Mount Union advances with win

By Joe Magill

Cleveland Plain Dealer

ALLIANCE

Through the years fans have been spoiled by the Mount Union football team.

In winning 10 Division III national championships, the Purple Raiders have made a habit out of shredding their opponents, often by gaudy scores.

But what if that doesn’t happen, such as Saturday’s 37-7 national quarterfinal victory over Alfred University? While it appears to have been a typical blowout, the Raiders were clinging to a 10-7 lead early in the second quarter, struggling on offense.

In the first quarter, Mount Union quarterback Neal Seaman completed only 3 of 10 passes for 32 yards, and tailback Jeremy Murray averaged only 2.6 yards on 11 carries. One drive started on the Alfred 6 after an interception by Alex Ferrara, but three plays lost 2 yards and a field goal ensued.

“On offense we probably looked sporadic, but that was a good defensive team,” Mount Union coach Larry Kehres said. “Their linebackers were very good. As opposed to thinking that we played poorly, I want to recognize that Alfred had a good defense that was very disciplined.”

Eventually the Raiders pulled away, and it was a defensive play that was the key, as Nick Driskill picked up a fumble early in the third quarter and returned it 17 yards for a touchdown and a 27-7 Mount Union lead.

“It was pretty apparent why they’re the No.1 defense in the country,” Alfred coach Dave Murray said. “They have tremendous team speed and it made it difficult for us to do anything.”

Alfred quarterback Tom Secky had a miserable day, completing just 8 of 33 passes for 122 yards, one touchdown and two interceptions. Freshman tailback Austin Dwyer entered needing just 17 yards to set a single season rushing record, but it wasn’t until late in the game that he got it, ending with 22 yards on 15 carries.

“Every player on their defense is fast and athletic,” Secky said. “It was basic stuff that we’ve seen all year, but they have 11 guys who are great on defense.”

The Raiders (13-0), ranked No. 2, plays host to No. 14 Bethel, which upset No.4 St. Thomas, 12-7, on Saturday.