Willamette Defense is Stellar in Win over Trinity

By Robert McKinney, Athletics Communications Director, (503) 370-6110

SALEM, ORE. -- The Willamette University defense played a key role in the Bearcats' season opener this past Saturday, leading the way in a 34-10 victory by shutting out Trinity University (Texas) during the second half.

Willamette allowed just 247 total yards during the game, and Trinity gained 64 of those yards on its final drive when the outcome was already determined. Even then, the Bearcats -- playing with many defensive backups -- stopped the Tigers with a goal line stand in the final seconds.

All of the Bearcats on defense contributed to a solid effort. Willamette limited Trinity quarterback Mason Blaschke to only one completion on his first 18 attempts. Daley Smith (Sr., CB, St. Paul, OR/St. Paul HS) registered an interception and the Bearcats achieved two sacks.

Blaschke was 9 of 33 passing overall for 89 yards. Willamette ranks 5th in NCAA Division III in passing yards allowed.

The Bearcats forced Trinity in to five turnovers. In addition to the interception, the Tigers fumbled four times and lost all four fumbles. In addition, WU limited the Tigers to four plays or less on 10 of 18 possessions, including one two-play drive and seven three-and-outs.

Brendan Manion (Sr., OLB, Los Altos, CA/Archbishop Mitty HS), Aric Burks (So., DL, Gilbert, AZ/Hamilton HS), Benjamin Jahn (Fr., OLB, Juneau, AK/Thunder Mountain HS) and Beau Smith (Sr., WR, Roseville, CA/Roseville HS) each forced a fumble. Smith caused a fumble on a punt return in the first half that led to Willamette's first touchdown.

Jack Nelson (Sr., ILB, Portland, OR/Jesuit HS) ranked first on the defensive chart with nine total tackles. Eight of his tackles were unassisted.

Manion added seven tackles, including 1.5 tackles for loss and one-half sack. Ben McLane (Jr., ILB, Prineville, OR/Crook County HS), Kyle Shaver (So., OLB, Bend, OR/Mountain View HS) and Mark Mulligan (So., DL, San Francisco, CA/Archbishop Riordan HS) contributed six tackles each.

Two of the four fumbles were recovered by Donny Torres (Jr., DB, Long Beach, CA/St. Anthony HS), who also provided five solo tackles, including one tackle for loss. Burks blocked a field goal attempt and registered one quarterback hurry. Jahn also was credited with a hurry for the Bearcats.