Graceland Stumbles In Loss To #6 Benedictine

Lamoni, IA - The Graceland Football team could not overcome a relentless Benedictine rushing attack Saturday, falling to the #6 Ravens 48-0.

The Yellowjackets (2-2) knew going into this HAAC matchup that it would be an uphill battle to success against Benedictine College. The pounding ground game and efficient aerial attack of the visitors, however, kept the GU squad fighting to leave the starting gate.

Benedictine started the game with 62- and 76-yard drives that both resulted in Bill Noonan touchdown passes. Up 14-0 at the end of the first quarter, the Ravens settled into their running game, and punched in four rushing touchdowns to round out their offensive output.

The Graceland defense showed some life in the second quarter, stopping Benedictine twice in the red zone on drives that ended in field goals for their opponents.

The Jackets cobbled together 149 yards of offense, primarily in the second half, but could not reach field goal territory to put points on the board.

Matt Fink struggled to find a rhythm in the air, going 7 for 18 with an interception. Fink did find some success throwing to senior wideout Nicholas Gaitan, who corralled four catches for 45 yards.

Andrew Gayles managed 58 yards on 13 rushes, leading GU on the ground.

Defensively, Dorian Smith had six solo tackles and six assists, while Johnny Carrasco managed five solo tackles and eight assists. Billy Wendt had seven total tackles and recorded his fourth sack of the season.

"Benedictine is a great team that is very disciplined. They are easily the toughest opponent we've played this season," said Coach Jeff Douglas after the game.

"Our team is young and learning, and we have to take the bye week to get better, turn the page, and look forward toward Peru State in two weeks," added Douglas.

Graceland will travel to Peru, Nebraska to take on HAAC opponent Peru State on Saturday, September 28th. Stay tuned to GUjackets.com for continuing coverage of Yellowjacket football and all GU athletics.