Game time approaching

We're here in Kingsville for a key Lone Star Conference South Division game against the Javelinas of Texas A&M-Kingsville. Just about 45 minutes from kickoff and a few notes for you to think about as game time approaches:

* Redshirt freshman Zach Stewart will be the starter at quarterback again tonight as the Wildcats continue to rest senior Billy Malone and his injured right hand. Last week in his first collegiate start, Stewart completed 21 of 27 passes for almost 200 yards and two touchdowns. Malone, though, is suited up and is going through pre-game drills and could play if needed.

* Malone became a father for the second time Friday at 8:04 p.m. when his wife, Ashlee, gave birth to their second daughter, Cris Ashlyn Malone. She checked in at 7 lbs., 5 oz. and 21 inches long. Mom, baby and big sister Cydnie are all doing fine. Dad is doing well, too, and will be doing much better in about four hours if the Wildcats can win their fifth straight against the Javelinas.

* Internet rumors have had Bernard Scott with a high ankle sprain for the last three weeks. Let's put those rumors to rest right now. He's going through pre-game drills and looks fine.

* Another key player who is out tonight for the Wildcats is junior safety Tony Harp, who suffered a concussion in the fourth quarter of last week's win over Tarleton State. Harp hasn't been symptom-free for five days, and was ruled out of tonight's game. Redshirt freshman Richard Havins will get the start for Harp tonight against the Javelinas.

* There's already been one upset in the Super Region Four top-10 today where Missouri Western upset No. 7 Central Missouri, 42-41, essentially eliminating the Mules from contention for an NCAA Division II playoff berth. An ACU win tonight would almost certainly clinch the No. 1 seed in the playoffs for the Wildcats, leaving Tarleton State, Nebraska-Omaha and West Texas A&M to battle it out for two spots next week in the season-ending weekend.

* This just in: it's a long way to Kingsville.

* This also just in: Bernard Scott could be the deciding factor tonight.

Don't forget to vote on Tuesday.