At the beginning of the season, head football coach Mike Grossner said Baker would be fielding the deepest, most talented team he’s ever coached at the university.
Sitting at 5-1 in the conference and riding a four-game winning streak, that sentiment is difficult to dispute.
Evangel University, the ‘Cats’ most recent victim, was utterly dismantled by a potent BU attack and a stingy defense Saturday at Liston Stadium, resulting in a 45-9 blowout.
This game marked the third time this season defensive coordinator Jason Thoren’s unit has held a Heart of America Athletic Conference foe to fewer than 10 points.
“Our defense has a lot more confidence this season,” senior Eric Allen said. “We’re more motivated and not having to rely on the offense.”
The secondary proved why the defense is ranked second in the conference in total defense, as safety Colton Miller tallied 13 total tackles and a sack. Senior Herb Askew made good on the Wildcats’ 16th interception of the season, returning the ball the 36 yards to the end zone with nine minutes left in the game.
The offense was not to be overlooked, however, as seniors Richie Bryant, Tyrell Spain and Mack Brown put the defense’s mind at ease again Saturday accounting for five touchdowns.
Brown was efficient under center for the fourth week in a row, completing 18 of 21 passes for 240 yards and two touchdowns. He also opened the scoring for the Wildcats with a 3-yard touchdown plunge, capping a nine-play, 64-yard drive in the first quarter.
Bryant put up Adrian Peterson-like numbers on the ground, rushing for 200 yards on 21 carries. He pounded the ball in twice from inside the 5-yard line and also converted on a 10-yard screen pass from Brown, registering three touchdowns on the evening.
Spain backed up his preseason expectation of being the big play, bomb threat for the Wildcats, scoring a touchdown on a 42-yard pass in the third quarter. The ‘Cats were not to be outdone in any facet of the game, however, as the special teams put on a tackling clinic for the visiting Crusaders.
Freshman Adam Steele was named HAAC Special Teams Player of the Week for his efforts Saturday, registering eight tackles.
“I was proud of the accomplishment,” Steele said. “It happened because all 11 guys stepped up – the complete kickoff team was good. I’m definitely proud to help as a freshman.”
