Backup QB Adam Riggers had the game of his life as he led MNU to a 34-10 victory over Morningside in the quarterfinals of the NAIA Football Championship Series on Saturday. With Sean Ransburg unable to go due to injury, the senior from Tucson, AZ got his first ever start as a Pioneer and took advantage.
On MNU's opening drive, Riggers led the Pioneers into the red zone. But a tipped ball resulted in an interception and a huge return all the way to the 4 yard line. The Mustangs scored 3 plays later and took a 7-0 lead. Riggers then led the Pioneers on another big drive, this one resulting in a touchdown to tie the game. Morningside managed a field goal on their next drive to take a 10-7 lead, but they wouldn't score again. The Pioneers took the lead late in the half when after a partially blocked punt resulted in a short field, Riggers found Brett Houchen in the end zone for a 34-yard strike. The defense forced a quick 3-and-out and Riggers managed a quick drive which resulted in a 33-yard touchpass pass to Donnie MacLeod. The extra point was blocked, and MNU took a 20-10 lead into halftime.
The second half was dominated by the Pioneers. MNU's first possession resulted in a punt, but Morningside fumbled the return and the Pioneers kept the ball.
James Tillman scored on a 58-yard rush on the first play of the ensuing drive, and the Pioneers led 27-10. MNU then iced the game with a 4th quarter 10-play 69-yard touchdown drive to take a 34-10 lead. The defense held the rest of the way and MNU moved to its first semifinal in school history.
Riggers was 23-31 for 250 yards and 4 touchdowns. He was named Offensive Player of the Game.
James Tillman ran 13 times for 105 yards and a touchdown.
Austin Conyers caught 6 passes for 60 yards.
Juan Redmon had 5 recptions for 53 yards.
Brett Houchen,
Branden Phillips,
Donnie MacLeod, and
Brandon Smith each had a touchdown reception.
The defense was led by Player of the Game
Jake Duren's 12 tackles.
AJ Rodriguez and
JD Wood each recorded an interception. Morningside managed just 9 first downs and 131 yards of offense.
The Pioneers are 12-0. The next game will be at #1 Sioux Falls on Saturday, December 4th at noon.
More game photos
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Stats and Play by Play
