The number 4 jersey has taken on special meaning at Maine over the last few years. Free safety Aaron Dashiell wore the number and was a two-time All American in 1999 and 2000. Linebacker Stephen Cooper took on 4 and is now playing in the NFL for the San Diego Chargers.

Number 4 was passed on to defensive back Brandon McGowan, who plays for the Chicago Bears. Defensive back Daren Stone wore 4 and was drafted by the Atlanta Falcons. Last season, linebacker John Wormuth, known as Johnny Football to the Black Bears, wore the magic number and was a team captain.

"Expectations rise if you're wearing number 4," head coach Jack Cosgrove said.

This year, number 4 belongs to junior linebacker Mark Masterson. The Williamstown, N.J. native knows the significance of the number.

"A lot of good players had number 4, so hopefully I can continue the tradition," Masterson, who had 31 tackles last season, said. "It's really an honor. You can't replace a Johnny Football."