2004 Archive

Saturday, April 16, 2005

"Offense Edges Defense in Spring Game"

Playing with a point system were touchdowns were not six points and so on, the Walsh Offense edged the Defense 31-26 in the annual spring game at Fawcett Stadium today. Points were given in numerous catergories on both sides of the ball. There were many fine performances on the offensive side of the ball. Chase Hostetler (So., New, Philadelphia, OH/HS) scored the games first touchdown on a two-yard run. He rushed for 54 yards on 14 carries. Dustin Stewart (Fr., Southeast, OH/Ravenna) then scored on a 10-yard run. Stewart rushed for 58 yards on 13 carries. However, it was Antwain Reine' (Fr., Dayton, OH/Trotwood-Madison), who led all rushers with 61 yards on 15 carries. Quarterback Dan Kane (Jr., Bolivar, OH/Tusky Valley) completed 8-16 passes for 46 yards. Donel Durham (So., Pittsburgh, PA/Schenley) was the top receivcer, with four catches for 30 yards. The big play of the day was turned by the defense, when Ryan McGraw (Jr., Coshocton, OH/HS) intercepted a pass in the end zone and returned it 82 yards.

Walsh opens the 2005 season at West Liberty State College on Saturday, September 3 at 1 pm. The Cavs finished 8-3 overall lasy year and 6-1 in the Mid-States Football Association Mideast League.

Monday, March 14, 2005

Walsh's Seth McDonald dies in car accident

By JAN H. KENNEDY Repository staff writer

Story courtesy The Canton Repository

CANTON - A Walsh University football player was killed and three of his teammates were injured early Sunday in a two-car wreck in West Virginia.

Sophomore Seth McDonald, 21, a native of Frazeysburg, died at the scene. He is the third Walsh football player to die in a traffic accident in the last five years.

McDonald apparently was driving north on Interstate 77 near Ripley, said Jim Dennison, Walsh's head football coach and athletic director. McDonald might have dozed off, gone through the median and struck a southbound car, Dennison said.

Ryan Bethea, a freshman wide receiver from Naples, Fla., suffered scrapes and some broken bones, and is listed in critical but stable condition, according to his father, Greg McDonald, who talked with Dennison on Sunday night after arriving from Florida.

"Fortunately, he wasn't injured as badly as we originally thought, and doctors believe he will be OK, eventually," Dennison said.

Dennison did not know the name of the hospital to which Bethea was taken, only that it was in Huntington, W.Va. Dispatcher Nathan Adkins of the Jackson County, W.Va., Sheriff's Office refused to provide information on the wreck. He also refused to give a phone number for the coroner's investigator on duty.

A spokeswoman at Jackson County General Hospital, where all but Bethea were taken, also refused to comment. She said only someone from the administration office, which isn't open on weekends, could comment.

Junior fullback Brad Jarrett of North Ridgeville had a broken ankle, Dennison said. Jarrett and Rayshawn Kizer, a sophomore defensive back from Euclid, both were treated and released at Jackson County General Hospital, he said.

The four were returning from Florida, where they had been enjoying spring break, Dennison said. They had stayed at Bethea's home.

"McDonald was a very unselfish player who would do whatever was needed to help the team, said Dennison.

He was a defensive lineman for us his freshman year, then he moved to offensive guard this past year," he said. "We were going to move him back to defensive end this spring."

Dennison will meet with the team today to break the news. The first training sessions had been scheduled to start today in preparation for spring drills.

"We'll put that on hold now until after the services are complete," he said. "We're very family-oriented here, and we won't move forward now until we've done the right thing."

McDonald was the roommate of Randy Sistrunk, a senior on the Walsh basketball team, Dennison said. The Walsh basketball team is currently in the final four of the NAIA national championship being played at the College of the Ozarks near Branson, Mo. The team plays at 9 tonight for the right to play in the title game Tuesday night.

"It's very unusual at the college level, but there's a big relationship between our football and basketball teams," Dennison said. "I don't know how the team will react to this."

In the past five years, two other Walsh football players have been killed in accidents. Josh Zimmerman, who finished his football career at Walsh in 2000, died in a dirt bike accident in Pennsylvania on Aug. 10, 2003. Darren Dutton died in a motorcycle accident on March 22, 2000.

You can reach Repository writer Jan H. Kennedy at (330) 580-8325 or e-mail:

jan.kennedy@cantonrep.com

This story courtesy The Canton Repository

Friday, January 25, 2005

"Stark, Summit County and All-Ohio Performers Lead 2005 Walsh University Football Recruiting Class"

Walsh University Head Football Coach Jim Dennison has announced his 2005 football recruiting class. The 2005 class includes 27 incoming freshmen and four transfers. Walsh finished 8-3 overall last season and 6-1 (2nd) in the Mid-States Football Association Mideast League. Walsh competes in the NAIA (National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics.

"I am extremely pleased with out 2005 recruiting class," echoed Dennison. "Our staff did a great job of attracting skill and size. I have always believed that you start at home and work out. Our Summit/Stark County recruits are good student-athletes and very good football players."

Joe Copeland (DB, 5-11, 180, Akron North HS)
Matt Gooch (OLB, 6-3, 205, East Canton HS)
Theo Goodright (DB, 5-10, 180, Canton McKinley HS)
Michael Garden (DB, 5-9, 175, Copley HS)
Luke Kolic (OLB, 6-4, 215, Perry HS)
Craig McConnell (DB, 5-10, 185, Massillon Washington/Northern Michigan)
Josh Morckel (OL, 6-5, 270, Minerva HS)
Dave Letera (LB, 6-1, 210, Stow HS)
Marc Pullen (QB, 6-2, 185, Akron Ellet)
Nick Roman (LB, 6-1, 205, GlenOak HS)
John Rutan (QB, 5-11, 195, Lake HS)
Kieron Smith (WR, 5-10, 170, Barberton HS)

Brian Williams (OLB, 6-3 195 Tuslaw)

Two other area players are first team All-Ohio and will be playing in the Ohio North-South game.
Mark Sexton (LB. 6-2, 225, New Philadelphia)
Arthur Zurcher (K-P, 5-11, 155, New Philadelphia)

In all, the class features a total of six first team All-Ohio performers and three second team All-Ohio players. Gooch, Goodright, Rutan, Sexton, Zurcher all received first team All-Ohio as did Kasey Doup (OLB, 6-2, 210, Danville HS).

Kolic, Roman and Ryan Wagner (WR, 6-2, 181, Ravenna HS) all received second team All-Ohio accolades.

"We are equally excited about our transfers," exclaimed Dennison. "Ron "Rock" Johnson (FB, 6-0, 240, Bedforc Chanel HS), a starter for the University of Kentucky is on our campus, along with quarterback, Dimetrius Jones (6-3, 220, Ayersville HS/Owens Tech), Craig McConnell (DB, 5-10, 185, Massillon Washington/Northern Michigan) and Reggie Smith (DE, 6-3, 250, East Cleveland Shaw/Ohio State)."

"All in all, this is a very good class," said Dennison. "Now they have to come in and dance. We feel we have filled our needs and look forward to the fall".

Walsh opens the 2005 season at West Liberty State University.

Walsh University 2005 Recruiting Class

Name Pos. Ht. Wt. High SchoolJordan Buck (FB 5-10 220 Dunbar/Ft. Myers, FL
Tim Carroll (OL 6-5 260 Solon)
Joe Copeland (DB 5-11 180 Akron North)
Kasey Doup (OLB 6-2 210 Danville)

John "Jeremiah" Fennell (OL-INT 6-1 265 Sandusky Perkins)
Michael Garden (DB 5-9 175 Copley)
Matt Gooch (OLB-SS 6-3 205 East Canton)
Theo Goodright (DB 5-10 180 Canton McKinley)

Heath Killilea (WR 6-2 190 Columbus Saint Francis DeSales)
Luke Kolic (OLB 6-4 215 Perry)
Dave Letera (LB 6-1 210 Stow)
Josh Morckel (OL 6-5 270 Minerva)

Nick Padgett (OLB 6-0 190 Marion)
Bradley Paramore (DB 6-0 182 Garfield Heights)
Marc Pullen (QB 6-2 185 Akron Ellet)
Chad Rankin (OL 6-4 285 Newton Falls)

Nick Roman (LB 6-1 205 GlenOak)
John Rutan (QB 5-11 195 Lake)
Mark Sexton (LB 6-2 225 New Philadelphia)

Todd Shelby-Hillman (DE 6-3 265 North Ft. Myers (FL))
Kieron Smith (WR 5-10 170 Barberton)
Steven "Drew" Stagg (OLB-DE 6-3 225 Reynoldsburg)
Ryan Wagner (WR 6-2 181 Ravenna)

Brian Williams (OLB, 6-3 195 Tuslaw)
Robert "Bud" Wolfman (OL-INT 6-4 245 Parma Valley Forge)
Chris Wozniak (FB-OLB 5-11 210 Crestline)
Arthur Zurcher (K 5-11 155 New Philadelphia)

Transfers
Ron "Rock" Johnson (FB 6-0 240 Bedford Chanel/Univ. of Kentucky)
Dimetruis Jones (QB 6-3 220 Ayersville/Owens Tech/Toledo, OH)
Craig McConnell (DB 5-10 185 Massillon/Northern Michigan)
Reggie Smith (DE 6-2 250 East Cleveland Shaw/Ohio State)

Monday, January 24, 2005

"Five Cavaliers Earn All-Mid-States Football Association All-Academics"

Walsh University has placed five student-athletes on the Mid-States Football Association All-Academic Team. Matt Beebe (OLB, Sr., Perry Township, OPH/Perry), Bob Graham (OL, Sr., Akron, OH/Akron Garfield), Dan Kane (QB, Jr., Bolivar, OH/Tusky Valley), Adam Letera (L, Jr.. Stow, OH/HS) and Mike Norris (DL, Sr., Louisville, OH/HS) were selected.

Beebe fashioned a 3.45 grade point average on a 4.00 scale, and majors in early childhood education. Graham is also an early childhood education major and has a 3.32 GPA. Kane, who also earned Daktronics-NAIA Scholar-Athlete recognition, carries a 3.86 GPA and is a management/philosophy major. Letera is a business major and carries a 3.29 GPA and Norris is a middle childhood education major and carries a 3.40 GPA.

Wednesday, January 19, 2005

"Lyons First Team NAIA All-American"

Walsh University kick return specialist, Darryl Lyons (Sr., Toledo, OH/Waite) top right, has been selected first team All-American by the NAIA. Lyons was joined on the All-American team by Chase Hostetler (So., New, Philadelphia, OH/HS) bottom right, who earned honorable mention honors at tailback.

Lyons, who was also first team Mid-States Football Association All-Mideast as a defensive back and return specialist, led the MSFA and finished second in the NAIA in kick returns, with a 35.8 average. He returned three kicks for scores and totaled five touchdowns. Lyons was also a first team NAIA All-American selection last season.

Hostetler rushed for 1,202 yards and scored a team leading 16 touchdowns. He was also selected second team All-MSFA Mideast.

Walsh was ranked 21st in the final NAIA poll. The Cavs finished 8-3 overall and 6-1 in the MSFA Mideast, good for second place.

Friday, January 13, 2005

"Dan Kane Selected to Daktronics-NAIA All-America Scholar-Athlete Team"

Walsh University quarterback Dan Kane (Jr., Bolivar, OH/Tusky Valley) top right has been selected to the Daktronics-NAIA All-America Scholar-Athlete Team. Nominees must be a junior or above in academic standing with a cumulative 3.50 grade point average on a 4.00 scale. Kane, a management/philsophy major, carries a 3.86 overall GPA and posted a 3.95 average for the fall.

Wednesday, November 23, 2004

"Cavs Place Four Football Players on MSFA Mideast First Team, 14 Total"

Walsh University placed 14 players on the Mid-States Football Association All-Mideast Team. Walsh, which finished 8-3 overall and 6-1 in the Mideast, placed four players on the first team, six on the second team and four honorable mention.

Greg Dickerhoof (Sr., Massillon, OH/Washington) earned first team honors at left guard. Dickerhoof led an offensive line that rushed for 1,632 yards and allowed only ten sacks. Alex Gray (Sr., Cleveland, OH/Orange) earned first honors at defensive back. He was selected first team last year as kick returner. Gray finished third in tackles with 86, intercepted two passes and had six tackles for a loss. Darryl Lyons (Sr., Toledo, OH/Waite) earned first team as a defensive back and kick returner. He was selected first team as a defensive back in each of the last two years and as a return specialist as a sophomore. Lyons intercepted three passes and recorded 49 tackles. He led the MSFA and finished second in the NAIA in kick returns, with a 35.8 average. He returned three kicks for scores and totaled five touchdowns. Darryl Owens (Jr., Barberton, OH/HS) transferred from Bowling Green and earned first team honors at wide receiver. Owens led the Cavs with 39 catches for 621 yards and two TDs.

Matt Beebe (Sr., Perry Township, OH/Perry) earned second team honors at outside linebacker for the second straight year. Beebe finished with 50 tackles, seven for a loss. Donel Durham (So., Pittsburgh PA/Schenley) earned second team honors at tight end. Durham caught 15 passes, two for TDs, for 220 yards. Brandon Foster (Sr., Toledo, OH/Scott) earned second team honors at defensive tackle. Foster had 46 tackles, eight for a loss with four sacks. Chase Hostetler (So., New, Philadelphia, OH/HS) continued Walsh's tradition of 1,000-yard tailbacks in earning second team honors. Hostetler rushed for 1,202 yards and scored a team leading 16 touchdowns. Rayshaun Kizer (So., Euclid, OH/HS) was a big play defensive back. Kizer earned second team honors with six interceptions, with two returned for TDs. Kizer had a 100-yard return to set a school record. He tied for the team lead in interceptions with outside linebacker Allen Reddick (Jr., Punta Gorda, FL/North Fort Myers), who also earned second team accolades. Reddick, like Kizer, picked off six passes and returned two for TDs. He also finished fourth with 83 tackles, with ten for a loss and four and one-half sacks.

Quarterback Dan Kane (Jr., Bolivar, OH/Tusky Valley) earned honorable mention honors for the second straight year. Kane passed for 1,467 yards and eight TDs. Mike Norris (Sr., Louisville, OH/HS) earned honorable mention at defensive end for the second straight year. Norris led the Cavs with 10½ tackles for a loss and 6½ sacks. He recoreded 52 tackles. Jon Raddish (Jr., Mogadore, OH/HS) and Brian Rogers (Jr., Kent, OH/Roosevelt) each earned honorable mention at inside linebacker. The two-some finished one and two in tackles. Rogers led the Cavs with 104 tackles, with eight for a loss, while Raddish compiled 98 tackles.

Monday, November 15, 2004

Cavs (8-3, 6-1) Fall in Title Game at Saint Francis

NAIA No. 21 Walsh (8-3, 6-1) fell 42-14 to the University of Saint Francis, in the Mid-States Football Association Mideast championship game at Fort Wayne, Indiana on Saturday. The Cavs finish the season 8-3 for the fourth consecutive time. The loss to Saint Francis also marks the sixth straight time that the Cougars have beaten the Cavs in the season finale, and for the MSFA Mideast crown.

NAIA No. 2 Saint Francis took the opening kick and marched 65 yards in 11 plays to a score, when Cory Jacquay scored on a two-yard run. It was the first of Jacquay's three rushing TDs. Walsh moved the ball on their first possession, but had it end on an interception. The Cougars scored again and led 14-0. Jacquay opened the second quarter scoring with his second TD and the Cougars jumped to a 21-0 lead. Walsh's main offensive threat then emerged, as Darryl Lyons (Sr., Toledo, OH/Waite) ran the kick off back 93 yards for a score to cut the lead to 21-7. USF would score once more and led 28-7 at the half. Walsh started the second half off right, when Lyons returned the kick 94 yards for a score, his third kick return for a score in two weeks. The Cavs defense would hold, when USF failed to punt and Walsh received the ball on the USF 15-yard line. But on second and six from the 11-yard line Dan Kane's (Jr., Bolivar, OH/Tusky Valley) pass was intercepted in the end zone and the Cavs could not recover. The Cougars would march to a score to lead 35-14. USF would score once more in the fourth quarter. USF out gained the Cavs 722 to 57. Walsh did not have any passing yardage. Chase Hostetler (So., New Philadelphia, OH/HS) led the Cavs with 52 yards rushing. Hostetler finished the season with a league leading 1,202 yards and was third with 15 rushing TDs. Darryl Lyons led the MSFA in kick returns (35.8) and with three TDs.

Saturday, November 13, 2004

"Cavs Lose Title Game at Saint Francis"

For the sixth straight year, the University of Saint Francis (Ind.) have defeated the Cavaliers in the season finale to win the Mid-States Football Association Mideast crown. Today, at Fort Wayne, IN, the NAIA second ranked Cougars kept their perfect season (10-0, 7-0) alive with a 42-14 win. The loss drops the Cavs to 8-3 overall and 6-1 in the MSFA Mideast. Walsh has finished each of the last four years at 8-3. The Cougars will now advance to the NAIA Playoffs next week.

Saint Francis took the opening kick and marched 65 yards in 11 plays to a score, when Cory Jacquay scored on a two-yard run. It was the first of Jacquay's three rushing TDs. Walsh moved the ball on their first possession, but had it end on an interception. The Cougars scored again and led 14-0. Jacquay opened the second quarter scoring with his second TD and the Cougars jumped to a 21-0 lead. Walsh's main offensive threat then emerged, as Darryl Lyons (Sr., Toledo, OH/Waite) top right ran the kick off back 93 yards for a score to cut the lead to 21-7. USF would score once more and led 28-7 at the half. Walsh started the second half off right, when Lyons returned the kick 94 yards for a score, his third kick return for a score in two weeks. The Cavs defense would hold, when USF failed to punt and Walsh received the ball on the USF 15 yard line. But on second and six from the 11-yard line Dan Kane's (Jr., Bolivar, OH/Tusky Valley) pass was intercepted in the end zone and the Cavs could not recover. The Cougars would march to a score to lead 35-14. USF would score once more in the fourth quarter. USF outgained the Cavs 722 to 57. Walsh did not have any passing yardage. Chase Hostetler (So., New Philadelphia,OH/HS) led the Cavs with 52 yards rushing.

Tuesday, November 9, 2004

"Cavs !5th in Latest NAIA Coaches Poll"

Walsh (8-2, 6-0) moved up two spots, to 15th in the latest NAIA Coaches Poll. The Cavs, who received 175 points, were 17th last week. The Cavs close the regular season this Saturday at Fort Wayne, Indiana against NAIA No. 2 Saint Francis (9-0, 6-0). The two teams have met for the Mid-States Football Association title in each of the last five seasons. Game time is 12 pm. The game will be broadcast live on the Walsh University Football Network on AM 900 WCER and on the internet at www.wcer.us.

Monday, November 8, 2004

"Kizer MSFA, Mideast Defensive Player of the Week"

Walsh defensive back Rayshaun Kizer (So., Euclid, OH/HS) top right has been selected as the Mid-States Football Association Mideast League Defensive Player of the Week. Kizer shined in Walsh's 32-28 MSFA win over Urbana University onSaturday. The sophomore intercepted two passes and returned one for an 100-yard touchdown, the longest return in Walsh history. Kizer first interception was on the first play from scrimmage and setup the Cavs first score. His second pick, at the goal line, stopped an Urbana drive and gave the Cavs a 14-0 lead. Kizer also broke up two passes and recorded four tackles. He is tied with teammate Allen Reddick (Jr., Punta Gorda, FL/Ft. Myers) for the team lead with six interceptions.

Walsh (8-2, 6-0) plays at the University of Saint Francis (9-0, 6-0) for the Mid-States Football Association Mideast title on Saturday at noon. The winner advances to the NAIA Playoffs. The game will be broadcast live on the Walsh University Football Network on AM 900 WCER and on the Internet at www.wcer.us.

Monday, November 8, 2004

Cavs (8-2, 6-0) Down Urbana/Stay in Playoff and Title Chase

NAIA No. 17 Walsh (8-2, 6-0) kept its playoff and championship hopes alive, with a 32-28 win over Urbana University at Fawcett Stadium on Saturday. The victory gives the Cavs eight wins for the fourth straight season and sets up a showdown at NAIA second ranked University of Saint Francis (Ft. Wayne, IN) on Saturday. The Cavs and Cougars will be meeting for the sixth straight year, in the season finale, to decide the Mid-States Football Association Mideast title. The winner also receives an automatic berth to the NAIA playoffs. Saint Francis has won the last five Mideast crowns and has made five consecutive playoff appearances. Walsh shared the crown with Saint Francis and Tri-State in 2001, but are still looking for their first post-season berth. Game time in Fort Wayne is 12 p.m. The game will be broadcast live on the Walsh University Football Network on 900 AM WCER and on the Internet at www.wcer.us.

Walsh jumped to a 20-0 first quarter lead over Urbana, taking advantage of two Blue Knight turnovers. Rayshaun Kizer (So., Euclid, OH/HS) top right intercepted a pass on the first play from scrimmage to set-up Walsh's first score. Kizer returned the pick 15 yards to the Urbana 27-yard line. Walsh scored five plays later on a six-yard pass from Dan Kane (Jr., Bolivar, OH/Tusky Valley) to Donel Durham (So., Pittsburgh, PA/Schenley). On Urbana's next possession, Kizer intercepted a Blue Knight pass and returned it 100-yards for a score to give Walsh a 14-0 lead. The interception was the longest in Walsh history. Walsh's third score of the quarter came following an Urbana punt, when Antwain Reine' (Fr., Dayton, OH/Trotwood-Madison) scored from four yards out. Reine`, in his first start, led all rushers with 138 yards. Urbana scored twice in the second quarter to trim the Walsh lead to 20-14. Walsh then rallied and closed the first half scoring, when Reine` again scored from four yards out to give the Cavs a 26-14 halftime lead. Walsh's only score of the second half came on the kickoff, as Darryl Lyons (Sr., Toledo, OH/Waite) bottom right returned the kick 90 yards for a TD. Urbana would score twice in the fourth quarter to trim the Walsh lead to 32-28. The Blue Knights defense gave them a chance to win the game when they stopped the Cavs on downs with the 1:44 to play. Urbana's drive started on their 29-yard line, but was halted when Walsh's Allen Reddick (Jr., Punta Gorda, FL/Ft. Myers) intercepted a pass on the 31-yard line. Walsh then ran out the clock.

Walsh and Saint Francis (9-0, 6-0) will butt heads for the seventh time on Saturday. The Cougars lead the series 5-1 and have won the last five games. Walsh's only win came in the Cougars first year, 1998. Walsh won at Saint Francis 44-41 in overtime. One year ago, the Cavs had chances at home before falling 41-24. Walsh led 17-7 in the second quarter, but were out scored 34-7 the rest of the way. Saint Francis kept their perfect season alive by defeating Quincy 49-13 on Saturday. The explosive Cougar offense scored 35 first half points in the romp and rolled up 465 yards of total offense. They are averaging 43.0 points per game.

Saturday, November 6, 2004

Walsh University 32 Urbana University 28

Walsh (8-2, 6-0) advanced the Mid-States Football Association Mideast championship game, after defeating Urbana University 32-28 at Fawcett Stadium. NAIA no. 17 Walsh will travel to Fort Wayne, Indiana next Saturday to meet second ranked University of Saint Francis (9-0, 6-0). Saint Francis defeated Quincy 49-13 today. Walsh and Saint Francis will be meeting for the sixth straight season with the MSFA Mideast title at stake. Saint Francis has won the previous five games.

Walsh jumped to a 20-0 first quarter lead, taking advantage of two Urbana turnovers. Rayshaun Kizer (So., Euclid, OH/HS) top right intercepted a pass on the first play from scrimmage to set-up Walsh's first score. Kizer returned the pick 15 yards to the Urbana 27-yard line. Walsh scored five plays later on a six-yard pass from Dan Kane (Jr., Bolivar, OH/Tusky Valley) to Donel Durham (So., Pittsburgh, PA/Schenley). On Urbana's next possession, Kizer intercepted a Blue Knight pass and returned it 100-yards for a score to give Walsh a 14-0 lead. The interception was the longest in Walsh history. Walsh's third score of the quarter came after an Urbana punt, when Antwain Reine' (Fr., Dayton, OH/Trotwood-Madison) scored from four yards out. Reine`, in his first start, led all rushers with 138 yards.

Urbana scored twice in the second quarter to trim the Walsh lead to 20-14. Their second score came when Robert Hawkins intercepted a Kane pass and returned it 42 yards for six points. Walsh then rallied and closed the first half scoring, when Reine` again scored from four yards out to give the Cavs a 26-14 halftime lead.

Walsh's only score of the second half came on the kickoff, as Darryl Lyons (Sr., Toledo,OH/Waite) bottom right returned the kick 90 yards for a TD. Urbana would score twice in the fourth quarter to trim the Walsh lead to 32-28. The Blue Knights defense gave them a chance to win the game, when they stopped the Cavs on downs with the 1:44 to play. Urbana's drive started on their 29-yard line, but was stopped when Walsh's Allen Reddick (Jr., Punta Gorda, FL/Ft. Myers) intercepted a pass on the 31-yard line. Walsh then ran out the clock.

The win gives the Cavs eight wins for the fourth straight season.

Tuesday, November 2, 2004

"Cavs Fall to 17th in NAIA Poll"

Walsh (7-1, 5-0) fell six places, to 17th, in the latest NAIA Top 25 Coaches Poll. The Cavs were ranked 11th last week, but lost 17-9 to NCAA II Tiffin University on the road. This week, Walsh is home to Urbana University (4-5, 4-1) at Fawcett Stadium at 12 pm. The game will be broadcast live on the Walsh University Football Network on AM 900 WCER and FOX Sports 1350 AM. The game can also be heard live on the Internet at www.wcer.us.

Monday, November 1, 2004

"Cavs (7-2, 5-0) Fall 17-9 at Tiffin"

Walsh (7-1, 5-0) had its four-game win streak snapped 17-9 at Tiffin University on Saturday. The loss forces the NAIA 11th ranked Cavs to win their final two games in order to qualify for the NAIA playoffs for the first time. The Cavs host Urbana University on Saturday and travel to Saint Francis (IN) for the regular season finale on November 13. If Walsh wins in both games, they would win the Mid-States Football Association Mideast title outright.

Tiffin did all of their damage in the first and fourth quarters. The Dragons took the lead when Garrin Corbin raced 72 yards for a score at the 11:07 mark of the first period. The PAT gave Tiffin a 7-0 lead. Corbin would have a huge day, rushing for 225 yards. The Cavs scored their only TD in the waning moments of the half. Walsh's Rayshaun Kizer (So., Euclid, OH/HS) intercepted a pass at the Tiffin 26-yard line with 24 seconds to play in the half, and returned the ball to the two-yard line. Robert Lash (So., Shelby, OH/HS) then found pay dirt from one-yard out with three seconds left to get the Cavs on the board. Walsh's extra-point try hit the upright and fell short, leaving the Cavs behind 7-6 at halftime. The Cavs took their only lead of the game in the third quarter, when Tim Church (Fr., Conneaut, OH/HS) booted a 23-yard field. The turning point in the game came late in the third quarter. With Tiffin forced back to their 14-yard on third down and 23, back-up quarterback Pat Manders raced 35 yards on a QB draw to the 49-yard line for a first down. The Dragons would score six plays later, when Manders scored on a 15-yard run. Tiffin's Ben Sandrock closed the scoring with an 18-yard field goal with 2:57 to play. Walsh was their own worst enemy, committing a season-high six turnovers, four in the fourth quarter. They also played the second half without top rusher Chase Hostetler (So., New Philadelphia, OH/HS), who left the game with back spasms late in the first half. Hostetler was limited to 35 yards rushing on 14 carriers. Tiffin out gained the Cavs 444 to 236. The Cavs also lost right guard Bob Graham (Sr., Akron, OH/Garfield), who re-injured his left shoulder. He is listed as day-to-day.

Walsh meets Urbana (4-5, 4-1) at 12 pm on Saturday in their final regular season home game. The Blue Knights won their second straight game, with a 30-16 victory over Quincy on Saturday. The Blue Knights have won four of their last five games. They started the season 0-4, losing their first four games by a total of eight points. Walsh won 41-3 at Urbana last season and lead the all-time series 9-0. The game will be broadcast live on the Walsh University Football Network on AM 900 WCER and FOX Sports 1350 AM. The game can also be heard live on the Internet at www.wcer.us.

Saturday, October 30, 2004

"Cavs Fall at Tiffin 17-9"

Walsh (7-1) had its four-game win streak snapped 17-9 at Tiffin University today. The loss forces the NAIA 11th ranked Cavs to win their final two games in order to qualify for the NAIA playoffs for the first time. The Cavs host Urbana next Saturday and travel to Saint Francis (IN) for the regular season finale in two weeks. If Walsh wins in both games, they would win the Mid-States Football Association Mideast title outright.

Tiffin did all of their damage in the first and fourth quarters today. The Dragons took a 7-0 lead when Garrin Corbin raced 72 yards for a score at the 11:07 mark of the first period. The PAT gave Tiffin a 7-0 lead. Corbin would have a huge day, rushing for 225 yards. The Cavs scored their only TD in the waning moments of the half. Walsh's Rayshaun Kizer (So., Euclid, OH/HS) intercepted a pass at the Tiffin 26-yard line with 24 seconds to play in the half, and returned the ball to the two-yard line. Robert Lash (So., Shelby, OH/HS) then found pay dirt from one-yard out with three seconds left to get the Cavs on the board. Walsh's extra-point try hit the upright and fell short, leaving the Cavs behind 7-6 at halftime. The Cavs took their only lead of the game in the third quarter, when Tim Church (Fr., Conneaut, OH/HS) booted a 23-yard field. The turning point in the game came late in the third quarter. With Tiffin forced back to their 14-yard on third down and 23, back-up quarterback Pat Manders raced 35 yards on a QB draw to the 49-yard line for a first down. The Dragons would score six plays later, when Manders scored on a 15-yard run. Tiffin's Ben Sandrock closed the scoring with an 18-yard field goal with 2:57 to play. Walsh was their own worst enemy, committing a season-high six turnovers, four in the fourth quarter. They also played the second half without top rusher Chase Hostetler (So., New Philadelphia, OH/HS), who left the game due to injury in the first half. Hostetler gained 35 yards on 14 carriers. Tiffin out gained the Cavs 444 to 236.

Tuesday, October 26, 2004

"Cavs Remain Number 11 in NAIA Top 25 Poll"

Walsh (7-1, 5-0) remained number 11 in the latest edition of the NAIA's top 25 coaches poll. The Cavs received 260 points, 12 more than the previous week. This Saturday, they travel to Tiffin for a non-league game at 1:30 pm. The game will be broadcast live on the Walsh University Football Network on FOX Sports 1350 AM and AM 900 WCER and on the internet at www.wcer.us.

Monday, October 25, 2004

Cavs (7-1, 5-0) Rally to Defeat Geneva 14-7/Dennison Wins Career Game # 150

It was a special night for the Walsh Head Coach Jim Dennison and his Cavalier football team. Not only did the NAIA No. 11 ranked Cavs hang onto first place (5-0) in the Mid-States Football Association Mideast, but they also captured career victory number 150 for Jim Dennison in defeating Geneva College 14-7. Dennison is 70-34 at Walsh, combined with his 80 win at Akron, to give him 150 career victories. He is the all-time leader in coaching wins at both institutions. Walsh (7-1, 5-0) had to come from behind to stay perfect in league play, on a chilly Saturday night. Geneva scored the only first half points with a second quarter TD and led 7-0 at the half. The Golden Tornadoes shot themselves in the foot with three first half fumbles, one on the Cavaliers ten-yard line. Walsh leads the MSFA in turnover margin at plus 12. Walsh tied the game on their first possession of the second half, when Chase Hostetler (So., New Philadelphia, OH/HS) caught a 33-yard TD pass from Dan Kane (Jr., Bolivar, OH/Tusky Valley). With the score tied in the final period, a flea-flicker play from Kane to DanJuan Witcher (Jr., Toledo, OH/Start) was good for 53 yards and put the ball on the Geneva five-yard line. Hostetler would then score his team and NAIA leading 15th rushing TD to give the Cavs the lead for good. The Cavs defense would hold Geneva twice to nail down the win. Brian Rogers (Jr., Kent, OH/Roosevelt) and Ryan McGraw (Jr., Coshocton, OH/HS) paced the Cavs defense. Rogers recorded 18 tackles (12 solo) and had a sack, while McGraw had ten tackles (7 solo), caused a fumble and broke-up a pass.

Hostetler was held under 100 yards rushing the first time this season, being held to 96 yards on 32 carries. Hostetler did, however, eclipse the 1,000-yard mark, totaling 1,083. Hostetler also leads the MSFA in scoring, with 96 points. After completing only two of nine passes in the first half, Dan Kane completed seven of nine passes in the second half. Kane finished 9-18 for 158 yards. He connected with five different receivers.

The Cavs are on the road for a non-league game at Tiffin University (4-5) next Saturday. Tiffin, a former member of the MSFA, is now NCAA division two. The Dragons defeated Hillsdale 15-13 on Saturday, as Ben Sandrock kicked three consecutive field goals to erase a 12-9 Hillsdale lead. The Cavs and Dragons last met in 2001. Walsh has won the last three meetings and lead the all-time series 5-1. Game time is 1:30 pm. The game will be broadcast live on the Walsh University Football Network on AM 900 WCER and FOX Sports 1350 AM. The game can also be heard live on the internet at www.wcer.us.

Saturday, October 23, 2004

"Cavs Rally to Defeat Geneva 14-7/Dennison Wins Career Game # 150"

It was a special night for the Walsh Head Coach Jim Dennison and his Cavalier football team. Not only did the NAIA No. 11 ranked Cavs hang onto first place (5-0) in the Mid-States Football Association Mideast, but they also captured career victory number 150 for Jim Dennison. Dennison is 70-34 at Walsh, combined with his 80 win at Akron, to give him 150 career victories. He is the all-time leader in coaching win at both institutions. Walsh (7-1, 5-0) had to come from behind to stay perfect in league play. Geneva scored the only first half points with a second quarter TD and led 7-0 at the half. The Golden Tornadoes shot themselves in the foot with three first half fumbles, one on the Cavaliers ten-yard line. Walsh tied the game on their first possession of the second half, when Chase Hostetler (So., New Philadelphia, OH/HS) caught a 33-yard TD pass from Dan Kane (Jr., Bolivar, OH/Tusky Valley) top right. Walsh failed to take the lead, when they failed to score on fourth and one at the Geneva one-yard line early in the fourth quarter. But the defense would give the offense another chance, and they would take advantage. A flea-flicker play from Kane to DanJuan Witcher (Jr., Toledo, OH/Start) was good for 53 yards and put the ball on the Geneva five yard line. Hostetler would score his team and NAIA leading 15th rushing TD to give the Cavs the lead for good. The Cavs defense would hold Geneva twice to nail down the win.

Hostetler was held under 100 yards rushing the first time this season, being held to 96 yards on 32 carries. Hosteter did, however, eclipse the 1,000 yard mark, totaling 1,083. After completing only two of nine passes in the first half, Dan Kane completed seven of nine passes in the second half. Kane finished 9-18 for 158 yards. He connected with five different receivers.

The Cavs are on the road for a non league game at Tiffin University (4-5) next Saturday. Tiffin, a former member of the MSFA, is now NCAA division two. The Dragons defeated Hillsdale 15-13 today, as Ben Sandrock kicked three consecutive field goals to erase a 12-9 Hillsdale lead. Game time is 1:30 pm, the game will be broadcast live on the Walsh University Football Network on AM 900 WCER and FOX Sports 1350 AM. The game can also be heard on internet at www.wcer.us.

Tuesday, October 19, 2004

"Cavs 11th in Latest NAIA Poll"

Walsh (6-1, 4-0) moved up one spot to 11th in the latest NAIA Top 25 poll. Walsh received 248 points. The Cavs travel to Geneva College (3-3, 2-1) for a Mid-States Football Association Mideast game on Saturday night. The game will be broadcast live on News-Talk 640 and AM 900 WCER at 7 pm. The game can also be heard live on the internet at www.wcer.us.

Monday, October 18, 2004

Cavs (6-1, 4-0) Rout Taylor/Night Game at Geneva Next

NAIA No. 15 Walsh (6-1, 4-0) scored on its first possession of the game, on their way to 57-19 win over Taylor University (0-6, 0-3) in a Mid-States Football Association Mideast game at Fawcett Stadium on Saturday. The win was the third straight for the Cavs and leaves them in sole possession of first place in the Mideast. Saint Francis (Ind.) is in second place at 3-0. The Cougars and Cavs meet at Saint Francis on November 13 in the regular season finale for both teams. This Saturday, the Cavs travel to Beaver Falls, PA to meet Geneva College (3-3, 2-1) at 7 pm. The game will be broadcast live on the Walsh University Football Network. This week's game can be heard on News-Talk 640 AM WHLO and AM 900 WCER.

Walsh scored the majority of its points in the middle quarters against Taylor. The Cavs led 10-3 after one quarter, 30-3 at the half and 50-5 after three quarters. Walsh quarterback Dan Kane (Jr., Bolivar, OH/Tusky Valley) top right completed 12 of 16 passes for 151 yards and one TD. He also rushed for a one-yard score. Dan Juan Witcher (Jr., Toledo, OH/Start) caught four passes, one for a 20-yard score. Darryl Owens (Jr., Barberton, OH/HS/Bowling Green) led all receivers with five catches for 71 yards. The MSFA's leading rusher, Chase Hostetler (So., New Philadelphia, OH/HS), rushed for 149 yards on 33 carries and three TDs. Hostetler has rushed for 987 yards and scored 14 TDs on the season. He also leads the Mid-States in scoring with 84 points and in touchdowns. Tailback Antwain Reine' (Fr., Dayton, OH/Trotwood-Madison) rushed for 67 yards and scored on runs of one and 11-yards in a reserve role. Walsh totaled 485 yards of total offense, while holding Taylor to 192 yards. Walsh's defense recorded five sacks against Taylor. Walsh is second in the MFSA with 22 sacks.

Walsh and Geneva meet for the 10th time, all-time, on Saturday night. The Golden Tornadoes lead the all-time series 6-3, but Walsh has won the last three meetings. Due to a quirk in the scheduling, the last two games were played at Fawcett Stadium. Walsh won 28-21 last year. Geneva provided the opposition in Walsh's inaugural game in 1995, winning 20-0. Walsh's first win ever in the series came in 2001 at Geneva, when they posted a 37-34 overtime win. Geneva won its second straight game last Saturday at Quincy. The Golden Tornadoes erased a 20-point deficit in their 23-20 come-from-behind win. Zach Blair's 18-yard field goal with four seconds to play provided the winning margin. Geneva rushed for 238 yards, with Josh Mullen gaining 141 yards and Brandon Nathan 105 yards.

Saturday, October 16, 2004

Walsh University 57 Taylor University 19

NAIA No. 12 Walsh (6-1, 4-0) scored on its first possession of the game, on their way to 57-19 win over Taylor University (0-6, 0-3) in a Mid-States Football Association Mideast game at Fawcett Stadium. The win was the third straight for the Cavs and leaves them in sole possession of first place in the Mideast.

Walsh led 10-3 after one quarter, 30-3 at the half and 50-5 after three quarters. Walsh quarterback Dan Kane (Jr., Bolivar, OH/Tusky Valley) top right completed 12 of 16 passes for 151 yards and one TD. He also rushed for a one-yard score. Dan Juan Witcher (Jr., Toledo, OH/Start) caught four passes, one for a 20-yard score. Darryl Owens (Jr., Barberton, OH/HS/Bowling Green) led all receivers with five catches for 71 yards. The MSFA's leading rusher, Chase Hostetler (So., New Philadelphia, OH/HS) rushed for 149 yards on 33 carries and three TDs. Hostetler has rushed for 987 yards and scored 14 TDs on the season. Antwain Reine' (Fr., Dayton, OH/Trotwood-Madison) rushed for 67 yards and scored on runs of one and 11-yards. Walsh totaled 485 yards of total offense, while holding Taylor to 192 yards.

Walsh is at Geneva next Saturday night.

Tuesday, October 12, 2004

"Cavs 12th in Latest NAIA Top 25"

Walsh (5-1, 3-0) moved three spots to 12th in the latest NAIA Top 25 poll. The Cavs are home to Taylor University (0-5, 0-2) for a Mid-States Football Association Mideast game on Saturday. The game will be broadcast live on Fox Sports 1350 and AM 900 WCER at 12 pm. The game can also be heard live on the internet at www.wcuer.us.

Saturday, October 9, 2004

"Cavs Win at Quincy, 30-24"

NAIA No. 15 Walsh (5-1, 3-0) won the first and third quarters at Quincy University (3-3, 1-1), and won the football game 30-24 yesterday. Walsh outscored the Hawks 12-0 in the first quarter and 18-0 in the third quarter, on their way to their second straight win. The Cavs led 30-7 heading to fourth quarter and withstood a furious fourth quarter rally to take over sole possession of first place in the Mid-States Football Association Mideast League. The Cavs return home this Saturday for a league game against Taylor University (0-5, 0-2) at Fawcett Stadium at 12 pm.

The Cavs defense played a major role in the win, intercepting three passes, recovering a fumble and holding Quincy to 280 yards of total offense. Three of Walsh's touchdowns came as a result of a Quincy turnover. Outside linebacker Allen Reddick (Jr., Punta Gorda, FL/Ft. Myers) intercepted a pass at the 10:33 mark of the first quarter and returned it 36 yards for a score to give the Cavs an early lead. Walsh extended their lead to 12-0 in the opening period, when Dan Kane (Jr., Bolivar, OH/Tusky Valley) scored on a one-yard. The Cavs failed on both extra points (missed kick, failed pass) and led 12-0 after the first quarter. Quincy's only score of the half came as a result of their defense, when they picked off a Kane pass and returned it 96 yards for a score. It was the longest pass return in Cavs history. The Cavs appeared to have the game in hand with 18 third-quarter points. Chase Hostetler (So., New Philadelphia, OH/HS) scored on runs of three and 15-yards and Tim Church (Fr., Conneaut, OH/HS) kicked a 27-yard field goal and Walsh led 30-7 heading to the final period. A Mike Norris (Sr., Louisville, OH/HS) fumble recovery and 15-yard return to the Quincy five set up Hostetler's three-yard score. Rayshaun Kizer (So., Euclid, OH/HS) then intercepted a Quincy pass and returned it 28 yards to the Quincy 41-yard line on the next possession to jump-start the Cavs next score. Walsh then withstood a furious fourth quarter Hawks rally. The Hawks scored after a Cavs fumble and returned a pass 62 yards for a score. Quincy had two chances to take the lead in the fourth quarter, trailing 30-24. Walsh's Ryan McGraw (Jr., Coshocton, OH/HS) intercepted a pass on the Cavs 14-yard line with 3:41 to play to halt one drive. Quincy had one more opportunity after a Walsh punt, but was halted on fourth and ten on the Cavs 34, when Mike Norris sacked the Hawks quarterback for an 11-yard loss with only 1:19 to play.

Chase Hostetler rushed for a 130 yards on 39 carries. Hostetler leads the MSFA with 838 yards and with 11 rushing TDs. Darryl Owens (Jr., Barberton, OH/HS/Bowling Green) caught six passes for 55 yards. Dan Kane, who left the game for a series late in the first half after taking a hit, completed 12 of 23 passes for 139 yards.

Tuesday, October 5, 2004

"Cavs Remain 15th in NAIA Top 25"

Walsh (4-1, 2-0) remained 15th in the latest NAIA Top 25 poll. The Cavs are at Quincy University (3-2, 1-0) for a Mid-States Football Association Mideast game on Saturday. The game will be broadcast live on Fox Sports 1350 and AM 900 WCER at 2 pm. The game can also be heard live on the internet at www.wcer.us.

Monday, October 4, 2004

"Cavs (4-1, 2-0) Down Malone 27-21/Hostetler Player of the Week"

NAIA 15th ranked Walsh rallied from a ten-point first quarter deficit to beat Malone College (2-2, 0-1) 27-17 in a Mid-States Football Association Mideast game, before 3,427 fans at Fawcett Stadium on Saturday. The win improved the Cavaliers to 4-1 overall and 2-0 in the Mideast and was the sixth straight win for Walsh over Malone. The win also keeps the Dick Gallagher Memorial Trophy in the Cavalier trophy case. Walsh is tied for first place in the Mideast with Saint Francis, Indiana at 2-0. This week, the Cavs travel to Quincy, Illinois for a MSFA Mideast game with the Hawks. The game will be broadcast live on AM 900 WCER and Fox Sports 1350 at 2 pm.

Malone jumped to a 3-0 lead on a 33-yard field goal at the 8:18 mark of the first quarter. The Pioneers extended their lead to 10-0 on a 36-yard TD pass. Walsh freshman Robert Lash (Fr., Shelby, OH/HS) set up the Cavs first score with a 29-yard punt return to the Cavs 47-yard line. Walsh then marched 51 yards in six plays and scored on the first of Chase Hostetler's (So., New Philadelphia, OH/HS) top right three TDs (2-yard run) to cut the Malone lead to 10-7 after the extra point. Walsh then turned a Malone turnover into points, when Brandon Foster (Sr., Toledo, OH/Scott) recovered a Malone fumble at the Pioneers 28-yard line on the next possession. Hostetler capped the seven-play, 28-yard drive with a three yard score to give Walsh the lead for good at 13-10. Mike Lum's (So., North Canton, OH/Hoover) extra point was blocked. The turning point in the game came midway through the second quarter. Malone drove deep into Walsh territory, when Rayshaun Kizer (So., Euclid, OH/HS) intercepted a pass and returned it 84 yards for a touchdown. Walsh missed the extra point and led 20-10 at the half. Walsh scored the only TD in the third quarter, when Hostetler scored on a three yard. The PAT gave Walsh a 27-10 lead and 27 unanswered points. Walsh's defense sacked the Malone QB five times. Outside linebacker Allen Reddick (Jr., Punta Gorda, FL/Ft. Myers) recorded two sacks and 11 tackles. The Cavs also intercepted three passes. The MSFA's top rusher, Chase Hostetler, led all rushers with 159 yards on 38 carries and earned MSFA Mideast Offensive Player of the Week honors. Hostetler has rushed for 708 yards and scored nine touchdowns. He is averaging 4.1 yards per carry.

Walsh and Quincy meet for the second time this Saturday in Illinois. Walsh won 49-28 at home last year in the only meeting of the two teams. The Hawks are 3-2 overall and 1-0 in the Mideast, after downing Taylor 24-0 on Saturday. Quincy held Taylor to 123 yards total offense. The Hawks put the game away with 21-third quarter points.

Saturday, October 2, 2004

"Cavs Rally From 10 Points Down to Beat Malone 27-17/Keep Gallagher Trophy"

Walsh rallied from a ten-point (0-10) first quarter defiict to beat Malone College (2-2, 0-1) 27-17 in a Mid-States Football Association Mideast game, before 3,427 fans at Fawcett Stadium. The win improved the Cavaliers to 4-1 overall and 2-0 in the Mideast and was the sixth straight win for Walsh over Malone. The win also keeps the Dick Gallagher Memorial Trophy in the Cavalier trophy case.

Malone jumped to a 3-0 lead on a 33-yard field goal from Jeremy Rininger, at the 8:18 mark of the first quarter. The Pioneers extended their lead to 10-0, when Brad Reifsnyder connected with Nyrell Knight for a 36-yard score on a third and thirty-three. Walsh freshman Robert Lash (Fr., Shelby, OH/HS) set up the Cavs first score with a 29-yard punt return to the Cavs 47-yard line. Walsh then marched 51 yards in six plays and scored on the first of Chase Hostetler's (So., New Philadelphia, OH/HS) three TDs (2-yard run) to cut the Malone lead to 10-7 after the extra point.

Walsh turned a Malone turnover into points, when Brandon Foster (Sr., Toeldo, OH/Scott) recovered a Malone fumble at the Pioneers 28-yard line on the next possession. Hostetler capped the seven-play, 28-yard drive with a three yard score to give Walsh the lead for good at 13-10. Mike Lum's (So., North Canton, OH/Hoover) extra point was blocked. The turning point in the game came midway through the second quarter. Malone drove deep into Walsh territory, when Rayshaun Kizer (So., Euclid, OH/HS) top right intercepted a Reifsnyder pass and returned it 84 yards for a touchdown. Walsh missed the extra point and led 20-10 at the half. Walsh scored the only TD in the third quarter, when Hostetler scored on a three yard. The PAT gave Walsh a 27-10 lead and 27 unanswered points. Malone scored the final TD, when Eric Smith scored on a five-yard run.

Walsh's defense sacked Reifsnyder five times. Outside linebacker Allen Reddick (Jr., Punta Gorda, FL/Ft. Myers) bottom right recorded two sacks and 11 tackles. The Cavs also intercepted three passes. The MSFA's top rusher, Chase Hostetler, led all rushers with 159 yards on 38 carries. Malone's Brad Reifsnyder completed 26 of 43 passes for 326 yards.

Walsh travels to Quincy, Illinois for a MSFA, Mideast game next week.

Tuesday, September 28, 2004

"Cavs Fall to 15th"

Walsh (3-1, 1-0) fell five places to 15th in the latest NAIA Top 25 Coaches Poll. Walsh lost 23-22 to 14th ranked Trinity last Saturday. Walsh is home to Malone College (2-1, 0-0) at 12 pm at Fawcett Stadium on Saturday. The game will be broadcast live on AM 900 WCER and Fox Sports 1350.

Monday, September 27, 2004

Cavs (3-1, 1-0) Fall in Final Seconds to Trinity/Malone Next

NAIA 20th ranked Trinity International scored three fourth quarter touchdowns to upset the 10th ranked Cavs 23-22 at Fawcett Stadium on Saturday. The Trojans wiped out a 22-9 fourth quarter deficit and won the game on a two-point conversion with 29 seconds to play. Walsh still had an opportunity to win the game in the final 12 seconds, but Mike Lum's (So., North Canton, OH/Hoover) 36-yard field goal was wide to the left. The loss was the first of the season for the Cavs and third straight to Trinity, who remain unbeaten at 3-0. This week, the Cavs meet archrival Malone College (2-1) for the coveted Dick Gallagher Memorial Trophy at Fawcett Stadium at 12 pm. The Cavs have won the last five meetings and lead the all-time series 6-3. Walsh's Terrance Portis (LB, So., Akron, OH/St. Vincent-St. Mary) will receive the Gallagher award in pre-game ceremonies. At the half, Walsh's Kory Dollinger (OLB, Fr., Uniontown, OH/Lake) will receive the Josh Zimmerman Memorial Scholarship. Zimmerman, who lettered four years for the Cavs (1997-200), lost his life in a bike accident in August of 2003.

Trinity led 3-0 at the half on a 24-yard field goal. Walsh opened the third quarter with a score on a 48-yard pass from Dan Kane (Jr., Bolivar, OH/Tusky Valley) to DanJuan Witcher (Jr., Toledo, OH/Start) to take a 7-3 lead. Walsh extended their lead to 14-3, when Kane hit Donel Durham (So., Pittsburgh, PA/Schenley) with a 31-yard TD strike early in the fourth quarter. The two teams then traded TDs, Trinity scored on a 7-yard run and Chase Hostetler (So., New Philadelphia, OH/HS) scored for Walsh on an 8-yard run and Walsh led 22-9 with 10:32 to play. Trinity struck back with a 20-yard TD pass at the 9:13 mark to cut the Walsh lead to 22-15. Walsh then drove to the Trinity 27, but the drive ended when Lum's 43-yard field goal attempt was short. Trinity then marched to the Walsh 29-yard line, when Rayshaun Kiser (So., Euclid, OH/HS) intercepted a Trinity pass on the one-yard line with 2:30 to play. After Walsh was forced to punt, Trinity mounted their four-play game-winning drive.

Chase Hostetler, the MSFA's top rusher, gained 164 yards on 40 carries. Hostetler is averaging 137.2 yards per game and has totaled 549 yards. Kane connected on 10 of 18 passes for 216 yards. He is second in the Mid-States in passing. Darryl Owens (Jr., Barberton, OH/HS) had seven catches for 124 yards, including two passes for 50 yards on the games final drive. Owens is averaging 78.2 yards receiving per game, which is third in the MSFA.

Malone is coming off a 30-7 win over Saint Francis (Ill.) on Saturday. Malone's Alphanso Owens caught two TD passes from quarterback Brad Reifsnyder and Jeremy Rininger kicked two field goals. The Pioneers led 20-0 at halftime. Malone is averaging 26.6 points per game and allowing 22.3. The Cavs and Pioneers meet for the tenth time this Saturday. Walsh won 44-36 in five overtimes last season. Walsh outscored the Pioneers 24-16 in the five OT's. The Cavs Derek Besgrove scored five TDs in the win. The game will be broadcast live on AM 900 WCER and Fox Sports 1350.

Saturday, September 25, 2004

"Trinity Stuns Cavs"

Trinity International 23 Walsh University 22

Trinity scored three fourth quarter TDs to upset NAIA 10th ranked Walsh (3-1) 23-22 at Fawcett Stadium. Trailing 22-15, the Trojans drove 42 yards in four plays in the final two minutes to cut the Walsh lead to 22-21, when Nathan Endmano caught a five-yard TD pass from Kevin Oberlander. The Trojans elected to go for the win, as Oberlander dove for the right pylon to give Trinity a 23-22 lead with 29 seconds to play. Walsh still had an opportunity to win the game as they drove to the Trinity 18-yard line with 12 seconds to play, as Darryl Owens caught two passes from Dan Kane totaling 50 yards. But Michael Lum missed a 36-yard field goal, his second miss of the day.

NAIA 20th ranked Trinity led 3-0 at the half on a 24-yard field goal from Kelly Tappenbeck. Walsh