Going the length of the field almost five times is normally enough to win a football game. Unfortunately for Capital, that was not the case this time. On Saturday, the Crusaders lost to Ohio Northern University (ONU) 38-20 in a key OAC game, but still managed to put up 497 yards of total offense to ONU’s 431.
Despite better numbers than the Polar Bears in many categories, only the numbers on the scoreboard matter in the end. Although Capital lost, a record was set during the Homecoming game. Senior wide receiver Matt White had a school record 16 receptions for 189 yards, including a 23 yard reception on a long third down that kept the drive alive and allowed Capital to score early in the fourth quarter, trimming the deficit to 31-20. That was the last scoring Capital did, as ONU drove down the field to score again with less than three minutes remaining in the game, and the final score of 38-20 would be the way the game finished.
The Crusaders had some big moments in the game. Towards the end of the first half, ONU had a field goal attempt blocked by Aaron Rittgers. Had it been good, the score would have been 27-14, but thanks to the block Capital was able to take a manageable 10 point deficit into the locker room at halftime, though they would not be able to overcome it.
Capital never led, although they were tied at 7-7 midway through the first quarter. That was the closest the Crusaders came to leading, as ONU went on to score 17 unanswered points before Capital got into the end zone again. Turnovers were a big part of the game, as Capital lost the ball five times. While both teams had two fumbles, ONU only lost one of those balls, while the Crusaders lost both. The interception battle is where the Polar Bears pulled away, picking off three passes and returning them for a total of 80 yards, while Capital did not have any.
One highlight of the game had little to do with football. During halftime, Capital’s homecoming court was announced. Seniors Alex Broshious and Taylor Clark were named king and queen, respectively. They were crowned by President Denvy Bowman.
Capital’s record has fallen to 2-3 (2-2 OAC) and ONU improved to 3-2 (2-2 OAC). The Crusaders will resume OAC play at Otterbein on Saturday. Kickoff is scheduled for 1:30 p.m.
