Bolivar, Mo. — The Southwest Baptist University Bearcats return home this weekend to take on one of the top teams in the GLVC, the Truman State Bulldogs out of Kirksville, Mo. SBU looks to get back on track after dropping back-to-back games for the first time this season, including a tough road loss at Upper Iowa last Saturday. The Bearcats enter the matchup at 3–4 overall and 2–3 in GLVC play, while the Bulldogs sit at 4–3 overall and tied for second in the conference at 3–1.

On the offensive side, both teams rank among the GLVC's top three in total offense,Truman sits second while SBU follows closely at third. The Bulldogs average 33 points per game compared to the Bearcats' 30, setting up what should be a high-scoring contest. Truman leans heavily on its ground attack, ranking second in the conference in rushing but just eighth in passing. SBU, meanwhile, brings a more balanced approach, sitting third in passing and fourth in rushing.
Players to watch for Truman include running back Denim Cook, who carries much of the load in the rushing game, and wide receiver Nathan Ryan, a consistent end-zone threat with seven touchdowns on the year. For SBU, Kamau Ransom continues to shine nationally; he leads the GLVC in touchdowns, receptions, and yards, averaging 96.7 yards per game, and currently ranks fifth in the nation in total receiving yards. Quarterback Jaron Saunders also continues his strong season, sitting second in the GLVC in passing yards.

Defensively, SBU features some of the conference's top performers. Ricky Woodhouse and Jed Brandon lead the GLVC in tackles, while Caleb Saner ranks second in tackles for loss and first in sacks. Despite their individual success, the Bearcats will look to tighten up defensively, as they currently allow 31 points per game compared to scoring 30. Truman's defense has been solid and consistent, giving up just 25 points per game without relying on any single standout player.

Historically, the Bulldogs have the matchup lead winning 27 of the last 33 meetings between the programs. However, this SBU team has the offensive firepower to change that narrative. With three closely fought games at home so far this season, Coach Hansen is seeking his first win at Plaster Stadium this Saturday against the Bulldogs. 

Kickoff is scheduled for 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, October 25, at Plaster Stadium in Bolivar, Missouri.