The stage is set. After a comeback victory over Southwest Baptist University led by senior quarterback Tyler Eckenrode, the team has its sight on an unknown opponent. New to the MIAA, the Lindenwood Lions kick off their season at 5-1 and have the second ranked quarterback in the league, Ben Gomez.

The Hornets enter the Homecoming showdown ranked 21st in the nation. They are 6-0 for the first time since 1988, and 6-0 in conference play for the first time since 1927. They also secured their first winning season for the first time since 2003. The Hornets are ranked 12th in the nation in total offense and 11th in the nation in pass defense.

The Lions lead the MIAA in pass offense. Gomez averages 282.2 passing yards per game. Former Washburn defensive back Pierre Desir leads the MIAA with 6 interceptions. The Lions also enter the game with an efficient kicking record – they haven’t missed a field goal or extra point attempt all year.

“We know we have a good team coming to town – best team we have played all year,” said head coach Garin Higgins. “We have to be ready.”

Kickoff is at 2 p.m. Saturday at Welch Stadium.