NORTH CANTON, OH The Walsh University Cavaliers faced a tough challenge in their home opener against the Wheeling Cardinals on Saturday night. The first quarter was a defensive battle, with neither team able to put points on the board. Both offenses struggled to find their rhythm, resulting in a scoreless tie after 15 minutes of play. Wheeling broke the deadlock in the second quarter when they managed to punch in a touchdown, taking a 7-0 lead into halftime.
In the third quarter, Wheeling extended their lead with another touchdown, pushing the score to 14-0. Walsh finally got on the scoreboard with a field goal, narrowing the gap to 14-3. A surprise onside kick would immediately give the Cavs the ball back heading into the final period.
The Cavaliers showed signs of life in the fourth quarter as Quarterback
Dalys Jett began to find his targets. He finished the game with 180 passing yards, connecting with receivers
Anthony Harris and
Garrett Waite, who contributed 52 and 60 yards respectively. Walsh's late push resulted in a touchdown, bringing them within striking distance at 14-10. However, Wheeling's defense held firm in the closing minutes, preserving their lead and securing the victory.
The Cavs will head into their bye week at 1-1 and will open conference play against Kentucky Wesleyan on September 21st, at home, at 1pm.
SCORE: Wheeling 14 - Walsh 10
LOCATION: Larry Staudt Field
RECORDS: Wheeling 1-1, Walsh 1-1
FOR THE CAVS
- Dalys Jett led the passing attack for the Cavs, throwing for 180 yards.
- Cameron Macon led the Cavs in rushing with 48 yards, while Garrett Waite added 60 yards through the air.
- Cam Hollobaugh once again led the Walsh Defense with 13 total tackles and 2 tackles for loss.