The St. Olaf football team defeated Hamline University 48-14 at Hamline’s Klas Field on Oct. 6. The Oles are currently 5-1 overall and 4-1 in MIAC play.
In the first quarter, running back Michael Thai ’14 ran for a 49-yard touchdown that set the tone for the rest of the game. Ben Dobson ’13, Reggie Woods ’13 and Chad Curry ’16 each made interceptions in the second quarter. Woods set up the final score in the second quarter with a 32-yard return. At 14 seconds left in the first half, quarterback Dan Dobson ’13 connected with Jake Schmiesing ’13 to place the Oles above the Pipers 31-7.
Throughout the game, Stephen Asp ’14 had two catches, each touchdowns, and Schmiesing had three. Dobson played impressively with three touchdowns on 10-of-13 passing. He also rushed for 84 yards on seven carries, a season record. Lucas Wainman ’16 made two successful field goals, including the Oles’ final score.
Although the victory was expected, the Oles still worked hard for a significant lead.
“The lead allowed some of our younger players to get [the ball] which is always fun to see,” Ben Dobson said.
Also, the team strived to rely on each other and “trust that each member of the defensive and the offensive did his job,” Woods said.
Head Coach Jerry Olszewski was pleased with what the team brought to the game. The offense brought enough pressure and worked on getting the ball out of its hands as quickly as possible, he said. Similarly, the defense worked to bring an option game.
“The boys were on task and never looked back. They’re getting better week by week,” Olszewski said.
Olszewski urged St. Olaf students to represent their school and be more engaged in sporting events. “Every week is the biggest game of the year,” he said.
