JEFFERSON CITY, Tenn. – Carson-Newman (15-3) is rolling with the punches before it even hits the diamond Wednesday at noon.

What was supposed to be a Wednesday doubleheader at Bellarmine is instead a twinbill at Columbus State (12-9) after rain chased the Eagles south from Kentucky to the warmer climes of Columbus, Ga.

"It looks like we're going from snow to 15-20 mph winds albeit some warmer weather," Carson-Newman head softball coach Vickee Kazee-Hollifield said. "It's still an in-region game and a game against a team that typically competes to go to regionals."

The Cougars are bolstered by solid pitching.  A pair of sophomore stalwarts has led Columbus State early.  Kristen Carr averages more than five strikeouts a contest with a 2.28 ERA.  Meanwhile Taylor Turner gives up a .231 batting average against with a 1.68 ERA.  She's 3-1 to start the season.

Columbus State was ranked in the top 25 before losing five straight.  The Cougars have countered with a four-game win streak, including three in a row over South Atlantic Conference competition.

"If anyone looks at their schedule, they'll know it hasn't been easy for them." Kazee-Hollifield said. "They've played a bunch of talented Florida teams.  But they'll be one of the more athletic teams we face.  They've got a ton of speed and some kids that have a propensity for putting it over the fence."

Carson-Newman had won eight straight before its win streak was halted by no. 16 Flagler. 

"It was a wakeup call just to remind us that this team is the best when we come out aggressively," Kazee-Hollifield said. "We looked at to many third strikes.  If we've got an opportunity at the plate, we've got to make the most of it."

The Eagles are led at the plate by Brittany Hefner (Talbot, Tenn.).  The junior has nine homeruns versus six singles this year.  Her 22 extra base hits lead the conference.

Kaitie Sims (Soddy-Daisy, Tenn.) has started her career as an Eagle with style in the circle.  She's 9-0 with six complete games and two shutouts. 

The Eagles open up conference play Saturday when Catawba rolls into Mossy Creek. 

-CN-