Bucs defense finds groove ahead of NDSU matchup

JOHNSON CITY, Tenn. (WJHL) – The ETSU offense put up a big number – 61 points – in Saturday’s win over visiting UVA Wise.

The Blue and Gold surged for 614 yards of total offense, all while tying a single-game program record with five touchdowns passes.

But, to pitch a shutout, which the Johnson City squad did against the Highland Cavs, you need a stifling defensive performance just as much as you need points. The Bucs defense delivered almost immediately inside William B. Greene Jr. Stadium.

Ray Coney forced a fumble on UVA Wise’s first play from scrimmage to set the tone. Transfer linebacker Nick Hunter also took back a tipped ball for a pick-six in the second quarter.

“I mean, it was difficult, but all we did was – coach told us just rely on our position bunch and go out there with effort,” Hunter said after the game. “BIA – so that’s what we did.”

It wasn’t just turnovers that made for an impressive performance. The Blue and Gold tallied three sacks on the evening, all while allowing just 113 total yards. It was an efficient day in the eyes of the new head coach, as well as the players.

“Yeah, we played with an edge,” head coach Tre Lamb said. “I thought we blitzed them good. I thought we pick and chose our times to play defense on third down. They were 3-of-17 on third down and 0-for-1 on fourth downs. So very, very pleased with where we’re playing defensively – and we’re going to be tested this week.”

The Bucs will welcome the FCS preseason-ranked No. 2 team in the country, North Dakota State, next Saturday. Kickoff is set for 5:30 p.m.

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