Chargers hold off Northwood 35-28, Cam White has breakout day

Despite thoroughly outplaying Northwood, Saturday's #17 Hillsdale College football win over the pesky Timberwolves was still in doubt until the final ticks of the clock.

Despite Hillsdale being able to move the ball primarily at will, Northwood's Woodbone option attack always seemed to have an answer staying within a score for most of the game. With the Chargers leading 35-21 in the final minutes, Northwood would cut the lead to 35-28 with a minute and change left. After Andre Holmes skyed to grab an onside kick attempt, he was hit and the ball jarred loose. Northwood wouldn't get any closer than just past midfield and Nick Hixson picked off the Hail Mary tying attempt on the last play of the game.

Hillsdale's offensive stars had big games as Troy Weatherhead would get 5 passing touchdowns. Andre Holmes was the receptions and yards leader with 11 catches for 153 yards. He had 2 touchdowns.

The other 3 touchdown passes went to H-back Cam White in a truly breakout preformance. White spent all week in a boot with turf toe but had 5 catches for 92 yards and the three scores. The most impressive was a 48 yarder for Hillsdale's final touchdown.

"Troy just put the ball in some amazing places today. I can't give him enough credit," White said after the game.

Speaking of Troy, the senior QB was 21 of 28 for 286 yards and no interceptions.

Joe Glendening returned to form and put in a long day of work. The sophomore and GLIAC rushing leader carried 42 times for 164 yards.

Freshman linebacker Devin Moynihan had a breakout day himself, leading the team with 14 stops.

D2football.com: Tony Nicolette's GLIAC Column

#19 Hillsdale (5-2, 6-2) at Northwood (4-3, 4-4)

After rattling off five straight victories and having complete control over their various destinies, Hillsdale is all of a sudden in a position where they must rely on help from other clubs in order to claim a GLIAC South title and/or make the playoffs. While The Woodies would like to get themselves north of .500 on the year, they'll be tasked with doing so against a Charger bunch that has likely had its focus renewed.

Hillsdale Keys:

- Back to Basics - For the first time since week one, Joe Glendening was held under 100 yards last week. Look for the league's leading rusher to get back on track against the league's twelfth-rated run defense. NU isn't much better against the pass either, so Troy Weatherhead should be back to his old self in this one as well. The Charger offensive formula of their six wins (plenty of rushing, efficient passing) should work just fine against Northwood.

- Shut down the Run - It's NU's main offensive weapon in The Woodbone, and several teams have shown this year that it can be slowed. As long as HC can keep the 'Wolves in check and avoid the big-gainers, they'll be in good shape.
Northwood Keys:

- Break a Big One Early - I've noted the last few weeks that a good portion of Northwood's touchdowns has come on big plays (especially in the passing game). That's all well and good, but doesn't help you much if you're already down by a bundle. NU needs to make things happen early and dictate their tempo to Hillsdale. If the 'Wolves fall behind, it spells trouble as The Woodbone simply isn't built for coming from behind.

- Copy Cat - Wayne State certainly solved the HC riddle a week ago. While NU doesn't have the personnel to mimic what the Warriors did exactly, they certainly can learn a lot from what they saw on film from that game. Add to that the fact that the Northwood has won five of the last six in this series and the 'Wolves have shown they have a blueprint for beating Hillsdale. They must use it.
Prediction - While Hillsdale seems to struggle with stopping the option, I think they'll be angry and focused after losing control of their destiny last week. I like the Chargers to bounce back with a big day on the ground against a Northwood defense that struggles stopping the run. Hillsdale 38, Northwood 24.

Full Column

Week 9 Podcast: Laaaame

Sorry folks. Not much of a podcast this week. I think last week's might have been some kind of jinx. Okay, so that's a pretty lame excuse for me not delivering the goods. Sometimes when you think you have lots of time, it's like sand through your fingers. So please forgive the lack of content and trust me when I say I will make it up to you next week. Seriously, I will.

Click to listen.

Hillsdale.edu: Chargers looking to return to winning ways at Northwood Hillsdale winless in Midland since 1997

FOOTBALL PREVIEW: Chargers looking to return to winning ways at Northwood

Hillsdale winless in Midland since 1997

Charger football game notes - Oct. 30, 2010

Northwood University football webpage

October 27, 2010 - For the second week in a row, the Hillsdale College football team will be playing on a field where it hasn't won in some time. The Chargers are hoping this week's result is different from last week's.

Hillsdale, ranked No. 17 in the latest AFCA Division II Top 25 poll, travels to Midland to take on the Northwood University Timberwolves at noon Saturday. It is the final road game of the regular season for Hillsdale, who will wrap up the 2010 regular season by hosting Findlay and Tiffin.

Hillsdale is coming off its second loss of this season, last week, 14-9 at Wayne State. The Chargers haven't won at Wayne State's campus since 2003, but that isn't as long as the drought the team has endured in Midland, where Hillsdale hasn't walked off the Hantz Stadium field victorious since Oct. 25, 1997, in a 43-40 overtime contest.

Full Release

Kids get in free to Hillsdale - Northwood Game on Saturday

By the Midland Daily News

Northwood's Athletics Department will host a trio of special events this week.

Saturday's home football game against Hillsdale will be Youth Day at Hantz Stadium. All kids aged 17 and under will be admitted to the game free, and as a Halloween special, any kids wearing sports jerseys or costumes will receive candy and be entered into a prize drawing at the Kids' Zone before the game.

The Kids' Zone will feature an inflatable, face painting, tattoos, and a halftime field goal contest. Also on-hand for pregame and halftime entertainment will be Brett Mitchell and the Giant Ghost Band.

Meanwhile, the Timberwolves' volleyball team will host 15th-ranked Northern Michigan on Friday at 7 p.m. and Michigan Tech on Saturday at 4 p.m.

On Friday, fans will receive free water bottles while supplies last, and Saturday will be Senior Day. Fans can try to win T-shirts, pizza, or Damon's gift certificates during a volleyball serving contest at intermission of both matches.

AFCA Poll: Chargers slide 11 to #17

It's time to climb back up that ladder for Hillsdale. The Charger drop 11 spots this week after a 5 point loss to 6-2 Wayne State.

Man, this reminds me a lot of hitting my mid-thirties. Work out like a mad man, eat perfectly, and see a hard but steady climb. Take one trip to Vegas and poof...it's back to lumpy town.

Let's go Chargers. Let's see how many gains we can make over the final three weeks of the season. It's a good thing the polls have no bearing on playoff selections.

AFCA Division II Top 25 (10/25)
1. Grand Valley State (24) (8-0)
2. Minnesota-Duluth (1) (8-0)
3. Abilene Christian (1) (8-0)
4. Northwest Missouri State (6-1)
5. Texas A&M-Kingsville (7-1)
6. Albany State (8-0)
7. Central Missouri (8-1)
8. Augustana (8-0)
9. Nebraska-Kearney (7-1)
10. Valdosta State (6-1)
11. Shepherd (8-0)
12. California (PA) (7-1)
13. Bloomsburg (7-1)
14. West Texas A&M (6-2)
15. Kutztown (8-0)
16. Colorado School of Mines (7-1)
17. Hillsdale (6-2)
18. Winston-Salem State (8-1)
19. Delta State (6-2)
20. St. Cloud State (7-1)
21. North Alabama (6-2)
22. Midwestern State (6-2)
23. St. Augustine's (7-1)
24. Mercyhurst (6-2)
25. Fort Valley State (7-1)

Others Receiving Votes
Morehouse, West Alabama, Wayne State (MI), New Haven, Ouachita Baptist, Central Washington, Tuskegee, Wingate, Carson-Newman, Colorado State-Pueblo, Washburn, Humboldt State, Southwest Baptist

That whole GLIAC Football Divsions thing? Yep, I am down with it...now!

When the whole GLIAC awarding divisional titles was announced at midseason, I was an out-spoken critic.

I didn't like the timing of the announcement. I found the divisions horribly unbalanced. I didn't think that winning a division title would mean much.

Well, I have gotten over the timing of the decision. The GLIAC had tabled the motion this summer pending further investigation. I am a firm believer that waiting to get something right is better than just meeting a deadline. How right this decision ends up being will have to pass the test of time, but it is growing on me.

I still feel there is a big imbalance in the divisions with the new Ohio schools being joined by the epic struggles of Tiffin and Findlay this year. But outside of those teams there is a trifecta of pretty good programs who have the potential to form blistering three-way rivalries. The Ashland and Wayne State rivalry is fueled by the close relationship between their head coaches and has been extremely heated between the players as of late. Warrior coach Paul Winters was a long time assistant to Ashland coach Lee Owens. Since Winters has arrived in Detroit prior to the 2005 season this series has become far more respectable. Ashland holds a 3-2 advantage over the last 5 meetings. Between 1995 and 2004 Wayne had only won once. Hillsdale and Wayne State have split the last 6. Hillsdale barely leads the series 7-5 since 2000. Ashland and Hillsdale fight yearly for the Traveling Trophy and have been locked in a dual as both schools believe it is the next one to make a run at the top of the league monster GVSU. Over the last 15, Ashland holds an 8-7 series lead. These three teams should provide enough fireworks between them to keep fans from forgetting about the South Division.

Admittedly, that South Division Championship trophy kind of looked like a green field day ribbon stamped "PARTICIPANT" a few weeks ago. As a Hillsdale fan and alum, it felt like we were being seated at the obligatory Thanksgiving Day kids' table as the Chargers climbed into the Top 10 nationally. On Saturday in Detroit, fellow kids' tablemate Wayne State smashed a piece of pumpkin pie square in Hillsdale's face and kicked them under the table for good measure. In the process they took the inside track to the first ever South trophy. For the rest of the weekend, this joint from Cinderella has been running through my head. Nope, you don't know what you've got (till it's gone).



Sure, Hillsdale had bigger fish to fry. Winning out and playoffs were the big goal. Wayne State knew though that grabbing that title was still important. They showed up on Saturday fighting for a championship. Hillsdale came out flat. Wayne State came out on top.

How the rest of the season plays out will be fun to see. All is not lost for Hillsdale and a lot can happen across the region and the league. The Chargers are going to need to get some help and take care of their own business. Having that South title in hand would be nice about right now. Of course, I probably would still lack the respect I have for it now.

Big Day for Hillsdale's Jared Veldheer in Denver

Having split time most of the season at left tackle with Mario Henderson, Hillsdale grad and Oakland Raider rookie Jared Veldheer's hard work has finally earned him the starting position.

Veldheer and the Raiders celebrated that accomplishment on Sunday with 59-14 dismantling of arch-rival Denver. The ex-Charger didn't spend the whole game on the edge, although he played tremendously. Starting center Sampson Satele suffered a concussion and the Oakland staff moved Jared over to snap the ball.

"He did a lot of tremendous things," (Raider Coach Tom) Cable said of Veldheer, "and then we had to move him to center, and we didn't miss a beat."

Way to go big man!


Justin Edmonds/Getty Images

Too many missed opportunities: Chargers drop one at Wayne State

Hillsdale lets too many things slip away. Credit Wayne State on a great effort.

Wayne State 14
Hillsdale 9.

Game stats and recap

Great Coverage of Hillsdale Football from DetNews.com

The Detroit News paid a visit to Hillsdale practice on Tuesday and posted today a 13 shot photo gallery and the following story:

After years of lows, Hillsdale looks championship caliber

David Goricki / The Detroit News

Hillsdale - The sun was going down and a chill was in the air late Tuesday afternoon at Muddy Waters Stadium when Andre Holmes hauled in a long pass from Troy Weatherhead and accelerated away from the defenders for a touchdown near the end of Hillsdale College's practice.
Weatherhead and Holmes have grown from their days as redshirt freshmen on the scout team to All-American players.

They are just two of a large number of fifth-year seniors for the Chargers who are ranked No. 6 in Division II and legitimate contenders for the national title.

Hillsdale defeated Grand Valley State during the regular season last year, finishing 10-3 and making its first NCAA playoff appearance with a win over Minnesota State-Mankato before a loss to Grand Valley.

This season, Hillsdale is 6-1 entering Saturday's game at Wayne State. The Chargers' ranking is the highest since joining Division II in 1990. Their lone loss came at Grand Valley during the second week of the season when the Lakers scored a TD with 16 seconds left for the difference in a 44-41 victory.

"This team has high expectations," said Weatherhead, in his third-year as the starting quarterback. "The sky's the limit. It would be huge to host a playoff game (which would be first since 1986). The alumni is real close to this group of players and it would mean a lot to them, our coaches, players and the whole community."

Would Weatherhead like a rematch with Grand Valley?

"Absolutely," Weatherhead said. "We feel that one really slipped away from us. Last year in the regular season we got them and then they got us back in the playoffs. We'd like to get a little revenge like they got on us. But, right now we're thinking one game at a time, one play at a time and that's why we've been successful so far."

The Chargers had seven straight losing seasons before All-American quarterback Mark Nicolet led them to an eight-win season during his final year in 2007.

Full Story

D2football.com: Tony Nicolette's GLIAC Column

#7 Hillsdale (5-1, 6-1) at Wayne State (4-2, 5-2)

The GLIAC South Title will be on the line in "The D" as Hillsdale rolls into Adams Field with its #7 ranking and its almost "mechanically" efficient offense. The Chargers have rattled off five straight wins since week two, while Wayne saw its three-game run snapped last week in a tough loss to Ashland.

Hillsdale Keys:

- Do it until they stop you - The Hillsdale offense has basically done whatever it has wanted this year. They run the ball effectively with Joe Glendening (the league's top rusher), and throw with precision behind Troy Weatherhead (the league's top-rated passer). I've never been a fan of changing things that are working, and there is no doubt that Hillsdale's O has been MORE than working all year.

- Keep it between the 20s - The Hillsdale defense has gotten progressively better each week. With that said, they are still one of the worst teams in the league in stopping the run. They did a great job against Phil Milbrath a week ago in as much as he got his yards but never found the end zone. Despite Wayne's passing-game explosion last week, the Warriors are still a run-first bunch and will be tempted to exploit a Charger D that allows 169 yards per game on the ground. Hillsdale can allow some yards, but avoiding big plays and scoring plays will be the key.
Wayne State Keys:

- D MUST force Punts - Hillsdale (along with MTU and GV) has punted a league-low seventeen times through seven games. The Chargers don't beat themselves, score often, and typically leave themselves with manageable distances on third down. If Wayne is able to successfully slow down Joe the Show, they must not let Weatherhead find Holmes, Blanchard (if he's able to play), or anyone else in the passing game. Hillsdale converts more third-down chances than anyone in the country (53.3%), and because they're so effective at running OR passing in those situations they are nearly impossible to get off the field. Wayne must find a way to do the impossible.

- Keep the Ball - Conversely, when Wayne has the ball they must possess it for extended periods. The defense has been a weakness at times this year for Hillsdale, and if the Warrior ground attack gets wound up like it can they could very easily control tempo and keep the Charger O on the sidelines where it can't impact the game.
Prediction - Hillsdale knows that this is the last team on its schedule that can come close to matching up with them physically, so it's likely that the Chargers are more than dialed-in for this one. For Wayne, I'm sure there is a distinct sense of urgency as a third loss will all but run them out of the playoff hunt, not to mention they have a tough roadie next week at Saginaw. In the end, Hillsdale's offense is just too consistent and potent in my book, and they are better prepared to dig themselves out of a potential hole than Wayne is. Hillsdale 33, Wayne 24.

Full Column

Week 8 Podcast: It Sounds Like a Boy Band

The Charger Comment rolls on through Week 8 of the season as Hillsdale goes to Wayne State to battle the 5-2 Warriors.

WDFN's, WDTK's, ESPN 96.1's....everybody's Sean Baligian stops by to tell us a little about Wayne State. Then...it gets wacky with Wayne State's resident funny guy Joe Gough. No, Joe didn't join us. I just mixed up some of his greatest chuckles as he makes fun of Charger names. Yep, reallllll funny!


Click to listen.

Charger Families: WSU Tailgating Information

It is so much fun to win, so let's keep winning !!!

This weeks game against Wayne State at Wayne State , kick off at NOON

The tailgate at Wayne State will be in Lot # 50, no charge for parking. Go to the Wayne State website for a campus map. Rain is predicted and the game is early so everyone just make their own tailgate plans. We actually will not be there ourselves til kickoff time. I know some of you are close so bring and share as much as you would like to !!

Tickets: Adults $ 7.00, students $ 3.00 Ticket booth will open at 10:30 or 11:00.

Apparel: Everyone should have their orders. Any orders not picked up after the game last week were given to your son. Actually your son will get it tomorrow from my son Tyler :)

Make a Difference Day: We will be trying to make a difference in the lives of Detroit's young Sportsmen and women by donating our extra, gently used sports equipment, toys and clothing to "The Children's Center of Detroit." The Children's Center will send a truck to the Wayne State Parking Lot at 11:00 on Game Day to pick up our donations. Thanks in advance for your participation in this project shared with us by the Duey family.

Cookies: Let's see if I can get this correct this week!
Karabawe , Passche, Kendrick, Donna Payne
Thank you, please bring 3 dozen cookies to the team bus after the game.

( Still need 4 families for cookies for the Northwood game next week, please email me if you are able to do this. )

OK Chargers, be tough, be victorious !

Safe travels,
vonnie

Go Chargers beat Wayne State

Make a Difference Day: Donate Sporting Goods at Wayne State Game

I am very pleased to pass this along to all fans attending the Hillsdale - Wayne State game in Detroit on Saturday.

Attention all Hillsdale Parents, Friends, Fellow Tailgaters and Fans,

On Saturday October 23rd, Hillsdale will travel to Wayne State for another Big Victory! October 23rd is also National "Make a Difference Day" and we invite you all to join us and participate in this special day.

We will be trying to make a difference in the lives of Detroit's young Sportsmen and women by donating our extra, gently used sports equipment, toys and clothing to "The Children's Center of Detroit."

The Children's Center will send a truck to the Wayne State Parking Lot at 11:00 on Game Day to pick up our donations. Please check them out on line, they are a strong group working on a solution for the future of Detroit.

I know, we all seem to give till it hurts, but I'm hoping this is a painless way to clean a few items out of the basement and put them in a place where they can do some real good. Hillsdale has a reputation for traveling well and Tailgating even better, join our family in "Making a Difference" in Detroit's future.

By the way, if you received this email, and don't regularly come to Hillsdale games, consider this your invitation to a fabulous Tailgate Breakfast! Mimosas will begin at 10:30!

Go Chargers, Go O-Line, Dave & Claire Duey (#72)

Around D2: Cal U mascot arrested for torching homecoming float in character

Cal U. mascot charged in homecoming float arson

By Scott Beveridge, sbeveridge@observer-reporter.com


CALIFORNIA – The California University of Pennsylvania student who dresses as the school’s mascot modeled after the Roman god of fire is facing charges he set fire to a homecoming float Sunday.

District Judge Joshua Kanalis has issued an arrest warrant for the student, James E. Shaffer, 20, who’s the Cal U. Vulcan, on arson and related charges.

However, Shaffer since has been admitted to a medical facility, Cal U. spokeswoman Christine Kindl said. The student’s health is the primary concern at this point, Kindle said.

A California Borough police officer found Shaffer, of Johnstown, dressed in his costume at the float shortly after it was set afire about 3:50 p.m. at Second Street and East Alley, court records show.

Full story

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

The Road to the NCAA Division II Playoffs: A Look at Super Region 3

Usually by now, the NCAA has released its regional rankings and fans are eagerly watching their team's fortunes rise and fall each week through some geeky math formula based on wins, losses, and strength of schedule. The top six teams in four separate semi-geographically based region fill out the field of 24.

This year, the NCAA is holding its cards much closer to the vest and not releasing the regional rankings until after Week 10 of the season on November 8. That only allows us one week to gauge where Hillsdale might be sitting as "Second Season" starts on the 20th.

Here are the teams most likely in contention, current schedule strength (pdf from NCAA), and games remaining.

Grand Valley 7-0, (97th) at Ferris State, at Michigan Tech, Northwood, Saginaw Valley
Minnesota-Duluth 7-0 (81st) at Northern State, St. Cloud St., at Minn. Crookston, at MSU Mankato
Augustana 7-0 (46th) at MSU Moorhead, MSU Mankato, at Wayne St. (NE), Upper Iowa
Hillsdale 6-1 (23rd) at Wayne State (MI), at Northwood, Findlay, Tiffin
St. Cloud State 6-1 (40th) Minn. Crookston, at Minn. Duluth, Bemidji St, at MSU Moorhead
Colorado School of Mines 6-1 (107th) at Western State, Adams State, at Chadron St., Nebraska-Kearney
Nebraska-Kearney 6-1 (44th) NM Highlands, at Western NM, Fort Lewis, at Colorado School of Mines

Head to Head vs. one of these "contenders"
Games vs. two loss teams clawing to get into this conversation

Current team records:
GLIAC
Ferris State: 5-2
Michigan Tech: 4-2
Northwood: 4-3
Saginaw Valley: 3-4
Wayne State (MI): 5-2
Findlay: 1-6
Tiffin: 1-6

NSIC
Northern State: 1-6
St. Cloud State: 6-1
Minnesota Crookston: 1-6
MSU Mankato: 4-3
MSU Moorhead: 2-5
Wayne State (NE): 5-2
Upper Iowa: 1-6
Bemidji State: 4-3
Minnesota Duluth: 7-0

RMAC
Western State: 1-6
Adams State: 3-4
Chadron St.: 4-3
Nebraska-Kearney: 6-1
NM Highlands: 1-6
Western NM: 3-4
Fort Lewis: 1-5
Colorado Mines: 6-1

There is still a month of football to play and who knows how it will all shake out in the wash. As I highlighted above, there are a handful of teams in the region with two losses. Grand Valley faces two of them in Ferris and Michigan Tech the next two weeks on the road. Hillsdale faces Wayne State this week on the road. GVSU could most likely still take one loss and get in but when looking at all of the good teams in the region, Hillsdale has no room for error. Every week is the playoffs for the Chargers...but it has been since the 3rd week of the season.

This is where it starts getting fun.

Hillsdale.edu: Someone call David Letterman - Hillsdale College has two Top 10 teams

Someone call David Letterman - Hillsdale College has two Top 10 teams

Football, volleyball teams ranked in nation's elite

AFCA DII Poll

AVCA DII Poll

October 18, 2010 - Comedian David Letterman is famous for his Top 10 lists. This week, two Hillsdale College teams are featured on the ultimate top 10 lists in the sports of football and volleyball in the NCAA Division II.

On Monday afternoon, both the Hillsdale College football and volleyball teams appeared on their respective sports' national top 10 polls at the same time for the first time in school history. Links to each sport's top 25 polls are listed at the top of this story.

Only one other Division II school, Minnesota-Duluth, can boast of having both teams among the top 10 in those national polls.

Read full release.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

Hillsdale Football achieves highest D2 ranking ever: #6

When Hillsdale College reached #8 last week, it tied its highest ranking ever in Division II. This week the Chargers cover new ground, climbing two spots to #6 in the AFCA Division II coaches' poll.

AFCA Division II Top 25 (10/18)
1. Grand Valley State (23) (7-0)
2. Minnesota-Duluth (3) (7-0)
3. California (PA) (7-0)
4. Abilene Christian (7-0)
5. Northwest Missouri State (5-1)
6. Hillsdale (6-1)
7. Texas A&M-Kingsville (6-1)
8. Albany State (7-0)
9. Central Missouri (7-1)
10. North Alabama (6-1)
11. Augustana (7-0)
12. Nebraska-Kearney (6-1)
13. Midwestern State (6-1)
14. Valdosta State (5-1)
15. Shepherd (7-0)
16. Bloomsburg (6-1)
17. West Texas A&M (5-2)
18. Kutztown (7-0)
19. Morehouse (6-1)
20. Colorado School of Mines (6-1)
21. Winston-Salem State (7-1)
22. Delta State (5-2)
23. St. Cloud State (6-1)
24. St. Augustine's (6-1)
25. West Virginia Wesleyan (6-1)

Others Receiving Votes
Missouri Western State, Humboldt State, Mars Hill, Tuskegee, West Alabama, New Haven, Central Washington, Fort Valley State, Mercyhurst, Ouachita Baptist, North Carolina-Pembroke, Washburn

Chargers had to earn this one: Hillsdale 24 - Michigan Tech 17

The Hillsdale Chargers take the field every Saturday under a banner emblazened with the word "Arete". Don't ask me to pronounce it. Just know it is the Greek concept of living to one's potential despite any adversity that may come your way. Hillsdale lived up to that motto today.

They found themselves short-handed after one of the best all-purpose guys in the GLIAC, Mike Blanchard left the game early with an injury. Cam White would be the replacement and had 2 huge receptions including a late 4th down one that essentially sealed the ballgame.

After a blocked punt put Michigan Tech up 7-0, Hillsdale methodically got its offense rolling. The Chargers took a 14-7 lead into the lockerroom on a TD catch from Andre Holmes and a pounding rush from Joe Glendending.

Tech came out of the lockerroom ornery and would force three 3 and out Charger possessions to begin the half and put up 10 unanswered points to lead after 3 17-14.

Hillsdale responded with a Glendening touchdown and a Colin McGreevy fieldgoal to regain the lead for good.

Tech threatened, but credit the Charger defense for its biggest stop of the day deep in Hillsdale territory. The Chargers stopped Michigan Tech on 4th down 3 times today, twice in the redzone.

Weatherhead would work the clock and let Glendening pound on the Huskies until the Chargers could take a knee and run out the clock inside the Michigan Tech 10.

Glendening carried 39 times for 161 yards and two scores. Weatherhead was 21 of 30 for 215 and the Holmes TD.

True freshman Jake Weddle led HC with 8 solo stops.

Week 7 Podcast: Noooooobody Home

A crazy week on the road of education has me calling in the sub plans. This week we start with some of the choicest cuts from the Ohio Dominican broadcast team from last week. Andy Brown from WCSR gets the honors of taking us home with the second half of his interview with Joe Glendening and Joe Vear.


Click to listen.

Andy's originally posted interview.

D2football.com: Tony Nicolette's GLIAC Column this week's action

Michigan Tech (4-1, 4-1) at #8 Hillsdale (4-1, 5-1)

The Huskies hit the back end of a difficult, two-game roadie by visiting Muddy Waters Stadium. They have to be smarting a bit after having their defense torched for 43 points last week, most of which came at the hands of Saginaw Valley's back-up quarterback. They'll face an even tougher test this week against a Hillsdale offense that beats Tech at its own game: not a lot of flash, precise line-play, and a TON of flawless execution.

Tech Keys:

- Stop the Big Plays - Saginaw Valley had a TON of them last week, especially in the run game. Tech is not a team well-suited to coming from behind, so giving up big plays that net points could put them behind the eight-ball early. They must avoid this and not get forced into having to throw all the time when on offense.

- Ambush - The Charger defense has its issues, but they have the playmakers to stop Phil Milbrath should they decide to load-up on him. He leads the Huskies in rushing and receiving, and has been Steve Short's go-to guy in nearly every situation. I'd plan on him being spied on, and see if I can't get an Akeem Cason, a Brian LaChappelle, or someone else to step up and be a big-play guy. Let's face it, when the Huskies have needed a play this year it's been Short or Milbrath. If the Chargers find a way to take them away, MTU must have someone else step-up and surprise HC with big plays.
Hillsdale Keys:

- Get in the backfield - So far this season Steve Short has only been sacked twice. The Tech line play has been great, and we all know the kind of escape artist Short is back there anyway. Hillsdale must find a way to make the MTU QB uncomfortable and force some mistakes. Otherwise, he and Phil Milbrath will march up and down the field with the same efficiency as Weatherhead and Glendening.

- Speaking of Weatherhead and Glendening - These two have essentially had their stat-lines copied from one week to the next. I really believe that they simply need to make sure that they don't "slip up" this week and the Chargers will be able to move the ball on a Husky defense that may have been exposed a bit last week.
Prediction - Despite the gashing they took a week ago, Tech still sports the league's stingiest defense in terms of scoring. That may be so, but I like what the GLIAC's number-two scoring offense brings into this one a lot more. Something has to give, and I think it'll be Tech?s D. I was suspicious of that unit when the season started, especially given the serious regression it showed over the last three years. Saggy was only a single game in 2010 and the Huskies may prove me wrong, but I think teams with legit offenses (especially ones that can show good balance) post serious problems for Tech and Hillsdale certainly fits that description. Hillsdale's defense is improving but is still a work in progress, and these two clubs have had a few shoot-outs in recent years. I think this has the makings of another one, but I like the Chargers to win. Hillsdale 38, Michigan Tech 33.

Rest of Tony's Column

MTULode.com: Huskies’ football faces tough challenge in Hillsdale

Huskies’ football faces tough challenge in Hillsdale (Original Post)

After allowing just nine points per game through the first four games, the 4-1 Huskies lost their first game of the year by allowing 43 points against Saginaw Valley State last weekend. The defense will try to get back on track this Saturday afternoon in Hillsdale, who is currently ranked eighth in the nation in the Division II Coaches’ poll with a 4-1 record (their only loss being a 44-41 loss against Grand Valley State).


“We’re excited, because you don’t get to play a nationally ranked team every week,” said head coach Tom Kearly. “We know it’s going to be a great challenge, and we can’t completely slow them down, but we won’t change our approach – it was great to be 4-0, but last week was just one game; now we’ll see how we respond to getting knocked down.”

The defense in particular will need to respond big if it hopes to shut down the Hillsdale Charger offense that joins Grand Valley State as the only GLIAC teams ahead of Michigan Tech in scoring offense (GVSU – 41.7 points per game, Hillsdale – 35.8, Michigan Tech – 33.2).

Kearly noted that the Hillsdale offense is slightly different than the SVSU offense that racked up 297 rushing yards against Michigan Tech’s then top-ranked defense (still, the Huskies are just a yard away shy of first in GLIAC rushing defense).

“Their quarterback is not as much of a threat to run as SVSU’s QB,” said Kearly. Troy Weatherhead, Hillsdale’s signal caller may not be very mobile, but he is the best quarterback in the GLIAC in total offense (262.8 yards per game), despite his -59 overall rushing yards. Weatherhead’s 272.7 yards per game through the air is nearly 65 yards ahead of Husky quarterback Steve Short, who is fourth in the GLIAC with 206.2 passing yards per game. Weatherhead is completing 84 percent of his passes, with 13 touchdowns and two interceptions.

The Chargers are not without a solid rushing game, though. Joe Glendening is currently leading the GLIAC with 150.2 rushing yards per game, more than 35 yards per game ahead of the Huskies’ Phil Milbrath, who is currently third in the GLIAC with 114.4 yards per game. Both backs are averaging 5.4 yards per carry.

Something has to give between the Huskies and Chargers, the two top GLIAC teams in terms of time of possession, both averaging over 33 minutes of possession per game.

“We have to stay on the field with our offense,” said Kearly. “We need to convert on third down and make sure we score in the redzone.”

Even though the Chargers’ only loss is to Grand Valley State, Hillsdale escaped with just a five-point win over Lake Erie (Michigan Tech beat Lake Erie 42-13) in their third conference game.

Saturday promises to be an intriguing road match-up for the Huskies, who kick off against the Chargers at 1:30 p.m. Tune into WKMJ 93.5 FM for the game broadcast, and check back to mtulode.com for a game recap shortly after the game ends.

Bon Jovi - Animoto "Livin' On a Prayer" Contest

Bon Jovi has teamed up with Animoto.com for the "It's My Life" contest in celebration of the glam hair band's Greatest Hits album.

Here is my effort featuring the Chargers and the photography of ChargerPhotoStore.com.

After you view it, please take a second to visit Animoto.com to like it and share it. Heck, make your own and post it.

Only half way there boys!

Best YouTube Video Ever! :GVSU Students Run Over Mascot

Hillsdale Chargers Joe Vear and Joe Glendenning on Time Out with Andy Brown

WCSR radio guy Andy Brown sits down with Hillsdale RB Joe Glendening and DB Joe Vear.

Joe Glendenning and Joe Vear live on WCSR Part 2.

WCSR radio guy Andy Brown sits down with Hillsdale RB Joe Glendening and DB Joe Vear.

Weatherhead, Hillsdale make cover of NCAA.com

Click for bigger image.

It's not only the GLIAC that took notice of Hillsdale's Troy Weatherhead's league record breaking performance on Saturday. The 92.9 completion percentage Weatherhead posted at Ohio Dominican made the Division II Great Performances Notebook and garnered the Chargers some face time on the front of NCAA.com.

Here is an excerpt from the article: "ON THE MONEY: Hillsdale College senior quarterback Troy Weatherhead set the Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference single-game mark for completion percentage by connecting on 26-of-28 passes (.929) for a season-high 354 yards and three touchdowns in the Chargers’ 35-10 defeat of Ohio Dominican last weekend.

Weatherhead completed his first 17 attempts of the contest, and has connected on an unbelievable 84 percent of his passes for the season. The native of Grand Rapids, Mich., paces the nation with a 196.4 passing efficiency. Weather[head]'s three TD passes also pushed him over the school’s all-time mark, giving him 54 in his career. He leads the GLIAC with 13 this season.

The No. 8 Chargers have won four straight games, and look to keep up their winning ways against Michigan Tech on Oct. 16."

Read the rest of the Division II Great Performances.

Weatherhead breaks GLIAC record in win

Hillsdale's Troy Weatherhead had the most "nearly perfect" passing game in GLIAC history on Saturday night at Ohio Dominican.

His 26 completions on 28 attempts is the highest completion percentage ever recorded by a league quarterback. Weatherhead's 92% breaks the old mark set by Grand Valley's Cullen Finnerty (also the son of a former Charger) mark of 90% set back in 2003.

Hillsdale ties highest D2 ranking ever with move to #8 this week

Hillsdale College's highest ever ranking as a Divsion II school came in 1992, peaking at #8. The Chargers match that mark this week in the AFCA poll released today.

AFCA Division II Top 25 (10/11)
1. Grand Valley State (20) (6-0)
2. Minnesota-Duluth (4) (6-0)
3. North Alabama (2) (6-0)
4. California (PA) (6-0)
5. Abilene Christian (6-0)
6. Northwest Missouri State (4-1)
7. West Texas A&M (5-1)
8. Hillsdale (5-1)
9. Texas A&M-Kingsville (5-1)
10. Albany State (6-0)
11. Central Missouri (6-1)
12. Delta State (5-1)
13. Nebraska-Kearney (5-1)
14. Augustana (6-0)
15. Midwestern State (5-1)
16. Tuskegee (5-1)
17. Missouri Western State (5-1)
18. Shepherd (6-0)
19. Valdosta State (4-1)
20. Bloomsburg (5-1)
21. West Virginia Wesleyan (6-0)
22. Morehouse (5-1)
23. Kutztown (6-0)
24. Colorado School of Mines (5-1)
25. Winston-Salem State (6-1)

Others Receiving Votes
St. Augustine's, Wayne State (NE), St. Cloud State, West Alabama, North Carolina-Pembroke, Mars Hill, Humboldt State, Colorado State-Pueblo, Slippery Rock, Wayne State (MI), Ferris State, Central Washington, Ouachita Baptist, Anderson State, Tusculum, Catawba, New Haven, Washburn

Troy Weatherhead: Offensive GLIAC Player of the Week

GLIAC Release:

Hillsdale College senior quarterback Troy Weatherhead set the GLIAC record for single-game
completion percentage by connecting on 26-of-28 passes (.929) for 354 yards and three scores in
the Chargers’ 35-10 win over Ohio Dominican on Saturday. Weatherhead, who completed his first
17 attempts in the game, also broke the Hillsdale record for career touchdown passes in the game.
He now has 54 career passing touchdowns, and a league-leading 13 this season.
GLIAC Football “Offensive Player of the Week”
Troy Weatherhead - Hillsdale (SR, QB, 6-3, 223, Grand Rapids, Mich./Comstock Park)

Full Release

#9 Hillsdale gets it done at Ohio Dominican

It took #9 Hillsdale College a little while to get rolling in its first ever meeting with GLIAC rookie Ohio Dominican, but as the game developed it was clear who was calling the shots.

After falling behind 3-0, Hillsdale returned to form en route to a 35-10 road win in Columbus. In the process, senior quarterback Troy Weatherhead was nearly perfect as he would only misfire twice. He finishes the night with an impressive 26/28 for 354 yards and 3 TDs.

Andre Holmes had a huge night with 10 catches for 158 yards and 2 touchdowns. Joining him in the Century Club was senior Mike Blanchard who grabbed 9 balls for 102 yards.

ODU's swarming defense was stout against the run, but Joe Glendening was able to get loose for a beautiful 57 yarder he nearly housed. He would find the endzone twice and carry for 135 yards on 25 attempts.

Bern Bergquist also had a touchdown catch from Weatherhead.

With the 3 scores, Weatherhead becomes Hillsdale's all-time leader for touchdown passes with 54.

Hillsdale racks up 486 yards of total offense on 68 plays. The Chargers had 26 first downs and controlled the clock for 37 minutes of possession time.

Senior captain Nick Hixson led the Chargers with 11 stops and an interception. Cody Henderson had 8 tackles.