Third-Round Matchup - Salisbury University

With the NCAA's realignment of this year's playoff bracket, the Warhawks will be facing a rare east region program in the quarterfinals. Salisbury University Sea Gulls bring an 11-1 record into Whitewater, as they finished the regular season ranked 10th in the country (D3football.com). Which is the fourth highest ranking among one-loss teams. Their lone loss this year came back in week nine, when they fell on the road to Wesley, 14-23. The Sea Gulls entered the playoffs by receiving an automatic Pool A bid after running the table and winning the Empire 8 conference with a 7-0 record. This was Salisbury's inaugural season as an E8 conference member. In 2010, they were a part of the Atlantic Central Football Conference before the ACFC inevitably shut down at the end of last year (lack of participants). When they closed up shop the ACFC only had four members, which didn't meet the NCAA minimum to be awarded an automatic bid. If the ACFC still remained, and Salisbury was still a member, there would be no guarantee that the Sea Gulls would have even made the field of 32 this season. Wesley would have still received the one Pool B bid, while the Sea Gulls could do nothing but sit and pray for a Pool C at-large bid. Needless to say, the move to the E8 was in Salisbury's best interest.



Salisbury Junior QB Dan Griffin



For the third time in three playoff games this year, Whitewater will be facing a player who was a conference offensive player of the year. This time around it will be the E8's Offensive Player of the Year, quarterback Dan Griffin. The junior is the cornerstone of the team's very dangerous triple-option offense. Griffin accounted for 27 touchdowns (13 passing, 14 rushing) and became the school's first 1,000-yard passer since 1998. During the regular season Griffin had a 239.77 pass efficiency rating without throwing a single interception. He also rushed for 623 yards on the year. Salisbury doesn't pass very often, in fact Griffin has only attempted 82 passes on the year (including the playoffs). That's under seven attempts per game. However, throwing the ball down field isn't what the Sea Gulls are all about. Salisbury utilizes the triple option better than just about anyone in the country, averaging over 362 yards per game. Its leading rusher is First Team All-Conference running back Randal Smedley who averages 91 ypg. Including Griffin, the Sea Gulls have three players with over 800 rushing yards on the season - all averaging over five yards per carry. After a few offensive option-running possessions, it's very easy for defenses to creep up and begin to over commit to stop the run. Once that happens, a simple play-action pass will catch defenses out of position as they become very vulnerable for a pass over the top. Including the playoffs, Griffin has only 46 completions, as 15 of those were for TDs - which is a pretty remarkable ratio. The Sea Gulls' offensive line consists of three all-conference lineman, including 6'8" 320lb left guard Alex Smith who fans will probably be able to spot from the perking lot. This is an offense that the Warhawks haven't seen in quite some time. It'll be interesting to see how they handle the abundance of miss-directions, fake hand offs, and play actions this weekend.



Sea Gulls Sophomore DB Andre Carter



With an offensive style that Salisbury brings to each game, it's easy to incorrectly over look the Sea Gulls' defense. Its 3-4 defensive scheme is centered around First Team All-Conference linebacker Jamey McClendon. The senior leads the E8 with 6.5 sacks this season, and is second on the team with 87 total tackles. The secondary is led by another First Team All-E8 player in Chris Everett. The junior defensive back leads the team with 95 total tackles and eight pass breakups. Another player that Warhawk quarterback Matt Blanchard will have to account for at all times is defensive back Andre Carter. The First Team All-Conference sophomore leads the Empire 8 with seven interceptions this year. This is a very strong defense, as six of the 11 defensive starters made either the first or second all-conference team. The Sea Gulls have been extremely stout against the run, giving up just over three yards per carry. I'm sure Salisbury's front seven will be watching plenty of film on Levell Coppage this week. If the Sea Gulls can keep Coppage in check and prevent the offense from picking up first downs, they will give themselves a great opportunity to advance to the semifinals.  

One interesting stat that stands out to me is Salisbury's special teams, specifically its field goal unit. They are 3 for 7 on the year in field goals, with a long of only 30 yards and are 0-3 beyond 30 yards. I suppose if you average more than 40 points per game, and over seven yards per play, who needs a field goal unit....right? If the Sea Gulls find themselves in a 4th down situation, with the ball between Whitewater's 20-35 yard line, I would look for Salisbury to go for it just about every time. Especially with this game being played in late November in the state of Wisconsin - not exactly field-goal friendly weather. An early look at the forecast indicates a high in the mid 30s with a 30 percent chance of a rain/snow mixture in Whitewater, WI. It wouldn't be playoff time in Whitewater without some extreme weather conditions. I am right?!

2011 Statistics (National Rank)

Salisbury Rushing Offense: 364.8 ypg (2)
Whitewater Rushing Defense: 72.8 ypg (4)

Salisbury Passing Offense: 101.2 ypg (226)
Whitewater Passing Defense: 180.8 ypg (86)

Salisbury Total Offense: 466.0 ypg (12)
Whitewater Total Defense: 253.7 ypg (14)

Salisbury Rushing Defense: 135.4 ypg (75)
Whitewater Rushing Offense: 230.0 ypg (25)

Salisbury Passing Defense: 169.3 ypg (57)
Whitewater Passing Offense: 214.9 ypg (85)

Salisbury Total Defense: 304.7 ypg (45)
Whitewater Total Offense: 444.9 ypg (24)

Whitewater's Third-Round Games (Since 2005)
2005 - UWW over Linfield, 44-41
2006 - UWW over St. John's, 17-14
2007 - UWW over Wabash, 47-7
2008 - UWW over Wartburg, 34-17
2009 - UWW over Wittenberg, 31-13
2010 - UWW over North Central, 20-10

What interests me the most is Salisbury's number two nationally-ranked rushing offense going up against Whitewater's number four ranked rushing defense - needless to say something must give this Saturday. For the hell of it I took a closer look at Salisbury's October loss against Wesley. Similar to Whitewater, Wesley has the sixth ranked rushing defense, and gave up 14 points and only 226 rushing yards to the Sea Gulls that Saturday afternoon. That's 140 fewer yards than Salisbury's season average. On paper, it's easy to say Whitewater is more than capable of replicating that defensive effort. Then again, many didn't give Wabash a chance against North Central last week (including myself), and the Little Giants proved many wrong. That's why we play the game, you never know what's going to happen. If I had to guess, I think this quarter-final game will have a similar outcome to the Wartburg game in 2008...in Whitewater's favor.

Second Round Matchup - Franklin College

Looking back over the past 12 months there isn't a team that's more familiar with Whitewater than the Franklin College Grizzlies. This will be the third time the Warhawks have faced Franklin in the past 17 games. The first of the three meetings was in the first round of the 2010 playoffs, when Whitewater won 52-21 in Whitewater. Then in the Warhawks' second game of this season UWW won, at Franklin, 45-0. However, after the huge defeat earlier this year the Grizzlies have went on to win nine straight, including last week's first-round playoff win over Thomas More, 24-21. Franklin finished the regular season with a 10-1 record, and was a perfect 8-0 in the Heartland Collegiate Athletic Conference. By winning the HCAC, Franklin was awarded the automatic Pool A playoff bid to get into the postseason. During this nine-game win streak Franklin has been on a tear, outscoring its opponents by an average of 26 points. A lot of people will just say, "Yea, but look who its competition is (or lack there of)...especially playing in the HCAC." Which is true, but good teams are suppose to destroy lesser opponents, which is exactly what the Grizzlies have been doing.




Franklin's sophomore QB Johnny West



Like usual, the Grizzlies' offensive is led by its quarterback. After Franklin's All-American QBs Chad Rupp and Kyle Ray, Johnny West seems to be filling in perfectly as the "next great Franklin quarterback." At only a sophomore, West was selected as the 2011 HCAC Offensive MVP for throwing for 3,144 yards and 30 touchdowns during the regular season. West had a 152.3 passing efficiency rating along with a HCAC-best 314.4 passing yards per game (6th best in Division III) in the regular season. One area of concern for the Grizzlies' QB has been his 14 interceptions this year. Only five quarterbacks in the country have thrown more INTs than West. I guess that comes with the territory when you attempt the fifth most passes in DIII (421 total attempts). West has a pair of First-Team All HCAC receivers in his arsenal that he's been using to burn teams down field with. Kyle Linville has been averaging over 100 receiving yards per game along with 11 touchdowns during the regular. The junior lead the HCAC in both categories. West's second option has been Logan Worley, averaging over 63 ypg and was second in the HCAC with 10 touchdowns. Considering how frequent Franklin drops back to pass this year, the offensive line has been doing a fairly descent job protecting its QB. The Grizzlies rank 49th in the country in Sacks Allowed with 1.18 per game. The line has been led by Nick Shultz and Colin Gallagher, both First Team All-HCAC. Being a predominate passing team, senior running back Reece Craig is only getting about 12 rushes per game, and has 694 yards in the regular season. I would believe Craig's running lanes are opened up with the constant threat of Franklin's aerial attack this year.



Grizzlies' senior defensive lineman David O'Rourke (43)



Franklin's 3-4 defensive scheme is centered around this season's HCAC Defensive MVP, David O'Rourke. The senior 6'2" 240lb defensive lineman led his conference with nine sacks, and finished fourth in the HCAC with 11 tackles for loss. As a team, Franklin is ranked fifth in the conference in total defense (359.3 ypg) and second in scoring defense (22.3 ppg). Along with O'Rourke, there are six other Grizzlies that made All-HCAC including Wes Kaminski (DL), Zach Ruark (DB), Zack Corpe (DB), Jordan Segner (LB), Scott Moore (LB) and Tyler Huls (DB). Both Ruark and Huls lead the team with three interceptions a piece. The 6'0" 205lb sophomore Moore leads the team with 86 total tackles (60 solo) and seven pass break-ups. Along with O'Rourke, Moore has spent a good deal of time in the opponents' backfield this year with 10 tackles for loss. Despite the inundation of individual awards on defense, I was surprised by the Grizzlies' fifth-ranked defense (out of nine) in its conference. However, that might have something to do with Franklin playing Whitewater earlier in the season where they gave up 473 yards. But still, I expected better defensive numbers from Franklin.



One thing that impressed me about the Grizzlies' fans is that they don't mess around when it comes to tailgating. You know you're serious about pregame parking lot festivities when you have your own T-shirts. I remember last season in the 2010 playoffs when the Grizzlies came to Whitewater. There were one or two huge custom-made grills that had to have been towed all the way from Franklin, IN. That's over 300 miles with grill attached to you trailer hitch!!!! Until that day I thought I had a sweet gas grill that folds up and stows nicely in my trunk. That was until I saw this beastly thing from Franklin that looks like it cooked those ribs that Fred Flintstone ordered at the Bedrock Drive-In. One of those grills was painted blue with a sweet Franklin symbol on the side of it. After gawking at this thing for what seemed like an hour, I sheepishly looked down at my grill which, in comparison, now looked like I was cooking my burgers in glofied pizza oven.

2011 Statistics (National Rank)

Franklin Rushing Offense: 157.0 ypg (102)
Whitewater Rushing Defense: 79.9 ypg (9)

Franklin Passing Offense: 314.3 ypg (7)
Whitewater Passing Defense: 178.3 ypg (81)

Franklin Total Offense: 471.3 ypg (11)
Whitewater Total Defense: 258.2 ypg (15)

Franklin Rushing Defense: 142.2 ypg (97)
Whitewater Rushing Offense: 231.7 ypg (23)

Franklin Passing Defense: 206.7 ypg (157)
Whitewater Passing Offense: 221.4 ypg (76)

Franklin Total Defense: 349.0 ypg (123)
Whitewater Total Offense: 453.4 ypg (21)

Whitewater's Second-Round Games (Since 2005)
2005 - UWW over St. John's, 34-7
2006 - UWW over La Crosse, 24-21
2007 - UWW over North Central, 59-28
2008 - UWW over Willamette, 30-27
2009 - UWW over Illinois Wesleyan, 45-7
2010 - UWW over Trine, 45-31

If the Warhawks can keep this high-powered Franklin offense in check - like they did earlier in the season - Whitewater should find themselves moving on to the next round. Considering how mediocre the Grizzlies' defense has been this year, I don't see how they are going to slow down Levell Coppage and Matt Blanchard on Saturday. Pound the rock, eat up the clock, keep West off the field, then onto the third round the Warhawks go. I believe this game should play out similar to the 2007 second-round game against NCC.

2011 All WIAC Team

Player of the Year: Levell Coppage of Whitewater
George Chryst Coach of the Year: Lance Leipold of Whitewater
Max Sparger Scholar-Athlete: Greg Klingelhutz of River Falls
First Team Offense
Name, School, Year, Position, Height, Weight, Hometown (High School)
Jake Wiederholt, Platteville, Senior, Tight End, 6-6, 266, Fennimore, Wis.
Matt Blanchard, Whitewater, Senior, Quarterback, 6-3, 225, Lake Zurich, Ill.
Levell Coppage, Whitewater, Senior, Running Back, 5-9, 190, Oak Park, Ill.
Taylor Edwards, River Falls, Senior, Running Back, 6-1, 208, Janesville, Wis. (Parker)
Ben Hertrampf, La Crosse, Sophomore, Running Back, 5-11, 210, Fennimore, Wis.
Garrie Fox, Oshkosh, Senior, Wide Receiver, 5-11, 185, Madison, Wis. (Edgewood)
Tyler Huber, Whitewater, Junior, Wide Receiver, 6-2, 195, Mukwonago, Wis. (North Prairie)
Joel Yogerst, River Falls, Senior, All-Purpose, 5-11, 223, Richfield, Wis. (Slinger)
Logan Allemand, Whitewater, Senior, Offensive Line, 6-3, 311, Kenosha, Wis. (Tremper)
Tyler Butzler, Stout, Senior, Offensive Line, 6-5, 310, Tomah, Wis.
Grant Malmquist, Stevens Point, Senior, Offensive Line, 6-6, 295, Middleton, Wis.
John Nicholas, Oshkosh, Senior, Offensive Line, 6-5, 285, Oneida, Wis. (Seymour)
Matt Withrow, Eau Claire, Senior, Offensive Line, 6-4, 281, Platteville, Wis.
Eric Allen, Oshkosh, Senior, Center, 5-10, 285, Markesan, Wis.
Christian Hallingstad, La Crosse, Junior, Punter, 5-10, 170, Cumberland, Wis. (Rice Lake)
Eric Kindler, Whitewater, Sophomore, Kicker, 6-0, 179, Germantown, Wis.
Greg Klingelhutz, River Falls, Senior, Return Specialist, 5-9, 188, Chanhassen, Minn. (Holy Family)

Second Team Offense
Austin Goetsch, Eau Claire, Junior, Tight End, 6-1, 227, Waunakee, Wis.
Nate Wara, Oshkosh, Junior, Quarterback, 6-2, 205, Oshkosh, Wis. (North)
Eric Brown, Stout, Junior, Running Back, 5-10, 195, St. Paul, Minn. (Arlington)
Cole Myhra, Oshkosh, Sophomore, Running Back, 5-11, 205, Menomonee Falls, Wis.
Darin Blaser, Platteville, Senior, Wide Receiver, 6-3, 197, Aledo, Ill.
David Goodman, Eau Claire, Senior, Wide Receiver, 6-1, 182, Neenah, Wis.
Justin Budiac, Oshkosh, Senior, All-Purpose, 5-8, 190, Mukwonago, Wis.
Adam Cook, Platteville, Senior, Offensive Line, 6-2, 260, Morrison, Ill.
Colton Friemuth, Platteville, Junior, Offensive Line, 6-4, 248, South Beloit, Ill. (North Boone)
Joe Gottmer, River Falls, Senior, Offensive Line, 6-1, 270, Hayward, Wis.
Ryan Olson, Whitewater, Senior, Offensive Line, 6-3, 294, Stoughton, Wis.
Ben Pagel, La Crosse, Junior, Offensive Line, 5-11, 270, Appleton, Wis. (East)
Grant Weltzin, Stout, Senior, Offensive Line, 6-2, 260, Cadott, Wis.
Paul Santi, Eau Claire, Junior, Center, 6-1, 282, Kingsford, Mich.
Zak Brinkman, Platteville, Senior, Punter, 6-2, 214, Cassville, Wis.
Zach Litchfield, Platteville, Sophomore, Kicker, 6-1, 206, Waupaca, Wis.
Charlie Weissman, Oshkosh, Senior, Return Specialist, 6-0, 205, Colgate (Hartford)

Honorable Mention Offense
Jason Ford, Whitewater, Senior, Tight End, 6-2, 245, Palatine, Ill. (Fremd)
Mike Mullins, Stevens Point, Senior, Tight End, 6-4, 230, Appleton, Wis. (East)
Josh Peterson, Stout, Junior, Tight End, 6-3, 225, Cedar Grove, Wis. (Cedar Grove-Belgium)
Austin Neu, Eau Claire, Junior, Quarterback, 6-1, 200, Iron Ridge, Wis. (Hustisford)
Tony Bilderback, La Crosse, Sophomore, Wide Receiver, 6-3, 195, Whitewater, Wis.
Mike O’Connell, Eau Claire, Junior, Wide Receiver, 5-10, 168, Eau Claire, Wis. (Regis)
John Wahlstrom, River Falls, Junior, Wide Receiver, 5-11, 177, Hastings, Minn.
Caleb Voss, Oshkosh, Sophomore, Wide Receiver, 6-2, 195, Van Dyne, Wis. (Winnebago Lutheran)
David Goebel, Stout, Sophomore, All-Purpose, 6-2, 230, Minnetonka, Minn.
Bernie Tamsett, Whitewater, Junior, All-Purpose, 6-0, 225, Waterford, Wis. (Union)
Lee Vlasak, Platteville, Junior, All-Purpose, 5-11, 212, Blanchardville, Wis. (Pecatonica)
Brandon Peter, Oshkosh, Junior, Offensive Line, 6-2, 275, Allenton, Wis. (Kewaskum)
Ross Schulz, La Crosse, Junior, Offensive Line, 6-5, 300, Bloomington, Minn. (Kennedy)
Joe Gerber, Stout, Junior, Center, 6-2, 255, Minneapolis, Minn. (Totino-Grace)
Kris Rosholt, Whitewater, Senior, Punter, 6-4, 231, Reedsburg, Wis.
Jered Fohrman, Stevens Point, Senior, Kicker, 5-10, 185, Stevens Point, Wis. (SPASH)
Chad Roscoe, Platteville, Senior, Return Specialist, 5-6, 170, Aurora, Ill. (Central Catholic)

First Team Defense
Casey Casper, Whitewater, Senior, Defensive Line, 6-3, 250, Dousman, Wis. (Kettle Moraine)
Jimmy Hall, Eau Claire, Junior, Defensive Line, 6-4, 268, Howards Grove, Wis.
Ryan Immel, La Crosse, Senior, Defensive Line, 6-4, 225, Lomira, Wis.
Corey Marks, Platteville, Junior, Defensive Line, 6-3, 240, New Lenox, Ill. (Lincoln-Way Central)
Vince Sciano, Oshkosh, Senior, Defensive Line, 6-5, 235, Greendale, Wis.
Greg Arnold, Whitewater, Senior, Linebacker, 6-1, 240, Big Bend, Wis. (Mukwonago)
Taylor Goodman, Oshkosh, Junior, Linebacker, 6-0, 220, South Wayne, Wis. (Black Hawk)
Ryan Pearcy, Stout, Senior, Linebacker, 5-11, 205, Plover, Wis. (SPASH)
Nick Snyder, Platteville, Junior, Linebacker, 6-1, 220, Mt. Morris, Ill. (Oregon)
Derek Dreher, La Crosse, Senior, Defensive Back, 6-2, 205, Verona, Wis.
Ryan McWethy, Platteville, Junior, Defensive Back, 6-1, 215, Oregon, Ill.
Joe Mleziva, Stevens Point, Senior, Defensive Back, 6-0, 205, Casco (Luxemburg-Casco)
Noah Timm, Whitewater, Junior, Defensive Back, 5-11, 177, Two Rivers, Wis.

Second Team Defense
Brent Aaron, Oshkosh, Senior, Defensive Line, 6-3, 285, Sussex, Wis. (Hamilton)
Jake Hohlstein, Whitewater, Junior, Defensive Line, 6-1, 280, Portage, Wis.
Jake Keeser, Whitewater, Senior, Defensive Line, 6-0, 240, Fort Atkinson, Wis.
Nicholas Matthews, La Crosse, Senior, Defensive Line, 6-3, 290, Brookfield, Wis. (Central)
Andrew Thompson, Oshkosh, Junior, Defensive Line, 6-3, 240, Greendale, Wis.
Ryan Cortez, Whitewater, Sophomore, Linebacker, 6-0, 210, Palatine, Ill.
Trevor Fiege, Stout, Senior, Linebacker, 5-10, 215, Menomonie, Wis.
Jack Leahy, La Crosse, Junior, Linebacker, 6-0, 210, Hartland, Wis. (Arrowhead)
Andy Neumann, Eau Claire, Senior, Linebacker, 6-1, 228, Germantown, Wis.
Jack Breese, Oshkosh, Senior, Defensive Back, 6-0, 200, Kewaskum, Wis.
Aaron Kobes, Stout, Senior, Defensive Back, 6-1, 210, Two Rivers, Wis. (Mishicot)
Charlie Stueck, Oshkosh, Senior, Defensive Back, 5-9, 185, Clintonville, Wis.
Ryan Wenkman, Whitewater, Junior, Defensive Back, 5-10, 184, Wisconsin Dells, Wis.

Honorable Mention Defense
Ryan Bartsch, River Falls, Senior, Defensive Line, 6-0, 230, Cameron, Wis.
Sean Graham, Eau Claire, Sophomore, Linebacker, 6-0, 207, Hales Corners, Wis. (Whitnall)
Curtis Krump, Stevens Point, Senior, Linebacker, 6-0, 225, Hankinson, N.D.
Nate Smits, River Falls, Junior, Linebacker, 6-2, 208, Hudson, Wis.
Jacob Zilbar, Platteville, Freshman, Linebacker, 6-0, 208, Tampa, Fla. (Armwood)
Matt Ainsworth, River Falls, Senior, Defensive Back, 6-1, 175, Maple Grove, Minn. (Osseo)
Jason Brenner, Stout, Senior, Defensive Back, 6-0, 190, Menomonie, Wis.
Colton Zimmerman, Stevens Point, Junior, Defensive Back, 5-10, 185, Iola, Wis. (Iola-Scandinavia)

All-Sportsmanship Team
Ben Van Geffen, Eau Claire, Senior, Offensive Line, 5-10, 273, Shiocton, Wis.
Bret Galligan, La Crosse, Senior, Defensive Line, 5-11, 250, Campbellsport, Wis.
Wesley Price, Oshkosh, Senior, Wide Receiver, 5-11, 185, San Mateo, Calif. (Hillsdale)
Nick Anderson, Platteville, Junior, Quarterback, 6-4, 208, Sycamore, Ill.
John Schimenz, River Falls, Junior, Running Back, 5-8, 192, Brown Deer, Wis.
Mahamdou Barti, Stevens Point, Senior, Offensive Line, 6-3, 290, Oshkosh, Wis. (North)
Jason Brenner, Stout, Senior, Defensive Back, 6-0, 190, Menomonie, Wis.
Jared Kiesow, Whitewater, Senior, Defensive Back, 5-10, 186, Horicon, Wis.

First-Round Matchup - Albion College

Albion College

The Albion Britons finished its regular season with a 6-4 record, while going 6-0 in the MIAA. The Britons put an end to Trine's three-year conference championship run, dating back to 2008. Albion's last trip to the post season was back in 2005 after they won the MIAA. However, they lost in the first round to Wabash (20-38). I was interested to learn that Albion has a Stagg Bowl victory under its belt when they beat Washington and Jefferson (38-15) in 1994 for the national championship. To get to the Stagg Bowl they knocked off defending national champs Mount Union in the semifinals.

This season Albion ran the table in its conference, but failed to record a win against non-conference opponents. This was partly because the Britons filled out its 2011 schedule by booking matchups against competitive programs in Wheaton, Stevens Point and DePauw. I was very impressed they went down that road rather than scheduling "cream puff" programs to enhance its win total. Their other remaining non conference game was at a Division I FCS Butler team - which is a non-scholarship team in case you're wondering. Butler football is a member of the Pioneer Football League, which doesn't offer up scholarships. For WIAC fans it's easy to spot the common opponent that Albion and Whitewater shared this year. When Stevens Point traveled to Albion earlier in the season, the Britons lost to the Pointers 14-3, while the Warhawks beat them 31-16 in Whitewater.



Clinton Orr #30

What Levell Coppage is to Whitewater, Clinton Orr has been the same to Albion the past couple of seasons. The Britons are a team that's led by their All-American running back in Orr. In 2010, the sophomore was named Third Team All American with an impressive 1396 yards rushing and scoring 16 total touchdowns. Going into the 2011 season he, along with Coppage, was as a preseason First Team All American. Orr went on to finish this regular season rushing for 1000 yards, scoring seven total touchdowns and was named the MIAA Offensive MVP. However, against Stevens Point, Orr was held to just 19 yards on 15 carries, while Coppage had 245 yards on 29 carries against the same defense. This should put things in perspective for you on the level of competition Orr faces in the MIAA, compared to what Coppage deals with in the WIAC.

Lorenzo Reese

On defense, the Britons have two very talented and athletic corners that have given the MIAA fits all season long. The secondary is led by another All American in cornerback Chris Greenwood. Last year, as a junior, Greenwood was named Second Team All American. At the start of the 2011 season the senior was named preseason First Team All American. During the regular season this year Greenwood accumulated 26.5 total tackles, two interceptions (one returned for a TD), six pass deflections and was name the MIAA Defensive MVP. Greenwood's counterpart at the other cornerback position is Lorenzo Reese, who has been having an outstanding season of his own. He leads the team with five interceptions and seven pass deflections. Reese was named second team all-MIAA.

2011 Statistics (National Rank)
Albion Rushing Offense: 138.2 ypg (143)
Whitewater Rushing Defense: 82.9 ypg (10)

Albion Passing Offense: 226.3 ypg (71)
Whitewater Passing Defense: 176.5 ypg (80)

Albion Total Offense: 364.5 ypg (99)
Whitewater Total Defense: 259.4 ypg (18)

Albion Rushing Defense: 101 ypg (25)
Whitewater Rushing Offense: 228.9 ypg (24)

Albion Passing Defense: 199.9 ypg (141)
Whitewater Passing Offense: 222.3 ypg (75)

Albion Total Defense: 300.9 ypg (43)
Whitewater Total Offense: 451.2 ypg (24)

Whitewater's First-Round Games (Since 2005)
2005 - UWW over Central, 34-14
2006 - UWW over St. Norbert, 59-17
2007 - UWW over Capital, 34-14
2008 - UWW over St. John's, 37-7
2009 - UWW over Lakeland, 70-7
2010 - UWW over Franklin, 52-21

When this is all said and done, I believe this 2011 First-round game will fall into the St. John's category as far as margin of win.

PLAYOFFS!!!!!

With the playoff brackets released this past Sunday afternoon, it came as no surprise on where the WIAC teams fell (or didn't fall). By winning the WIAC, Whitewater became the lone WIAC representative in this year's playoff field for the third straight season with an automatic Pool A bid. Stevens Point, in 2008, was the last WIAC team not named Whitewater to make the playoffs. With the season winding down, it appeared Oshkosh had a golden opportunity for a Pool C bid, but an upset loss at home against La Crosse crushed their post-season hopes. Looking at the teams that received at-large bids this year, it would have been a lock for a two-loss Titans team to get in - if only they would have beaten the Eagles. I'm almost certain of this considering  the selection committee gave one of the six Pool C spots to a two-loss St. John Fisher team. The Cardinals' two losses were against Hobart and Salisbury, both of which made the field on 32. St. John Fisher's resume would have paled in comparison to Oshkosh's, as its only two losses would have been against Mount Union and Whitewater. Not to mention Oshkosh had the stronger strength of schedule and competes in a tougher conference. St. John Fisher should be making a Thank You card out to coach Joel Dettwiler of La Crosse.
 

Looks like the NCAA is opening up its pocket book a little more this postseason, as they undoubtedly will be spending a bit more than usual for teams' traveling expenses. In the past, the committee has done its best grouping teams together that are in close proximity of each other when creating a regional quadrant. For instance, the teams in the East all usually fall in the same region/quadrant, so traveling expenses is kept to a minimum. The same can be said for the North, West and South in previous years. This year it appears teams from the East are sprinkled all over the bracket to the point where there is no longer a clear cut North, East, South and West region anymore. Also, in this new realignment, the bracket seems to tilt towards Mount Union's side when looking at the distribution of the top 10 nationally ranked teams. On one side of the bracket there are the following top 10 teams: Mount Union (2), Mary Hardin-Baylor (4), Linfield (5), North Central (6), Wesley (7), Cal Lutheran (8) and Wabash (9). While the other side just has Whitewater (1), St. Thomas (3) and Salisbury (10). If I'm a Mount fan I would be complaining almost as much as Whitewater fans did last season when they got hosed by getting a number two seed.



Offensive line at the 2010 Stagg Bowl

This is Whitewater's seventh straight trip to the post season. The Warhawks were rewarded with the number one overall seed, and was placed in a region that gives them a great opportunity to make it back to the semi-finals. I say that because the programs they typically face in the playoffs, before the Stagg Bowl, are all positioned on the other side of the bracket this year. I'm referring to teams like: NCC, Wabash, Linfield, Mary Hardin-Baylor, NCC and Wesley. These are all very good teams UWW doesn't have to worry about - unless they meet in Salem, Va. I believe this is a huge break for Lance Leipold's team. In my opinion, this season's Whitewater squad hasn't looked quite as dominant as previous years' teams. So, if they did have to play two or three teams from the list of programs above, I'm not confident UWW can get by them this time around. Then again, Mount Union has been very unMount-like in its past couple of games too. Can this be attributed to other programs finally catching up to them, or is it the fact that both UWW and UMU seem to be battling through some key injuries? I think it's more to do with the latter, however NCC and St. Thomas are two programs on the rise to look out for the next few years. Plus, Whitewater has a brand new offensive line this year that has played fairly well. However, it's almost impossible to ask them to replicate last season's line that consisted of two All Americans, so I'm probably being a little hard on them. This season the offensive line has only given up five QB sacks on the year. That may be a little misleading considering if it wasn't for the elusiveness of athletic quarterback Matt Blanchard, that number maybe a bit higher. At times the senior seems to scrambling a lot more this year than he had to last season, which was expected from a young offensive line.

Given the success the Warhawks have experienced the past six post-seasons, you can't help but look at potential matchups down the road. After Albion, it appears the Warhawks might have to face an all-too familiar Franklin team. Leipold faced the Grizzlies in the first round of last year's playoffs, as well as earlier this year in a regular season game. Both games UWW won convincingly. If Whitewater advances to the quarterfinals, the Warhawks will most likely face Kean (12th in the polls) or Salisbury (10th). I'm leaning towards Kean, since the Cougars are battle tested with wins over Wesley, Montclair State and Cortland State this year. However, Salisbury does bring a very dangerous triple option that UWW hasn't seen yet. Then in the semi-finals it might be safe to assume that St. Thomas will come out of it's region, even if they have to win at Delaware Valley to advance. This will be a very tough game for the Warhawks. The Tommies have been showing signs of becoming the next "purple power" in DIII football (along side UWW and UMU). A win at Whitewater and a trip to the Stagg Bowl, might just put them in that discussion.

On a side note, heading into the playoffs this year, the WIAC has the second highest winning percentage (32-13 .711) in the post season, right behind Mount Union OAC.

Inside the Box Scores

WIAC Matchups

Weekly Wrap-Up
Just when you think you have La Crosse figured out, something like this happens. After winning in Oshkosh two weeks ago, you think it would be safe to assume they could handle a winless River Falls team at home, right? WRONG!!! The Eagles now becomes "that" team, like Eau Claire was last season, in giving the Falcons it first win of the season. You have to give River Falls' coach Matt Walker and his boys a lot of credit though. With five minutes left in the fourth quarter, they put together an epic 96-yard touchdown drive to tie the game to force overtime. The Falcons won in OT, 28-21. In Eau Claire, Whitewater won an out-right WIAC title beating the Blugolds, 37-22. The Warhawks' Levell Coppage rushed for 236 yards in the game, giving him over 1000 yards rushing against Eau Claire in his career. Platteville won in Menomonie, 27-17, which I dubbed the Game of the Week this time a week ago. The Pioneers scored three touchdowns on its first four possessions, which was more than enough to beat Stout. Finally, in Stevens Point, Oshkosh's offense took two-weeks worth of frustration out on the Pointers. The Titans unleashed 684 yards of total offense, while scoring 38 point as they won, 38-24. On a side note, all WIAC road teams won last week for the first time all season.

Game of the Week

River Falls Falcons (1-8, 1-5)                                              Eau Claire Blugolds (4-5, 2-2)

                     
                               VS





Falcons

River Falls played, far and away, it best game of the season last week. I'm not just saying that because they won, but that definitely helped. The Falcons' quarterback B.J. Letourneau (WIAC's Offensive Player of the Week) had career highs in passing yards (257) and touchdowns thrown (3) Saturday against La Crosse. Including a HUGE 96-yard touchdown drive to tie up the game and force over time. That game-winning drive came out of nowhere considering the Falcons rank just about last in all most all offensive categories. I had no idea coach Walker had it in his team to accomplish that - on the road, no less. We all know about Taylor Edwards and their running game, as the senior has been one of the premier backs in the WIAC this season. But, in fact, it's been River Falls' passing game thats gaining confidence late in the season. Letourneau has now thrown for over 220 yards in each of the last three games. Which is a definite improvement, considering he only threw for over 160 yards once in his first five games. Also, during this three-game stretch, the senior has thrown for five touchdowns, compared to only three over his first five games. Other than Letourneau, cornerback Mike Cano and kicker Chad Blair were also named WIAC Players of the Week (defense and special teams). Cano had two picks and eight tackles (seven solo). His second interception came in overtime to seal the win. Blair earned his honors by kicking four extra points. Four extra points? Must have been a slow day for special teams around the WIAC. That's like me being named employee of the week because I showed up to work on time. Moving on......If coach Walker can continue with his program's new-found success in the passing game, then that will make it that much easier for Edwards to tear apart the defense. I expect Edwards to have a big Senior Day this weekend. The Blugolds come to River Falls with the third worst rushing defense in the WIAC, giving up over 173 yards per game. On defense, despite giving up the second most rushing yards, River Falls might be able to slow down the Blugolds' ground game as Eau Claire ranks dead last in rushing in the WIAC. The bad news is River Falls is at the bottom of the conference in defensive passing yards. Which could be a disaster considering the Blugolds offer up the best passing offense in the WIAC. If the Falcons want to make it two in a row, they must get Edwards going with the rushing attack, eat up the clock, and keep Eau Claire's high-powered passing offense on the sideline - where they can't score.

Blugolds

I really expected Eau Claire to finish towards the top of the WIAC this season. I knew they had the capability with their passing attack, however its running game really underachieved this season. Maybe they are a year away from putting it all together and making a run at a conference title, as many of their key offensive position players will be returning next season. After starting the season winning three of its first four, they have now dropped four of its last five games. I would think they have a good chance at finishing the year as a .500 team, considering they already beat River Falls 38-17 earlier in the season. It was Senior Day last season in River Falls when the Blugolds handed River Falls it first, and only, win of the year in 2010. I highly doubt coach Todd Glaser will let his seniors down on Eau Claire's Senior Day this year. As long as he has Austin Neu slinging the ball down the field, Glaser should win this game Saturday. Neu is finishing up a great junior season, he leads the WIAC in passing with almost 250 yards per game. The Blugolds also have three different players in the top 10 in receptions per game: Mike O'Connell (4.4), David Goodman (3.89) and Austin Goetsch (3.78). Unfortunately, this has been an extremely one-dimensional offense all season long. A part from being the top passing offense in the conference, Glaser's team ranks in the WIAC cellar in rushing. However, this week they might find that passing the ball may open up running lanes for big Joel Sweeney and Matt Olson. Plus, it certainly helps that River Falls gives up over 183 rushing yards per game. For a team that passes the ball with such efficiency, it's no wonder that Eau Claire is second in the conference in converting third downs. They do so at a rate of 45.4 percent per game. Although, on defense, they haven't been fairing quite as well. The defense has been allowing opposing offensives to pick up 47.5 percent of its third downs, worst among WIAC teams. This game consists of two of the worst scoring defenses in the conference this season, which could make for a high-scoring affair. River Falls gives up over 34 ppg, while Eau Claire has been allowing over 23 ppg. If this game comes down to a shoot out, it could play right into the hands of Eau Claire. Coach Glaser has the sort of offense that can advance the ball down the field with ease, and strike quickly.

Stevens Point Pointers (4-5, 2-4) @ Platteville Pioneers (6-3, 4-2)
The Pioneers have a great opportunity to solidify itself as the number two team in the conference. This program has shown, when healthy, they can put a very strong football team onto the field each Saturday. Platteville can close out its season with four consecutive wins against a Stevens Point team that desperately would like to finish .500 on the year. As I mentioned numerous times previously on my blog, the Pointers started out the year with high expectations, as they were ranked 23rd in the country in week one. With a loss last week against Oshkosh, they guaranteed themselves a losing conference record. One interesting aspect of the game will be how Platteville responds if Stevens Point enters it red zone. The Pioneers own the WIAC's best red zone defense. They allow teams to only score 68 percent of the time when opponents cross its 20-yard line. However, the Pointers bring the conference's best red zone offense to the game, as they score 87 percent of the time. I'll be interested to see which side gives.

La Crosse Eagles (3-6, 3-4) @ Whitewater Wisconsin (9-0, 6-0)
To start the season it was interesting to see that these two programs were selected to play each other twice. Of course, that was based on the effort to save on traveling costs, as each WIAC team would have to play a conference opponent as a non-conference game. It's interesting because these two are considered each other's rival. Coincidence that these two were scheduled to play twice? Probably not. The Warhawks won the first meeting to start the season, 26-7 in La Crosse. It's tough to tell which Jekyll and Hyde football team will show up in Whitewater. The La Crosse team that won at Oshkosh, or the La Crosse team that lost at home against winless River Falls? Regardless, Eagles running back Ben Hertrampf will be suited up as he's slowly been climbing the rushing leaderboard. The sophomore is now third in the WIAC, averaging over 102 yards per game. It'll be an intriguing matchup against a Warhawk team that gives up only 84 yards per game on the ground - best in the WIAC. Even though the Warhawks already have the outright conference title in hand, they prefer to finish the regular season undefeated to possibly ensure themselves home field throughout the playoffs.

Stout Blue Devils (5-4, 3-3) @ Oshkosh Titans (6-3, 4-2)
Even though over the past few weeks the Blue Devils' defense has come to life, they are going to have its hands full against a dangerous Oshkosh offense Saturday. Titans' quarterback Nate Wara is third in the WIAC with 13 touchdowns thrown, as well as fourth in the conference in rushing with 63.8 yards per game. Wara's favorite target has been the athletic wide receiver Garrie Fox. The senior is second in the conference averaging close to 62 yards per game. Stout relies heavily on it defense to win games, as the offense has scored the least amount of points in the WIAC (16.1 ppg). When the defense is on its game its tough for opponents to get on the scoreboard this season. However, this year Clayt Birmingham's defense has been a little inconsistent. They show glimpses of greatness at times, as well as being very passive. The program currently ranks third-to-last in total defense giving up almost 371 yards per game. Birmingham's boys will need to play their best defense game of the year to knock the Titans this weekend.

Here's to the final week of WIAC football, hope it's a good one....Cheers!

Inside the Box Scores

WIAC Stadiums (1 of 8): Oshkosh

J.J. Keller Field at Titan Stadium

Statistics

Capacity: 9800

Built: 1970 (Renovated in 2004)
Surface: Field Turf

Titan Stadium (and most other UW-Oshkosh athletic fields) was built across the Fox river from the university. Which makes it a bit of a task for students to attend and/or participate in sporting events. However, the university came up with a great idea of offering up a free shuttle buss service to and from all games for the students. From what I saw, the service starts a couple of hours before kickoff, which gives students the opportunity to tailgate prior to the game, if they choose. Then, of course, at the conclusion of the game, the shuttle bus makes numerous trips back across the river taking them back to campus. If it wasn't for this service, I'm guessing the students' section would be very minimal inside J.J. Keller Field. Speaking of the students' section, I was very impressed with their enthusiasm during the game I attended against Whitewater. I had read a lot about the UWO's Black and Yellows, which is an organization whose sole purpose is to get the university excited about attending athletic games. Personally, I think it's a great idea and all other student bodies around the WIAC should follow suit. I got a kick out of their choreographed songs, chants, body paint and outfits....reminds a scaled down version of the Cameron Crazies at Duke University basketball games. I believe one of my amateur videos below has them in action during the football team's introduction.

The football field is named after J.J. Keller & Associates, Inc. The Neenah, WI based company helps other businesses with safety and regulatory compliance. CEO J.J. Keller and President Robert L. Keller donated $1 million on behalf of their company to the university. The generous donation is the largest in the campus' 133-year history. Why Oshkosh? Well, for starters, the President was a 1969 graduate of the university. Also, hundreds of associates that are employed at the company are graduates of UWO. The gift also supports the Oshkosh Sports Complex Capital Campaign, a $5.7-million project involving UW-Oshkosh, Oshkosh Area School District and Unified Catholic Schools.

The stadium itself is made up of one large grandstand on the west side of the field (with no seats on the east side). So the both fans (home and away) share the same stands, which is interesting to see. A running track surrounds the field which is typically seen inside football stadiums. The playing field is not centered inside the track, but rather sits closer to the grandstand, improving visibility for the fans. I was really impressed with the jumbo tron/monitor on the digital scoreboard behind the south endzone. The replays and graphics are extremely clear for everyone to see. It was wise building it facing north, so the sun doesn't create a glare on the screen. The sound system was also equally as impressive. You can tell a lot of money was put into the scoreboard and sound system to make the atmosphere enjoyable for all fans. Speaking of the scoreboard, long-time scoreboard operator, Ben Zalas, will retire after 41 years of service following this season. The 89 year old works in the booth making sure everything from first downs, times outs and game score is accurate. Zalas will turn 90 on Nov. 27. Overall, I thought the general cleanliness of Titan Stadium was above average. The infrastructure of the stadium seemed relatively new and not run down. I'm guessing a lot of work was done to the entire stadium when it was renovated in 2004 - and it shows.

The tailgating scene is spread out around the complex. Fans of both schools seem to fill up the stadium's parking lot, as well as parking lots of local businesses west of the stadium. We paid $3 a space in a bank parking lot (across the street from the stadium) which is pretty reasonable. However, I wish they had more portable bathrooms available for the tailgaters. So the lack off public bathrooms outside the stadium made the bushes we parked next to very inviting.


**Warning**
Before indulging in these videos I have to give a little disclaimer for everyone. This was my first time attempting to take a video file and upload onto a webpage. Originally, I wanted to condense all eight clips onto one video link, but I couldn't figure out how to do it without compromising the quality of the video. So going forward, I'll do a better job of recording just a couple of longer clips, rather than 8-10 short ones. I'll also look to improve my technique. You might not realize this, but I was actually standing on solid ground when recording. So if you get queasy...I apologize. You know what they say: The first pancake never turns out the way you hope.

Also, if you have any requests on what you would like recorded when I make these stadium visits. Please let me know. Thanks!

WIAC Matchups

Weekly Wrap-up
With Whitewater winning its homecoming against Stevens Point, and La Crosse shocking the WIAC world and winning at Oshkosh, the Warhawks are guaranteed an automatic playoff bid and at least a share of the WIAC crown. This gives Whitewater seven straight WIAC titles - a conference record for consecutive championships. Also, Levell Coppage became the WIAC's all-time leading rusher as he ran for 245 yards and three touchdowns as the 'Hawks beat Stevens Point, 31-16. In Oshkosh, La Crosse put a crude end to the Titans' playoff hopes, as the Eagles pulled off the upset of the year in the WIAC, stunning Oshkosh, 30-24. Despite owning the stat sheet, River Falls came up short in earning its first win of the season. Stout continues to improve its defense as they beat the Falcons, 16-10 in River Falls. Behind a healthy Nick Anderson, Platteville beat a strong Eau Claire team, 31-21. Anderson threw for four touchdowns and 235 yards.

Game of the Week

Stout Blue Devils (5-3, 3-2)                                                Platteville Pioneers (5-3, 3-2)

                              
                    VS




Stout

Over their first six games of the season the Blue Devils' defense was surrendering over 27 points per game. Which isn't exactly what coach Clayt Birmingham is used to seeing from his defense. During that time they went 3-3 (1-2 in conference). Then something must have clicked, and became sick of offensives running (and passing) them up and down the field on a regular basis. Because over the next two weeks Stout has only given up 10 total points, including a shutout-win at home verse La Crosse. Granted the two teams they beat weren't the best offensive teams in the conference (La Crosse and River Falls). But still, Birgmingham's defensive unit is gaining some much-needed confidence heading into Saturday's game against a strong offensive Platteville team. This will be Stout's last home game of the season (Senior Day), and the seniors will like nothing more than to put forth another strong defensive game, one last time in front of the Menomonie crowd. The strongest aspect of the Blue Devil's defense has been their bend-but-don't-break mentality. When the pressure is on in the red zone, the Devils allow their opponents to score (TD or FG) only 66 percent of the time (best in the WIAC). Other than their red zone defense, Stout has been excelling in stopping the other team's drives and getting its offense back on the field. They are allowing opposing offensives to convert just 33.6 percent of it third downs, which is second best in the WIAC. Birmingham's boys has the second most sacks in the conference with 20 this season. Which should make for a very interesting matchup considering the Pioneers have only given up nine sacks on the year (also second best in the WIAC). Its linebacker, Ryan Pearcy, has been an absolute beast in the middle of the field for the Blue Devils. The senior, who leads the conference in tackles, has been averaging 11 per game (88 total, 39 solo). Not to be outdone, defensive back Aaron Kobes seems to spend just as much time in the opponent's back field than he does down field defending the pass. The senior has 2.5 sacks, and 8.5 tackles for loss (second in the WIAC).....which is very impressive given that he plays in the secondary. Offensively is where the Blue Devils have had their struggles this year. They rank juuuuust ahead of River Falls at the bottom of the conference scoring 16.0 points per game (UWRF has been averaging 15.9). Stout's problems don't stem from them not being able to move the ball. But, infact, they have been averaging over 325 yards per game, which ranks them in the middle of the WIAC pack. What keeps them out of the endzone has been their inability to protect the ball. They are the only WIAC program to have a negative turnover margin (-2). Stout leads the conference in interceptions thrown with 13. Senior QB Ross Carey has accounted for nine of those, while only throwing for five touchdowns on the year. The lack of an offense is going to no doubt put A LOT of pressure on the defense to slow down a Platteville team that's put up some big numbers the past couple of weeks.

Platteville
I try to avoid selecting the same team in consecutive Game of the Weeks. However, a healthy Platteville offense (that's starting to hit it's stride), makes for an interesting matchup against a Stout team that has lately been playing some great defense. Since getting embarrassed 3-24 on its homecoming against Oshkosh, the Pioneers have now won two straight. With quarterback Nick Anderson getting healthy, they averaged over 32 points per game in the two wins. A victory this Saturday will guarantee Mike Emendorfer's team an over .500 record this season, which is something they've accomplished only once since 1992 (when they finished 6-4 in 2004). The Pioneers' offensive success has come mainly through the air this year. Platteville has been averaging over 210 passing yards per game, good enough for third in the WIAC. They are also tied with Whitewater for the most TDs thrown this year with 15. Anderson has been the third most efficient QB in the conference, as the junior has QB rating of 135.0, with nine touchdowns and only four interceptions. He has a pair of great targets at wideout, that are both having great seasons for Emendorfer. Aaron Loferski is second in the WIAC averaging 67.0 yards receiving per game, and over 20 yards per catch. Anderson's other sure handed option is Darin Blaser. The sophomore is averaging close to five receptions per game (third best in conference). One area of concern for the Pioneers has been making good on third downs, as they are only converting 33.6 percent of them (second to last in the WIAC). This is something to keep in mind, considering how successful Stout has been stopping offenses on third down this year (as discussed above). After reviewing this week's WIAC's weekly football release, I was shocked to notice that Platteville is tied with Stevens Point in the fewest points allowed this year with 19.1 per game. That's very impressive considering this program has already played the top offensive powers in the conference, they should get some much deserved credit. Last week's WIAC Defensive Athlete of the Week was Platteville's own Nick Snyder. This young linebacker had himself an afternoon finishing with a game high 11 tackles, and a pass break up last weekend. Snyder's teammate Bronzun Kyles has been doing some work on the defensive line this season. Only a sophomore, the defensive lineman has 8.5 tackles for loss - tied for second in the WIAC. The Pioneers defense has only been giving up 204 yards per game rushing, good enough for second in the conference. This is a great matchup for Emendorfer as Stout brings the third worst rushing offense to the table this weekend. Considering this game is a matchup between a good Stout defense and a good Platteville offense, the Pionners' defense could be the deciding "X" factor if they can score on Stout's defense.

Whitewater Warhawks (8-0, 5-0) @ Eau Claire Blugolds (4-4, 2-3)
If the Blugolds can manage to get inside the Warhawks 20-yard line, this season has showed us that they have a great chance of scoring. I know that might sound weird considering Whitewater is at the top of just about every category in the WIAC. However, against Whitewater, teams have had a 100% success rate of scoring when getting inside the red zone (WIAC's worst red zone defense). This stat is a little obscured considering teams have only entered the red zone seven times this season against the 'Hawks. The next closest team to have fewer opponents in its red zone is - oddly enough - Eau Claire with 19. Early in the season the Blugolds had high hopes starting off 3-0 against DIII schools, including a blow-out win at St John's. However, Todd Glaser's team has taken a turn for the worst as they now find themselves with a 4-4 record (2-3 in the WIAC). However, they still have the conference's best passing attack, averaging 240 yards per game. Led by junior quarterback Austin Neu who has 13 touchdowns and just four interceptions. Although, this might play right into the Warhawks hands (literally), as the top three interception leaders in the conference all play for Whitewater: Ryan Wenkman (4), Noah Timm (3) and Ryan Cortez (3). Regardless, the Blugolds are at home and it's Senior Day. This can be Glaser's one win that makes all the other losses easier to swallow. How many other coaches can say they beat St. John's and Whitewater in the same season?

Oshkosh Titans (5-3, 3-2) @ Stevens Point Pointers (4-4, 2-3)
If anyone claims to have foreseen La Crosse sticking it to Oshkosh, ripping a part their playoff dreams, then you my friend would be a liar. Hard to believe that a team who lead against Whitewater for the majority of the game would be outplayed (at home) by a two and five team. That's just crazy talk. I still consider the Titans one of the better 25 teams in the country, despite its recent downfalls. They still have the second highest scoring offense in the conference, averaging just over 29 ppg. However, the defense has fallen to sixth in the WIAC giving up over 344 yards per game. That's due to the fact that, outside of River Falls, the Titans give up the most rushing yards in the conference (170.6 ypg). However, as long as they have Nate Wara at quarterback, they will always have a chance to win. It's Senior Day for the Pointers, and they are just two wins away from placing head coach John Miech third on the WIAC coaches football all-time wins list. With just two games left, coach Miech will have to win out to tie Whitewater's Bob Berezowitz for third all time with 158 wins. We'll see if the Pointers' try to take advantage of the Titans' passive run defense, even if the Stevens Point ranks dead last in rushing in the WIAC. I'll be shocked if the Titans lose three straight, even with this game being at Stevens Point.

River Falls Falcons (0-8, 0-5) @ La Crosse Eagles (3-5, 2-3)
A few weeks ago I was looking at this game as golden opportunity for River Falls' Matt Walker to earn his first victory as head coach of the Falcons. However, given the fact how well the Eagles played last week in Oshkosh it's looking that coach Walker might very well be 0-9. The Eagles are slowly creeping up the leader board in rushing offense, as UWL ranks third in the WIAC with 156.5 ypg. This is not a good matchup at all for River Falls' last-ranked rushing defense in the conference, as UWL's Ben Hertrampf is fresh off his 182 yard game (and three TDs) at Oshkosh. The only chance the Falcons might have is to just keep feeding the ball to Taylor Edwards, who just needs 124 yards to hit the 1000 yard rushing mark on the season. If Walker can get Edwards going, and eat up the time of possession, the Falcons just might have a chance at stealing this game. If somehow the Falcons can do what they did against Whitewater and stop the run, the Eagles have been very susceptible to the quarterback sack this year if forced to throw. La Crosse have given up 30 sacks on the year, far away the most given up among WIAC teams. I would look for River Falls to put 8-9 guys in the box, preventing Hertrampf to get going and force La Crosse to beat them through the air....which is not the Eagles strong suite. If they can hold Levell Coppage to a season low 74 yards, the Falcons are capable of shutting down Hertrampf.

Here's to another great week of WIAC football, and hope everyone remains healthy....Cheers!