Baker Pulls Away in 2nd Half

The Basics
Score: MNU 20 - Baker 62
Record: MNU (2-5, 0-1), BU (6-1, 1-0)
Location: Liston Stadium - Baldwin City, Mo.

OLATHE, Kan. - The Pioneers hung with Baker early, but the #7 Wildcats pulled away quickly in a 62-20 loss on Saturday. After MNU punted on the opening drive, Troy Hall intercepted Baker's first pass and returned it deep inside Wildcat territory. The Pioneers turned it over on downs, however, to come away empty. On MNU's next drive, a blocked punt resulted in a safety to give Baker a 2-0 lead. The Wildcats scored a touchdown on the next drive, but a blocked extra point kept the lead at 8-0. Baker went up 15-0 after another touchdown drive, but the Pioneers mounted a comeback. MNU went 80 yards in 13 plays, capping the drive with a Blake Atkins to Caleb Tanis 6-yard touchdown. After a stop, Atkins found Tanis again for a 27-yard score and a 15-13 score with under a minute remaining in the half. The 2-point conversion failed, but the half was far from over. Baker's first play from scrimmage was a 72-yard touchdown pass, and MNU's ensuing drive resulted in a 1-play fumble in Baker territory. The Wildcats finished the 4-play touchdown drive with just seconds to spare, and took a 28-13 lead to the locker room.

The 3rd quarter was all Baker as the Wildcats scored 21 points and kept MNU off the board. Atkins to Tanis for the 3rd time was all the Pioneers could manage in the 4th, and Baker ran away with a 42-point win.

Turning Point
Baker's 2 touchdowns in the final minute of the first half changed the game.

Individual Leaders
Blake Atkins was 17-35 for 237 yards and 3 touchdowns. Caleb Tanis caught 7 passes for 118 yards and 3 touchdowns. Troy Hall had an interception. And Kidd Dickerson recorded 8 tackles.

Inside the Box Score
Baker out-rushed MNU 320-53.

Up Next
The next game is Homecoming - on campus - Saturday the 23rd vs. Central Methodist (5-2, 1-0) at 2:00.