We'll get to the standings in a little bit, but first the pitching matchup. Dowdy is a sophomore with some real good numbers. He's 2-1 in eight starts with a 2.36 ERA in 43 innings, and opponents are hitting just .200 against him.

For Houston, a freshman righty will toe the rubber, as John Touchton brings a 4-4 record and a 6.70 ERA in six starts and 14 appearances. Opponents asre hitting a paultry .335, but has picked up three conference wins, going 3-2 in CUSA contests.

It's a ridiculously hot day, and the A/C is even having some problems in the pressbox trying to keep up with it all. The sun is real bright with a bunch of puffy clouds. And it's real muggy. That powerade corner will be busy in both dugouts here at Cougar Field.

If ECU can win today, they will move ahead of Houston in the conference, as right now, they sit just a half game behind at 9-7. More on CUSA standings later...