2011 - Football schedule/results
4-7 overall, 3-6 GPAC - View stats for the season
AUGUST | ||||
| Aug. 27 | #22 Benedictine College | Atchison, Kan. | L 45-0 | |
SEPTEMBER | ||||
| Sept. 10 | Dakota Wesleyan * | Mitchell, S.D. | L 41-17 | |
| Sept. 17 | Hastings College * | Seward, Neb. | W 10-0 | |
| Sept. 24 | Dordt College * | Sioux Center, Iowa | W 21-7 | |
OCTOBER | ||||
| Oct. 1 | Dakota State Univ. | Seward, Neb. | W 49-21 | |
| Oct. 8 | Briar Cliff Univ. * | Seward, Neb. | W 47-12 | |
| Oct. 15 | (RV) Northwestern College * | Orange City, Iowa | L 35-10 | |
| Oct. 22 | Nebraska Wesleyan * | Seward, Neb. | L 10-7 | |
| Oct. 29 | Midland University * | Fremont, Neb. | L 29-3 | |
NOVEMBER | ||||
| Nov. 5 | #6 Morningside College * | Seward, Neb. | L 28-7 | |
| Nov. 12 | #22 Doane College * | Seward, Neb. | L 37-13 | |
2011 Football Roster
| No. | Name | Pos. | Ht. | Wt. | Year | Hometown |
| 1 | Micah Wagner | DB | 6'2" | 195 | Fr. | Omaha, Neb. |
| 2 | Mitch Walkup | K | 6'0" | 190 | Fr. | York, Neb. |
| 2 | Nakemm Evans | LB | 6'2" | 210 | Fr. | Lincoln, Neb. |
| 3 | Chris Smith | RB | 5'9" | 175 | Fr. | Houston, Texas |
| 3 | Landon Oelke | DB | 6'0" | 190 | Fr. | Dalhart, Texas |
| 4 | Colten Quinabo | WR | 6'0" | 190 | Jr. | Wailuku, Hawaii |
| 5 | Justin Haun | QB | 6'1" | 205 | Fr. | St. Louis, Mo. |
| 5 | Jeff Balz | DB | 5’11” | 180 | Jr. | Elkhorn, Neb. |
| 6 | Brad Schick | DB | 6'1" | 180 | So. | Battle Creek, Neb. |
| 7 | JP Jones | QB | 6'0" | 200 | Fr. | Kansas City, Kan. |
| 7 | Jerrod Fleming | LB | 6'0" | 215 | Sr. | Houston, Texas |
| 8 | Zack Warner | WR | 5'11" | 195 | Jr. | Palmyra, Neb. |
| 8 | Daniel Moore | K | 5'10" | 180 | Fr. | Papillion, Neb. |
| 9 | Darnell Woods | DB | 6'3" | 205 | So. | Phoenix, Ariz. |
| 10 | Von Thomas | QB | 6'2" | 200 | R-Fr. | Miami, Fla. |
| 11 | Shemka Simo | RB | 5'10" | 185 | Fr. | Frisco, Texas |
| 11 | Ryan Coffey | DB | 6'0" | 190 | So. | Columbus, Neb. |
| 12 | Nate Sindt | TE | 6'3" | 225 | Sr. | Scottsbluff, Neb. |
| 13 | John Hunter | DB | 5'10" | 185 | So. | Los Angeles, Calif. |
| 14 | Aaron Walker | DB | 5'10" | 185 | Fr. | Memphis, Tenn. |
| 15 | Ben Sohl | DB | 5'11" | 195 | Fr. | Aurora, Neb. |
| 16 | Cohl Tufford | QB | 5'11" | 180 | So. | Richardson, Texas |
| 17 | Deleon Dallas | TE | 6'4" | 220 | Jr. | San Diego, Calif. |
| 18 | Tayo Adewon | DB | 6'1" | 195 | Fr. | Frisco, Texas |
| 19 | Josh Brown | TE | 6'4" | 230 | So. | Aurora, Colo. |
| 19 | Jake Gieselman | LB | 5'8" | 205 | So. | Malcolm, Neb. |
| 20 | Mitch Reed | RB | 5'10" | 190 | So. | Genoa, Neb. |
| 21 | Derek Blessing | RB | 5'10" | 205 | So. | Ogallala, Neb. |
| 22 | Jamarcus Walker | RB | 5'10" | 190 | Sr. | Houston, Texas |
| 23 | Seth Bass | RB | 6'0" | 205 | Fr. | Bellevue, Neb. |
| 23 | Lasean Sanders | DB | 5'8" | 160 | Fr. | Oklahoma City, Okla. |
| 25 | Heath Broekemeier | DB | 5'10" | 195 | Sr. | Prairie Grove, Ark. |
| 26 | Austin Neesen | DB | 5'10" | 190 | Sr. | West Point, Neb. |
| 27 | Pat Tyrance | WR | 6'0" | 190 | Sr. | Lincoln, Neb. |
| 28 | Evan Carroll | RB | 5'11" | 190 | Fr. | Malcolm, Neb. |
| 29 | Ben Klein | S | 6'2" | 215 | Sr. | Dallas, Texas |
| 30 | Eric Hyde | FB | 5'8" | 195 | Jr. | Lincoln, Neb. |
| 30 | Josh Rathman | DB | 5'10" | 175 | Fr. | Shelby, Neb. |
| 31 | Idong Mbong | RB | 5'11" | 200 | Fr. | Norman, Okla. |
| 32 | Ryan Adams | RB | 6'0" | 225 | Fr. | El Dorado Hills, Calif. |
| 33 | Trent Good | RB | 5'9" | 180 | Fr. | Gothenburg, Neb. |
| 33 | Drew Baxter | DB | 5'11" | 200 | So. | Rockwall, Texas |
| 34 | Aaron Gillory | RB | 5'11" | 230 | So. | Houston, Texas |
| 35 | Martin Rodriguez | DB | 5'10" | 190 | Sr. | Tucson, Ariz. |
| 36 | Joe Marshall | P | 6'0" | 195 | So. | Malcolm, Neb. |
| 37 | Derek Prososki | RB | 6'0" | 230 | So. | Rising City, Neb. |
| 38 | Devin Elley | RB | 5'11" | 210 | Fr. | Hastings, Neb. |
| 39 | Tom Malander | LB | 6'0" | 200 | Jr. | Fullerton, Neb. |
| 40 | Tyler Broekemeier | LB | 5'11" | 205 | So. | Elk Point, S.D. |
| 41 | Michael Carroll | LB | 5'11" | 210 | LB | Aliso Viejo, Calif. |
| 42 | Langston Jones | LB | 6'2" | 225 | So. | Loveland, Colo. |
| 43 | Dan Margritz | RB | 6'0" | 210 | Sr. | Lexington, Neb. |
| 44 | Will Cox | LB | 6'3" | 235 | Jr. | Paducah, Ky. |
| 45 | Geoff Kleinschmit | LB | 6'0" | 195 | Fr. | Croston, Neb. |
| 46 | Brennan Talcott | LB | 5'10" | 185 | Fr. | Phoenix, Ariz. |
| 47 | Armani Edwards | LB | 5'8" | 190 | Fr. | Frisco, Texas |
| 48 | Tobias Martin | LB | 6'0" | 195 | R-Fr. | Wahoo, Neb. |
| 49 | Colin Elley | LB | 5'11" | 205 | Fr. | Hastings, Neb. |
| 50 | Josh Powell | OL | 6'0" | 260 | So. | Kennesaw, Neb. |
| 50 | Sam Mayhall | DL | 5'11" | 220 | Fr. | Parker, Colo. |
| 51 | Jordan Miller | OL | 5'11" | 230 | Fr. | Tomball, Texas |
| 52 | Kyle Little | LB | 6'1" | 225 | Jr. | Johnson, Neb. |
| 53 | Adam Aschenbrenner | LB | 6'0" | 230 | Fr. | Malcolm, Neb. |
| 54 | Colton Schneider | LB | 6'2" | 225 | So. | Millarville, AB, Canada |
| 55 | Jimmie Bunting | DL | 6'3" | 260 | So. | Brock, Neb. |
| 56 | Dylan Heithoff | DL | 6'5" | 245 | So. | Elgin, Neb. |
| 57 | Michael Voelker | DL | 6'3" | 255 | Jr. | Linn, Kan. |
| 58 | Micah Pomerenke | OL | 6'3" | 260 | Jr. | Seward, Neb. |
| 59 | Cody Hawk | DL | 6'2" | 260 | So. | Dodge, Neb. |
| 60 | Brenton Whitaker | OL | 5'11" | 275 | Sr. | Royse City, Texas |
| 61 | Nathan Sandall | OL | 6'1" | 300 | Fr. | Norfolk, Neb. |
| 62 | Adam Faulstich | OL | 6'1" | 270 | Jr. | Concordia, Mo. |
| 63 | Dylan Klassen | OL | 6'1" | 270 | So. | Humphrey, Neb. |
| 64 | Alex Callan | OL | 6'3" | 235 | Jr. | Wahoo, Neb. |
| 65 | Brian Quinn | OL | 6'1" | 270 | So. | Bellevue, Neb. |
| 66 | Aaron Burnett | OL | 6'1" | 270 | Fr. | Sringdale, Ark. |
| 67 | Daniel Chrismer (Inj.) | OL | 5'11" | 235 | Jr. | St. Charles, Mo. |
| 67 | Austin Faulstich | OL | 5'11" | 240 | Jr. | Concordia, Mo. |
| 68 | Glennon Manninger | OL | 6'2" | 245 | Fr. | Omaha, Neb. |
| 69 | Justin Kathman | DL | 6'2" | 290 | Fr. | Junieta, Neb. |
| 70 | Sawyer Birtell | OL | 6'7" | 290 | Fr. | Madison, Neb. |
| 71 | Adam Lueders | DL | 6'7" | 285 | So. | Johnson, Neb. |
| 72 | Theo Sheridan | OL | 6'1" | 275 | Fr. | Long Beach, Calif. |
| 73 | Charles Washington | OL | 6'2" | 270 | Sr. | Houston, Texas |
| 74 | Mason Carey | OL | 6'1" | 270 | Fr. | Beatrice, Neb. |
| 76 | Tyler Carter | OL | 6'0" | 265 | Sr. | Glenwood, Iowa |
| 77 | Charlie Oberkrom | OL | 6'3" | 270 | Fr. | Jefferson City, Mo. |
| 78 | Jacob Duncan | OL | 6'3" | 270 | Fr. | Aurora, Colo. |
| 79 | Mitchell Cherney | OL | 6'7" | 340 | So. | Burnsville, Minn. |
| 80 | Mitch Kreifels | WR | 6'6" | 200 | Fr. | Lincoln, Neb. |
| 81 | Kyle Hoffman | WR | 6'2" | 200 | Sr. | Phoenix, Ariz. |
| 82 | Ben Eckhoff | WR | 5'11" | 180 | Sr. | East Peoria, Ill. |
| 83 | Danny Hassler | DL | 6'1" | 220 | So. | Dodge, Neb. |
| 84 | Kade Clark | TE | 6'2" | 205 | Fr. | Kennesaw, Neb. |
| 85 | Jordan Larrington | TE | 6'3" | 220 | So. | Elm Creek, Neb. |
| 86 | Kenny Zoeller | K | 6'0" | 180 | Jr. | Spring, Texas |
| 87 | Derek Klaus | WR | 6'0" | 185 | So. | Beatrice, Neb. |
| 88 | Lukas Vigil | WR | 5'9" | 165 | Jr. | Durango, Colo. |
| 89 | Collin Christiansen | TE | 6'1" | 190 | Fr. | Palmer, Alaska |
| 90 | Joel Ripke | TE | 6'7" | 260 | Fr. | Lafayette, Ind. |
| 90 | Derek Rodine | DT | 6'0" | 265 | Sr. | Polk, Neb. |
| 91 | Levi Wiseman | DL | 6'3" | 240 | Sr. | La Grande, Ore. |
| 92 | Barry Owens | LB | 6'1" | 220 | So. | Palm Harbor, Fla. |
| 93 | Adam Borne | DL | 5'11" | 230 | Fr. | Frisco, Texas |
| 94 | Matt Dyson | LB | 5'11" | 190 | Fr. | Parker, Colo. |
| 95 | Isaiah Garza | DL | 5'11" | 220 | Fr. | Hailey, Idaho |
| 96 | Bobby Cody | DL | 6'2" | 255 | Jr. | Alamosa, Colo. |
| 97 | Kyle Rakow | DL | 6'2" | 240 | Fr. | Pleasant Dale, Neb. |
| 98 | Alex Melius | DL | 6'3" | 245 | Fr. | Lincoln, Neb. |
| 99 | Kyle Copple | DL | 6'2" | 255 | Fr. | Homer, Neb. |
Coaching staff
Head coach: Vance Winter
Offensive coordinator: Ted Hall
Defensive coordinator: Patrick Daberkow
Defensive line/special teams/JV head coach: Corby Osten
Offensive line/JV Offensive coordinator: Ted Hall III
Bulldogs struggle in season opener, suffer 45-0 loss at Benedictine College
27 AUG 2011
#22 Benedictine College 45, Concordia University 0 (view stats)
Quarterback Bill Noonan passed for 142 yards and three touchdowns to lead Benedictine College to an easy 45-0 football win over Concordia University on Saturday in Kansas. Benedictine College, ranked No. 22 in the NAIA, racked up 442 yards of total offense on the day. The Concordia offense managed just four first downs in the contest.
The Ravens grabbed a 7-0 lead early in the first quarter when Noonan tossed his first touchdown pass of the day to Cameron Fore. Fore scored again early in the second quarter, this time on the ground on a 23-yard touchdown run. Less than three minutes later, a Zach Keenan 21-yard field goal put the Ravens on top by the score of 17-0. The Ravens added another score late in the first half on a 7-yard touchdown reception by Fore, and Benedictine College took a comfortable 24-0 lead into the halftime break.
Benedictine used two big plays in the third quarter to increase the lead to 38-0. Jordan Jackson hauled in a 38-yard touchdown reception, and Kevon McGrew broke free for an 89-yard rushing touchdown later in the quarter. Brad Lorang scored the final touchdown of the day for Benedictine in the fourth quarter. Lorang scored from one yard out for the final score of 45-0.
The Ravens finished with 288 rushing yards on the day to go along with 154 passing yards. Noonan was 13-of-22 in the air for the 142 yards and three scores. McGrew finished with 132 rushing yards on just six carries, while Jackson finished with five catches for 88 yards and a touchdown.
Concordia finished with just 123 yards of total offense in the game (70 rushing, 53 passing). Quarterback Cohl Tufford (Richardson, Texas) was 9-of-13 through the air for 53 yards and an interception. Tufford also rushed eight times for 22 yards. Jamarcus Walker (Houston, Texas) finished with 38 yards of total offense on the day for the Bulldogs. Jerrod Fleming (Houston, Texas) finished with a game-high eight tackles to lead the way for Concordia defensively. Langston Jones (Loveland, Colo.) added six stops on the day for the Bulldogs.
The Bulldogs travel to Dakota Wesleyan on September 10.
Dakota Wesleyan pulls away for 41-17 win over Concordia
10 SEP 2011
Dakota Wesleyan University 41, Concordia University 17 (view stats)
Dakota Wesleyan picked up a 41-17 GPAC football win over Concordia University on Saturday in Mitchell. The Tigers used a big second quarter to help propel them to the victory and move to 2-0 overall and 1-0 in GPAC play. Concordia dropped to 0-2 overall and 0-1 in GPAC play.
Concordia got off to a solid start in the opening quarter. The Bulldogs forced a DWU punt and followed with an 11-play drive to take an early lead. Quarterback Cohl Tufford (Richardson, Texas) connected with Colten Quinabo (Wailuku, Hawaii) on a 39-yard pitch and catch to put the Bulldogs into field goal range. Kenny Zoeller (Spring, Texas) hit from 35-yards out, and Concordia took a 3-0 lead into the second quarter.
A 25-yard field goal by Dakota Wesleyan’s Leif Evers tied the score at 3-3 just seconds into the second period. The Bulldogs then fumbled on the kickoff return. DWU’s Arthur Brown scooped up the loose ball and returned it 11 yards for the score and a 10-3 Dakota Wesleyan lead.
Another Bulldog turnover proved costly, as Dakota Wesleyan quickly took a 17-3 lead. Tufford fumbled, and Jeff Maassen recovered the loose ball for the Tigers at the Bulldog 11-yard line. On the second play of the drive, Josh Endres scampered 11 yards for a score to put the host Tigers on top by two touchdowns.
Later in the second quarter, Concordia took advantage of a Dakota Wesleyan miscue to get back into the game. Concordia recovered a fumble deep in Tiger territory, and Ryan Adams (El Dorado Hills, Calif.) scored from 16-yards out to cut the Tiger lead to seven at 17-10.
Dakota Wesleyan rebuilt their lead late in the first half. The Tigers marched 75 yards in eight plays, and an 18-yard touchdown strike from quarterback Jon Bane to Euedel Clayton put DWU up by the score of 24-10. Following a Concordia missed field goal attempt, DWU moved 41 yards in the closing minute of the half. With one second remaining, Evers hit a 45-yard field goal to increase the Tiger lead to 27-10 heading into halftime.
After a scoreless third, the Tigers poured it on early in the fourth quarter. Endres scored again, this time from five yards out, to make the score 34-10. Bane then connected with Anthony Muilenburg on a 37-yard touchdown reception to increase the advantage to 41-10. Concordia added a late score in the final minutes of the game. Tufford found Quinabo on a 14-yard touchdown reception for the final score of 41-17.
Dakota Wesleyan totaled 23 first downs compared to 14 for Concordia. The Tigers held a 393-239 advantage in total yards. DWU had 297 yards through the air and 96 yards on the ground. Concordia netted 142 rushing yards but just 97 yards through the air.
Bane was 20-of-33 on the day for 266 yards and two scores. His favorite target was Clayton, who finished with seven catches for 107 yards and a touchdown. Muilenburg also had seven catches for 98 yards and a touchdown, while Endres carried the ball 27 times for 78 yards and two touchdowns.
Tufford was 10-of-23 through the air for 97 yards and a score. He added 40 yards on the ground. Adams finished with 61 rushing yards and a score, while Quinabo finished with 78 receiving yards and a score in the loss. Langston Jones (Loveland, Colo.) finished with 9.5 tackles, and Jerrod Fleming (Houston, Texas) added 7.5 stops to lead the Bulldogs defensively.
Concordia returns home to host Hastings College on September 17. Kickoff is scheduled for 7 p.m. on Fan Appreciation Night at Bulldog Stadium.
Defense comes up huge in 10-0 win over Hastings College
Bulldogs force three turnovers and limit Hastings College to 137 yards of total offense
17 SEP 2011
Concordia University 10, Hastings College 0 (view stats)
The defense led the way, as Concordia University picked up a 10-0 GPAC football win over Hastings College on a damp and cool Saturday evening in Seward. Hastings College had three turnovers and totaled just 137 yards of total offense on the night. Concordia picked up its first win of the season to move to 1-2 overall and 1-1 in GPAC play. Hastings College dropped to 1-1 overall and 1-1 in the GPAC.
Concordia got on the board with just over 11 minutes remaining in the first half. Kenny Zoeller (Spring, Texas) hit a 34-yard field goal to give the Bulldogs a 3-0 advantage. The Bulldogs missed an opportunity to add to the lead late in the first half. With just over two minutes remaining, Bulldog linebacker Jerrod Fleming (Houston, Texas) forced a fumble, and Langston Jones (Loveland, Colo.) recovered the ball deep in Hastings College territory. Zoeller missed on a 28-yard field goal attempt, however, and the Bulldogs settled for the 3-0 halftime advantage.
Early in the second half, Concordia again missed an opportunity to increase its lead. Hastings’ Victor Sapp fumbled following a Concordia punt, and the Bulldogs again took over deep in Bronco territory. Concordia was unable to move the football, and following a sack, the Bulldogs punted the ball away and maintained the slim 3-0 lead.
The Concordia defense and special teams came up huge on the next Hastings College possession. The Bulldogs forced three straight incomplete passes by Bronco quarterback John Dostal, and a blocked punt gave the ball back to Concordia inside the Hastings College 10-yard line. The Bulldog offense converted the golden opportunity into points, as quarterback Cohl Tufford (Richardson, Texas) found Derek Klaus (Beatrice, Neb.) on a 9-yard touchdown. The extra point by Zoeller was good, and Concordia jumped out to a 10-0 lead.
The 10-point advantage was more than enough for the Concordia defense. The Broncos totaled 86 rushing yards and just 51 passing yards in the game. Hastings had just 10 first downs to go along with the three costly turnovers. Time of possession also played a huge role, as Concordia held the ball for over 40 minutes in the win. Hastings was just 3-of-14 on third downs and 0-of-3 on fourth downs on the night.
“It was a tough night to move the ball, but I think both teams also left a lot of plays out on the field,” said Vance Winter, head coach of the Bulldogs. “Offensively, I’m just pleased we didn’t turn the ball over, and our defense played outstanding, the way we expect them to play.”
Jerrod Fleming had a huge night to lead the Bulldog defense. Fleming totaled nine tackles to go along with a forced fumble and an interception. Ben Klein (Dallas, Texas) and Drew Baxter (Rockwall, Texas) combined for five defensive breakups in the contest.
Concordia finished with 184 yards of total offense (110 rushing, 74 passing). Tufford was 7-of-13 on the night for 68 yards and the touchdown. Freshman running back Ryan Adams (El Dorado Hills, Calif.) tied for game-high honors with 69 rushing yards, and Klaus hauled in four catches for 32 yards and the touchdown.
Dostal was just 7-of-31 through the air for 51 yards and an interception. Keenen Ballage rushed for 69 yards on 21 carries for the Broncos.
It was a crazy day in GPAC football, as both #3 Morningside College and #16 Northwestern College suffered losses. Coach Winter talked about Saturday’s action around the conference and how his team needs to move forward.
“Looking at all of the scores from today, I’m not really that surprised,” noted Winter. “Every week, you need to prepare and play your best to win in this league. Our defensive coaches put together a great game plan this week, and our guys executed. We still have a lot of room to improve, but tonight was a good start.”
Concordia travels to Dordt College next weekend for a matchup against the Defenders. Kickoff is scheduled for 1 p.m. in Sioux Center, Iowa.
Concordia explodes in third quarter, picks up 21-7 win over Dordt College
24 SEP 2011
Concordia University 21, Dordt College 7 (view stats)
A big third quarter lifted the Concordia University football team to a 21-7 GPAC win over Dordt College on Saturday afternoon in Sioux Center, Iowa. The Bulldogs trailed 7-0 at halftime but scored 21 unanswered points in the third quarter to pick up the win. Concordia moved to 2-2 overall and 2-1 in conference play with the victory. Dordt College dropped to 1-3 overall and 0-3 in conference play.
Following a scoreless first quarter, Dordt College took advantage of a Concordia turnover to take a lead just before halftime. The Defenders picked off a Cohl Tufford pass and marched 61 yards in nine plays to grab a 7-0 lead. Sam Du Mez hauled in a 12-yard touchdown catch from quarterback Justin Knot with just 25 seconds left in the half, and the Defenders took the slim 7-0 lead into halftime.
Concordia finally got on the board on their second drive in the third quarter. The Bulldogs moved 51 yards in nine plays, and a 5-yard touchdown run by Tufford (Richardson, Texas) tied the game at 7-7. Dordt College quickly went three-and-out, and the Bulldog offense was right back on the field. On a third down play, Tufford hit Kyle Hoffman (Phoenix, Ariz.) with a 52-yard reception that took the ball all the way to the Dordt College 15-yard line. On the next play from scrimmage, Jamarcus Walker (Houston, Texas) found the end zone to give Concordia its first lead at 14-7.
Dordt College threatened to tie the game on their next drive. Knot completed a pass to Du Mez for 57 yards, and the Defenders moved the ball all the way to the Concordia 18-yard line. On the next play, however, Knot’s pass was intercepted by Concordia’s Martin Rodriguez (Tucson, Ariz.) at the 1-yard line, and the Bulldogs took possession. On Concordia’s second play from scrimmage, Derrick Blessing (Ogallala, Neb.) took an outside handoff and rushed for a 97-yard touchdown. Blessing’s score gave Concordia the 21-7 advantage heading into the fourth quarter.
The Bulldog defense came up with another turnover on Dordt’s next possession. Jerrod Fleming (Houston, Texas) picked off a Knot pass to give the ball back to the Concordia offense. Down the stretch, Dordt College moved the ball deep into Concordia territory two different times. However, the Defenders were unable to convert on a pair of fourth downs, and Concordia secured the 21-7 win.
Dordt College finished with 16 first downs in the game. The Defenders totaled 247 yards through the air and just 63 yards on the ground. Knot was 19-of-40 through the air with a touchdown and two interceptions. Knot was also the top rusher for Dordt with 38 yards on the day. Du Mez had a big day for the Defenders with nine catches for 164 yards and a touchdown.
Concordia totaled 15 first downs in the contest. The Bulldogs finished with 209 rushing yards and 148 passing yards. Tufford was 13-of-19 on the day for 148 yards with two interceptions. Blessing totaled 111 rushing yards with the 97-yard touchdown run, while Walker had the rushing touchdown to go along with three catches for 24 yards. Drew Baxter (Rockwall, Texas) totaled a team-high 6.5 tackles on the day. Heath Broekemeier (Prairie Grove, Ark.) added five tackles and two tackles-for-loss, while both Fleming and Rodriguez had interceptions in the Bulldog win.
Concordia returns home to host Dakota State University next weekend at Bulldog Stadium.
Bulldogs score 35 in the third, pull away for 49-21 win over Dakota State
1 OCT 2011
Concordia University 49, Dakota State University 21 (view stats)
Concordia University exploded for 35 points in the third quarter and went on to defeat Dakota State University by the score of 49-21 on Saturday afternoon in Seward. The Bulldogs won their third straight game to move to 3-2 on the year, while Dakota State remained winless at 0-6. It’s the first three-game winning streak for Concordia since the 2005 season.
Dakota State got off to a quick start and took the lead on their first possession. The Trojans marched 66 yards in just six plays. Quarterback Brandon Large found Carl Curtis with a 29-yard touchdown pass to give DSU the 6-0 lead. The extra point was blocked by Concordia.
The Bulldogs quickly responded and answered with a 65-yard scoring drive. Concordia needed just six plays to score, and Ryan Adams’ (El Dorado Hills, Calif.) 1-yard touchdown run put Concordia on top by the score of 7-6.
Midway through the second quarter, Concordia added to its lead with a big play from quarterback Cohl Tufford (Richardson, Texas). Tufford ran the ball around the left side of the Bulldog offensive line and went 65 yards untouched on his way to the end zone. Kenny Zoeller’s (Spring, Texas) extra point gave the Bulldogs a 14-6 lead.
Dakota State had an answer just before half. The Trojans moved 75 yards in nine plays, and a 10-yard touchdown reception by Zach Ely knotted the score at 14-14 heading into halftime.
Concordia reclaimed the lead on the opening drive of the second half. The Bulldogs needed just four plays to move 60 yards in less than two minutes. Tufford carried the ball on the first three plays from scrimmage and totaled 34 yards in the three runs. Following a Concordia 5-yard penalty, Adams scored from 31 yards out to give the Bulldogs a 21-14 advantage.
DSU was unable to move the ball, and Concordia got the ball back in great field position. Tufford had a 15-yard run, and Adams added a 29-yard run on the drive to move Concordia inside the Morningside 10-yard line. From there, Jamarcus Walker (Houston, Texas) took a pitch play around the right side for a touchdown.
The Bulldog defense then came up big once again, as Martin Rodriguez (Tucson, Ariz.) picked off a pass from Large to again set the Bulldogs up with tremendous field position. Concordia converted the turnover into a touchdown, as the Bulldogs moved 44 yards in just five plays. Derrick Blessing (Ogallala, Neb.) capped the drive with a 6-yard touchdown run to give the Bulldogs a 35-14 lead.
On Dakota State’s next possession, Concordia’s Tom Malander (Fullerton, Neb.) forced a fumble on the first play from scrimmage. Concordia again turned the turnover into quick points. Tufford completed a 28-yard touchdown pass to Zack Warner (Palmyra, Neb.) for a 42-14 Concordia advantage.
Dakota State answered with a nine-play, 68-yard touchdown drive to pull back within 21. A pair of Concordia personal foul penalties proved costly for the Bulldog defense, and an 8-yard touchdown pass from Large to Wes Dauz made the score 42-21.
Concordia added another score late in the third quarter. A 31-yard rush by Nate Sindt (Scottsbluff, Neb.) set Concordia up with first and goal from the 1-yard line. Adams then found the end zone for the third time to increase the Concordia lead to 49-21. The fourth quarter was scoreless, and the Bulldogs settled for the 49-21 victory.
The Bulldogs totaled 511 offensive yards with 456 rushing yards in the win. Concordia averaged 8.8 yards per carry. Tufford led the way with 208 rushing yards and a score. Adams added 68 rushing yards to go along with the three rushing touchdowns. Tufford completed just 3-of-8 passes for 47 yards and a score. Penalties and turnovers were a problem for the Concordia offense. The Bulldogs lost two fumbles and committed 15 penalties for 142 yards.
The Concordia defense played well, forcing four turnovers and limiting Dakota State to just 66 rushing yards on the day. Derek Rodine (Polk, Neb.) totaled nine tackles with two tackles for loss and a sack. Rodriguez added eight tackles with an interception, while Michael Voelker (Linn, Kan.) and Dylan Heithoff (Elgin, Neb.) also collected sacks on the day.
DSU finished with 345 yards of total offense on the day. The Trojans had 279 yards through the air and just 66 yards on the ground. Large was 31-of-46 for 279 yards with three touchdowns and an interception. Dauz finished with 10 catches for 133 yards and a score. Jeb Olson led the DSU rushing attack with 18 carries and 63 yards. Eric Liles had a game-high 11 tackles for DSU defensively.
Concordia hosts Briar Cliff University next Saturday on Homecoming Weekend. Kickoff is scheduled for 1 p.m. at Bulldog Stadium.
Tufford recognized by Beyond Sports Network
5 OCT 2011
Concordia University quarterback Cohl Tufford has been selected as a Beyond Sports College Network NAIA Athlete-of-the-Week for his efforts in Concordia’s 49-21 win over Dakota State last weekend. This award is a national award given to only six offensive players in the country at the FCS, DII, DIII and NAIA levels.
Tufford, a sophomore from Richardson, Texas, finished with 16 carries and a career-high 208 yards in the Bulldog victory last Saturday. Tufford had a 65-yard rushing score and also threw a 28-yard touchdown pass in the game. Tufford averaged 13 yards per carry in the win over Dakota State. He leads Concordia with 342 rushing yards on the season.
The Bulldogs have won three straight to sit at 3-2 on the year. Concordia returns to conference play this weekend with a home contest against Briar Cliff University. It will be Homecoming Saturday with kickoff scheduled for 1 p.m. at Bulldog Stadium.
Bulldogs cruise to fourth straight win, 47-12, over Briar Cliff
8 OCT 2011
Concordia University 47, Briar Cliff University 12 (view stats)
Concordia University jumped out to a 30-6 halftime lead and cruised to a 47-12 GPAC football win over Briar Cliff University on Homecoming Saturday in Seward. It’s the first four-game winning streak for Concordia in eight years. The Bulldogs now sit at 4-2 overall and 3-1 in GPAC play. Briar Cliff slipped to 2-4 overall and 1-4 in GPAC play.
Briar Cliff struggled to field the opening kickoff, and the Chargers were forced to start the drive from inside their five yard line. Following a quick three and out, Concordia took over with great field position on their opening possession of the game. It took the Bulldogs just five plays to march 32 yards for a touchdown. Ryan Adams (El Dorado Hills, Calif.) capped the drive with a 2-yard touchdown run to give Concordia the 7-0 advantage.
The Chargers went three and out again on their next possession, but a Concordia roughing the kicker penalty kept the drive alive. Later in the drive, BCU quarterback Tom Traficanti’s pass was picked off by Concordia’s Kyle Little (Johnson, Neb.). Little, who was making his first career start, returned the interception 44 yards for a score to put Concordia up by the score of 14-0.
The Bulldogs took advantage of solid field position again on their next drive. Kenny Zoeller (Spring, Texas) connected on a 42-yard field goal to push the Bulldog advantage to 17-0 heading into the second quarter.
Adams scored his second rushing touchdown of the game to put Concordia up 23-0. Concordia then used a big play on special teams to increase the advantage to 30-0. A Briar Cliff punt was blocked, and Concordia’s Jamarcus Walker (Houston, Texas) returned it 33 yards for a touchdown.
Briar Cliff got on the board late in the half. The Chargers moved 65 yards in nine plays. Traficanti hit Bryce Harshman on a 29-yard touchdown reception to cut the Bulldog lead to 30-6 heading into halftime.
Midway through the third quarter, Concordia scored again to grab a 37-6 lead. On a third and long play, Bulldog quarterback Cohl Tufford (Richardson, Texas) scored from 27 yards out on a designed quarterback draw. The Chargers bit on a great pump fake by Tufford, and Tufford broke free right up the middle for the score.
In the opening minute of the fourth quarter, Concordia struck again to grab a 40-6 lead. A 43-yard rush by Tufford put the Bulldogs deep in BCU territory, and Zoeller hit a 44-yard field goal.
Following another BCU punt, the Bulldogs continued to pour it on with another long scoring drive. Chris Smith’s (Houston, Texas) 58-yard run set the Bulldogs up, and Dan Margritz (Lexington, Neb.) scored from two yards out to make the score 47-6. Briar Cliff scored a late touchdown for the final score of 47-12. Traficanti connected with Harshman for his second touchdown reception of the day for the final score of the game.
“We played a full 60 minutes of football today which was good to see,” remarked Bulldog head coach Vance Winter. “We continue to grow. We weren’t pleased with how we played offensively in the first half, but we were much improved in the second half. We’re more physical up front. Our running backs are running well, and our group of running backs is pretty good.”
Concordia netted 400 yards of total offense in the win, including 305 rushing yards. Adams led the way with 116 rushing yards and two scores. Adams had a long run of 31 yards and averaged over seven yards a carry on Saturday.
“Our offense can’t be great unless our offensive line plays great,” said Adams. “Those guys have really stepped up lately, and they keep getting better. Our offensive line has allowed our skill position players to do what we do.”
Tufford was 6-of-11 through the air for 68 yards and an interception. Tufford also added 55 rushing yards and a score in the Bulldog win. Little led the way defensively with a game-high 11 tackles to go along with two sacks and the interception return for a score. Derek Rodine (Polk, Neb.) added nine stops and a forced fumble for the Bulldogs defensively.
Traficanti was 18-of-37 with two touchdowns and two interceptions for Briar Cliff. Jared Williams had 62 rushing yards, and Harshman had a big day with eight catches for 162 yards and two touchdowns.
The schedule strength picks up starting next week, as Concordia travels to Northwestern College. The Raiders received votes in last week’s NAIA Top 25 Poll and have been playing solid football for the last several weeks. Coach Winter discussed the upcoming schedule.
“We look at next week as just that, the next game on the schedule,” remarked Winter. “We’ll prepare and focus on what we do well and continue to focus on the little things that have helped us play better football lately.”
Kickoff is scheduled for 1 pm in Orange City, Iowa.
Kyle Little picks up GPAC football honor
10 OCT 2011
Concordia’s Kyle Little was recognized as this week’s Hauff Mid-America Sports GPAC Defensive Player-of-the-Week. Little had a career day in Concordia’s 47-12 victory over Briar Cliff University on Saturday.
Little, a junior from Johnson, Neb., made the most of his first career start. The linebacker totaled four solo and seven assisted tackles in the 47-12 rout of Briar Cliff. Little had two sacks on the day and also had a 44-yard interception return for a touchdown in the first quarter. Concordia forced four turnovers en route to their fourth straight win.
Concordia is 4-2 overall and 3-1 in conference play. The Bulldogs travel to Northwestern College this coming weekend for a matchup against the Red Raiders.
Northwestern has won three in a row (63-27 over Dakota State, 27-6 over Nebraska Wesleyan, and 51-14 over then #24 Midland University) to sit at 4-2 overall and 2-2 in conference play. Kickoff is scheduled for 1 p.m. in Orange City, Iowa.
Concordia starts slow, suffers 35-10 loss at Northwestern
15 OCT 2011
(RV) Northwestern College 35, Concordia University 10 (view stats)
Concordia University struggled early, and Northwestern College pulled away for a 35-10 GPAC football win on Saturday afternoon in Orange City, Iowa. Concordia turned the ball over six times and saw its 4-game winning streak come to an end, as Northwestern improved to 5-2 overall and 3-2 in conference play. The Bulldogs dropped to 4-3 overall and 3-2 in GPAC play.
It was a difficult beginning to the game, as Concordia quickly went three and out on their opening possession. Following a Bulldog punt, the Raiders were set up with excellent field position. Northwestern took advantage, and a Brandon Smith 2-yard touchdown run put the hosts on top by the score of 6-0. The Raiders used eight plays to march 54 yards for the opening score.
The extra point was no good, but the Raiders quickly tacked on two points with a safety on Concordia’s next possession. Bulldog quarterback Cohl Tufford (Richardson, Texas) was sacked in the end zone, and Northwestern grabbed an 8-0 lead.
Following the safety, Northwestern was again set up with tremendous field position, this time at the Concordia 47-yard line. The Raiders moved 32 yards in 10 plays, and a 27-yard Mike O’Brien field goal increased the Northwestern lead to 11-0.
At the beginning of the second quarter, Concordia recovered a fumble inside Northwestern territory. The Bulldogs moved the ball to the Raider 38-yard line but were unable to convert on a fourth down attempt. The Raiders took over possession and marched 60 yards in 11 plays to increase their lead to 18-0. Northwestern quarterback Davis Bloemendaal capped the drive with a 4-yard touchdown pass to Tyler Walker for the score.
Concordia was set up with excellent field position on their final three drives of the first half. The Bulldog offense continued to struggle, however, and Northwestern took the 18-0 advantage into halftime. Concordia managed just three first downs and 30 yards of total offense in the first half of play.
The second half started much better, as the Bulldog defense quickly forced a Northwestern three and out. Concordia again started their offensive drive with great field position, and the Bulldogs moved 34 yards in eight plays to get into field goal range. The big play of the drive was a 28-yard pitch and catch from Tufford to Derek Klaus (Beatrice, Neb.). Kenny Zoeller (Spring, Texas) connected on a 42-yard field goal to cut the Raider lead to 18-3.
The teams traded punts, but the Raiders struck again late in the third quarter. Concordia turned it over on a fumble recovered by Northwestern’s Aaron Jansen at the CU 19-yard line. On a third and goal play, Brandon Smith scored his second rushing touchdown of the game, this time from four yards out, and Northwestern grabbed a 25-3 lead.
The third quarter ended on a high note for the Bulldogs. Following the Northwestern touchdown, Concordia’s Jamarcus Walker (Houston, Texas) returned the kickoff 45 yards to set the Bulldogs up at the 50-yard line. Following a penalty and an incomplete pass, Tufford found Zack Warner (Palmyra, Neb.) on a 40-yard touchdown completion to make the score 25-10 heading into the fourth quarter.
Northwestern used a 74-yard punt to pin Concordia back on its own 1-yard line to open the fourth quarter. On Concordia’s first play from scrimmage, Tufford had his pass picked off by Chris Butler to give the Raiders the ball back inside the Concordia 10-yard line. Northwestern quickly capitalized with a 6-yard touchdown run by Theo Bartman to take a 32-10 lead.
The Bulldogs turned it over again on their next possession. Tufford fumbled, and Northwestern again was set up deep inside Bulldog territory. Mike O’Brien hit a 21-yard field goal to increase the Raider lead to 35-10. Concordia turned it over twice more down the stretch, and Northwestern secured the 35-10 victory.
In a matchup of the top two rushing teams in the GPAC, Northwestern totaled 171 rushing yards compared to just 64 for Concordia. Northwestern finished with 303 yards of total offense in the win. The Bulldogs totaled 192 yards of total offense. Turnovers plagued both teams. Northwestern lost three fumbles, while Concordia finished with six turnovers (three fumbles, three interceptions) in the loss. Concordia was just 3-of-10 on third downs and 0-of-2 on fourth downs in the contest.
Brandon Smith and Theo Bartman combined for 138 rushing yards and three scores for Northwestern. Davis Bloemendaal was 16-of-27 through the air for 132 yards and a score. Jordan Micalef was the top receiver for the Raiders with four catches for 51 yards. Isaiah Twitty had eight tackles, while Chris Butler, Matt Kroeze and Nate Van Ginkel all had interceptions for the Northwestern defense.
Tufford was 12-of-22 through the air for 128 yards. He had the touchdown pass to Warner, but also had three interceptions on the day. Klaus finished with three catches for 39 yards. Michael Voelker (Linn, Kan.) had eight tackles. Ben Klein (Dallas, Texas), Darnell Woods (Phoenix, Ariz.) and Micah Wagner (Omaha, Neb.) all added six stops for the Bulldogs.
Concordia hosts Nebraska Wesleyan University next weekend. Kickoff is scheduled for 1 p.m. at Bulldog Stadium.
Nebraska Wesleyan holds off Concordia, 10-7
22 OCT 2011
Nebraska Wesleyan University 10, Concordia University 7 (view stats)
Despite picking up just five first downs in the contest, Nebraska Wesleyan held on for a 10-7 GPAC football win over Concordia University on Saturday afternoon in Seward. The Prairie Wolves improved to 4-3 overall (3-3 GPAC), while Concordia dropped to 4-4 (3-3 GPAC).
Both teams struggled to find offensive rhythm in the opening drives of the game. Wesleyan was able to take advantage of Concordia’s first turnover of the game to grab the early advantage. On Concordia’s second drive, quarterback Cohl Tufford (Richardson, Texas) fumbled inside the Bulldog 10-yard line. Wesleyan recovered the fumble, and NWU’s Dalton Thyfault hauled in a 12-yard touchdown pass from Ethan Myers for a 7-0 Nebraska Wesleyan lead.
Later in the first quarter, Concordia tied the game with a huge play on defense. Myers dropped back and floated a pass out into the flat. Concordia defensive back Heath Broekemeier (Prairie Grove, Ark.) picked off the pass attempt and returned it 25 yards for a score. The extra point by Daniel Moore (Papillion, Neb.) was good, and the score was tied 7-7.
The teams traded punts multiple times in the second quarter, but Concordia had an opportunity to score just before halftime. The Bulldogs got the ball on their own 24-yard line with less than two minutes to play in the half. A 36-yard completion from Tufford to Kyle Hoffman (Phoenix, Ariz.) gave Concordia a first down at the Wesleyan 28-yard line. As time was winding down, the Bulldogs set up for a 30-yard field goal. Moore was unable to connect, and the score remained tied heading into halftime.
Concordia again had some golden opportunities to score in the third quarter. The Bulldog defense forced two Wesleyan turnovers, the second of which set Concordia up with a first down at the Wesleyan 15-yard line. Bulldog linebacker Tom Malander (Fullerton, Neb.) forced a fumble, and Jerrod Fleming (Houston, Texas) recovered the loose ball deep inside Wesleyan territory. The Concordia offense continued to struggle, however, and a missed 35-yard field goal attempt by Kenny Zoeller (Spring, Texas) kept the score at 7-7.
The Concordia defense forced another quick three and out, but a miscue on special teams would prove costly for Concordia. Concordia punt returner Chris Smith (Houston, Texas) muffed the punt, and Wesleyan’s Mike Huettner recovered the loose ball inside the Bulldog 10-yard line. The Concordia defense held and forced a field goal attempt. Steve Anderson hit from 20 yards out to put Wesleyan on top by the score of 10-7.
The Bulldogs moved the ball deep inside Wesleyan territory on their next possession. Concordia marched 42 yards in 10 plays and moved to the Wesleyan 30-yard line. However, a 47-yard field goal was missed by Zoeller, and the Prairie Wolves maintained the slim lead. Concordia got the ball back two more times down the stretch but was unable to put a scoring drive together.
Concordia finished with 230 yards of total offense (115 passing, 115 rushing). The Bulldogs were just 3-of-19 on third downs, and Concordia was 0-of-3 in red zone opportunities. Tufford was 16-of-30 for 115 yards. Dan Margritz (Lexington, Neb.) was the top rusher with 44 yards on 10 carries. Jamarcus Walker (Houston, Texas) caught eight passes for 36 yards. Micah Wagner (Omaha, Neb.) had a game-high 15 tackles to lead the way defensively. Fleming added 11 stops and the fumble recovery, while Ben Klein (Dallas, Texas) and Broekemeier each picked off passes for Concordia on the day.
Nebraska Wesleyan had just 164 yards of total offense on the day (116 passing, 48 rushing). NWU was just 3-of-16 on third downs. Myers was 11-of-18 through the air for 116 yards with a touchdown and two interceptions for Nebraska Wesleyan. Joe Manley caught three passes for 57 yards. Brett Kaczor and Russell Walton each had 11 tackles for NWU defensively.
Concordia travels to Midland University on October 29. Kickoff is scheduled for 1 p.m. in Fremont.
Offensive struggles continue in 29-3 loss at Midland
29 OCT 2011
Midland University 29, Concordia University 3 (view stats)
Midland University pulled away for a 29-3 GPAC football win over Concordia on Saturday afternoon in Fremont. The win snapped a 4-game losing streak for the Warriors, who improved to 4-4 overall and 3-4 in GPAC play. The offensive struggles continued for Concordia, who totaled just 124 yards of total offense in the loss. The Bulldogs (4-5, 3-4 GPAC) have now lost three in a row.
The host Warriors dominated the first half of play and took a comfortable 19-3 lead into halftime. Early in the first quarter, quarterback Greg Panelli found receiver Kyle Fries with a 49-yard touchdown reception to give the Warriors a 7-0 advantage. Midway through the first quarter, Treyton Buresh hit a 37-yard field goal to increase the Warrior lead to 10-0. With just over two minutes remaining in the first, Buresh hit another field goal, this time for 21 yards, and Midland grabbed a 13-0 lead heading into the second quarter.
With just over six minutes remaining in the first half, Buresh capped a 10 play, 75-yard drive with a 22-yard field goal, and Midland held a 16-0 lead. Concordia scored with just under two minutes to go in the half. The Bulldogs moved 39 yards in eight plays, and Kenny Zoeller (Spring, Texas) hit a 47-yard field goal to make the score 16-3. Midland quickly responded, however, and a 23-yard field goal by Buresh with 16 seconds remaining made the score 19-3 heading into halftime.
Midland totaled eight first downs and 200 yards of offense in the opening half of play compared to just 69 yards of offense for Concordia. The Bulldogs had just four first downs and turned the ball over twice in the first half.
The Warriors poured it on early in the second half. Midland marched 96 yards on 11 plays to take a 26-3 lead. Lee Horkey’s 1-yard touchdown run finished off the drive. Buresh added another field goal at the beginning of the fourth quarter for the final score of 29-3.
Concordia managed just eight first downs in the contest. Turnovers were a huge problem throughout the game, as the Bulldogs finished with five in the loss. Concordia totaled 107 rushing yards and just 17 passing yards. Derrick Blessing (Ogallala, Neb.) rushed for 57 yards on 13 carries. Jerrod Fleming (Houston, Texas) had a game-high 8.5 tackles, and Martin Rodriguez (Tucson, Ariz.) picked off a pass for the Bulldog defense.
Midland finished with 366 yards of total offense in the win (261 passing, 105 rushing). Panelli was 16-of-26 through the air for 225 yards with a touchdown and interception. Antony Johnson led the Warrior rushing attack with 69 yards on just seven carries. Scott Campbell and Khalid Waters each caught five passes, while Fries added three receptions for 69 yards and a score. Branden Brown totaled six tackles with an interception, and Clete Vrbka added six stops and a fumble recovery. Josh Hutchison and Nick Carlson also added interceptions for the Warriors defensively.
Concordia returns home to host Morningside College next Saturday. Kickoff is scheduled for 1 p.m. at Bulldog Stadium.
Morningside uses defense and special teams to earn 28-7 win over Concordia
5 NOV 2011
#6 Morningside College 28, Concordia University 7 (view stats)
Morningside College, the No. 6 team in the nation, pulled away for a 28-7 GPAC football win over Concordia University on Saturday afternoon in Seward. The Mustangs used a 21-point second quarter to build the lead, and the Concordia offense continued to struggle. Morningside improved to 8-1 overall and 7-1 in GPAC play. Concordia lost its fourth straight to fall to 4-6 overall and 3-5 in the GPAC.
Morningside was forced to punt on their opening drive of the game. The Bulldogs picked up a few first downs and advanced the ball to the Mustang 44-yard line. However, the Morningside defense then came up with a huge play. Bulldog quarterback Cohl Tufford (Richardson, Texas) had a pass picked off by Colby Henderson. Henderson returned the interception 88 yards for a score to give the Mustangs the early 7-0 advantage.
Later in the first quarter, Concordia took advantage of some good field position to move deep into Mustang territory. The Bulldogs took over possession at their own 45-yard line following a Morningside punt of -4 yards. Completions from backup quarterback Von Thomas (Miami, Fla.) to Colten Quinabo (Wailuku, Hawaii) and Chris Smith (Houston, Texas) took the ball to the Morningside 15-yard line. However, Thomas missed on his next three pass attempts, and Concordia was forced into a 32-yard field goal attempt. The attempt by Kenny Zoeller (Spring, Texas) was blocked by Colby Henderson, and the Mustangs took over possession.
The Mustangs took a 14-0 lead early in the second quarter. Concordia was forced to punt from its own 39-yard line. The punt was blocked by Chris Tate, and Sean Elliott recovered the ball for the Mustangs at the Concordia 14-yard line. A 13-yard run by Dillon Robinson set the Mustangs up with first-and-goal from the 1-yard line, and Robinson took it in to give the Mustangs the 14-0 advantage.
The Bulldog offense continued to have a difficult time early in the second quarter. A fumble by Tufford set Morningside up at the Bulldog 28-yard line. Morningside didn’t waste any time, and quarterback Kyle Nikkel completed a 28-yard touchdown pass to Kyle Schuck for the 21-0 Morningside lead.
Following the Schuck touchdown reception, Concordia again went three-and-out on their next series. A 15-yard punt by Joseph Marshall (Malcolm, Neb.) again gave the Mustangs tremendous field position at the Bulldog 34-yard line. Schuck hauled in his second touchdown reception of the game, this time from 21 yards out, to boost the Mustang lead to 28-0. Concordia defensive back Darnell Woods (Phoenix, Ariz.) looked to have the pass intercepted in the end zone, but Schuck managed to wrestle the ball away from Woods for the score. Concordia had another field goal attempt blocked late in the second quarter, and Morningside took the 28-0 advantage into halftime.
On Concordia’s opening drive of the second half, the Bulldogs marched all the way to the Morningside 9-yard line. Unfortunately, the Bulldogs turned it over on downs following three straight incomplete passes by Thomas. Morningside responded with a long drive of its own and took the ball all the way to the Concordia 11-yard line. However, Nikkel was sacked on a fourth down play to give the ball back to Concordia. The game went to the fourth quarter with the score of 28-0.
Midway through the fourth quarter, Concordia finally punched one in. The Bulldogs used some big plays through the air to get on the scoreboard. Jamarcus Walker (Houston, Texas) caught an 11-yard pass from Tufford. Later in the drive, Tufford found Derrick Blessing (Ogallala, Neb.) on a 25-yard screen pass, and Tufford found Quinabo with a 23-yard reception to take the ball deep into Morningside territory. Chris Smith scored from six yards out to make the score 28-7.
The Bulldogs recovered an onside kick but were unable to move the ball. Morningside bled out the clock and secured the 28-7 victory.
Each team finished with 13 first downs in the contest. Morningside totaled 278 yards of total offense on the day (148 passing, 130 rushing). The Mustang defense forced three Concordia turnovers. Nikkel finished 12-of-23 through the air for 148 yards with two touchdowns and an interception. Dillon Robinson finished with 98 rushing yards and a score. Robinson also caught a team-high four passes for 41 yards. Henderson was the star of the day defensively and on special teams for Morningside. He finished with the 88-yard interception return and a blocked kick. Marshall Barney had a team-high seven tackles for the Mustangs.
Concordia managed just 170 yards of total offense. The Bulldogs finished with no rushing yards on the day due to five Morningside sacks. Tufford was 7-of-15 through the air for 91 yards with two interceptions, while Thomas was 8-of-17 for 79 yards. Quinabo finished with six catches for a career-high 100 yards. Jerrod Fleming (Houston, Texas) and Michael Voelker (Linn, Kan.) each totaled a game-high nine tackles. Ben Klein (Dallas, Texas) added seven stops and an interception for the Bulldog defense.
Concordia hosts Doane College next Saturday in the final game of the year. Kickoff is scheduled for 1 p.m. at Bulldog Stadium.
Strong start not enough, as #22 Doane picks up 37-13 win over Concordia
12 NOV 2011
#22 Doane College 37, Concordia University 13 (view stats)
Concordia University jumped out to an early 13-0 lead, but Doane College rallied for a 37-13 GPAC football win on Senior Day in Seward. The Tigers improved to 8-2 overall and 7-2 in conference play with the victory. Concordia finished the season at 4-7 overall and 3-6 in the GPAC.
Concordia could not have asked for a better start to the game. On Doane’s first possession, quarterback Anthony Dunn was sacked by Concordia’s Tom Malander (Fullerton, Neb.). Malander’s hit forced a fumble, and Kyle Little (Johnson, Neb.) recovered the loose ball and returned it 42 yards for the score. The extra point by Kenny Zoeller (Spring, Texas) gave the Bulldogs the early 7-0 advantage.
The Bulldog defense again forced a quick Doane punt, and the Bulldogs put together a great drive to extend their lead. The Bulldogs marched 78 yards in just eight plays. A touchdown pass from Von Thomas (Miami, Fla.) to Nate Sindt (Scottsbluff, Neb.) increased the Concordia lead to 13-0. The extra point attempt was blocked.
Things went downhill for the Bulldogs from there, however, as Doane quickly answered with a long scoring drive to get back in the game. The Tigers used a 35-yard kick return by Jeremiah Saffold to set themselves up with solid field position. From there, the Tigers moved 52 yards in 12 plays for a score. Dunn hit Devon Niewohner with a 6-yard touchdown pass to culminate the drive. The extra point was no good, making the score 13-6.
In the second quarter, the Doane College defense answered with a big play of its own. Thomas fumbled, and the ball was recovered by Doane’s Lance Shifflet. Shifflet returned the fumble 42 yards for the score, and the Tigers tied things up at 13-13.
Following a Bulldog punt, Doane marched 60 yards in 10 plays to take their first lead of the game. Dunn completed several passes on the drive, and a 19-yard pitch and catch to Tyrone Curry gave Doane the 20-13 lead late in the first half.
Doane added to its lead late in the third quarter. Following an eight play, 54-yard drive, Andrew Nielsen connected on a 34-yard field goal to make the score 23-13 in favor of the Tigers. Early in the fourth quarter, the combination of Dunn and Curry increased the Tiger lead once again. Curry hauled in a 27-yard touchdown reception for a 30-13 Doane advantage.
The Tigers took advantage of a Concordia interception for their final score of the game. Kamero Lenhart picked off a Cohl Tufford (Richardson, Texas) pass and returned in to the Bulldog 16-yard line. A penalty on Concordia gave the Tigers the ball inside the Bulldog 10-yard line, and a 5-yard rushing score by Eric Morrison-Smith made the final score of 37-13.
Doane finished with 24 first downs and 386 yards of total offense on the day (220 passing, 166 rushing). Dunn was 22-of-37 through the air for 220 yards and three scores. Tyler Davis and Alex Dose combined for 138 rushing yards on the day, while Curry finished with 72 receiving yards and the two scores for the Tigers. Defensively, Doane was led by Dalton Ryba’s eight tackles.
The Concordia offense struggled, finishing with just 10 first downs in the loss. The Bulldogs totaled 215 yards of total offense (136 rushing, 79 passing). Thomas was 10-of-18 through the air for 74 yards and a touchdown. He also added nine carries for 39 yards. Tufford was just 1-of-5 through the air with two interceptions. Tufford was the team’s leading rusher with 54 yards on the day. Colten Quinabo (Wailuku, Hawaii) caught three passes for 34 yards. Defensively, Jerrod Fleming (Houston, Texas) closed out his Bulldog career with another big day. Fleming totaled a game-high 16 tackles. Little added 11 stops and the fumble return for the score.
Fleming and Klein named to GPAC First Team Defense
15 NOV 2011
The 2011 GPAC postseason football honors were released on Tuesday. Several Concordia players received conference honors for their efforts during the 2011 season.
Seniors Jerrod Fleming (Houston, Texas) and Ben Klein (Dallas, Texas) were selected to the GPAC Football First Team Defense. Both players concluded their Bulldog careers with impressive seasons in 2011.
Fleming easily led the team with 84 total tackles on the year in just 10 games played. The linebacker finished with eight tackles for loss, two interceptions, a forced fumble and a fumble recovery in his senior campaign. Klein tied for fifth on the team in total tackles with 52. He picked off two passes and also added a fumble recovery.
Derek Rodine (Polk, Neb.) and Dylan Heithoff (Elgin, Neb.) were each named to the GPAC Second Team Defense. Rodine was eighth on the team with 48 total tackles, and he was tied for third on the team with nine tackles for loss. Derek was second on the team with four sacks from his defensive tackle position. Heithoff finished with 42 total tackles in his sophomore season. The defensive end was tied for the team lead with 12 tackles for loss, and his three sacks tied for third on the Bulldog defense. Heithoff also added a forced fumble and a fumble recovery this year.
Senior offensive lineman Charles Washington (Houston, Texas) concluded his Bulldog career with a solid 2011 season. Due to injuries on the offensive line, Washington was forced to play multiple positions throughout the season. Washington was a reliable team leader and blocker for an Bulldog offense that ranked near the top of the GPAC in rushing.
Concordia also had seven athletes receive All-GPAC honorable mention recognition. Heath Broekemeier, Michael Voelker, Tom Malander, Darnell Woods and Langston Jones were selected from the Concordia defense, while Ryan Adams and Nate Sindt were selected from the Concordia offense.
Broekemeier (Prairie Grove, Ark.) totaled 36 tackles with seven tackles for loss and two interceptions this season. Voelker (Linn, Kan.) was third on the team with 60 total tackles, including nine tackles for loss and five sacks. Malander (Fullerton, Neb.) made 52 stops this year with 12 tackles for loss (tied for first on team), three sacks and two forced fumbles. Woods (Phoenix, Ariz.) made 44 tackles from his defensive back position, and he also led Concordia with three blocked kicks on the year. Jones (Loveland, Colo.) made 51 tackles (eight tackles for loss) with two sacks and three fumble recoveries during the 2011 season.
Adams (El Dorado Hills, Calif.) had an impressive freshman year before an injury ended his season early. He rushed for 387 yards in eight games of action and totaled a team-best six rushing scores on the year. Sindt (Scottsbluff, Neb.) hauled in 10 receptions with one touchdown this season. He also had seven carries for 70 yards.
Concordia was 4-7 (3-6 GPAC) during the 2011 season.
Bulldog football places eight on 2011 scholar-athlete list
16 DEC 2011
The 2011 football Daktronics-NAIA Scholar-Athletes were announced on Friday. Concordia University placed eight on this year’s list.
A trio of fifth-year seniors earned the honor, as Alex Deeter (Seward, Neb.), Seth Elley (Hastings, Neb.) and Nate Sindt (Scottsbluff, Neb.) all received the award. Seniors Steven Jostes (Norfolk, Neb.), Ben Klein (Dallas, Texas) and Levi Wiseman (La Grande, Ore.) also were recognized. Juniors Bobby Cody (Alamosa, Colo.) and Tom Malander (Fullerton, Neb.) also picked up the honor from Concordia’s 2011 squad.
Student-athletes are nominated by their school’s head coach and must maintain a minimum grade point average of 3.5 on a 4.0 scale and must have achieved a junior academic status in order to qualify.
Concordia was 4-7 overall and 3-6 in GPAC play during the 2011 season.
Fleming and Klein selected to play in Hansen Bowl
11 JAN 2012
Concordia University seniors Jerrod Fleming (Houston, Texas) and Ben Klein (Dallas, Texas) have been selected to participate in this year’s Hansen Bowl. The Hansen Bowl features the top senior players in the nation from the NAIA as well as NCAA Division II and III levels. The game will take place on January 16 with kickoff scheduled for 1:10 p.m. in Virginia Beach, Va. The game will be televised nationally on tape-delay on Fox Sports Network beginning on January 19.
“Ben and Jerrod being selected to play in this game speaks well to the progress of our football program,” noted Patrick Daberkow, Concordia’s defensive coordinator. “Ben and Jerrod have been instrumental in setting this program up to be successful. They set a great example for our underclassmen on how to get the most out of themselves on a daily basis.”
The Hansen Bowl is the only NCAA-compliant and NAIA-approved post-season small college senior all-star football game that is recognized by the national sports media industry and College Football Hall of Fame. It is named after the late Don Hansen. The Executive Board includes the commissioners of the seven NAIA football conferences and representatives from all the NCAA Division II and NCAA Division III institutions.
Fleming and Klein enjoyed very impressive careers at Concordia. Fleming finished with career totals of 237 tackles, 29 tackles for loss, four sacks, three interceptions, two forced fumbles and three fumble recoveries. He was a 2-time second team All-GPAC performer. This past season, Fleming earned first team All-GPAC recognition. He was also selected to the Omaha World Herald’s All-Nebraska Team.
“After a lot of hard work, I’m very proud to represent Concordia at this game,” remarked Fleming. “God put us in a position to showcase our talent and see how we stack up with very talented players from different levels of football. Our senior class was filled with ambition to win. Ben and I have tried to instill a level of focus into our teammates. We are excited to give it our best and see what we can get out of this experience.”
Klein made 246 total tackles in his Bulldog career. He added 10.5 tackles for loss, eight interceptions, three forced fumbles and three fumble recoveries. Klein was an honorable mention All-GPAC selection as a sophomore and earned second team All-GPAC recognition as a junior. This past year, Klein was a first team All-GPAC selection. He was also named to the Omaha World Herald’s All-Nebraska Team.
“I’m honored to be selected and to represent our school, team and coaching staff,” said Klein. “Our coaches did a great job of taking my skills and turning them into something more over the past four years, and I just want to perform to the best of my ability in this game. Concordia has meant a lot to us. We have been blessed to have great relationships with our teammates and coaches here. We’ve played in a very competitive conference, and this is a great opportunity for us to finish our college careers against more very talented competition.”
“These two young men held each other and their teammates to such a high standard,” added Vance Winter, head coach of the Bulldogs. “They consistently raised their level of play and in turn held everyone else to a higher standard. Whether it was a Tuesday off-season workout in the middle of winter or a conference rivalry game, they were always eager to compete and make this program better. They were incredible teammates and are great ambassadors for the Concordia University football program. Ben and Jerrod will be successful with whatever they pursue in life. We are a better football program for having them, and that entire senior class, with us over the last four years.”