Game Leaders
Team Stats
Passing Yards
Rushing Yards
Turnovers
Time of Poss.
LISLE, Ill. - The Benedictine University football team scored in all four quarters to dispose of Aurora University 33-23 in the homecoming game on Saturday afternoon.
Special teams set up the first score of the game as Colin Kanehl blocked a punt after the defense forced Aurora three and out. Benedictine recovered at the two yard line and Michael McNulty recorded a rushing touchdown to put the Eagles in front 7-0 with 10:28 left in the first quarter.
Aurora pulled within 7-3 on a 29-yard field goal with just 1:30 to go in the opening quarter, but Artie Monaco stole the show on special teams on the kickoff. Monaco went end zone to end zone in a 100-yard return to extend the advantage to 14-3. The next Aurora play was intercepted by Rodney Nichols. The Eagles used an eight play drive to distance themselves further on a two yard run from Cyle Schultz with 13:05 left in the half.
The visitors recorded 14 straight points to move within 20-17 early in the second half. Benedictine faked a punt and collected a first down on fourth and 14 on a run by R.J. Bain to help lead the way for Schultz to connect with Kanehl on a 53-yard touchdown through the air. Schultz scored again early in the fourth on a one yard plunge to help put the game away. Aurora would add a late touchdown, but Benedictine was able to run out the clock on the win.
Benedictine racked up almost 400 yards of offense in a balanced effort that featured 142 yards rushing and 250 yards passing. The Eagles also dominated in time of possession, holding the ball for almost two thirds of the game.
McNulty rolled up 112 yards on 34 carries for his third 100-yard effort of the season. Schultz completed 16 passes for 250 yards with a touchdown while running for two. Kanehl reeled in five passes for 111 yards including a 36-yard play that helped set up the final touchdown. Kris Rosemann picked up 10 tackles to lead the defense.
Benedictine (3-2, 1-1) travels to Rockford University next week for a 2:00 p.m. game.