Simpson College’s football team clinched its first season win against Loras 21-3 on Sept. 24 after starting out the season with three consecutive losses.

Simpson (1-4, IIAC 1-2) held the Loras offense to only 165 yards, putting a damper on Loras’ homecoming game.

“We shut down their run game, and our secondary didn’t allow them to put the ball in the air either, holding them to three points,” senior linebacker Sam Elsner said. “Offense played as a unit and was relentless.”

Sophomore running back Michael Chia assisted in the Storm’s victory with his 100-yard rushing effort, a career first. Junior wide receiver Taylor Rogers also proved to be a key player for the Storm, making eight catches for 88 yards.

Sophomore quarterback Taylor Nelson went 20-for-32 in completions for 192 yards and a touchdown. Nelson’s touchdown pass involved a one-handed catch by Rogers to give the Storm a 14-3 lead.

“On the defensive side of the ball, our players executed for 60 minutes and made plays throughout the entire game,” Mike Cordes, defensive coordinator and linebackers coach said. “Our players eliminated the mental lull that was a part of the first three games. Our defensive players executed at a very high level on Saturday, and I am very proud of their efforts.”

Loras’ quarterback threw three picks and got sacked five times on the night due to Simpson’s tough defense, which also forced a fumble.

“Turnovers were key,” head coach Jim Glogowski said. “They turned it over four times and we only turned it over once. We also did a good job with field position.”

Senior punter Cameron Oviatt secured a solid position for the defense to use to their advantage. On three of seven punts during the game Oviatt positioned the Duhawks behind their own 20-yard line.

The team considers the win a result of solid play by both the offensive and defensive units.

“Our offense, defense and special teams played a great game to come away with a victory,” said senior Joe Sorenson. “It was exciting to hold Loras to only three points on defense and seeing the offense make some crazy highlight plays.”

After Saturday’s game Simpson coaches and players have renewed enthusiasm for the rest of the upcoming season. As homecoming approaches coaches and players alike are focused and motivated.

“Every week the coaches and players have been focused on getting better every single day,” Sorenson said. “That hasn’t changed all season. We look to play our best game of the season every weekend.”

“It is great for the kids to finally see the benefit of their hard work paying off, and it certainly gives us a little more confidence going forward,” Glogowski said.

Not only do players and coaches of the Simpson football team have a renewed positive outlook, they are staying focused working as hard as ever, knowing that it is paying off. and

“We are focused on keeping the mentality we have had the past couple of weeks,” junior Garrett Woodson said. “We will keep fighting for what we want no matter who or what gets in front of us.”

Continued support is always a key booster for the Storm.

“We would love to see a great student turnout for our home games remaining,” Glogowski said. “We really appreciate the support and look forward to seeing everyone out there.”

Catch Simpson football in action Saturday, Oct. 8 at 1 p.m. for the homecoming game against Cornell College.