The Basics
Score: MNU 38 - Graceland 3
Record: MNU (1-1), GU (0-2)
Location: ODAC - Olathe, Kan.
OLATHE, Kan. - The Pioneers scored 2 touchdowns in each of the first 2 quarters en route to a 38-3 victory over Graceland on Saturday. MNU got on the board after
Ryan Huerta forced a fumble on Graceland's opening drive to set up the Pioneers near midfield. Quarterback
Austin Blackston found
Juvantae Martin for a 23-yard touchdown pass 6 plays later, and MNU never trailed. Blackston scored on a keeper on the next drive, and
Jamar Moya found paydirt early in the 2nd quarter to put MNU up 21-0. Late in the half, Blackston connected with
Kobe Hardin for a 14-yard strike and the rout was on. A
Dean Clemons interception closed the half with MNU up by 4 scores.
The second half began with
O'Neil Williams III intercepting a pass near the goal line, and Graceland drove into the red zone on their next drive to threaten again.
Ryan Huerta picked off a pass at the 1, however, and returned it 99 yards for a new MNU interception return record (Steve Kiburz had a 98-yarder on Homecoming in 2008).
Pablo Pereira added a 35-yard field goal, and MNU won 38-3.
Turning Point
Huerta's forced fumble and the ensuing touchdown was all the Pioneers needed.
Individual Leaders
Austin Blackston was 15-20 for 254 yards and 2 touchdowns, he also ran for a touchdown.
Jamar Moya had 18 carries for 83 yards and a touchdown, he also caught 3 balls for 60 yards.
Arnold Adams caught 4 passes for 63 yards. And
Juvantae Martin and
Kobe Hardin recorded touchdown receptions.
K.J. Littlejohn Jr. led the defense with 8 tackles.
Phillip White and
Jalen McQueen had 2 sacks apiece. And
Ryan Huerta had 7 tackles, a forced fumble, and a 99-yard pick-6.
Inside the Box Score
MNU outscored Graceland by 35 but only gained 19 more yards than the Yellowjackets.
Up Next
The next game is Saturday at Culver-Stockton (2-0) at 2:30.
