Healthy Bears eager to play Hens UMaine seeking ninth victory

The University of Maine is rested up and ready to battle for the Atlantic 10 championship and an NCAA postseason berth.

Meanwhile, the state’s small-college football teams will close our their seasons during Saturday’s action.

Delaware (5-5) at Maine (8-1), noon, Alfond Stadium, Orono. The Black Bears, fresh off a bye week, are looking to continue their drive toward the program’s most successful season ever. UMaine is going after its 12th straight home victory, facing a Delaware team it has not played since 1998.

“It kind of recharges the old battery,” UMaine coach Jack Cosgrove said of the bye week. “You have a chance to come back with a little more kick in your step.”

The Bears, who made three fourth-quarter interceptions to spark the comeback win over Hofstra, look to continue dominating with defense. UMaine ranks first in the league allowing 11.9 ppg, and is second in total defense (242 ypg).

Linebacker Stephen Cooper (10 tackles per game) and end Brendan Curry both are expected back after missing the Hofstra game with leg injuries. Strong safety Brendan McGowan (61) tackles has been oustanding of late.

The Bears must contend with a Delaware offense that has ditched the familiar wing-T in favor of a more wide-open, pro style offense. Crafty QB Andy Hall and tailback Keith Burnell head the run attack, while Hall will look for favorite target Justin Long when throwing.

“They’re a team that we have to be very much prepared for if we’re going to be successful,” Cosgrove said.

After some uninspired recent performances, the UMaine offense is determined to re-establish its effectiveness with a balanced run-pass mix. Sophomore tailback Marcus Williams leads the A-10 with 99 yards per game and 5.8 yards per carry.

Senior QB Jake Eaton (164 ypg, 13 TDs passing) looks to provide balance by throwing to wideouts Christian Pereira (30-300) and Ryan Waller (28-416).

The Bears encounter a Delaware defense spearheaded by senior linebacker Dan Mulhern, the league’s leading tackler with 11 per contest.

“I think they’re challenging themselves,” Cosgrove said. “They’re all goal-oriented, drive and know that we have to get better.”

Maine Maritime (0-8) at Framingham State (1-7), noon, Framingham, Mass. The Mariners hope to avert a winless season by getting a victory against the Rams. MMA of Castine has struggled, but might be able to take advantage of the most porous defense in the New England Football Conference.

Framingham, which has surrendered 398 yards per game, must deal with MMA’s run-oriented attack led by fullback Don Thibodeau.

Bowdoin (1-6) at Colby (3-4), 12:30 p.m., Seaverns Field, Waterville. This traditional rivalry might not have all the usual intensity, especially since Bates has wrapped up the C-B-B series title.

The White Mules, coming off an upset win at Tufts, will attempt to take advantage of NESCAC rushing leader Aaron Stepka (167 ypg) against a soft Polar Bear defense that has given up 34 points and 397 yards per outing.

Today’s other game: Hamilton (0-7) at Bates (2-5).