BACKUPS DON'T TAKE BACK SEAT

When a football coach says there is not much difference between his starters and his second unit, he's usually not really telling the truth.

But in the case of Southeast Missouri State University's season opener against Lambuth Saturday night, the cry of `We're No. 2' really wasn't such a bad thing.

The Indians' so-called second string played a major role in most of the points during a 24-6 victory over Lambuth at Houck Stadium.

And according to Southeast coach John Mumford, the impetus behind the second unit faring so well actually began when new offensive coordinator Steve Schottel was hired prior to spring practice.

"We actually talked about it (getting the second unit in early during the opening game) during the initial interview with coach Schottel," said Mumford

"During the interview (with Schottel), he said he likes to do that in order to let those guys know they're a big part of the team. Coaches are always saying (to the backups) `you're just a sprained ankle away' (from playing). But this lets them know they'll get to play even if somebody doesn't get hurt."

A lot of folks in the stands were probably surprised when backup quarterback Justin Martini -- along with the entire second offensive unit -- entered the game during Southeast's second offensive series of the night.

And that group provided immediate results as a drive led to Eric Warren's 22-yard field goal.

At least a mixture of the second offensive unit -- led by Martini each time -- continued to play several series the remainder of the night. Martini was at the controls for every first-half point as the Indians took a 17-0 lead into the intermission.

"I really wasn't sure how much I'd get to play," said Martini, last season's starter who is listed as the No. 2 quarterback this year behind Southern Mississippi transfer Heath Graham. "I knew I'd get the second series. We did well and I don't know if that was why I kept playing, but it was nice."

Particularly impressive in the play of the second offensive unit was the blocking of the linemen, which helped spring backs David Koleosho and Riki Smith for long first-half runs.

Mumford came away elated with the play of backup linemen Dan Clauss, Chad King (Fredericktown High), Joel Becker, Jay Eckert and Patrick Sullivan.

"I thought our second team linemen were the difference," said Mumford. "I think you could have put either of the skill people in there, but the linemen did the job."

Added Mumford, "The way the second offense played, I'm not surprised. That's going to create a lot of competition within our team."

And keep a lot of players happy in the process.