UMW Sports Press Release
The no. 13 ranked Montana Western football team (7-1, 5-1) overcame a slow start in today’s matchup with MSU-Northern (1-7, 0-6) as they cruised to a 44-0 rout of the Lights.
The Bulldog defense was solid in the game, setting a new school record for fewest rushing yards allowed in a game with -37. They totaled 13 tackles for loss and held the Lights to just four first downs and 61 total yards of offense.
How It Happened
After taking a 0-0 score into the second quarter, the Bulldogs finally discovered the end zone after Michael Palandri hit Jon Kirkley in stride for a 36-yard touchdown.
The following UMW drive saw a quick 69-yard touchdown pass to Dylan Shipley, giving the Bulldogs a 14-0 lead.
Tyler Walker extinguished the Lights’ next drive, recording back-to-back sacks for a total of 20 yards lost. The Bulldogs would hang on to a 14-0 lead into the half.
UMW would cash in on two quick scores in the beginning of the third quarter. The first on a 25-yard touchdown pass to Eli Nourse. The second coming on a 56-yard rushing touchdown from Jake Humphrey.
Kaden Jenks checked into the game at quarterback for the first play of the fourth quarter, tossing up a 23-yard touchdown pass to Coby Tanioka that capped off a nine play, 71-yard drive that began in the third quarter.
Up 34-0, the Bulldog defense continued their dominating performance by forcing an MSU-N three and out. Nourse returned the ensuing punt for a 60-yard touchdown, marking it as his first punt return touchdown in his career at Montana Western.
Young running backs Bradley Eleton and Payton Hoyt took centerstage on the Bulldog’s final scoring drive that ended with a 32-yard John Mears field goal that capped off the scoring at 44-0.
Notables
UMW recorded 527 yards of offense, with a season high of 360 yards through the air.
Palandri threw for 295 passing yards and three touchdowns. Jenks stepped in and threw a touchdown of his own with 65 passing yards.
Nourse led the Bulldogs with 11 receptions for 142 receiving yards and a touchdown.
Jake Humphrey led on the ground with 90 rushing yards and a 56-yard touchdown rush.
Eleven Bulldog defenders recorded tackles for loss in the game, with Walker recording three for a loss of 24 yards and two sacks.
Monson had two tackles for loss of his own with a pass breakup.
Up Next
The Bulldogs have their work cut out for them as they are set for a showdown in Helena, Mont. next Saturday Nov. 4 as they travel to take on the No. 11 Carroll College. Kick-off is set for 1pm MT.
