The Lawrence Football team traveled to Carroll University this weekend to play the second Midwest Conference (MWC) game of the season. The Carroll Pioneers came into the game in first place in the MWC, sporting an undefeated record of 5-0. They also were in the top three in the conference in nearly every statistical category, including having the best defense and the second best offense.
The Vikings knew that they had a tough task ahead of them, especially since the game was on the road. Several Vikings commented before the game that they had to be ready for the hostile environment. “They always have very vocal fans who cheer behind our bench,” commented sophomore Pip Wasserburg. “They never hesitate to let us know what they think. It’s just a part of the game.”
During the game, it was all Pioneers right from the start. On the very first drive, the Carroll defense forced a Vikings three-and-out. The Pioneers followed that up by blocking a Vikings punt attempt and returned it 32 yards for a touchdown.
The Carroll offense was then led by running back Lamont Williams, the second leading rusher in the conference, who ran for two first quarter touchdowns by breaking off runs of 50 yards and 55 yards. Carroll led 27-0 after the first quarter.
The Pioneers continued their dominance in the second quarter by intercepting a Lawrence pass and returning it for a touchdown. Lamont Williams also broke out another big run, this time for 70 yards and his third touchdown of the day. Following a few more rushing touchdowns by other players, the Pioneers held a commanding 55-0 lead at the half.
The Vikings got on the board in the fourth quarter with a 24 yard touchdown pass from quarterback Tanner Schuh to receiver Taylor Mandich. It was Mandich’s fifth touchdown of the year.
The Vikings ending up falling by a final score of 76-7. The loss moved the Vikings to 2-4 on the year with a 1-1 record in conference. Senior linebacker Brandon Taylor led the Vikings with nine tackles and Mandich led the offense with four catches for 66 yards and a touchdown.
“We can play better than we did, and we need to,” said sophomore Wes Hetcher. “It’s over. It’s done with. We need to forget this game and keep developing as a team.”
The Vikings look to get back on track this weekend as they go on the road again. This time, they will take on Macalester College, a new addition to the MWC this year, on Oct. 25.
“We look forward to the challenge that Macalester presents. We’re excited to start a new series with Macalester. Hopefully one that is dominated by Lawrence,” finished Wasserburg.