GAMBIER, Ohio — The University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire defeated Kenyon College 35-6 on Saturday at McBride Field. UW-Eau Claire's defense dominated with four interceptions, contributing to the Owls' offensive struggles that resulted in just 119 total yards. The visitors pulled away in the fourth quarter, scoring 16 points to seal the victory.
UW-Eau Claire took a 6-0 lead over Kenyon in the first quarter, highlighted by
Paxton Rothmeier's 36-yard touchdown run. The Blugolds' defense contained Kenyon to just 11 rushing yards and pressured their quarterback, Ryan Dean, with three quarterback hurries. The Blugolds ended the first quarter driving down the field wiht the lead.
In the second quarter, UW-Eau Claire's offense answered the call, overcoming a blocked field goal returned for a Kenyon touchdown.
Ayden Helder connected on an 18-yard pass to
Eli Thompson to advance the drive, but a subsequent field goal attempt was blocked. A standout 56-yard interception return by
Brady Hoffner set up UWEC's offense, culminating in a four-yard touchdown pass from Helder to
Yaach Chuol, giving them a 13-6 lead by halftime. The Blugolds converted five of seven third-down attempts and accumulated 70 passing yards and 52 rushing yards in the period.
UW-Eau Claire expanded their lead in the third quarter against the Owls with a 54-yard touchdown pass from Helder to
Matt Kuczaj. The Blugolds controlled possession with nine first downs, converting three of four on third down, and accumulating 66 rushing yards. Despite a missed extra point and a fumble, the defense held strong with
Nate Majewski's 21-yard interception return, helping UWEC maintain a 19-6 advantage as the period concluded.
The Blugolds extended their lead decisively in the fourth quarter against Kenyon, concluding the game with a 35-6 victory. Helder connected with Chuol for a five-yard touchdown pass just four seconds into the quarter, and Perry added a successful extra point and a 20-yard field goal. The defense contributed significantly, with
KJ Obikwelu intercepting a pass and returning it for a touchdown. Additionally,
Max Marty recorded an interception, while UW-Eau Claire's defense forced a turnover on downs and limited the Owls to minimal yardage.
Quarterback Helder completed 20 of 26 passes for 217 yards and three touchdowns. Wide receiver Chuol contributed with two touchdown receptions on five catches for 32 yards. Kuczaj recorded a receiving touchdown and led the team with 92 receiving yards on five receptions. On defense, Hoffner intercepted a pass and returned it 56 yards, while Marty also added an interception with a 4-yard return.
UWEC improved to 2-0 on the season following their victory. Kenyon dropped to 0-2 overall with the loss.
Looking ahead, UW-Eau Claire will face Martin Luther College on Saturday, September 20th, at Carson Park. Kickoff is set for 1 p.m.
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