Football team downs North Park, 14-10, to improve to 4-0

CHICAGO, Ill. – The Olivet College football team defeated North Park (Ill.) University, 14-10, today at Holmgren Complex in Chicago, Illinois. With the win, the Comets improve to 4-0.

There was no score until late in the first quarter. During the Olivet's third possession, the snap on a punt attempt sailed over the punter's header. The Vikings capitalized on the mistake, with T.D. Conway throwing an 11-yard touchdown pass to Dakota Conway on their first play from scrimmage.

The Comets got on the scoreboard in the final seconds of the opening half. Sophomore quarterback Braden Black capped a 10-play, 68-yard drive with a one-yard sneak into the end zone. The PAT kick was missed, and North Park led 7-6 at halftime.

The Vikings stretched their lead to four points, 10-6, when Noah Moore made a 20-yard field goal with 8:45 left in the third stanza. Olivet took the lead for the first time in the game on its ensuing possession. This time, Black ended an 11-play, 76-yard drive with a five-yard run into the end zone. He then threw a successful two-point conversion pass to sophomore Dominik Givens.

Olivet's defense came through and kept North Park off the scoreboard for the final 23 minutes and 45 seconds of the game.

The Comets had 468 yards of total offense. Freshman Damorria Lilly finished with 11 carries for 168 yards. Sophomore Javier Lara rushed 13 times for 66 yards. Black completed 17-of-28 passes for 151 yards and ran the ball 15 times for 48 yards and two touchdowns. Freshman Dan Hugan caught 11 passes for 106 yards. Sophomore Nate Roberts topped the defense with seven tackles.

The Vikings were held to 22 net rushing yards. T.D. Conway was 18-of-36 for 146 yards. Alan Geneva was the top receiver with six catches for 59 yards. Bennett Dettlinger led the defense with 13 tackles.

Olivet will travel to play Alma College in its Michigan Intercollegiate Athletic Association opener next Saturday, Oct. 5. Kick-off from Bahlke Field is 1:30 p.m.