COLLEGE FOOTBALL: UVa.-Wise Looks To Get Back On Track Against Tigers

The afternoon of Sept. 22, 2007, produced some fond memories for Brad Ricker.

Then a sophomore wide receiver at the University of Virginia’s College at Wise, Ricker hauled in his first collegiate touchdown reception in the Highland Cavaliers’ wild 63-56 victory over Georgetown (Ky.) College at Carl Smith Stadium.

“That was basically my main memory of that game,” Ricker said. “That’s how it all got started for me.”

Ricker will look to make more memories against the Tigers today as UVa.-Wise (2-3) hosts Georgetown (3-1) in a key Mid-South Conference contest. Kickoff is set for 1:30 p.m.

It should be a wild atmosphere in Wise today. Homecoming festivites are planned and the College Fanz Sports Network has dubbed the contest the NAIA national game of the week and will broadcast the game online.

For the Cavs, a win is vital if they want to keep their slim playoff hopes alive.

“We’re looking to get back on track in the Mid-South too,” Ricker said. “We’re just looking at getting back in the conference race really.”

A former star at John Battle High School, Ricker is having a solid season. He’s hauled in 13 receptions for 176 yards and two scores for the Cavs and is part of Wise’s impressive wide receiver contingent.

In fact, UVa.-Wise quarterback Brad Robbins leads the Mid-South in passing yards (1,384) and receivers Jason Lovett and Matt Barbour rank among the conference’s top five players in receiving yards.

The offense will get a test against Georgetown, which is allowing 18.5 points per game and is ranked 21st in the latest NAIA national pool.