The rivals:
NW Missouri (1-3) at NE Missouri (2-2)
The prize:
Old Hickory Stick
Background:
NW Missouri–Maryville, Mo.; Bearcats; 5,000 students; strong in computers, education; Henry Iba got coaching start at NW; alums include Gary Gaetti of Minnesota Twins.
NE Missouri–Kirksville, Mo.; Bulldogs; 6,800 students; cited by Money magazine for quality education at low cost; alums include coach Gene Bartow, boxer Ken Norton and Gen. John Pershing (before West Point).
History:
`Cats and `Dogs have been fighting over Hickory Stick Trophy for 55 years, but NE has dominated the series. Trophy, which measures 1/2 feet in length, was made from piece of hickory from farmland near home of a former NW president. It`s almost become NE`s permanent possession, having won 9 of last 11 meetings. In `66, NE won on last-second, 72-yard punt return after ball bounced to returner off teammate`s helmet.
The series:
NE Missouri, 43-18-4 overall.
