The script unfolded much the same way it  had for the last five years last Saturday when the Mules lost a heartbreaking 42-41 decision to Missouri Western. The Mules saw another lead disappear late in the game against the Griffons.

Some people are going to blame the coaches for another late game loss. I however, see no point in blaming anyone. First of all, Willie Fritz has not made a tackle since he finished his playing career at Pittsburg State. I think it comes down to players making plays on the field. Players and coaches work extremely hard 12 months a year for their opportunities. It boils down to players making plays with the game on the line.

Now the Mules must turn their attention to Fort Hays State. If the Mules have any hope of playing in the Mineral Water Bowl they must win.

Scouting Fort Hays State

The Tigers are led by fourth-year head coach Kevin Verdugo. Last week the Tigers lost on the road at Nebraska-Omaha. Fort Hays features multiple offensive sets and a 4-3 Defense.  FHSU returned four starters on offense, seven on defense and three specialists this season.

The Hays ground game is led by junior running back Jacobb Irvin. Irvin has run for 505 yards and two touchdowns. Irvin is also the team’s fourth leading receiver with 10 catches, 92 yards and one touchdown.  Junior running back Anthony Dickson has contributed 357 yards and two touchdowns. He also served as a receiving option in the Tiger offense. He has 15 catches, 205 yards and two touchdowns.

The Tigers have had two quarterbacks see significant time behind center this season.   Junior Mike Garrison opened the season as the starter, but sophomore Anthony Smith appears to be the starter as of now. Smith has thrown for 601 yards on 111 attempts, with one touchdown.

Smith appears to be playing a Slash type role for the Tigers. He is the team's leading receiver with 16 receptions and one touchdown. He is also the third leading rusher with 276 yards and four touchdowns. Sophomore tight end Drew Steffen adds depth to the receiving corps. He has 12 catches.

The Hays defense is led by senior defensive back Allen Walker. Walker has registered a team-leading 67 tackles, including three for loss. Senior linebacker Andrew Jones has contributed 61 tackles, four for loss and one sack. Sophomore defensive back Seth Blackwell has racked up 55 tackles on the season.

Sophomore defensive lineman Garrett Nikkel leads the pass rush with three sacks and six tackles for loss. Junior defensive back C.J. Lovett is the playmaker in the Tiger secondary. He has amassed 30 tackles, 2.5 for loss and is tied for the team lead with senior defensive back Jason Carr with three interceptions apiece.

Keys to the Game

I think the Mules need to do three things in order to win this football game. First, the Mules need to win the turnover battle. They can't give FHSU short fields, which will lead to easier scoring opportunities. These opportunities could allow the Tigers to hang around in the game.

Second, UCM must get off to a good start in the game. Hays will have the emotion of senior day behind them. The Mules have to withstand the early emotional surge. If the Mules are able to withstand that, I think Central will be successful.

Finally, the Mules must finish! We have all seen it happen the past two weeks. If the Mules get a lead they must continue to make plays and bury their opponent. They can't give the Tigers an opportunity to hang around and win the game late.