Simpson not able to keep pace with Knights

WAVERLY, Iowa - Nationally ranked Wartburg raced out to a quick lead, defeating the Simpson College football team, 81-9, at Walston-Hoover Stadium on Saturday.

The Storm (1-8, 1-6 A-R-C) knew the task would be difficult, but opened the game with a promising first drive. Despite getting into the redzone of the Knights (9-0, 7-0 A-R-C), the drive ended with a missed field goal, which led to the Knights scoring the first touchdown of the game.

A second drive near midfield stalled, but the next portion of the game had less success. After the Knights went up 14-0, the Storm fumbled the ensuing kickoff, leading to another Knights touchdown three plays later. Simpson's next drive ended with an interception, with the Knights scoring on the next play.

The Storm did have an encouraging moment in the second quarter. The Storm blocked an XP attempt from the Knights and Tommy Hockemeier returned it 97 yards for the rare two-point defensive conversion.

The Storm scored their lone touchdown of the afternoon early into the third quarter. Reigning American Rivers Conference Offensive Player of the Week J Jensen III found senior receiver Reed Worth for a deep 68 yard touchdown pass.

After that, the game was largely uneventful, as the Knights controlled the clock and finished out with the win. Jensen III finished with 143 yards passing with one touchdown and two interceptions, while Aubrey Gillard led the rushing attack with 34 yards. Worth continued his fine senior season, catching three passes for 81 yards and a touchdown.

Up Next
The Storm conclude their 2022 campaign next Saturday at home against Buena Vista. The game will serve as Senior Day with a 1 p.m. kickoff.