Tradition • Character • Service

Tradition • Character • Service

Friday, December 30, 2011

RB Wiseman gives Hillsdale early Christmas present in Verbal Commitment

The Bartlesville, Oklahoma Examiner-Enterprise is reporting that running back Jack Wiseman, a recent OK Coaches Association 6A All Star by Class selection has verbally committed to play football at Hillsdale College in the Fall.

Bartlesville Head Coach John McKee had this to say about Wiseman, ”It doesn’t matter how big they are or how fast they are,” McKee said. ”When he gets a chance to run the ball, he runs it hard. He gets his yards one way or another. He’s pretty quick. He’s a great, great player. ”


Wednesday, December 28, 2011

Hershock taking Be A Number to Uganda with help of former ND QB.

Former Hillsdale College Charger tight end Kevin Hershock is making another shirt drop with his Be A Number organization. This time he is taking Be A Number to Uganda. Another former college football player Evan Sharpley, who played high school ball with Hershock in Marshall, MI and then later as Notre Dame's quarterback is now on board with Be A Number, helping to expand operations.

Here is an article from the Marshall Ad-visor and Chronicle about the Africa trip.

Friday, December 09, 2011

Hillsdale's Andre Holmes added to Dallas Cowboys active Roster

Chargerblue.com has learned that former Hillsdale record setting wide receiver Andre Holmes has been added to the Dallas Cowboys' 53 man active roster for Sunday's game against the New York Giants.

Holmes had been a member of the Cowboys' practice squad until today's call-up.

Congrats Dre!

Tuesday, December 06, 2011

Otter named Super Region 3 Coach of the Year

Being named NCAA Super Region 3 football coach of the year is a great honor for Coach Otterbein.

2011 turned into a pretty special season in Hillsdale considering we didn't know who the quarterback was going to be a week before the season started.

Winning the first GLIAC outright title since 1988 after losing the Weatherhead, Blanchard, Holmes firepower is more a testament to the work he and the staff have done of the course of his tenure in Hillsdale than just this season.

Glendening's Harlon Hill run comes to an end

The final three 2011 Harlon Hill candidates have been named and unfortunately for Joe Glendening of Hillsdale College, he won't be getting the invite to next Saturday's banquet in Florence, Alabama.

The Hillsdale record setting running back had made it all of the way to the national finalist round of nine.

QB Micah Davis of Delta State, Mars Hill running back Jonas Randolph, and QB Dane Simoneau of Walshburn were recently named to the final three.

All three are seniors.

Glendening a junior joins Midwestern State quarterback Brandon Kelsey, also a junior, as the only two returning national finalists for 2012.

Saturday, December 03, 2011

Lots of Chargers named Academic All-GLIAC

We already know Hillsdale has the smartest football team in the GLIAC.

These specific Chargers were recently recognized by the league as academic stand-outs.

All Academic Team (GPA 3.00-3.49)






















Academic Excellence Team (GPA 3.5-4.0)

Friday, December 02, 2011

One More Saturday Afternoon for Hillsdale's Reid Meador and Joe Vear

Watch Hillsdale's offensive tackle Reid Meador and strong safety Joe Vear in the Division II vs. NAIA all-star game from Upstate New York this Saturday afternoon.

Kickoff is 1:00 pm EST. Saturday December 3.

Game Site complete with team rosters

Webcast

Thursday, December 01, 2011

Honey Badger got nothin' on Otter gear now available

The Honey Badger might be the most fearless animal in the Guiness Book of World Records, but it's no match for Hillsdale's Otter.

Get your "Honey Badger got nothin' on Otter." gear today. Everything from t-shirts and sweatshirts to shot glasses."

Order now.

Thursday Dec. 1, 8:00 EST: Hillsdale Volleyball Elite 8 Webcast

Watch Hillsdale College in the Women's Volleyball Elite 8. Thursday Dec. 1, 8:00 PM EST

Webcast

Wednesday, November 30, 2011

Glendening named Regional Player of the Year


Hillsdale ’s Glendening Named Daktronics Super Region #3 Offensive Player of Year

Release courtesy of Nick Kornder, Asst. Commissioner for Media Relations, Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference


Burnsville, Minn. - Hillsdale’s Joe Glendening was named the NCAA Super Region #3 Offensive Player of the Year while Colorado State University-Pueblo’s Lee Meisner was selected as the Defensive Player of the Year.

Click here for a printable version of the release

Glendening, the 2011 GLIAC Player of the Year, led Hillsdale to the GLIAC championship with a record-breaking season on the ground. He establishedsingle-season school-records in three major categories: carries (325), rushing yards (1,604) and touchdowns (27). He broke his own carries record, set last year, and the school’s rushing yardage record that had stood for 19 years. But the oldest record Hillsdale College had on its record books – in any sport – was shattered by Glendening with his 27 rushing touchdowns. The old record was 24, set by Nate Clark back in 1955.

First team all-region honorees are now eligible for Daktronics, Inc. Division II Football All-American selection. The announcement of those All-American teams is expected on December 13th, preceding the NCAA Division II Football Championship, which takes place Dec. 17 in Florence, Ala.

The team is sponsored by Daktronics, Inc., an acknowledged world leader in scoring, timing and  programmable display systems for virtually every sport at every level of competition. The team is voted on by the members of the College Sports Information Directors of America (CoSIDA) from Super Region #3, made up of football playing institutions in the Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference, the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference and the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference.

The online nomination and voting processes are powered by ATHLETICSITE.COM. Headquartered in Charleston, S.C., ATHLETICSITE.COM is the official provider for college athletic websites for over 38 sports organizations, including 34 colleges, universities and conferences primarily at the NCAA Division II level. To receive more information on how your institution can partner with ATHLETICSITE.COM for a customized website solution, visit www.athleticsite.com.

Full Release including 1st and 2nd team selections

Saturday, November 26, 2011

YouTube: Joe Glendening - Harlon Hill Trophy Finalist - Highlights

Thanks to Pat Hornak, director of football operations at Hillsdale College for supplying these clips of Charger Joe Glendening.

Tuesday, November 22, 2011

MLive.com: Hillsdale running back Joe Glendening named finalist for Division II's Harlon Hill Trophy

Brian VanOchten, Grand Rapids Press
November 21, 2011


Joe Glendening, a former East Grand Rapids High School football standout, had little expectation for being named as one of the nine national finalists for the 2011 Harlon Hill Trophy after missing one entire game and part of another contest due to a concussion late in the season at Hillsdale College.

"I’m definitely surprised," said Glendening, who is up for the NCAA Division II equivalent of the Heisman Trophy. "It was tough missing that game. Actually, my body felt great coming back from that.

"It’s an honor to be a finalist."

The 5-foot-10, 188-pound Glendening made the initial list of 22 Harlon Hill candidates earlier this month.

He ended up being one of the top two vote getters in Super Region 3, which includes the Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference, on a ballot of D-II sports information directors from around the nation.

Full Article

Monday, November 21, 2011

Joe Glendening is National Finalist for Harlon Hill Trophy

Harlon Hill list down to 9.

SR1: Adam Neugenbauer, Rashaad Slowley
SR2: Lee Chapple, Micah Davis, Jonas Randolph
SR3: "Joe The Show" Glendening, Jake Spitzlberger
SR4: Brandon Kelsey, Dan Simoneau    

Who do you want on your team, Jared Veldheer or DeSean Jackson?

Both the Raiders and Eagles won road games in adverse conditions.

Raider tackle Jared Veldheer did what no other offensive lineman in the league this year has done, keep Viking end Jared Allen off the stat sheet for sacks.

Eagle DeSean Jackson was back after missing a week and had 88 yards receiving in the 17-10 over the Giants in the Meadowlands.

Now compare these two athletes' quotes and tell me which one you want to be your teammate. Which one expounds upon what is right with sports while the other...not so much?

"You have to be a professional about the situation. I know what happened. I just really let my team down," he said. "What I love to do is to come out and help this team win games since day one since I've been here, the playmaker ability, just the spark, the energy I'm able to bring to this team. People don't really understand the light that I bring and just kind of shine on my teammates." -DeSean Jackson via PhiladelphiaEagles.com.

Now contrast that to Jared's reaction when asked about his performance against Allen.

"Every person on the O-line plays a role in that," Veldheer said. "Every person on the offense plays a role in that, because we weren't living in 3rd-and-long much. That helps. And being able to operate the no-huddle like Carson does helps. To sit here and say what I did doesn't do all of those things justice." -Jared Veldheer via SFGate.com.

Yeah, I think it's pretty obvious. Give me the guy who is emerging as one of the best left tackles in the game.

Friday, November 18, 2011

Washington Post: Veldheer relishing chance to face NFL sack leader Jared Allen 1-on-1


Veldheer relishing chance to face NFL sacks leader Jared Allen 1-on-1

By Associated Press, Updated: Friday, November 18, 6:24 AM

ALAMEDA, Calif. — Oakland left tackle Jared Veldheer has a monumental task this week trying to slow down NFL sacks leader Jared Allen of Minnesota.

While it might sound a little crazy, Veldheer hopes the Raiders let him go at it alone.

The second-year offensive lineman certainly respects Allen and calls him one of the best in the league. Veldheer just thinks the Raiders’ offense could suffer if they have to send help his way.

“You want to have (teammates) be able to do their thing,” Veldheer said Thursday. “You want them to be able to get in the pass route to make a first down or do something to help us convert. As long as you do your job and someone doesn’t have to help you, then we’re better off.”

Then again it really hasn’t mattered what strategy teams have used against Allen. His 13 1/2 sacks are two off his career high, and the three-time Pro Bowl defensive end needs only 4 1/2 more to reach 100 for his career.

Since notching half a sack in Minnesota’s opener against San Diego, Allen has had at least one full sack in eight straight games. In four of them, he’s had multiple sacks.

“He’s as good as there is in football,” Raiders coach Hue Jackson said. “The guy has 13 1/2 sacks, and it’s not by accident. He doesn’t make any magical things happen, he just goes and plays extremely hard. What we have to do is get him blocked.”

That job will primarily belong to Veldheer.

Oakland’s third-round draft pick in 2010, Veldheer has been one of the Raiders’ most consistent players on an offensive line that is second in the NFL for fewest sacks allowed (11).

A year after getting burned for 7 1/2 sacks as a rookie, the 6-foot-8, 315-pound Veldheer has been beat for sacks only twice this season. He’s also reduced his penalties, from 15 in 2010 to just five through nine games this season.

Jackson acknowledges Veldheer has never faced a challenge quite like the one Allen poses, which is why the Raiders will probably scheme for some additional help on the left side of the line.

“He’s one of those guys (where it) doesn’t matter if you’re running the ball away from them, they can make the play,” Oakland quarterback Carson Palmer said. “He’s a high-effort, explosive, fast, tenacious defender. He can do it all so he’s a guy that we definitely need to keep an eye on and know where he is at all times.”

Veldheer was drafted out of Hillsdale College to play left tackle for the Raiders but he wound up making his NFL debut at center when Oakland couldn’t find anyone else to do the job.

He moved back to tackle the following week and hasn’t left the job since.

Full Article

Wednesday, November 16, 2011

Glendening is GLIAC Player of the Year - Otter gets Coach of the Year - Four other Chargers make 1st Team All-GLIAC

Image from GLIAC.org
For the second year in a row, Hillsdale College can boast GLIAC Football Player of the Year. Last year quarterback Troy Weatherhead was league MVP. This year it is running back Joe Glendening who gets that honor.

"Joe the Show" had the most spectacular season ever produced by any Hillsdale back. His 1604 yards and 27 touchdowns knocked hall of famers Scott Schulte and Nate Clark down a peg and now sits 1241 yards away from Schulte's all-time leading rusher mark of 4495. Glendening returns for one more season in 2012.
Hillsdale head coach Keith Otterbein also received quite an honor today as he was named GLIAC Coach of the Year. Facing major rebuilding after losing Weatherhead, receivers Mike Blanchard and Andre Holmes who is on the Dallas Cowboy practice squad, as well as key linemen like center Phil Doerffler, Otterbein led Hillsdale to its first conference title since 1992 and its first outright title since 1988.

Other Chargers were recognized on Wednesday as some of the league's best.

Senior Tackle Reid Meador and junior H-back Cam White received first-team offense honors while senior defensive back Nick Hixson and sophomore Brett Pasche were named to the first-team defense.

Making the second-team for Hillsdale were Hixson as the return specialist and fellow DB senior Joe Vear.

Honorable mention went to David Bakker (Sr./DE), Bren Bergquist (Sr./TE), Steve Embry (So./LB), D.J. Loy (Jr./OL), Anthony Mifsud (Jr./ QB), Devin Moynihan (So./LB)

Full GLIAC.org Release.

2011 Hillsdale College Football Team Award Winners

The following awards were handed out Sunday at Hillsdale College's Football Banquet.


Captains Awards: Nick Hixson and Reid Meador

Coaches Award: Ridge Riebold

One-Play Warrior Award: Tyler Cochran

Joe Vijuk Outstanding Defensive Lineman Award: David Bakker

Outstanding Offensive Back: Joe Glendening

Outstanding Defensive Back: Nick Hixson

Ralph Miller III Award as the Outstanding Linebacker: Devin Moynihan

Leonard Urbanick Award for Scholarship, Leadership and Ability: David Bakker

Roy Beck Most Valuable Player: Joe Glendening

Monday, November 14, 2011

Blue Charger...trying to wrap my head around NCAA snub.

It is 18 hours since I learned Hillsdale had been passed over the NCAA regional selection committee and I still can't believe the Chargers will be sitting at home next Saturday...outright conference champs of the GLIAC.

There lies the biggest head-scratcher. The notion that outright champ doesn't mean automatic qualifier. Realizing that has no bearing on selection goes against what most of see as one of the many engrained fibers of sports.

One of the major inconsistencies is that the NCAA gives automatic berths in all but D2. Heck the NAIA does it.  FCS and D3 have automatic qualifying bids. D2 is essentially the only one and we just can't wrap our heads around something that is ALMOST universal. ALMOST.

Automatically qualifying has been engrained in us thanks to that final weekend of NCAA basketball before the tournament. We see Northern Arizona and Santa Clara win and punch their tickets. It is everywhere and it makes sense to us...because it just makes sense.

Division II has out-thought itself here. All of the math formulas may have looked great on a chalk board but when it comes to real people and getting the best teams on the field at the end of the year it falls way short. It reminds me of zero tolerance laws where the best of intended formulas ends up short of the eye test...the common sense test. I have long felt that one of the flaws of the NCAA is that it is run by a bunch of egg-heads. Mathematicians and Social Scientists with too much time on their hands do way too much tinkering and attempt to achieve some crazy utopian model within the framework of college sports.

I said a couple of weeks ago that I would take a conference title over a trip to the playoffs. I meant it. That was also when there was a 5 way tie at the top of the league. I guess in the end I will still make that bargain, although it is my only choice. Winning this league, and being lucky enough to be outright champions is a huge accomplishment considering 11 weeks ago we didn't know who our quarterback was going to be and that we only lose a handful of seniors.

Charger fans are lighting up the D2football.com Message Boards in rage...and I feel that rage. I would really feel it if I just saw my son's football career end at the keystroke of a regional committee.

This process is broken because it tries to do everything with numbers. Football isn't a numbers game. It is a people game.

There is nothing more we can do Charger Nation about who plays on Saturday, Week 12 of 2011. There is a lot that can be done about Week 12, 2012 though.  I hope our guys take this snub and remember how it feels every time they strap on their running shoes or pick up a weight and turn it into fuel for next season. Learn from this Chargers. We can't let any Saturday be less than our best. Don't give the committee and the math problems any chance to keep us out of the playoffs next year.

Come to think of it, I hope we don't play on Week 12 next year either. I hope we are all sitting at home watching the first round, waiting to see who comes to Muddy Waters Stadium to face the top seed in the region.

Charge on my Blue and White faithful.

Sunday, November 13, 2011

Hillsdale season ends. Chargers left out of playoff field.

Despite winning its first outright league title since 1988, Hillsdale's season will end with an 8-3 record.

Saginaw Valley and Wayne State were picked ahead of the Chargers.

Hillsdale to learn football playoff fate at 5:00 PM Eastern

Visit NCAA.com's Fall Championship Selections page to watch live as Division II football pairings are announced at 5:00 PM Eastern today.

Hillsdale finished the year with an 8-3 record, 8-2 in the GLIAC, and as outright league champions. The NCAA does not award automatic berths to conference champions.

Hillsdale was ranked 8th in last Monday's regional poll. They must finish as either one of the top 6 or the highest ranked GLIAC team. Rankings are largely based on win percentage and strength of schedule.

Wayne State and Grand Valley also ended the year at 8-3 so what the regional committee with the mathematical criteria and how heavily it weighs each piece is anyone's guess.

All we can do is wait to hear.

Saturday, November 12, 2011

Hillsdale beats Tiffin for GLIAC Title, Record shattering day for Glendening

Entering Saturday's GLIAC finale at winless Tiffin, Hillsdale controlled its own destiny for at least a share of the conference title. The Chargers took care of business and used a little luck along the way to sweeten the day.

Thanks to an upset 43-42 overtime win by Findlay over Wayne State and then Grand Valley's win or Saginaw Valley, Hillsdale found itself owning the league title by itself for the first time since since 1988. The Chargers last shared a title in 1992. Those droughts are now over.

Posting its first shutout in 4 years, Hillsdale rolled 42-0 on a record setting day by Joe Glendening. Joe the Show's 4 touchdown, 188 yard day gave him two of Hillsdale College's longest standing records. The East Grand Rapids native finishes the year with 1604 yards, breaking Scott Schulte's 1992 record by 22 yards. The four touchdowns gave Glendening 27 rushing touchdowns on the year breaking Nate Clark's 1955 rushing TD record by 3.

Junior QB Anthony Mifsud capped a great first year under center with a 15 of 24 day of passing for 245 yards. He ran in Hillsdale's 5th touchdown on a 14 yard carry.

The Charger defense got four take-aways on the game, two interceptions and two fumble recoveries. Add 5 sacks for -33 yards to those numbers and it's easy to see that both sides of the Charger team were equally dominant. Tiffin finished with -14 yards rushing and 213 yards passing.

Final Box Score

Friday, November 11, 2011

Hillsdale's Joe the Show is one of 22 regional finalists for the Harlon Hill Trophy

Here are the Super Region 3 candidates for the Harlon Hill Trophy, awarded to the top football player in NCAA Division II.



  •     Joe Glendening, Hillsdale RB 293/1412, 4.8 ypc, 23 rushing TD, 159.6 ypg (#1 scoring, #2 rushing)
  •     Clay Garcia, CSM QB 244-393-6 int., 59.84%, 18 passing TD, 2880 (#6 total yards, #8 ypg)
  •     Jesse Lewis, Pueblo RB 155/735, 4.7 ypc, 6 rushing TD, 73.5 ypg
  •     Chris Mills, UIndy QB 224-342-3 int., 65.5%, 2725 yards, 27 passing TD (#8 total yards, #4 TD)
  •     Mike Nofsinger, ODU RB 214/1134, 5.3 ypc, 10 rushing TD, 113.4 ypg
  •     Jake Spitzlberger, UNK QB 159-266-13 int., 59.77%, 2252 yards, 18 passing TD


Full list and release at harlonhill.com.

Three Chargers get invites to inaugural D2 vs. NAIA Senior Bowl

Regardless of whether Hillsdale gets into the playoffs this weekend, three Charger seniors will have a game to play on Dec. 3rd. The inaugural D2 vs. NAIA Senior bowl will feature Hillsdale offensive tackle Reid Meador and defensive backs Nick Hixson and Joe Vear. More information on the game to be played in Middletown, NY can be found at D2vsNaiaBowl.com.

Thursday, November 10, 2011

Glendening needs ho-hum day at Tiffin to etch two huge marks in Hillsdale record books

Joe Glendening 32 celebrates after a touchdown vs. Grand Valley St.
Patrick Heckenlively Photo
Hillsdale's Joe Glendening already holds the record for most rushing attempts in a season with 312. That is nice but it's the kind of record that holds about as much glamor and style as a Ford Focus. A little more, okay way more stylish than that is the single-season touchdown record Glendening broke last week with his four scores against Tiffin. In 2009, Vinnie Panizzi scored 25 in 13 games. Joe Glendening has 27 combined rushing and receiving touchdowns through 9 games.

With a slightly above average day at Tiffin on Saturday, Joe the Show can grab two of the highest profile, longest standing, and most glamorous records on the Hillsdale books.

In 1955, Nate Clark scored 24 rushing touchdowns and set a Hillsdale College record that has stood for 56 seasons. Glendening enters Saturday's game one shy of that with 23 rushing TDs.

In 1992, Scott Schulte set the Midwest Intercollegiate Football Conference on fire with an electrifying 1,582 yards. Joe needs 167 yards to eclipse that single-season mark.

Both Clark and Schulte are Hillsdale College Hall of Famers.

Those may sound like single-game career-high type feats for many backs, but consider the circumstances. Glendening is second in the nation in rushing, averaging 157.3 yards per game and leads the nation in scoring with 18 points per game. So 167 and 2 scores is a rather pedestrian day for a kid who has broken records at every level of competition he's faced. Now factor in the opponent Tiffin's averages. The Dragons are yielding 285 yards per game in rushing alone and 52 points per game.

An interesting tidbit to add to the Schulte record is the fact that Hillsdale's last overall conference title (shared with GVSU, Ferris State, and Butler) came during that record setting 1992 season. A win by the Chargers on Saturday ends that drought although they will likely share the title again. Other similarities include the fact that Schulte set the record during his junior year. Glendening is a junior. Both also missed at least a part of their seasons due to injury.

One similarity we can all do without is the blinding snow storm that capped Schulte and the Chargers' great 1992 season. Hillsdale beat Wayne State 41-14 that day as snow piled up and Muddy Waters  Field was plowed at least twice.

Wednesday, November 09, 2011

YouTube: Hillsdale's David Bakker sack at Findlay

Thanks to Mitch Bakker for sharing his son Charger David Bakker's sack just before  halftime at Findlay last Saturday.


Sunday, November 06, 2011

Super Region 3 Shakeup

A lot of moving and shaking across the region this weekend. No telling where Hillsdale might land but with three teams losing ahead of them, it's going to be up.  We will have to wait until Monday afternoon to see where everyone is.

Super Region 3
Team Region Overall
1. CSU-Pueblo 9-0 10-0 won
2. Nebraska-Kearney 9-1 9-1 won
3. St. Cloud 7-2 8-2 LOST
4. Saginaw Valley 7-2 7-2 won
5. Minnesota Duluth 8-2 8-2 won
6. Ashland 6-4 6-4 LOST
7. Wayne State (Mich.) 8-2 won
8. Indianapolis 7-3 7-3 Lost
9. Minnesota State 8-2 8-2 WON
10. Hillsdale 7-3 7-3 WON    

Friday, November 04, 2011

Big Weekend of GLIAC Football on Tap

With a 5 way tie atop the league standings and only two weeks left in the GLIAC regular season, nearly every game this week will impact the rest of the teams clawing to remain on top.

Here is the league leader slate this weekend with all of the essential links provided by GLIAC.org.


NMU at 1. Saginaw Valley 7PM, stats - video - audio
1. Wayne State at 1. Indy 6PM, stats - video - audio
ODU at 1. Ashland 1PM, stats - video - audio
1. HILLSDALE at Findlay noon, stats - video - UF Audio , Hillsdale radio feed

Tuesday, November 01, 2011

HDN's Ryan Czachorski reports on Glendening's Status

Hillsdale Daily News sports editor Ryan Czachorski reports via Twitter that Charger running back Joe Glendening is feeling better but is yet to receive clearance for Saturday's GLIAC football matchup with the University of Findlay.

Glendening is the GLIAC's leading rusher and one of the top backs in NCAA Division II



Monday, October 31, 2011

Despite win over Northwood, Hillsdale drops 4 spots in Regional Rankings

Even though they beat Northwood on Saturday, the Hillsdale College Chargers see themselves drop 4 spots in the regional rankings thanks to....math.

The NCAA has a formula that bases the rankings on winning percentage, strength of schedule, and opponent strength of schedule. This is criteria for the regional committee to apply. What D2football.com's Tony Nicolette has done a great job of doing is reminding fans that there is no specific regulation or requirement stating how exactly the math is applied.

Hillsdale played a 2 win football team on Saturday and so that hurt the SOS number. A win over Findlay on this upcoming Saturday will help slightly as the Oilers are 5-4. The big albatross that hangs from the neck of everyone who plays them is winless Tiffin.

Are the playoffs out of the question for Hillsdale this year? Nope, because anything can happen in the final two weeks. As I stated in my post about two wins equals a GLIAC title, all the Chargers can do is take care of their own business. They have to beat Findlay and Tiffin. After that, it's all in the hands of whatever-happens happens.

Do yourself a favor and just simply scratch your heads. No sense in trying to figure this thing out any further.

Rankings courtesy of D2football.com

Hillsdale College Football: Two Wins from a Title

"Control your own destiny" are some of the most beautiful words in football and that is exactly what Hillsdale College does as it strives to reach its team goal of winning the Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference for the first time in 19 years.

The last time the Chargers won a league title was 1992 when Hillsdale shared it with Ferris State, Grand Valley, and Butler. It is likely that the Chargers will probably end up sharing this title too. With two games to play Hillsdale is in a 5 way tie with Wayne State, Saginaw Valley, Ashland, and Indianapolis. All sit with 6-2 records in the conference. Hillsdale is 6-3 overall but its loss to league member Ferris State  was played as a non-conference game because the long-time rivals were not scheduled to meet in league play.

Hillsdale plays at 5-4 Findlay on Saturday and winless Tiffin on November 12.

Here are the schedules for the other top teams:

Saginaw Valley (6-2, 6-2): home vs. Northern Michigan, at Grand Valley State
Wayne State (7-2, 6-2): at Indianapolis, home vs. Findlay
Indianapolis (7-2, 6-2): home vs. Wayne State, at Ohio Dominican
Ashland (6-3, 6-2) : home vs. Ohio Dominican, at Lake Erie

Only one team is guaranteed out of the mix and that is either going to be Wayne State or Indianapolis. They are the two clubs among the tied-5 who have remaining games with any of the others.

Coach Dick Lowry used to preach and Otter still preaches it after having been a Lowry assistant: Worry only about what we can control.

How Hillsdale might fair in terms of the playoffs is completely out of their hands. A thousand scenarios could play out a thousand ways. A new set of regional rankings will be up later this afternoon.

Only one thing is certain. Beat Findlay and Tiffin and be league champs.

Patrick Heckenlively Galleries Now Live for Northwood

Check out official team photographer Patrick Heckenlively's photos from this past Saturday as well as from all past home games this season.

Charger Football Galleries

Photos may be purchased online.

Monday, October 24, 2011

Hillsdale 6th in First Round of NCAA Football Regional Rankings

Hillsdale College finds itself still in the NCAA Division II football playoff mix, despite losing on Saturday to Wayne State. The Chargers' strength of schedule seems to be buoying them in this early round of math. Findlay at 5-3 will help strengthen that but Norhwood and Tiffin's struggles this year will not. Here they are as posted at d2football.com.

Saturday, October 22, 2011

Friday, October 21, 2011

Saginaw blows out Ashland. A Hillsdale win will mean sole possession of first place

It has been 29 years since a Hillsdale College football team has made it through the regular season unscathed. In 1982, the Chargers reeled off 12 straight before losing to Mesa State 18-9 in the second round of the NAIA playoffs.

You have to pretty much pencil in a loss here or there and it really doesn't matter that much who beats you. If you expect to be a contender for league titles and D2 playoff berths, you can't let it happen much though.

Even after a shocking defeat by Ohio Dominican two weeks ago, Hillsdale finds itself in a position now to take over sole possession of 1st place with a win over Wayne State. Ironically, it was a win over Wayne State that clinched that a share of the 1992 league title.

Hillsdale got some help last week when Ashland knocked off previously unbeaten Wayne State, creating a 3-way tie at the top with Hillsdale, WSU, and Ashland at 5-1 in league play. Last night, Hillsdale and Wayne State got a lot of help from Saginaw Valley (and quite a bit from Ashland's disinterested performance) as the Cardinals blew out the Eagles 27-6 in front of a national television audience.

A win over Wayne would put the Chargers at 6-1 and drops Wayne into the muck of two loss teams hoping the leader somehow stumbles along the way.

Even with a win, no ring is secure, shared or otherwise. Hillsdale still faces Northwood, Findlay, and Tiffin. As we saw in the ODU game, everyone is dangerous. Playing in Findlay is especially dangerous, as it was the Oilers who ended Grand Valley's home winning streak this year, forcing 6 turnover. Five of those came on 5 straight possessions.

Hillsdale will need a great effort this week. When I talked to offensive coordinator Nate Shreffler, he said Wayne is "probably one of the most complete teams we have seen all year."

Game time is 1:30 PM at Muddy Waters Stadium in Hillsdale.

Warrior Daily: Wayne State Head Coach Paul Winters

Wayne State head coach Paul Winters shares his thoughts on last week's loss to Ashland and the task of playing in Hillsdale this week.


video from Wayne State University

Saturday, October 15, 2011

Hillsdale defense redeems itself in football win over Michigan Tech

After not having their best effort last week at home, Hillsdale College's defense took the burden of redeeming itself all of the way to Houghton, Michigan and helped the Chargers get a big road victory.

Hillsdale's GLIAC title and playoff hopes remained alive on Saturday as the Chargers won for the first time at Sherman Field since 1996.

Hillsdale forced 4 punts and recovered a fumble on a kickoff to preserve Hillsdale's 6-0 halftime lead. At the half, The Huskies had only mustered 2 first downs and 43 yards.  In the second half the Chargers forced punts on Tech's first two possessions, blocking the second one and setting up Hillsdale's only touchdown of the day. Nick Hixson would pick off Tyler Scarlett on Tech's next go.

Michigan Tech still had a little left in the tank and would put together a long drive that account for 80 of its 167 yards of total offense. It was Chargers 13, Huskies 7 with 6:03 to play.

Unable to generate any offense or momentum on its next possession, the Charger offense went 3 and out,  putting the defense  back on the field quickly.  Tech looked like it just might spoil this great effort with 23 yards on its first play, moving down to the Hillsdale 33 with about 5 to play. They would get no closer...well a little bit.

After Charlie Leffingwell was held to a yard on the next carry, Pasche would turn in an incredible set of downs on the next 3 plays.  On 2nd and 9 Pasche would wrap up Leffingwell for -4 yards in the backfield. On 3rd and 13, the linebacker from Findlay, Ohio sniffed out a dump pass to Leffingwell dropping him for another loss of 2 yards. Out of options at its own 38, Tech had to go for it on 4th and 15 and had to pass. Defensive coordinator Craig Blanchard sent Pasche on a blitz and all but sealed things with a sack of Scarlett and a forced fumble.

Anthony Mifsud was able to lead the offense to a pair of first downs and the Charger defense never had to go on the field again.

On the day Pasche had 6 solo stops, 4 for loss including the sack. Joe Vear led Hillsdale with 13 tackles. Devin Moynihan recovered a fumble and had 8 stops including a sack he and Tim Moinet ganged up on to kill a Tech drive in the second half. Nate Bundy and Zach Cherocci also had sacks. Hixson had the one pick.

The Chargers held Tech to 69 yards rushing and 98 yards passing.



Sunday, October 09, 2011

Hillsdale's Joe Glendening making a case for a Harlon Hill Nomination

The Harlon Hill Award goes annually to the top player in Division II football. Hillsdale College's Joe Glendening is making a case for his name to be on the ballot for this season.

Here are his performances so far this season.

Game 1 vs. Ferris State - rushing 29-153 1TD, 3 receptions 10 yards
Game 2 vs. Grand Valley -rushing 32-89 2TD, 1 reception 24 yards 1TD
Game 3 vs. Ashland -rushing  33-101 4TD, 7 receptions 43 yards
Game 4 vs. Lake Erie -rushing  36-139 4TD, 3 receptions 22 yards 1 TD
Game 5 vs. SVSU -rushing  42-244 3TD, 3 receptions 49 yards
Game 6 vs. ODU -rushing  33-262 4TD, 2 reception 72 yards 1 TD

988 total yards, 164.7 yards per game, 18 rushing TD, 36.7 yards per game receiving 3TD

Before Saturday:
Was tied for first in the country with 16 touchdowns, bumped that up to 21 today, pulled ahead of Rashaad Slowley at South Conn. State who sits at 19.
Was 6th in the country with a 144 ypg average, bumped that up to 167 today.
Was 3rd in the country with 200 ypg all purpose average, bumped it up slightly to 201.333

A couple of tough defenses lie ahead in MTU and Wayne. The thing about Joe though is that he comes up biggest in big games.

Saturday, October 08, 2011

Hillsdale.edu: Ohio Dominican ends Hillsdale's homecoming winning streak in 43-42 upset


Ohio Dominican ends Hillsdale's homecoming winning streak in 43-42 upset
Joe Glendening rushes for career-high 262 yards in the loss
Ohio Dominican 43, Hillsdale 42

October 8, 2011 – The Ohio Dominican University football team put a shocking end to a number of winning streaks by Hillsdale College Saturday afternoon.

Thanks to a 22-point fourth-quarter explosion, the Panthers pulled off a 43-42 upset of the Chargers at Hillsdale’s news story imagehomecoming game Saturday afternoon at Frank “Muddy” Waters Stadium. Hillsdale is now 4-2 overall and 4-1 in the GLIAC, while the Panthers improved to 3-3 on the season.

This game marked the first home loss for the Chargers since Sept. 27, 2008 – a streak of 16 games – and the first homecoming loss for the team since 2003, a streak of eight games. ODU ended the streak by taking advantage of three Hillsdale turnovers, and stopping the Charger offense when it absolutely needed to.

A total of 36 points were scored in a frantic fourth quarter that featured quick scoring strikes by the Panthers, and another incredible performance by Charger junior RB Joe Glendening. But it was ODU who struck first, and held last, getting one of its biggest wins in its one-plus year as a member of the GLIAC.

Thursday, October 06, 2011

d2football.com: Tony Nicolette's weekly GLIAC preview

Ohio Dominican (1-3, 2-3) at #19 Hillsdale (4-0, 4-1)

After an 2-0 start, ODU has come back to earth a bit by dropping three straight. Conversely, an opening weekend loss for Hillsdale has turned into a four-game win streak that has included multiple last-second heartstoppers. If any team in the league has proven thus far that they know how to win close games, it has definitely been the Chargers.

Ohio Dominican Keys:
- More than e'Noff - We talk about ODU RB Mike Noffsinger a lot, but he's a proven playmaker who has been clawing his way up the list of great backs in this league. With that said, the Panthers need to show a bit more on offense than just him. Last week he was held in check and Tech won easily. The passing game needs to get going.
- Disruption - Hillsdale loves to get a rhtyhm going on offense and basically put you to sleep from there. ODU has to find a way to force some early turnovers, or get a couple of big plays for a loss to derail what the Chargers want to do. If Hillsale is able to churn out first downs and score with some ease early, this one won't last long.

Hillsdale Keys:
- Run Stop - If the 'Dale defense has had a weakness this year, they have been prone at times to allowing some numbers on the ground. ODU is a run-first group and they have proven they can move the ball against decent defenses. The Chargers need to keep Noffinger and the shifty QB Jeremy Fudge in check.
- Do what you Do - Hand it to Glendening, spread the passess around. The offense has definitely been clicking, so there's no sense in doing anything unusual...especially against an over-matched opponent.

Prediction:
It's Homecoming at Hillsdale, and the faithful should see a favorable result. While the HC offense does start with Joe Glendening running the ball, the Chargers have completed passess to at least nine different receivers in every game this year...ten different in the last three games. That kind of balance should play plenty well against the league's worst pass defense. Hillsdale 45, Ohio Dominican 21.

Tony's take on the rest of the GLIAC

Hall of Famer and former Hillsdale Linebackers Coach Jack Hepinstall Sr. Passes Away

The game of football lost a real gem on Monday when former Hillsdale College assistant football coach Jack Hepinstall Sr. passed away in Ft. Myers, Florida.

Coach Hep was a great teacher who had worked with young men at the high school and college levels for over 50 years. Twenty of those seasons came working with some of Hillsdale College's legendary linebackers like Rodney Patterson, Jerry Klekotka, and Scott Duncan. I was a linebacker at Hillsdale and spent 4 years in Coach Hep's position group and a 5th year as a student assistant learning the game from him. I will always remember his warm eyes and handshake when I arrived at Hillsdale on a snowy November day to take my tour of the school and facilities. He loved his guys and one of the highlights of the week was Dominoes Pizza and the Thursday Night college football game with the other linebackers over at Hep's house. Oh...and there were all of the great stories that 50 years of coaching can deliver.

The last time I got to visit with Coach Hepinstall was during Homecoming of 2009. We sat near one another as Hillsdale shocked the world and knocked off Grand Valley, then ranked number 1 in the nation. His son Jack had brought him to game and alumni reunion. You could tell that he was getting older but he still know every guy and his mind was just as sharp. He was one of those guys who shaped my life. When you're 19 though you somehow don't value all of the wisdom that surrounds you. When I read his obituary below it really reminds me how fortunate I was to have spent so many days on the practice field with him. He's one of the reasons I didn't just bag football when it was a foregone conclusion I wouldn't be seeing the field too much on Saturdays. Give it a read and say a little prayer for Jack Jr. and the rest of Hep's family, including all of the guys whose lives are better because of him.




Jack N. Hepinstall, Sr., 89, of Ft Myers, FL, formerly of Hillsdale, MI passed away on Monday October 3, 2011 at Gulf Coast Medical Center in Ft Myers after a brief illness.  He was born on August 15, 1922 in White Cloud, MI to the late Oliver and Nellie Hepinstall.  He was preceded in death by his first wife, Phyllis (Lohr) in 1984, his brother James in 2010, and his step son William Harlan in 2009.  

Jack graduated from White Cloud High School in 1940. He earned college degrees from Michigan State University (Bachelors- 1948, Masters-1962) and Western Illinois University (Specialists-1972).  Jack was also an officer with the US Army serving in World War II and the Korean Conflict.    

During his outstanding career, he taught and coached various sports at high schools in Hart (MI), Blissfield (MI), WIU Laboratory School, Macomb (IL) and Hillsdale (MI).  While at Hillsdale, his 1972 football team was Michigan’s Class B State Champions.  After retiring from teaching in 1979, Jack worked one year at the University of Toledo in 1980.  He then was an assistant football coach with Hillsdale College (1985 NAIA National Champions) for twenty years retiring at the age of 78 in 2000.  He was inducted into Michigan High School Coaches Hall of Fame (1977), Michigan High School Football Coaches Hall of Fame (1984), and Blissfield Hall of Fame (2008).  

After his second retirement, Jack enjoyed living full time in Florida with his wife Marilyn; traveling, playing golf, cards, and visiting friends and family.

Jack is survived by his wife Marilyn (Harlan) married on July 4, 2004, his children, Linda Gragg, Stuarts Draft, VA, Jack (Julie) Hepinstall, Lakeland, FL, Jeff (Becky) Hepinstall, Toledo, OH, Susan Risk (Ray Briner), Hillsdale, MI, Amy (Jeff) Glock, Fallston, MD, and his step children MaryBeth (Michael) Gilroy, Robert (Diane McKeebe) Harlan, Jeffrey Harlan, James (Peggy) Harlan, grandchildren Angie and Luke Gragg, Emily and Alec Hepinstall, Kristen and Eric Hepinstall, Jason Jones, Jack and Will Glock, Ashley (Woodie) Munson, John and Emma Harlan, Connor Gilroy, and great grandchild Alivia Munson.

Memorial receptions to celebrate Jack’s life are being held at the Hillsdale Community Senior Services Center 320 W Bacon St Hillsdale Michigan on Sunday October 16, 2011 from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM and at The Landings Yacht, Golf & Tennis Club, Helm Club 4425 S Landings Dr. Ft Myers FL 33919 on Saturday October 29, 2011 from 1:00PM to 4:00PM.  In lieu of flowers and for those wishing to give memorial contributions may consider gifts to the Jack McAvoy Scholarship Fund at Hillsdale College C/O Football Office, 33 East College St. Hillsdale, MI 49242. 

Online condolences may be sent to the family through the website www.legacy.com

Saturday, October 01, 2011

Hillsdale.edu: Hillsdale College football team rallies for first win at Saginaw Valley State in 19 years, 38-35

Glendening's career-high 244 yards pace Chargers
Hillsdale 38, Saginaw Valley State 35

October 1, 2011 – Sometimes, all you need is a good cup of Joe. And it’s even better if you have two.

One Joe had the biggest game of his collegiate career, and another Joe made the play of the game, as the Hillsdale College football team defeated Saginaw Valley State University 38-35 in a thrilling game Saturday night at SVSU’s homecoming. The Chargers, ranked 24th in the nation, are now 4-1 overall and 4-0 in the GLIAC, while the Cardinals suffered their first loss of the season, and are now 3-1.

Junior RB Joe Glendening turned in a magnificent performance, carrying the ball 42 times for a career-high 244 yards and three touchdowns. He made big plays throughout the game, but it was another Joe who made THE biggest play of the game, certainly on the defensive side of the ball.

Defensive lineman Joe Snyder sacked Cardinals QB Jonathon Jennings on a 3rd-and-10 play on the Cardinals’ final drive. SVSU failed to convert the subsequent 4th-and-17 play, which ended the home team’s final threat of the game. The sack not only put the Cardinals into a fourth-and-long situation, it knocked them well out of field goal range.

It was the first time the Chargers left SVSU’s Randall Wickes Stadium victorious since 1992, and was the team’s fourth win in a row this season. It was also the first time Hillsdale has beaten Saginaw Valley State in back-to-back years since 1992 and 1993.

Friday, September 30, 2011

Sorry folks, no podcast this week.

Sorry folks,

No podcast this week as the education of America's children has cut way into my time to chase down interviews. I really enjoy doing the podcast but things got a bit hairy this week.

I'll be back next week. Promise.

Monday, September 26, 2011

Hillsdale's Joe Glendening is Week 4 GLIAC Football Player of the Week

Hillsdale College's junior running back Joe Glendening was named GLIAC offensive football player of the week  on Monday after his 5 touchdown performance versus Lake Erie College on Saturday.

Glendening had 139 yards and 4 touchdowns rushing and caught 3 passes for 22 yards including another score in the team's 35-26 conference victory.

The Chargers are 3-1 on the season and 3-0 in the GLIAC.

Patrick Heckenlively photo

Saturday, September 24, 2011

Chargers weather the Storm 35-26 in win over Lake Erie

#21 Hillsdale 35
Lake Erie 26 F


This one was way too close for comfort and was a lot like last year's game except it didn't take a heroic fumble return to win. Lake Erie took a page from the Hillsdale game plan and used ball control and short passing to take a 19-14 halftime lead.

Hillsdale took its first drive of the 2nd half to the endzone on an 8:00+ drive to go up 21-19. The Storm answered back immediately to make it 26-21 midway through the 3rd.

The Hillsdale defense finally got its grip and made big stops the rest of the way. Hillsdale's offense would eventually wear out Lake Erie as evidenced by the big runs Mifsud and Glendening would amass on the final two scoring drives.

Hillsdale: Joe Glendening: 36 carries for 139 yards, 4TD rushing - 3/22 1TD receiving
Anthony Mifsud: 24/33 for 251 passing 1TD 0INT, 50 yards rushing
Mifsud used 10 Hillsdale receivers. Andrew Mott led with 5 catches for 47 yards.
Devin Moynihan had 11 stops and a sack defensively

Lake Erie: Sean Bevedelsky: 17/21 183 passing, 69 yards and a TD rushing.
Alexander led LEC with 11 carries for 97 yards. David Romeo also carried for a TD.
Cameron Bryant had 9 tackles for the Storm

Friday, September 23, 2011

New Podcast posted: Riders on the Storm

Episode 2 is now up at the new Podcast page.

Give it a couple of minutes to load.

D2football.com: Tony Nicolette previews Chargers and Storm, rest of GLIAC

#21 Hillsdale (2-0, 2-1) at Lake Erie (0-2, 1-2)

After getting dumped in week one, the Chargers have found a way to win a pair of close games with wild finishes against quality opponents. They head to the shores of Lake Erie to take on a Storm outfit that has struggled mightily after getting the season off to a winning start against Gannon just three short weeks ago.


Hillsdale Keys:
- Give Joe a Break - I've chronicled how important Joe Glendening is to HC's offense. With that in mind, giving the kid a break might be in order. Anthony Mifsud has definitely settled in at the controls of the Charger offense, and the Lake Erie defense appears to be struggling in much the same way it did in 2010. Glendening had 40 touches last week, and while the kid can make plays his per carry average is down significantly over a year ago...not to mention he's on pace to risk being dinged once again down the stretch. I'd look for other ways to move the ball in this one, especially considering other options should present themselves against a sub-par defense. This is a good game to get some other guys some reps and to keep your top weapon healthy.

- Avoid the Steamroller - In other words, "don't come out flat". It wouldn't be a surprise, as Hillsdale just notched two huge wins at home against big rivals in last-minute thrillers. Jumping on a bus to Cleveland (and beyond) could certainly bring on a case of the blahs. Make no mistake, LEC can be dangerous...they darn near nipped HC at Muddy Waters a year ago.

Lake Erie Keys:
- Keep it in front of You - Despite some new personnel, Hillsdale is still Hillsdale...they run the ball, complete tons of high-percentage passes, and control the clock. Lake Erie must keep the plays in front of them, make sure tackles, and find a way to get off the field on third down. If they don't, the D will get gassed and big plays late will result. HC does this almost every week, so The Storm must be ready.

- Where's Sean? - I've been all about Sean Bedevelsky coming into the year, and after two games he's not been the threat he was a year ago. Granted, his first game was at Tech, but he really didn't do a whole lot against Saginaw Valley last week either. As he goes, so go The Storm...LEC needs its primary playmaker to get things going.

Prediction:
Hillsdale struggled against LEC last year, hold off The Storm 42-37 in a wild one. Despite the struggles LEC has had the last two weeks, I really think the Chargers need to have their guard up in this one. One has to wonder how much emotion HC will have left to be "up" for this one, especially on the road. I'll take Hillsdale simply because I haven't seen any real life out of LEC just yet, but I still contend that the Chargers should tread lightly. Hillsdale 34, Lake Erie 24.

Read the rest of Tony's take on things in Week 4.

Muskegon Chronicle: Plenty of football excitement for area gridders at Hillsdale

Tom Kendra
Muskegon Chronicle


Tuesdays with Tom ...
Another Saturday night home game, another thrilling victory for the Hillsdale College football team.
“Yeah, the last two games have been pretty crazy around here,” Tim Hornak said with a laugh. Hornak is a 6-foot-5, 270-pound starting sophomore left tackle for Hillsdale from Muskegon Catholic Central.

On Sept. 10, Hillsdale took advantage of a roughing-the-kicker penalty on the final play and made the second field-goal attempt in a 34-31 win against rival Grand Valley State.

On Saturday night, the Chargers did it again, this time pulling out a 40-34 victory in three overtimes against visiting Ashland in the second-longest game in school history.

Hornak is a BIG part of the Chargers’ success, having added 45 pounds to his 6-5 frame since leading MCC to a Division 8 state championship in 2008.

Other local players enjoying Hillsdale’s wild season are Ben Jones, a fellow Muskegon Catholic graduate who plays tight end in short-yardage situations; and Aric Geerlings, an East Kentwood graduate and Norton Shores resident who is a second-team linebacker.

Hornak and his twin brother, Jon, were recruited by Hillsdale where their uncle, Grand Haven native Pat Hornak, is the team’s tight ends coach and director of football operations.

Jon Hornak decided to focus on hoops and is a forward for the Aquinas College basketball team.
Hornak boys always have had great coordination and athletic ability for their height. Now that Tim has added plenty of “good weight,” as he calls it, he has earned the starting spot at the key left tackle position.

Left tackle is considered the most important of the five offensive line positions because that lineman must block defenders who are coming from the side of the field a right-handed quarterback can’t see — known as the blind side. The left tackle faces the top pass-rushers, which has made them a valuable commodity at all levels.

For example, the two highest-paid NFL players last year were quarterbacks. Atlanta’s Michael Vick and Seattle’s Matt Hasselbeck received $23.1 million and $19 million, respectively. The next two highest-paid players were left tackles: St. Louis’ Orlando Pace, at $18 million, and Seattles’ Walter Jones, at $17.7 million.

“It’s totally different than high school where I was run-blocking straight ahead on every play, going downhill and trying to drive my guy back,” said Hornak, 20, the son of Mike and Tina Hornak. “Now, my first step is back and I’m pass blocking on most plays.”

Rest of the story

Monday, September 19, 2011

Patrick Heckenlively Game Photo Galleries

Hillsdale sideline reporter has agreed to partner with Chargerblue.com and offers up these great photo galleries via SmugMug.

So far this year he has galleries that feature all of the individual player pictures as well as all of the action from the Grand Valley and Ashland thrillers.


Photos may be ordered online in all different sizes.

Sunday, September 18, 2011

Youtube: Hillsdale Receiver Brett Miller after 3 OT TD Reception

Hillsdale.edu: Chargers outlast Eagles in second-longest game in Hillsdale College football history


Hillsdale prevails 40-34 in 3OT - Original Post
Box Score: Hillsdale 40, Ashland 34 3OT

September 17, 2011 - Just when it looked like a victory over Grand Valley State would become the 2011 season highlight, the Hillsdale College football team had to go and top itself.

The Chargers defeated South Division rival Ashland University 40-34 in three overtimes Saturday night at Frank "Muddy" Waters Stadium. Hillsdale is now 2-0 in the GLIAC and 2-1 overall, and will travel to Lake Erie College next Saturday afternoon.

Where does one begin with a game like this? Naturally, with the ending. Junior QB Anthony Mifsud rolled to his right, appearing to perhaps run for the end zone, but tossed a soft pass to redshirt-freshman wide receiver Brett Miller (pictured), who was running in a news story imageparallel direction, for the game-winning score to end the third overtime.

Ashland played its second straight triple-overtime game, last week defeating the University of Indianapolis 39-36. But this game, which kept the coveted Traveling Trophy in Hillsdale's possession for another year, was anything but predictable.

Both teams came back from 10-point deficits in regulation time, and each scored touchdowns in overtime to put pressure on its opponent.

The Chargers were down 10-0 in the second quarter, then scored 20 unanswered points, including two impressive marches down the field in the third quarter, to pull ahead 20-10. The teams traded scores, with the Eagles packaging together a 20-yard field goal by Gregg Birkshire and a touchdown pass from Taylor Housewright to Anthony Capasso to knot the game 27-27 with 1:06 left in the game.

Mifsud then led Hillsdale on a dramatic seven-play, 49-yard drive that set up a potential game-winning field goal. Many in the crowd thought Colin McGreevy's 34-yard attempt was good, but the officials on the field ruled it wide, sending Hillsdale into its first home overtime game in seven years.

Both teams missed field goals on their first overtime possessions. Hillsdale then applied the pressure to the Eagles, when junior RB Joe Glendening powered his way into the end zone from seven yards out, to put the Chargers ahead 34-27.

Housewright, one of the most talented quarterbacks in the GLIAC, then sent the highlight reels spinning with his end-over-end flip into the end zone on a three-yard leap, tying the game again 34-34.

Birkshire pushed a 26-yard field goal attempt wide left, giving Hillsdale a chance to close the game out in the third extra session.

Mifsud completed back-to-back passes to Andrew Mott and Cam White to get the Chargers down to the Ashland six-yard line. After two rushing plays, Hillsdale faced a third-and-goal, and one more stop from the Eagles would have forced one more field goal attempt. But Mifsud, who was brilliant all night, kept the play alive long enough for Miller to find open real estate in the south end zone, and Miller's bread-basket catch sealed one of the most dramatic wins by the Chargers in the last several years.

Glendening played every bit like the First-Team All-Conference back he is in this game, running the ball 33 times for 101 yards and four touchdowns. Amazingly, facing a stacked Ashland defense designed to stop him, Glendening had negative yardage on just two plays in the game. He also caught a team-high seven passes for 43 yards.

Mifsud directed Hillsdale's short passing attack with precision, going 31-for-41 for a career-high 317 yards and two scores. He also ran for 54 key yards, including a 20-yard scamper in the second half.

Four Chargers caught at least five passes. Mott hauled in five for 53 yards, while senior tight end Bren Bergquist caught five passes for 44 yards and a touchdown. Redshirt-freshman Evan Sassack caught a trick-play pass from QB Sam Landry, and finished with three receptions for 68 yards.

Defensively, sophomore linebacker Steven Embry set a new career-high with 16 tackles to lead Hillsdale. Joe Vear and Brett Pasche each had 11.

Saturday, September 17, 2011

Call the new Chargerblue.com Feedback line at (512) The-Dale

Chargerblue.com now has its own voice mail and feedback line.

Give (512) The-Dale a call some time to give your take on Hillsdale College Football or this site.

Your call might even end on a podcast or online. Just another way for Charger fans to get more out of the site and share their passion for Hillsdale College Football.

Friday, September 16, 2011

Tony Nicolette's weekly look around the GLIAC

Check out Tony Nicolette's weekly column and blog over at D2football.com.

He's got all you need to know about Hillsdale - Ashland and the rest of the GLIAC action.

Podcast Relaunched

After not knowing how much people were actually paying attention to the podcast, I put the show on hiatus for a couple of weeks to see if anyone noticed. I was pleasantly surprised with the emails from listeners who asked to have it back. So, here it is and in a new home. Charger running back Joe Glendening stops by for our first episode of the newly re-named Chargerblue.com Podcast. Coastal Carolina Coach David Bennett opens up with a little motivation back by the girls from TLC. Listen at the new home for the Chargerblue.com Podcast.

C'mon Chargers. Gotta be a dog....not a cat

Coastal Carolina head coach David Bennett offers up this motivational gem.


Wednesday, September 14, 2011

New crop of Hillsdale receivers are Smurftastic

Hillsdale football play by play announcer Andy Brown called the opening game at Ferris State "Meet your new Charger Receivers Night". Saturday night was a continuation of that event as quarterbacks Anthony Mifsud and Matt Bryan spread the ball all over the field in the 34-31 win over Grand Valley State.

The new crop is young and well....not real big.

At 6-3 and a senior, Jesse Norris is the elder statesman  towering over the bunch of youngsters that round out the crew. Lou Cangelosi is 5-9 175 and fellow sophomore Andrew Mott isn't much bigger at 6-0 185. Mott was huge though late in Saturday's game with an 85 yard reception when Mifsud caught GVSU loading up on the run and he beat his man 1-on-1 for the long TD.

Redshirt freshmen Brett Miller comes in at 5-11 175 and fellow RSF Evan Bach is the same height but a little heavier at 185. Bach has shown an ability to run the ball and nearly housed an end-around on Saturday.

Together this pint-sized bunch has caught 16 balls for 232 yards, a 14.5 yards per catch average.

Tuesday, September 13, 2011

Free full replay of Hillsdale vs. GVSU now online

Thanks to Hillsdale College for posting this weekend's game vs. GVSU.

The YouTube video cuts out after 1 hour and 25 minutes. I was able to create this page with all parts.

Enjoy.

Hillsdale vs. GVSU full game video

Sunday, September 11, 2011

WZZM13: Hillsdale Upsets #4 Grand Valley

Here is the piece Dan Harland and WZZM13 from Grand Rapids ran on Hillsdale's win over GVSU.

Youtube: Hillsdale Beats Grand Valley

Thanks to YouTube user YourNiedfelter for posting these clips of the end of Hillsdale's 34-31 win over Grand Valley. Great shots of President Larry Arnn enjoying it in the the President's box.


Second Part:

No name defense no more. Huge effort fuels win over Grand Valley

Last season I referred to the Hillsdale defense at times as the "No Name Defense". I used the name with all due respect to reflect a unit that simply showed up and did its job. The "bend don't break" style was manned by a bunch of interchangeable parts that kept the high profile offense of Hillsdale College in the game while not getting much glamor.

Tonight, the Hillsdale College defense made a name for itself. Senior Nick Hixson sealed the game with an interception on the final play of the game but he led a unit that limited the 4th ranked team in the nation to just 9 completions. 9. Now those 9 completions did end up tallying 194 yard with 71 coming on one play. Nonetheless, the Hixson, Joe Vear, and Ben Karaba secondary played a big role in limiting what Grand Valley's Heath Parling could do with the ball.

Last year in the "No Name" nobody really stepped up and established himself as the top linebacker. Hillsdale rotated all kinds of guys into that position. Kyle Carson, Brett Pasche, Devin Moynihan, and Jake Weddle did a pretty good job in that role but there just were "wow" moments from the linebacking corps. Tonight that changed.

If you follow my Chargerblue Twitter stream or my in-game Facebook updates, you saw me state that Brett Pasche was having a great game tonight. That generalization was really an understatement. The Findlay, OH sophomore was a wrecking crew in the middle tonight.

Already leading 14-7, Hillsdale pinned Grand Valley back to its own 14. Two plays later Pasche would intercept Parling to set up a Joe Glendening 24 yard touchdown reception off of a screen.

Pasche would come up big in the run game as well. Laker coach Matt Mitchell loves to talk about how they work with "space and speed". That was pretty apparent tonight and just as it looked like a number of Grand Valley backs might find some extended running room, Pasche would close the gap and make a text book open field tackle.

Moynihan would lead the team with 8 tackles as he did his part on his side of the linebacking crew.

Up front Ridge Riebold was able to record a couple of quarterback hurries on Parling and when it mattered most at the end, Hillsdale got a pass rush from its defensive line that hasn't been seen since guys like Drew Berube and Mark Yassay were bringing the heat.

Yes, Hillsdale got some heroic efforts from its offense...like the 85 yard Mifsud to Mott touchdown and Colin McGreevy's game winning field goal but it was the Charger defense that was able to handle one of the most talented programs in the country and set up those scores.

Tonight was a water-shed night for the Hillsdale College Football Charger Defense.

Saturday, September 10, 2011

Hillsdale College Sports Information: Hillsdale 34 - Grand Valley 31


Hillsdale College Release - September 10, 2011

Colin McGreevy's field goal wins game for Hillsdale

Stats: Hillsdale 34, Grand Valley 31

September 10, 2011 - It was so much fun for the Hillsdale College student body to rush the field after the Chargers beat Grand Valley State on Oct. 9, 2009, they decided to do it again.

Colin McGreevy's 30-yard field goal with nine seconds left propelled the Chargers to an incredible 34-31 win over fourth-ranked Grand Valley State Saturday night at Frank "Muddy" Waters Stadium. Hillsdale is 1-1 overall and 1-0 in the GLIAC, while the Lakers fall to 1-1.

McGreevy converted on his second attempt, thanks to a running-into-the-kicker penalty called on the Lakers on his first attempt, which came on second down on Hillsdale's final drive. His first kick was deflected at the line of scrimmage, which appered to set up overtime. But McGreevy was tackled after the follow-through attempt, triggering the flag and one more attempt.

This game marked the second time in three years the Chargers have beaten the Lakers at home. GVSU came into the game ranked fourth in the country. Hillsdale was ranked 25th in the AFCA Division II preseason poll, but dropped out after last week's loss at Ferris State.

This game can be filed as another in a long string of classics between these conference powerhouses. The teams traded the lead back and forth in the first half, which ended with the Chargers on top, 21-14.

The Lakers upped their defensive intensity in the third quarter, while scoring 14 points of their own to enter the fourth quarter with a 28-21 lead.

McGreevy opened the fourth quarter with a 30-yard field goal, which cut the lead to four. After the Chargers stopped the Lakers, junior QB Anthony Mifsud, who missed some time in the second half, returned to the field in a most dramatic fashion.

His first pass of the fourth quarter was an 85-yard strike to wide receiver Andrew Mott, who showed impressive speed in outrunning the Laker secondary to suddenly put Hillsdale on top 31-28.

GLIAC Updates: Saturday Sept. 10

In earlier action today around the GLIAC:

Ohio Dominican 44
Northwood 30

Wayne State 55
Tiffin 0

Northern Michigan 30
Findlay 23 OT

Michigan Tech 41
Lake Erie 10

Under the Lights:

Grand Valley at Hillsdale
Indianapolis at Ashland
Ferris State at Saginaw Valley

MLIve.com: Grand Valley State, Norman Shuford have respect for GLIAC rival Hillsdale


Grand Valley State, Norman Shuford have respect for GLIAC rival Hillsdale

norman-shuford-07.jpg
Grand Valley State's Norman Shuford works for extra yards against Western Oregon in the Lakers' season opener.

ALLENDALE -- Grand Valley State junior running back Norman Shuford jokes that he has a rivalry with Hillsdale College junior running back Joe Glendening that dates to their high school days.

There’s a good chance Shuford might be confusing Joe with his older brother Luke -- the Glendenings and East Grand Rapids defeated Shuford and Farmington Hills Harrison 42-17 in the 2006 Division 3 state title game. Either way, Shuford knows how much damage the Hillsdale running game can cause.

Glendening rushed for a career-high 224 yards and three touchdowns against Grand Valley State last season, a game the Lakers won 44-41, but only after wide receiver Jovonne Augustus caught an 8-yard touchdown pass with 16 seconds remaining.

In his first season as a starter, Glendening led the Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference with 1,485 yards and 15 touchdowns last year. He also was an honorable mention All-American.

"I think he’s a strong back who runs north and south, doesn’t try to do too many cuts and just gets the job done -- and he does great," Shuford said. "I think Hillsdale is a great program with great coaches but, having said that, when it’s all said and done we still want to get a W.

"At the end of the day, I still want our defense to handle their business against Mr. Glendening."

Glendening will be an even bigger focal point for opposing defenses now that all-conference quarterback Troy Weatherhead and receivers Andre Holmes and Mike Blanchard have graduated.

"Are we harping on it? Is it something we’re spending every day working on?" Grand Valley State coach Matt Mitchell said. "Yeah, because we know that (Glendening) is now ... hands-down the best player on their offense.

Rest of article

Friday, September 09, 2011

To podcast or not to podcast...you tell me

For the last several seasons I have produced a weekly podcast dubbed "The Charger Comment".

I have featured interviews with Charger players, Charger coaches, even media member like Sean Baligian from the Sean, Terp, and Killer show who calls Wayne State games.

This year as I have increased some initiatives at school in my real job as an elementary technology teacher, I decided to put the podcast on the back burner. To be honest, it was a bit of an experiment.

Each week I wondered how many people were actually listening because I never got much feedback either way, positively or negatively. I wondered if anyone would even miss the episodes.

Today I received a tweet from former Charger QB Troy Weatherhead asking where the podcast was. I gave him the same explanation and he had some really complimentary things to say about enjoying it.

So, I guess some of you guys were listening and I am starting to think maybe I need to fire this thing up again. Let's do this though. I need to hear from the Charger faithful. What do you want to hear? Who do you want to hear? Give me some ideas for some new features....and oh by the way, if you would like to sponsor the podcast and get exclusive naming rights we can make that happen as well.

Go to the Facebook page and tell me what you think. Facebook.com/chargerbluedotcom

D2football.com's Tony Nicolette previews GLIAC action

#3 Grand Valley (1-0) at Hillsdale (0-1)

Over the past few seasons, the team that has been the most consistent in giving Grand Valley fits has been Hillsdale. Those who were there will likely never forget the miraculous finish of last year's game, and the last time the Lakers paid a visit to Muddy Waters Stadium they were sent home with a loss. The Chargers have some questions to answer after last week's loss at Ferris, but can get things back on track in a big way by saddling Grand Valley with an early blemish.

Grand Valley Keys:
- Keep the Balance - Hillsdale had a hard time stopping the Ferris ground game a week ago. GV definitely has the personnel to take advantage of this, but also has a much stronger passing attack than the Bulldogs. Taking what the Chargers give will of course be the Laker game plan, but they should see many more options available if they are hitting Hillsdale via the air as well.

- Say no to Joe - Hillsdale got 224 yards on the ground and another 25 receiving from Joe Glendening in last year's game. The Lakers know that he's going to get his typical 32-38 touches in this one, and they need to keep his average gain as low as possible. Not letting him get going on the ground is imperative, but keeping him in check via the air (especially if GV has a lead) can't be forgotten.

Hillsdale Keys:
- Secondary must play well - Yes, if the run is there GV will take it. With that said, the Lakers passing attack did most of what it wanted last week so the Chargers can't simply fix their run stop and expect that to be enough. Getting some help from the front with pressure on Heath Parling will be important to slowing down GV's passing game as well.

- Dictate tempo - This is something that Hillsdale loves to do. They led the GLIAC in time of possession a year ago, and had a major advantage again last week. Turnovers on the plus-side of the field were part of their undoing, so if they can keep the Laker offense on the sidelines for extended periods of time (and avoid not cashing in on drives) they'll be giving themselves a better shot at knocking GV off for the second time in three years.

Prediction:
Much of the talk around Hillsdale's prospects for this year have revolved around the graduation of Troy Weatherhead and Andre Holmes. While their being gone is certainly significant, I really think the losses Hillsdale felt the most in Week One were on the offensive line. Three fifth-year seniors departed, and the play of the line was not the same as it was last year. This could be a problem on Saturday, as Grand Valley's maligned defensive front from 2010 has several key cogs back, and was very active against Western Oregon. If Grand Valley is able to win in the trenches with their defense, I think it's tough to see Hillsdale avoiding the 0-2 hole. Grand Valley 30, Hillsdale 21.

Rest of Tony's article

Thursday, September 08, 2011

Eat right, get lots of rest, and drink lots of water

During halftime of the Hillsdale - Ferris State football game last Friday night I had the pleasure of joining Andy Brown on the WCSR telecast.

The Chargers were up 17-10 and brand new quarterback Anthony Mifsud was rolling. He had completed 13 of 15 passes for 205 yards and the offense was in a rhythm we had seen many times during the last two seasons that culminated in playoff appearances. Project those numbers out for another half and you have a Mark Nicolet or Troy Weatherhead type night for a kid who hadn't before taken a college snap at QB.

Hillsdale took the 2nd half kickoff right down the field and turned it into 3 more points.

Then, the elements took over and Mifsud found himself suffering from dehydration. Having played high school football in Arizona where triple digit September practices were common place I know the effects that dehydration can have on the body. Probably my scariest moment as an athlete came one August when I became severely dehydrated during a two-a-day practice. My dad still tells me, "You have no idea how close you were to taking a ride in the meat wagon to the ER."

It can be scary stuff. It can also change a football game. Matt Bryan gave running the Charger offense his best shot but Hillsdale just wasn't in sync like they were under Mifsud, ending back to back drives in turnovers that turned the game around for Ferris.

Hillsdale will need that same type of first half performance they got from Mifsud and more this weekend against #3 Grand Valley State. No better opponent to do it against.

Eat right. Get lots of rest. Drink enough water. Beat Grand Valley.

Wednesday, September 07, 2011

Reinvigorated Gridiron Club kicks off Saturday

All Charger fans planning on attending Hillsdale College's football home opener this Saturday night in Hillsdale should make a point to stop by the Gridiron Club's tent in the tailgating area.

Lennie Stover, Rick Barker, and Tom Kanka (amongst others) will be on hand with refreshments and information on how you can join this dynamic group that supports Hillsdale College Football.

You can become a member for as little as $50 a year. All are free to stop by the tent though to talk to the guys or pick up information.


Monday, September 05, 2011

Hillsdale's Holmes joins Cowboys Practice Squad

Former Hillsdale College wide receiver Andre Holmes may have had his shot at pro football with the Minnesota Vikings cut in training camp, but another team the Dallas Cowboys see enough potential in the 6'6" receiver that they have signed him to their practice squad for the 2011-2012 season.

Practice squads consist of 8 players who receive $5700 a week but are not part of the 53 man roster. Practice players may be cut at any time but they may also be called up by their respective teams or picked up and signed by another team at any time. If Holmes were to be signed by another team he would automatically count on that team's 53 man roster and be paid at rookie minimum for a minimum of 3 weeks.

Friday, September 02, 2011

Chargers come up short in debut at Ferris State.

Every new College Football season is an adventure and for the #18 Hillsdale Chargers, Friday night's 20-17 loss at Ferris State was an adventure, and an ugly one at that.

The Bulldogs took a 7-0 lead when quarterback Tom Schneider capped the opening drive with a 2 yard touchdown run.

Hillsdale began to find its rhythm in the second quarter with a 1 yard plunge from Cam White. The Colin McGreevy extra point was good and things would remain 14-14 until 1:56 of the first half when Joe Glendening took an option pitch from quarterback Anthony Mifsud.

Mifsud looked like he was a seasoned veteran on that scoring drive, converting two big 3rd down conversions to Cam White.

The momentum continued after the half as Hillsdale drove deep into Ferris territory and came away with a McGreevy fieldgoal from 20 yards out.

That would be it from Mifsud though as he missed most of the 2nd half with a hamstring injury.

Ferris stayed in the game and its running game would be the difference. Bulldog back Skylar Stoker would get two more scores tearing up a Hillsdale defense that yielded 286 yards on the ground.


Glendening would finish with 153 yards on 29 carries. Mifsud would finish 15/20 for 144 yards. Matt Bryan played most of the second half and would go 5 of 10 for 22 yards and a pick.

We all knew it would a re-building year in Hillsdale, but most would have picked the Chargers over Ferris tonight.

Hillsdale hosts GVSU next Saturday night at 7:00.








Thursday, September 01, 2011

D2football.com's Tony Nicolette breaks down GLIAC opening week action

A few subtle changes have taken place this summer at D2football.com, but a big one is that the traditional posting of conference columnists' work has moved to a blogging format. Instead of the once a week big post that would be replaced with the coming week's work, columnists...now bloggers...can post throughout the week and interact with readers in the comments area.

While how the new format ends up working is to be seen, one thing we know for sure is that GLIAC football season is here and so is Tony Nicolette to talk about it. Here is how he sees Hillsdale's opener with Ferris State going.

#18 Hillsdale at Ferris State

While it is true that Hillsdale is coming off of back-to-back playoff appearances, there are still some concerns heading into 2011 for the Chargers. The concerns probably aren't about the defense, as key cogs Joe Vear, Nick Hixson and David Bakker all return. They almost certainly aren't about the ground game, as 1,400+ yard rusher Joe Glendening is back along with his 15 touchdowns from last season. It's the passing game that his squarely under the gun as the new season gets going. Gone are quarterback Troy Weatherhead and top receiver Andre Holmes, and they will be replaced by junior quarterback Anthony Mifsud and a pair of new starting wide-outs that have yet to catch a pass in college. Making things more interesting is that while Mifsud was a top-level quarterback in high school, he has spent his first two seasons at Hillsdale as a receiver. Despite not being under center prior to this year, it's safe to presume that he entered camp with at least a solid understanding of the Charger offense, so it's not as though HC is staring from scratch. Plus, let's not forget the last time Hillsdale was in a similar situation...it was three short years ago that Mark Nicolet and Nick Gurica graduated and I think we all know how the Hillsdale aerial attack faired from there.

While there is inexperience within Hillsdale's offense, the bulk of the Ferris unit is rather tenured. Senior quarterback Tom Schneider returns after having started every game for the Bulldogs last year, and he also has his top rushers and receivers from 2010 at his disposal. What FSU will have to figure out his how to put behind them last year's five game losing skid that ended the season and seemed to erase the positives of their 5-1 start. The 16 starters that are back in Big Rapids would like nothing more than to knock off a Hillsdale bunch that has claimed five of the last six meetings in the series.

While I think it's unreasonable to presume that Mifsud can step in and do all the things that his Charger predecessors did, I also believe that he doesn't have to win this first game for Hillsdale. The Bulldogs gave up nearly 170 yards a game on the ground last year, and lost their top two tacklers from their 2010 defense. Glendening should be able to put up a solid effort at Top Taggart and keep the pressure of his new signal-caller. Plus, I'm not sure why but I get the feeling that Coach Otterbein will have his troops ready when they hit his old stomping grounds. I absolutely think Ferris can win this game, but am not convinced that they will. I expect a tight affair either way. Hillsdale 27, Ferris 24.
You can read the rest of Tony's post on the Friday/Saturday games here  as well as Tony's preview of Thursday night's action.

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