DES MOINES, Iowa - The Stetson Hatters aimed to reclaim their winning form against the Drake Bulldogs after dropping last week's game to St. Thomas. Unfortunately, they faced another setback, falling to the Bulldogs by a score of 33-7 on Saturday, October 28 at Drake Stadium in Des Moines, Iowa.
The game kicked off with a swift three-and-out for Stetson but the Hatters' defense held strong, allowing only a 29-yard field goal. Stetson encountered difficulties, being forced to punt again despite a promising 27-yard pass to running back Donovan Shepard.
However, the Hatters defense retaliated, forcing the Bulldogs into a quick three-and-out. The following 16-play drive for Stetson concluded in a turnover on downs, but they managed to trail by only three points at the end of the first quarter.
The momentum shifted in favor of the Hatters when cornerback David Stubbs intercepted a pass at their own 14-yard line. This led to an 86-yard drive in 10 plays, highlighted by a 62-yard pass to Gabe Atkin, positioning the team at the 1-yard line. Kaleb Costner eventually punched it into the endzone, securing a Stetson touchdown of the game and his second of the season.
As Stetson took the lead, the Bulldogs responded with a 61-yard drive in 15 plays, resulting in yet another 29-yard field goal. However, a subsequent strip-sack led to the Bulldogs' recovery at the Stetson 22-yard line, allowing them to reclaim the lead with a touchdown.
Just before the half, the Hatters' defense showcased its ball-hawk skills with another interception by Rassie Littlejohn, marking his third of the season and 16th of his career, tying Chris Atkins for a career record most since 2013.
The halftime score stood at 13-7 in favor of Drake. The Bulldogs capitalized on their opening possession in the second half, expanding their lead. Despite several attempts from Stetson, turnovers and interceptions plagued their offensive efforts.
The game continued with turnovers and three-and-outs from both teams including an interception by Jaylon Johnson, his third of the season. The Bulldogs added on with another 1-yard touchdown rush as the Hatters fell to the Bulldogs with a final score of 33-7.
Matt O'Connor completed 14 of 33 passes for 199 yards while Shepard led the rushing attack with 41 yards on 11 carries. Gabe Atkin led all receivers with 80 yards on two receptions while Shiloh Conway and Shepard each caught a 27-yard pass
On the defensive front, Nicholas Lerew led the charge with 12 total tackles, and Andrew Martin contributed 11 tackles, including 0.5 sacks alongside Littlejohn.
The Hatters will return to their home turf in DeLand to face the Davidson Wildcats at Spec Martin Stadium on November 4th.
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About Stetson University Athletics: Stetson University's Athletics Program is driven by a shared purpose. It is what inspires, motivates and binds us together. More than a task, a reason for being. THE HATTER PURPOSE is to create and provide an experience of a lifetime through teamwork and relationships to achieve excellence. This purpose is achieved through five Core Values: Communication, Integrity, Excellence, Value People and Commitment. To learn more about the HATS program and our Core Values, visit GoHatters.com/HATS.
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