Yellowjackets Over Power Eagles

Article Body: September 22, 2007

Kansas City, MO- The Yellowjackets traveled to Kansas City, Missouri Saturday for a conference battle vs. the Avila Eagles. Graceland would walk away an easy winner dominating the Eagles in a game that was really never close, wining 42-21. “This was a great road win for us following last weeks let down.” Coach Welch said following the contest. “We played four quarters tonight in all three aspects of the game. Our offense moved the ball very well, our first team defense shutdown Avila, and we played well on special teams tonight. We knew coming in we wanted to establish the ground game first and we definitely did that” said Welch. “This was probably the best Avila has been in the five years I’ve coached here. We’ll move on from here and prepare for our homecoming game next week vs. Baker.” Coach Welch concluded with.

The Jackets would score early and often starting on their second drive of the game as Graves would hook up with freshman Garrett Grundman at the 11:48 mark in the first quarter to put Graceland up 7-0. Three minutes later following a quick three and out by the Avila offense, running back Jerome Messam ran from 4 yards out to put the Jackets up 14-0. Following a Jacket turnover, Avila would get on the board with a field goal to make the lead 14-3. Messam would find pay dirt two more times for the Jackets before half-time to give Graceland a 28-3 lead heading into the locker room. The most impressive play of the night however came on a 99 yard run from scrimmage by Messam following a great Eagle punt pinning the Jackets deep in their own territory. This put the Jackets up 35-3 and would allow the coaching staff to begin giving the starters some rest. Messam would finish the night with an incredible 235 yards rushing on 23 carries averaging 10.2 yards per carry and scoring 4 touchdowns. He also had 2 catches on the night for 18 yards. Converted receiver Julian Bond would add a rushing touchdown for good measure to finish off Graceland’s scoring at 42. Avila would score a couple of late cosmetic touchdowns to cut into the Jacket lead, but Graceland would finish with a strong statement win 42-21.

Full stats will be posted on the football schedule page upon availability. The Jackets host Baker University next Saturday at Huntsman Field for a 2:00 kickoff on homecoming weekend. Pictures will be posted shortly.

For More Information on Graceland University Athletics Contact:
Matt Shelton, Sports Information Director
(641) 784-5318
mshelton@graceland.edu
Sport: Football
Event Date: 9/22/2007 9:40 AM
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Posted by Matt Shelton on 9/22/2007 9:40:00 AM

Yellowjackets Over Power Eagles

Yellowjackets Over Power Eagles

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