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| (Photo credit to Avery Marie Photography) |
There are four weeks left of conference play and the only teams mathematically left in contention for the championship are Greenville, St. Scholastica, Eureka, and Northwestern. But Northwestern’s chances are next to none as it would depend on the Eagles winning out and the other three losing out, with Eureka beating the Saints next week and the Saints defeating the Panthers in the last game of the year. So in all likelihood, the Panthers, Saints, or Red Devils will be playing an 11th game this season with the earned AQ bid into the playoffs. There is still a possibility of a three-way tie and the ensuing random draw for a ticket to the playoffs. Here’s hoping Commissioner Borchardt has that special box ready for the ceremony.
1.
Greenville- The Panthers cruise to another win, staying undefeated through six weeks. From what I can tell, the game was not as close as the final score shows. The first team offense was pulled halfway through the third quarter, and I’m assuming defense starters were also sat as the game went on, helping the Highlanders close the gap with three late scores. Brendan Chambers continues to lead this run-heavy offense with command, scoring three times on the ground in their victory. Greenville should have a smooth ride to the last game of the season.
2.
St. Scholastica- In their first real test of the season, the Saints pass, but not with flying colors. They faced Northwestern’s tough defense and were limited to only 119 yards on the ground, compared to the 328 they had averaged against their four other UMAC opponents. The Saints also turned the ball over four times, but were lucky enough to immediately get the ball back from two of their turnovers with two uncharacteristic fumbles from Northwestern’s RB Josh Sinnen. I would, however, like to take partial credit for the Saints’ win, as it seems they followed my keys to the game I listed in my prediction. So while they did finally rack up a win over a quality team, the Saints do not look as good as last year’s team and far from the dominant team they were two seasons ago.
3.
Eureka- The Red Devils are continuing to look like serious contenders each week as they tally up another easy win. Offensively they are performing better each week, getting their first 100-yard rushing performance out of RB Corey Dawson this season. QB Blake Robles spread the ball around to ten different targets, completing 20 passes with 4 TDs and no interceptions. While you should never overlook a team as they face MacMurray next week, the game that you know is on everyone’s mind is their matchup against St. Scholastica in two weeks which will determine whether or not they have a chance at a conference championship.
4.
Northwestern- This team has flashes of excellence followed by flashes of inexperience and youth. The Eagles jumped out quickly versus St. Scholastica, turning two Saints’ turnovers into 14 points before the first quarter horn sounded. But from then on, their offense was unable to move the ball and committed three turnovers that destroyed any momentum they may have had. There are many good athletes on this team, but their youth has hurt them in the moments and games that matter most. This season will be a good building block for next year.
5.
Minnesota-Morris- After scoring 45 points in a loss a week ago, the Cougars again score 45 points but this time they added to their win column. They brought QB Caleb McLaren back and he continued his impressive quarterbacking, and despite throwing 4 interceptions, still led the Cougars to a victory. Brendon Foss had his first 100 yard receiving game of the year, almost gaining 200 yards on the day. The Cougars now have the leader in passing yards and receiving yards per game in McLaren and Foss. The Cougars will gain at least a couple more wins this season, but they have yet to prove they can be included in talks for the top teams in the UMAC.
6.
Westminster- The fall continues for the Blue Jays. After two easy wins to start the conference season, Westminster has dropped three straight, allowing over 40 points per game to those opposing teams. The Blue Jays fell to the Cougars this week in overtime, despite Ronnie Seals Jr. rushing for 230 yards and 3 scores. Seals has rushed for over 100 yards in every game this season, and leads all UMAC running backs by nearly 200 yards. The defense has been unable to stop the above average offenses and that has led to this so far disappointing season for Westminster.
7.
Crown- After five weeks against some tough opponents, the Storm come away with a win! I have not been able to find a box score for more details, but it looks like they had to battle all game as they exchanged scores with Iowa Wesleyan. Crown put together a game winning drive in overtime and this season’s hard work is beginning to produce results for them. Look for them to rack up a couple more wins before the year is done.
8.
Martin Luther- The Knights faced a top 5 UMAC team and again they struggle to produce the results they have against the bottom 5 UMAC teams. They have talent on their team, but not at enough positions for them contend against the better competition. Unless they can increase their recruiting, this team may be destined to be a low level UMAC contender for a while.
9.
Iowa Wesleyan- The Tigers lose a heartbreaker in overtime in front of their homecoming crowd. I like the effort they put up against a decent Crown defense. I think the Tigers have some good years ahead of them as they rebuild with non-scholarship athletes.
10.
MacMurray- Nothing much to say about the Highlanders. It looks like they may have found a new quarterback in Coy Dorothy, who rushed for 2 TDs and threw another, although it was in garbage time against Greenville. They will face another tough opponent next week as they host Eureka.
