CLEVELAND, Ohio – Football enthusiasts in Ohio are gearing up for an electrifying Saturday as both John Carroll University and Mount Union prepare to embark on their NCAA Division III playoff journeys, each enjoying the advantage of home field. After receiving a bye in the initial round, both teams are eager to display their skills and determination in the upcoming matchups.
John Carroll University, currently ranked No. 9, will host No. 20 Randolph-Macon College at Don Shula Stadium in University Heights. This highly-coveted game is scheduled to begin at noon, with tickets available through JCUSports.com. Fans also have options to watch the game live on ESPN+ or listen to coverage on WJCU 88.7 FM.
The Blue Streaks come into this matchup with a solid 9-1 record, highlighting a successful first season in the North Coast Athletic Conference, where they finished with an undefeated conference mark of 8-0, securing the title. Quarterback Nick Semptimphelter has been a standout player, achieving a remarkable season by completing 80% of his passes, amassing 2,534 passing yards, and throwing 27 touchdowns against just two interceptions. Complementing his efforts is wide receiver Tyren Montgomery, who has not only set a program record with 81 receptions, but also exceeded 1,000 receiving yards for the second consecutive year. On the ground, tailback Nemo Jenkins has contributed significantly with a team-high of 665 rushing yards. The Blue Streaks’ success is further anchored by a formidable defense featuring first-team all-conference players Chris Golson, Tommy Wasinski, and Lamar Thomas, all contributing to the team’s top position among national defensive rankings.
On the other side, No. 2 ranked Mount Union will face Muhlenberg in a showdown at Kehres Stadium in Alliance, also slated to kick off at noon. Tickets can be acquired through the Mount Union athletics website, and the game will be available for viewers on ESPN+.
Mount Union boasts an impeccable 10-0 record, marking the ninth consecutive season without a regular-season loss and achieving their 36th Ohio Athletic Conference Championship. They are coming off a strong performance against Union, defeating Muhlenberg 34-26 in the opening round. This matchup is particularly notable as it represents the third time these two teams have squared off in the NCAA playoffs, with Mount Union maintaining a 2-0 record in previous encounters, including an intense 35-29 overtime victory in 2021.
Key players for Mount Union include dynamic quarterback Mikey Maloney, who has thrown for 2,237 yards and 27 touchdowns on 158 completions from 229 attempts, while also showcasing his dual-threat abilities with 391 rushing yards and eight touchdowns. Leading the rushing attack is Darnell Williams with 1,004 yards and 10 touchdowns, complemented by tailback Kayden Minner, who has secured 556 rushing yards and six touchdowns. Maloney’s receiving threats include Nick Turner, with a team-high of 43 catches for 586 yards and four touchdowns, and Davion Grant, who has accumulated 711 yards and six touchdowns through 39 receptions. The defensive unit, spearheaded by linebacker Weston Arthur, highlights strong performance with a leading total of 64 tackles.
With both teams set to launch their playoff campaigns, there is a palpable sense of excitement surrounding this day of football in Cleveland, promising thrilling performances and memorable moments on the field.