/seasons/2023/contrib/20230916p1tj9f

Football Falters in Final Game at Ingalls Field

RIPON, Wisconsin — The Ripon football program played its final game at Ingalls Field on Saturday, but the afternoon was spoiled as Illinois College used a prolific passing attack to give the Red Hawks a 52-21 defeat.

With threatening skies looming throughout the afternoon, the game was called with 7:32 remaining in the fourth quarter after a lightning delay. Ripon was about to start a drive near midfield when play was paused and eventually stopped for good.

After Ripon (1-2, 1-1 MWC) punted to open the game, the scoring came fast and furious from there on out. The next three possessions ended in touchdowns, as Jack Berens tossed an 18-yard touchdown pass to Alex Mosqueda sandwiched between two Illinois College (2-1, 1-1 MWC) scoring drives. 

Mosqueda found the end zone once again to open the second quarter, catching a 13-yard touchdown pass from Berens to bring Ripon within one score at 21-14. From there, it was all IC as the Blueboys rattled off three touchdowns on three consecutive possessions in the second quarter to grab a commanding 42-14 lead at the intermission.

After the Red Hawks forced a fumble on Illinois College's first drive of the second half, running back Connor Ramage scored on a 1-yard touchdown plunge to close the gap once again. However, that would be the last time Ripon scored, as four of their last five possessions ended in punts.

Making his first career start, Berens completed 14 of 28 passes for 108 yards and a pair of touchdowns. He also threw an interception after it went through the hands of his intended target.

Mosqueda was Ripon's leading receiver, hauling in 5 passes for 46 yards and a pair of scores.

IC had 22 first downs compared to Ripon's 12. The Blueboys also had a commanding advantage in total yards (480-159).

Destin Chance had a career day passing for IC, completing 22 of 32 passes for 337 yards and 5 touchdowns. Four of those touchdown passes went to wide receiver Collin Brunstein, who had 10 catches for 183 yards and added a rushing touchdown as well.

Thomas Little had 13 carries for 133 yards and one score.

NEXT UP: Ripon enjoys its bye week before facing Cornell College on Saturday, September 30 for the first athletic event at the new Hopp Stadium. Kickoff is scheduled for 1 p.m.

FOLLOW: Follow Ripon College Red Hawks Athletics on Facebook and @RiponRedHawks on Twitter for immediate updates, results and more. Go to riponredhawks.com for all information, releases and schedules.

Dec. 15: All times Eastern
Final
Cortland 38, at North Central (Ill.) 37
@ Salem, Virginia
Video Box Score Recap Photos
Dec. 9: All times Eastern
Final
North Central (Ill.) 34, at Wartburg 27
Box Score Recap
Final
Cortland 49, at Randolph-Macon 14
Box Score Recap Recap Recap Photos
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