Preview: Maryland-Eastern Shore Hawks at Howard Bison WASHINGTON (Interstat) — Howard looks to solidify its standing in the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference and avenge a January loss when it hosts Maryland-Eastern Shore on Saturday at Burr Gymnasium. The Bison (15-10) enter the Valentine’s Day matchup with a clear record advantage over the struggling Hawks (8-17). However, Howard fell 69-57 at Maryland-Eastern Shore on Jan. 10, a result that adds intrigue to the rematch. Howard, coming off an 87-81 overtime home loss to Yale on Monday, has been strong in conference play aside from that earlier stumble against the Hawks. Guard Cedric Taylor has been a consistent offensive force for the Bison. He is averaging 21.4 points over his last seven games, including a 27-point, 9-rebound performance in a win over Norfolk State on Jan. 31. Maryland-Eastern Shore seeks to end a four-game skid, with its last win coming on Jan. 17. The Hawks are coming off a 79-71 loss at Morgan State on Feb. 7. Forward Zion Obanla has been a bright spot during the difficult stretch, posting four double-digit scoring games in the last five, including a 19-point effort at North Carolina Central and a 14-point, 12-rebound double-double against Morgan State. The Hawks’ January victory over Howard was part of a brief two-game win streak that represents their best stretch of conference play this season. Replicating that defensive effort, which held the Bison to 57 points, will be paramount. For Howard, protecting its home court is critical as it pursues a winning season. The Bison have been dominant at Burr Gymnasium, winning their last three MEAC home games by an average of 28.3 points. Saturday’s contest is the only scheduled meeting between the teams this season. Tipoff is set for 4 p.m. EST.