The Benedictine University football team lost for the first time this year, suffering a 23-18 defeat on homecoming at the hands of visiting Concordia Wisconsin. Benedictine was able to score a pair of fourth quarter touchdowns to take the lead but could not stop a go-ahead drive.
Humberto Velazquez put the first points of the day on the board with 10:10 to go in the opening quarter, finishing off the opening drive with a 33-yard field goal after an interception from Josh Coats set Benedictine up with plus field position. Concordia Wisconsin took the lead by returning an interception for a touchdown with 6:13 to go in the opening quarter. Velazquez converted on a 32-yard field goal early in the second to bring Benedictine within 7-6. The visitors scored the final 10 points of the half to lead 17-6 at the break, kicking a field goal just before halftime.
Neither team scored in the third quarter. Benedictine was twice stopped deep on the Concordia side on fourth down attempts. Benedictine opened the fourth with a 28-yard touchdown grab from
Justin Hocker to draw within 17-12 after a missed two-point conversion. The defense came up with a quick stop and Benedictine was able to march down and take the lead. Dino Stephens posted a couple big runs before finding pay dirt from two yards out. Following an unsuccessful two-point attempt Benedictine led 18-17. Concordia Wisconsin used a long drive to take the lead and Benedictine moved the ball to the Concordia 16 but was stopped on downs for a third time.
The defensive battle saw Concordia Wisconsin outgain Benedictine 271- 234.
Alexander Corbett caught seven passes. Stephens ran the ball 13 times for 80 yards.
Cooper Simmons-Little completed 22-of-37 attempts for 120 yards.
Gessie Escudero led the defense with 14 tackles while
Jake Diamantos notched 11 stops.
Benedictine (3-1, 1-1 NACC) travels to Lakeland next Saturday.
