Trojans Golden battle

Published 10:37 pm Thursday, October 16, 2008

The Troy Trojans will enter their conference game against the Florida International Golden Panthers Saturday night with a new quarterback, but that new quarterback has not been released.

Former starter Jamie Hampton was lost for the year in the Trojans’ 30-17 win over Florida Atlantic Oct. 7. Backups Tanner Jones and Levi Brown have been battling all week for the starting job and it looks like the decision will be a game-time ordeal.

The Trojans (3-2, 2-0 Sun Belt) look to remain unbeaten, but they host the 3-3, 2-0 Panthers who have had two impressive wins in conference play.

Sign up for our daily email newsletter

Get the latest news sent to your inbox

The game will mark the first time the Trojans have played in front of the home crowd since their home opener Sept. 13 against Alcorn State.

Last year, Kenny Cattouse and Leodis McKelvin fueled the Trojans’ 34-16 victory over the Panthers. Cattouse had 208 yards rushing and one touchdown, while McKelvin returned a punt 84 yards for a score.

Troy offensive coordinator Neal Brown eluded to the new look for FIU.

“They play really hard,” Brown said. “It will be a challenge. This is not the same FIU bunch. This is a (conference) championship game this weekend.”

Brown and the Trojans hope to come away with a win in the matchup of conference undefeateds and remain on the top of the league.

Kickoff is scheduled for 6 p.m. from Movie Gallery Veterans Stadium.

Messenger sports reporter Ben Stanfield contributed to this article.