PINE BLUFF -- The season opener is just days away and the Golden Lions are making final preparations for Saturday's battle with Arkanas State.

Staying healthy has been a key concern for UAPB head coach Monte Coleman. That has been a chore for the defending SWAC champions. "We are a bit beat up, but things are going well," said Coleman. "Some of the back-ups have had to step up, but we will be ready on Saturday."

Coleman mentioned being inspired by the Biblical story of Gideon. "Gideon's army was outnumbered going into battle," season Coleman, "but they had faith against the odds to win."

And as the story goes, Gideon's army won....stay tuned.