TERRE HAUTE, IN – On a cold November afternoon at Cook Stadium, the Mount St. Joseph Lions delivered one of their most complete performances of the season, overpowering Rose-Hulman from the opening whistle and never looking back in a 48–0 shutout victory.
The tone was set early as the Lions offense found its rhythm behind quarterback Jaxon Schreiber, who orchestrated a nearly flawless passing attack. Schreiber completed 21 of 35 passes for 356 yards, distributing the ball with confidence and control. His four touchdown passes came at crucial moments, each one widening the gap and keeping the momentum firmly on the Lions' side.
Big plays defined the afternoon. Patrick Connor's 75-yard touchdown strike ignited the sideline, part of his 131-yard receiving day on just five catches. Michael Hunkus added 96 yards and a touchdown of his own, while Eli Aston made the most of his opportunities with three catches, including a 50-yard score. Whether stretching the field or converting in tight spaces, the Lions receivers repeatedly found separation and punished the Rose-Hulman secondary.
While the passing game surged, the Lions' ground attack brought essential balance. Dallas De La Cruz powered through the Engineers' front line for 56 yards and two touchdowns, giving Mount St. Joseph a steady presence in short-yardage and red-zone situations.
As dominant as the offense was, the defense matched it stride for stride. The Lions swarmed to the ball, limiting Rose-Hulman to only eight first downs and 170 total yards. Brady Pierce led the defensive effort with a standout performance, snagging two interceptions—including a momentum-swinging pick-six—while the unit as a whole forced three turnovers and suffocated every attempt the Engineers made to gain traction.
By the time the final seconds ticked off the clock, the Lions had not only secured a victory—they had made a statement. Finishing the regular season 6-4 and 5-1 in HCAC play the Lions secured their 13th consecutive winning season.
With the win the Lions secure a spot in the Opendorse Bowl Series next weekend. The bowl games will be played Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium in Canton, Ohio, gametimes and matchups are still to be determined!
