips was sacked eight times for losses totaling 76 yards.

Former Abilene Christian University player De'Andre Swanson is a threat as a punt and kickoff returner.

The Indians played more than 90 players in their romp over SWAGU last Saturday. Shaver completed 13 of 17 passes for 181 yards and three touchdowns.

"I think we're in a good mental frame of mind," Keenum said. "Our guys are focused, and want to get better."

Fred Rau, a slotback from Cooper, leads the Indians with 11 receptions for 118 yards, and has scored one touchdown.

Jason Rodriguez leads McMurry in rushing with 125 yards on only 12 carries, and teammate Jeramie Ellison has 105 yards on 20 attempts.

Linebacker Jason Burgess leads the Tribe in tackles with six solo and 13 assists, and has one quarterback sack.

McMurry vs. Panhandle State

-- When: 2 p.m.

-- Where: Carl Wooten Field, Goodwell, Okla.

-- Records: McMurry 1-1; Panhandle State 1-2

-- Last meeting: McMurry 31, Panhandle State 21 (1996)

-- Injuries: McMurry: DT Andy Peveto (knee), out; WR Reggie Sterns (ankle), out; LB Joseph Bermea (shoulder), out; LB Torbin Lancaster (bruised ribs), doubtful; DT Hiawatha Hickman (knee), probable; DT Adam Boland (knee), probable.

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