Owls looking for third straight win

Even though the Owls' ground game has sputtered recently, senior quarterback Lucas Hart has made big plays with his arm. (Chris Allen/Democrat-News) [Click to enlarge] [Order this photo]

The Owls have shown substantial progress, especially on defense, during back-to-back NCMC victories the past two weeks. They have given up only three touchdowns, after allowing an average of 26.8 points during the first four games.

"We're getting a lot better blocking and tackling," noted MHS head coach Paul Thomas. "We're more sound technique-wise where we're lining up and have a better idea of what we're doing."

The main concern is that Marshall's ground attack, the backbone of the offense, has not been running smoothly. However, the return of all-NCMC senior guard Andrew Crum -- who has played in only one game this season -- and senior center Wade Tyre should have an impact.

"We're looking to get a little more healthy," Thomas said. "One thing about injuries and sickness: it's allowed some kids to play and we have some depth now."

The Owls (3-3, 2-2 NCMC) will try to win their third game in a row today, for the first time since reeling off five straight wins at the end of the 2005 regular season to reach the playoffs, when they head to Moberly for a league contest.

"They're a scary team," Thomas observed. "They run the ball well, throw the ball well and they run to the football."

The Spartans (3-3, 2-2), if not quite as powerful as they have been the three previous seasons, remain very dangerous. Senior quarterback Kris Cupp, a third-year starter, has thrown for 709 yards -- although he's had more interceptions (6) and sacks (12) than touchdowns (1).

An even bigger concern is Moberly's running attack, which is evenly balanced between speedy junior Trevon Logan (459 yards) and powerful senior Jon Dixon (362), both with six TDs.

"Both those kids run well," Thomas said. "They run behind their pads and behind that big offensive line. They get lost back there."

Dixon is also a force on defense, leading the Spartans in total tackles (80), tackles for loss (5), sacks (2), interceptions (2), passes defended (3) and fumbles forces (3). Blocking linebackers has been a sore spot for Marshall.

"If you don't, he's going to make a bunch of tackles," Thomas admitted. "Last week we did a better job of getting out on 'backers."

Although the Owls have won seven of 10 meetings during Thomas' helm, Moberly has been a tough place for them to play. The Spartans have taken three of the last four contests there, the exception being Marshall's 32-20 win during the 2005 streak.

"I think the kids are focused on going up there and getting their third win in row," Thomas declared.