Lincoln Loose Ahead Of Senior Night Showdown

[October 12, 2018]  By Benjamin Yount

LINCOLN – You know something's different when linemen are running for touchdowns in practice.

The Lincoln Railsplitters had a little bit of fun in Thursday's final practice, as they get ready for a senior night showdown with Mahomet Seymour High School.

“We had our linemen catching punts out of the JUGS machine,” head coach Matt Silkowski said Thursday. “You gotta do things like that to keep things loose.”

Loose is a the key word as Lincoln heads into the final two games of the season.

Lincoln will not be heading to the playoffs. The Railers are 2-5 on the season. But Silkowski said they are playing for pride and to finish strong in the final two weeks.

“You gotta make sure you get your work done, gotta prepare for your opponent,” Silkowski said.

Mahomet Seymour isn't going to the playoffs either.

Lincoln kicker Alex Bogdanic practices his kicks.  The Railers take on Mahomet Seymour Friday night.   [click on picture for larger image]

The Bulldogs are 1-6 on the season. Their only win came against Charleston in week two.

But Silkowski said they are a good one win team. 

Lincoln's defense gets some reps against the second team offense Thursday.

 “They have a real good quarterback, he throws a real good ball,” Silkowski explained. “They have an aggressive defense. They fly to the ball. We have to play a real good game on our end.”

Lincoln has been playing well in the past few weeks, but has fallen short.
 
 The coach said he hopes to find an offensive balance that allows Lincoln to put some points on the board.
 
 “We will try and keep it 50/50 as much as we can,” Silkowski said. “We'll have to see what the game gives us.”
 
 The other headline is that Friday night is senior night.
 
 The Railsplitter seniors will be honored before the game.
 
 “We have a real special group of seniors. A lot of them are four year guys, and have been with me all three years,” Silkowski said. “I want them to enjoy their experience before the game. It's good for their families. But I hope we get a win and they can remember the game.”
 
 Lincoln will host Mahomet Seymour High School Friday night at Handlin Field. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m.