The Pioneers couldn't overcome an 18-point halftime deficit in a 31-17 loss at #12 Missouri Valley on Saturday. The Pioneers opened the game with a 10-play 53-yard drive but came away empty. The Vikings responded with a 9-play touchdown drive, but MNU was able to force back to back turnovers to keep pressure on Valley. MNU managed a field goal in the second period, but Valley responded with touchdowns on their next two drives to take a 21-3 lead into the locker room.
Missouri Valley extended their lead in the third quarter, but the Pioneers fought back. Trailing 31-3, MNU used
Trey Cooper every play for a 6-play 83-yard touchdown drive. Cooper either passed or ran for a first down on 4 straight plays, and MNU was within shouting distance. MNU engineered a 12-play 80-yard touchdown drive with 3 minutes left in the game to close the gap, then recovered an onside kick to make things interesting. A failed fourth down attempt finally ended things, and Valley was able to run out the clock to win 31-17.
"We played a very good Missouri Valley team that took advantage of some of our mistakes while we failed to capitalize on their mistakes," said Coach Willmer. "We just never quite got things rolling during this game and with a team that is well rounded like Missouri Valley it becomes difficult to dig yourself out of a hole. I am so thankful for this senior class and how these young men prepared and competed every week, I will miss these young men a lot and am grateful for our time together."
Javon Taylor had 23 carries for 96 yards, completing his record-setting career with 3,996 rushing yards.
Trey Cooper ran for 76 yards and a TD and passed for 170 yards with one score.
Dalton Inlow had 3 catches for 59 yards.
Gio Gonzalez had 3 catches for 47 yards and a touchdown.
Dominic Swillum led the defense with 10 tackles. And
Drake Tofi had an interception and a fumble recovery.
MNU finishes the season 6-5 (3-2 South).
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