Murfreesboro police have been easing the minds of concerned citizens. Reports of a streaker have been lodged in the Greenland Drive area of the city. There was an unexpected sighting by some, but this was explained as a streaker unlike that of the famed Ray Stevens song.
The streaking going on is not a fleet-footed individual. It is rather a large group known as the Middle Tennessee State football team. If you win once it is nice. Two in a row is even better. Putting three wins together is officially called a streak.
Following a disappointing loss at James Madison in the season opener, few thought an early season win streak was possible. Road trips to Colorado State and perennial powerhouse Miami were sandwiched around a home game with old-time rival Tennessee State. Taking two of those three was going to be a big challenge but all three were not very likely especially when you considered the last leg on September 24 was AT MIAMI !!!
So, why was the phone ringing in the dispatcher's office last night? The unlikely became the likely thanks to some solid efforts from a unit that has found a way to put the pieces to the puzzle together. Three consecutive efforts that have defined the term “complementary football” has MTSU sitting at 3-1. Streaking home from Coral Gables, Florida after perhaps the biggest win in program history, these Blue Raiders down-graded the Hurricanes to a sprinkle in earning their third straight “W”.
Putting all phases of the game together in their last three outings has given folks in Blue a lot to smile about. A defense that has registered 16 sacks and 6 interceptions including 2 pick-six returns on the opening offensive plays of the Colorado State and Miami games tells that tale. Quarterback Chase Cunningham has been the leader on offense as he has completed 70% of his passes and most recently torched Miami with 408 yards passing and 3 touchdowns. Special teams have returned a blocked punt for a touchdown (Tennessee State), averaged 44.4 yards per punt, and been a perfect 3 for 3 on field goals.
What makes the formation of this streak special is of course the win at Miami. This was not a last play of the game miracle hail Mary win. The 45-31 victory saw MTSU lead throughout as they hit the gas pedal early and never let up. Winning against a ranked team for the first time in school history was special, but the ability to do it with authority was even better.
“We were the tougher team mentally and physically”, says head coach Rick Stockstill. “I am extremely proud of this group and really happy for these players. This was a fantastic win and we just plain kicked their butts. It’s always fun doing things people don’t think you can do.”
MTSU will look to create more phone calls as they hope to continue the streak when UTSA (2-2) comes to Murfreesboro on September 30. This special Friday night affair at Floyd Stadium will kick off at 6:30 pm.
