‘Cats hand Hatters their hats in 57-20 win

The Bobcat football team trounced the Stetson Hatters this past Saturday by a score of 57-20. This game was the first time the Bobcats had ever faced off against Stetson University (SU) — a smaller, private school in DeLand, Florida. 

The Bobcats were dominant in the opening half, scoring a whopping six touchdowns in the first two quarters. Bolstered by an impressive showing from the offensive line – who didn’t allow a sack – the ‘Cats’ ground game was fantastic. Even with the notable absence of Tommy Mellott, a number of key contributors were able to put together a more-than-solid game.

Scottre Humphrey found the endzone three times, bringing his season rushing touchdown total to a Conference leading six. Sean Chambers was impressive as a starter, showing off his dual-threat abilities by going 9-13 for 140 yards in the air and averaging 11 yards per carry. His pair of rushing scores – including a 30-yarder on a well executed option keeper – tie him for second in the conference behind Humphrey with five. 

Wide receiver Jacob Trimble had his first career reception on Saturday and would finish the game leading the team in receiving yards per game. He established himself as a wide-out threat, coming away with six receptions for 104 yards. 

The Bobcats offense was not the only strong point. The defense, especially in the first half, looked brilliant. Allowing only two field goals in the first 30 minutes of play, the ‘Cats’ defensive front effectively shut down the SU offense. The defensive line stuffed the running game, and a couple of big plays — including a pick-six courtesy of linebacker Rylan Ortt — left no doubt of which squad was in control.

A number of starters were removed at the half, including Chambers– this is often done in blowouts in order to protect the first-string from injuries, as well as give reserves an in-game look. Jordan Reed took over the quarterbacking duties. His performance under center could probably best be characterized as unspectacularly solid — he was 9-17 with 132 yards in the air.  

Seeing as it was a non-conference matchup against an unranked and altogether unremarkable opponent – Stetson has yet to put together a winning season in the current decade; the result likely won’t affect the ‘Cats season in any major manner. 

However, it does put MSU back in the win column in decisive fashion after falling to SDSU last week.