With at least a share of the 2016 Southern California intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SCIAC) championship already in hand, the University of Redlands football team enters Saturday's game against Cal Lutheran University with high expectations of finishing strong while remaining undefeated in conference as the Smudge Pot trophy-winners. In addition, the Bulldogs kick off against the Kingsmen on Senior Day, which allows the team to acknowledge the contributions and commitments of 29 student-athletes in their final game in Ted Runner Stadium.
"I think this will be one of our biggest and most emotional games of the season," commented Head Coach Mike Maynard, who owns a 16-9 record against Cal Lutheran. "I know our young men have prepared well for this game. I know it means a lot to them and they will give their very best."
Last week, Redlands completed another step toward accomplishing its goals by defeating Whittier College in a 70-16 rout. Among the many highlights of the victory, sophomore wide receiver Daniel Stabile (Rancho Mirage, CA) was named the kicking game player of the week after blocking a Poet punt, which was recovered for a touchdown to immediately ignite the team's early momentum.
Later in the game, sophomore defensive back PJ Wilson (Modesto, CA) snagged a 70-yard pick-six for another breakout moment in a quality showing of the Bulldogs' depth.
Junior quarterback Mitch Kidd (Salinas, CA) orchestrated the best offensive game of the season, throwing for 326 yards and four touchdowns. His efforts resulted in being named the team' offensive player of the week as well as the SCIAC Football Athlete of the Week. Furthermore, junior linebacker Curren Lapes (Dana Point, CA) impressed as a long snapper and linebacker, while freshman Will Soares (Gilroy, CA) stepped up as a member of the prep team's offensive line with high-quality contributions. Both individuals garnered player of the week recognition from the Bulldogs.
In Saturday's final game of the regular season, the Bulldogs strive to carry their excellent momentum of a seven-game win streak into what has become a rivalry showdown for the Smudge Pot against Cal Lutheran. Although the Kingsmen have shown bright spots of brilliance, they have mustered a .500 record. But Maynard believes that record is misleading and should not be overlooked.
"Cal Lu is very motivated and wants to win that Smudge Pot. We've had a hold on it for three years," he commented. "They are a well-coached, highly ambitious, young team that is playing veteran football now."
Overall, the Bulldogs anticipate them playing tough on every snap, with plenty of unique plays and unusual options. Foorever Campbell brings a fast option at running back who has amassed 401 yards on the ground, while Chris Beeson boasts 597 rushing yards with seven touchdowns. Through the air, quarterback Adam Friederichsen utilizes Aaron Lacombe as CLU's top wide receiver with 722 yards and 10 touchdowns.
Furthermore, Acquarey Eddington, Nick Gordon, and Trevor Roe each boast 50 tackles or more as the heart of the defense.
Last week, the Kingsmen put up 53 points in their win over Occidental on Senior Day.
Redlands expects the same type of emotion and charisma to play out on Saturday in the final game of the regular season.
"We don't want to share the title with Pomona-Pitzer. We are ready for a great game," Maynard stated.
