USF stuns #20-Ranked Cardinals in Senior Day Upset, 34-24
| Final | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | T | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Concordia (MI) (6-3) | 0 | 3 | 7 | 14 | 24 |
|
Saint Francis (Ind.) (5-4) | 10 | 10 | 7 | 7 | 34 |
FORT WAYNE, IN – On a beautiful Senior Day afternoon, the University of Saint Francis Cougars faced off against the #20-ranked Concordia Cardinals in a thrilling game that featured great defense and a well-executed offensive game plan. The Cougars pulled off a stunning upset, defeating the Cardinals with a final score of 34-24.
The game began with a strong opening possession by USF, showcasing the effectiveness of their running game, particularly with Cam Peterson leading the charge. However, the pivotal moment came when USF decided to take a risk on a 4th and 14 situation. Grant Gremel's 25-yard pass to Crosley MacEachen set the tone for the game. The drive culminated with Cam Peterson's 5-yard rushing touchdown, capping off a 17-play, 75-yard drive that consumed 7 minutes and 10 seconds of the clock. This strategic approach of ball control would be a key part of their game plan. Aidan Hosler added to the score with a 40-yard field goal, and the defensive highlight of the first quarter was Nate Newcomer's interception of Gavin Brooks's pass. As the first quarter ended, USF led 10-0.
The second quarter continued with USF's success, as they embarked on an 11-play drive, lasting five minutes, ending with another field goal by Aidan Hosler, making it 13-0 at the 12:19 mark. Both teams punted a few times before Adjaye Dandridge's 12-yard touchdown reception extended USF's lead to 20-0 with 1:54 left in the quarter. Concordia managed to get on the scoreboard with a 33-yard field goal by Caidan Thomas just before the half ended.
The start of the second half saw a quarterback change for Concordia due to an injury to Gavin Brooks. Brad Sollom took over, and the Cardinals mounted a 74-yard, 9-play drive, concluding with a 34-yard touchdown pass from Sollom to Nicholas Patton, narrowing the gap to 20-10 at 10:33. USF responded with another touchdown, this time a 4-yard rush by Cam Peterson, extending their lead to 27-10. The game continued to see-saw as the teams headed into the fourth quarter.
In the fourth quarter, Brad Sollom ran for a 3-yard touchdown on 4th and goal, bringing the Cardinals within striking distance at 27-17 with 13:34 left. USF's subsequent drive led to a 23-yard touchdown pass from Grant Gremel to Derek Overbay, giving the Cougars a 34-17 lead at the 8:55 mark. The back-and-forth action continued as Concordia responded with a 31-yard touchdown reception by Seeger DeGayner, making it 34-24 with 2:51 remaining. USF punted the ball, and Concordia had one last chance to mount a comeback. However, the Cougars' defense held strong, forcing an unsuccessful 4th and 10 attempt. USF's offense took over in victory formation, securing the #20-ranked upset victory. Your Cougars are now 5-4 on the season.
The Cougars are now set to face the Taylor Trojans in Upland, Indiana, on November 11th, in what promises to be an exciting end to the season, with kickoff at 1:00 PM.
Cougars fans can stay informed about upcoming events and game recaps by visiting saintfranciscougars.com or downloading the Saint Francis Cougars app.
