Football heads to bowl

Mitchell Breuer, Editor-In-Chief

Winona State University football team continues their season after a 20-10 win over Concordia University, St. Paul Saturday, Nov. 16.

The bounce-back weekend started with a solid first quarter for the Warriors, finding the endzone twice in the first 15 minutes.

It started early, as the Warrior defense started the game with a quick three and out, which was followed by a poor Concordia punt that gave the Winona State offense the Golden Bears’ 16.

A 24-yard pass from senior quarterback John Rumpza to junior wide receiver Tyler Anderson, would set a one-yard touchdown run by fifth-year Landon Jacobson.

After another quick defensive stop by the Warriors, Winona State again moved down the field, ending the drive with a touchdown pass from Rumpza to third-year tight end Jaylen Schleicher.

On the ensuing drive, the Golden Bears finally got on the board with a field goal, before a punt barrage between both teams began.

After a lengthy 14-play drive that spanned over seven minutes, the Warriors finally got back on the board with a successful 35-yard field goal attempt by senior Paul Ortiz.

Winona State’s defense would get the ball back for the offense, as senior Quinton Reed forced and recovered a fumble during the process of sacking Concordia’s quarterback, allowing the Warriors to get another field goal before halftime.

After a three and out by the offense, fourth-year Cam Gavin quickly ended the Golden Bear’s first drive of the third quarter with his third interception of the season.

Gavin would grab another pick during Concordia’s next offense drive, but it was called back due to a Winona State penalty.

At the beginning of the fourth quarter, the Warriors attempted to increase their lead by sending Ortiz for a long 62-yard field goal attempt, but it was short and no good. This set up the Golden Bears with excellent field position.

However, Winona State prevented Concordia from scoring, as junior defensive back. Isaiah Hall came up with the team’s second interception of the day.

The Golden Bears quickly got the ball back though, as Rumpza fumbled the ball on the following possession.

Concordia took advantage of the turnover, scoring their first touchdown of the game and trimming the lead down to 10. They would not score again, giving the Warriors the victory.

With the win, Winona State ended their regular season with an 8-3 record.

Rumpza, who previously saw action only in relief roles, went 15 for 22 for 172 yards and one touchdown in his lone start of the season.

Their season is not over though, as it was announced Sunday, Nov. 18, that the Warriors will get one last game this season in the Mineral Water Bowl.

The game will be played at Tiger Stadium in Excelsior Springs, MO on Saturday, Dec. 7.