Two long interception returns by MidAmerica Nazarene University turned out to be the difference in the game, as the Wildcats lost to MNU 24-16.

“Any time a team picks you off it’s huge, but when they run for 137 yards in returns, that kills you even more,” head coach Mike Grossner said.

The first interception for the Pioneers was returned 45 yards to the one-yard line and the second was brought back 92 yards for a touchdown.

Grossner continues to be frustrated with the turnovers being committed by the offense, but is still pleased with the play of the defense and the special team’s play.

“We are playing great football in two areas right now, and I think that is keeping us in the game,” Grossner said. “Now we have to figure out on offense who we are and protect the football.”

This was the third straight loss for Baker to open the season. The three losses have all been to top-10 nationally ranked teams, and all by 10 points or less.

“We’ve played three quality football teams,” Grossner said. “We’ve hung in there and had a chance to win all three games. Eventually the ball will start bouncing the right way for this football team.”