Erin Cochran/Winonan

The Winona State University Warriors Football team earned their fifth consecutive victory Saturday, beating Wayne State College 17-13.

The Wildcats took an early lead with a 38-yard field goal, but the Warriors responded with a 20-yard touchdown. A field goal gave Winona State a 7-6 lead.

In the third quarter, the Wildcats took the lead again, this time on a seven-yard rushing touchdown.

After a grueling 11-play, 75-yard drive, that included a four-yard touchdown by Rayon Simmons, regained the Warrior advantage, pulling up to 14-13.

This drive was the fifth consecutive game in which Simmons reached 100 yards on the ground. This is the 20th time in his collegiate career.

“Our offense has faith in each other and I know what I have to do to make the plays for them. Our “D” is just a whole other story, they are hungry and in it,” said Simmons. “I know I always say it’s about keeping the momentum but that’s really what it all comes down too.”

In the fourth quarter, a 39-yard field goal by Jake Vercher solidified the 17-13 victory.

The Warriors defense allowed just 262 total yards. The team blocked a field goal and Ryan Williams and Tyler Kubler recovered two fumbles.  Kubler and Alex Coulter both gained sacks against the Wildcat’s quarterback.
John Teigland completed 10-of-24 passes for 163 yards; Sean Hertz led in passing game completing four catches for a total of 94 yards.

Jay Adams had two passes for 39 yards and a touchdown. Bryan Bradshaw also completed a 30-yard pass.

“Bradshaw came in, took control and delivered,” said Sawyer. “He did a really great job when put in a tough position. These guys are playing high stakes and there’s a lot of people looking for them to play as expected. This is a big win especially in this point of the season. The defense played their butts off and the play to win.”

“This was a hard fought game and I know we’re excited to get back home for Homecoming. It’s an entirely different atmosphere with all the excitement. You have the students that are pumped up and so many Winona State alum and Warrior football alum come out to support and our team is definitely going to be excited to try to get that win.”

Total, Simmons rushed  for 133  yards and  became  the NSIC All-Time Leading Rusher. He entered the game needing 94 yards and achieved the goal midway through the fourth. He now has 4,255 yards in his career. He surpassed Chris Washington, former Concordia-St. Paul Golden Bear in the early 2000’s.

This is also his third consecutive season surpassing 1,000-yard mark. In the seven games this season, Simmons has 1,036 yards.

“My support system, “O” line and receivers mean everything to me,” said Simmons. “Without them none of the records that I have achieved this season would be possible. I wouldn’t have anything.”

Winona State is now 6-1 overall and top of the NSIC South standings.

The Warriors play at home this Saturday at Maxwell Field at Verizon Wireless Stadium, as they take on the undefeated Minnesota State, Mankato Mavericks. Kickoff is at 1p.m.

To get an inside scoop with Head Coach Tom Sawyer himself, join him every Thursday during the season at the Riverport Hotel at noon.

To get more information about Winona State football visit www.winonastatewarriors.com.

Contact Erin at [email protected].