Part jubilation, part relief.
Lincoln's first Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics Association victory, a 34-27 win over Nebraska-Kearny last Saturday night, was just that.
Now with the monkey off its back, Lincoln looks to build off that win when it faces Fort Hays State at 2:30 p.m. today in Hays, Kan.
"It's great to get your first win," Lincoln head coach Mike Jones said. "It is good to get our first win in the conference. It's a win and we appreciate it, but we have to be ready for Fort Hays."
Lincoln (1-6, 1-6 MIAA) and Fort Hays State (2-5, 2-5 MIAA) have struggled so far this season, but both teams are coming off dramatic victories. The Tigers defeated Southwest Baptist 37-34 in overtime last week.
"They had the same type of situation we had, playing very good teams to open the season," Jones said. "I think they played well. They're doing a solid job.