In what’s sure to be considered an NCAA Playoff classic,
Fifth-ranked UW-Oshkosh came back from a 15 point fourth quarter deficit to
defeat the Linfield Wildcats 31-24 in overtime at Maxwell Field. Through three quarters, it seemed like the
Wildcats could start thinking about their semifinal match-up with #4 St. Thomas
for next week; however, everything came unraveled in the end, and the Wildcats
are left to lament what could have been.
The win improved Oshkosh to 13-0 on the season, while the loss gave
Linfield a final record of 11-1.
Now, to my postgame awards…
It was over when: Deidre Weirsma’s fumble was recovered by
Andrew Thompson on Linfield’s second play from scrimmage in overtime, giving
the Titans the road win.
Gameball goes to: Nate Wara.
While Wara’s numbers weren't spectacular, he managed to avoid committing
a single turnover, which helped the Titans eventually wear out the Wildcat
defense and pull out a road win from the fire.
Wara went 23-30 for 237 yards and one touchdown with no interception,
while running the ball 16 times for 15 yards and two touchdowns.
Stat of the game: 3 turnovers and two missed field goals by
Linfield. In the first half, Linfield’s
offensive execution was pretty good, and as a result, they led 21-6 at the
halftime break. In the second half, Inns
threw two interceptions, Josh Kay had two field goals blocked in the fourth
quarter, and the last fumble on overtime sealed the deal. While Linfield probably can only blame themselves
for losing this game, a lot of credit has to go to the Titans defense for
staying the course.
Unsung hero: Cole Myhra.
While Wara will get most of the praise for the Titan’s efficient
offensive day against Linfield’s elite defense, Myhra quietly had a solid day,
carrying the ball 21 times for 110 yards and one touchdown against arguably the
best front seven in the nation outside of Mount Union.
What it means: For UW-Oshkosh, winning not only puts them in
the semifinals against #4 St. Thomas, but it also keeps their dream season
alive as they look to capture a national championship in their first-ever
playoff appearance. For Linfield, while
the loss definitely stings, the Wildcats should hold their heads high, for they
were able to not only win their fourth straight conference championship, but
they were able to get to the quarterfinals of the NCAA playoffs, a spot that
231 other teams in the nation would have loved to be in.
Link to postgame analysis video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Iatcm6RK570&feature=youtu.be
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