For the first time since the 2011 season, the Tribe are back in the national ranking. They come in at number 23 in this week's poll after shutting out number 16 New Hampshire last Saturday 17-0.
"It's good to get some recognition and to see that we are up there, but we have to keep playing," coach says.
And as they keep playing, the caliber of opponents doesn't change. The Tribe will face two teams in the top 20 in the next two weeks, and that could make or break a potential playoff run.
"For here on out, every game is a playoff game. Right now if we win out we are in a good spot," says Christian Reeves.
But when Coach Laycock was asked about playoff scenarios...
"I've been around long enough to know that you can't get caught up in the 'what happens here what happens there', and play the 'what if' game. You just better play the game coming up."
And next up for the Tribe is a road trip to Delaware. The Blue Hens are undefeated at home this year, and pose a threat to knocking off the Tribe.
"They have very good players. They have a number of 1-A transfers that are good," coach says.
Even though Delaware is a good team, they had better fear one of the nation's best units - the Tribe defense.
"The biggest thing is takeaways. Good teams don't give the ball away. So we have to take it away. Strips, picks, sacks, things like that is what we really harp on during the year and all through the week."
Kickoff for Saturday's game is at 3:30 p.m. in Newark.
