After an exciting conference win against University of Saint Francis a week prior, number 10 ranked Saint Xavier showcased its dominance in all three phases of a commanding 46-3 victory over non-conference opponent, Ave Maria University.
The Cougars relied on a steady ground attack by running backs Jamarri Watson, and Mike Ivlow in a dominating performance at home. Freshman Jamarri Watson led Saint Xavier in rushing with 115 yards and a touchdown.
Watson averaged an impressive 8.8 yards per carry in the contest, with his longest run coming on a 40 yard touchdown burst. Senior Mike Ivlow’s 56 yards rushing on the afternoon was enough to surpass 1,000 career yards on the ground. Congratulations to Ivlow for the impressive feat.
Wide receiver Dan Ladd could not be stopped at the goal line, as the senior tied a school record with three rushing touchdowns.
Freshman quarterback Alex Martinez made his collegiate debut by throwing for 161 yards and a touchdown, hitting receivers on 11 of 23 attempts. An interception late in the second quarter did not hinder the St. Laurence product, or the Cougars, as Martinez led his offense to a season high 46 points.
Wide receivers Michael Markasovic and Stephen Simms each reeled in three catches, while Dennis Vilmek and Dan Ladd had two, respectively. Markasovic totaled 65 yards and ended his afternoon with a touchdown.
The Cougars offense made its claim as the better of Saint Xavier’s three phases, but the defense may have stolen the show. In addition to only letting up just three points, the Cougars totaled five sacks, three interceptions, a fumble and a safety.
Junior Maurice Sutton, freshman Trevon Anderson, and sophomore Tim Walsh each recorded picks, while senior Alex Hamilton and junior Jeff Cesario sacked the Ave Maria quarterback for a safety. Sutton returned an interception 45 yards for a touchdown late in the third quarter to cap Saint Xavier’s 46 point performance.
The Cougars continue to establish credibility as a top 10 ranked team in the NAIA. Next week, Saint Xavier will travel to Babson Park, Florida for a non-conference match up against Webber International University.
Mike Rankin
Senior Sports Editor