The Lawrence University football team got off to a rough start against perennial Midwest Conference powerhouses Monmouth and St. Norbert.
Away at St. Norbert last Saturday, the Vikings fell 45-3. Despite the disappointing score, there were a few bright spots for the Lawrence team. Senior Matt Frelich blocked a Lawrence-record sixth career punt and was rewarded by being named the Midwest Conference Special Teams Performer of the Week.
Frelich also led the defensive line in tackles with five. The team’s overall tackles leader for the game was junior linebacker Greg Pater, who finished with eight including a sack and another tackle for a loss.
About the game, junior Tim Bickmore said the team is “moving in a positive direction. We’re getting better each game.” He also explained that it would take time for the new offensive system to put more points on the board saying, “Once we all settle down and play our game, we should have a very explosive offense.”
This weekend, the Vikes travel to Iowa to face Grinnell College in another conference matchup. Grinnell, currently 0-3, is expected to be much weaker than St. Norbert or Monmouth, so this should be a great chance for the team to get their first win.
Bickmore explained they will be “looking to run the ball against Grinnell. Defensively [the Vikings] will have to be more consistent and more disciplined.”
The Vikes next take their home field Saturday, Oct. 3, when they will face Illinois College. Let’s get out there and support the team!
Football off to a rough start
