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By Mara Waire, WaireM@Findlay.edu
The University of Findlay’s Football Team has maintained a successful record currently 9-1 in the regular season, 7-1 in the conference, and ranked 22nd in the latest AFCA Poll. The Oilers have one conference game left, but it’s not just any game. It’s the Battle of 224, against rival Tiffin University, competing for a chance to share the G-MAC Conference title. TU is currently 7-3 and 6-2 in the conference.
The game takes place Saturday, Nov. 16, at 12 p.m. at Frost-Kalnow.
As this game has had a large impact on the conference over the course of the past few years, Head Coach Kory Allen says the team treats this game no different from any other game.
“Each week is a new season, we have to install a game plan, look at personnel, and get ready to play that game on Saturday,” Allen said.
This team had a strong start to the season with a five– game win streak, but the streak was cut short after suffering a 21-41 loss against Ashland in game six. Fifth year Quarterback Matt Rueve highlighted the importance of being more dialed into the process week-to-week and focusing on one game at a time. Reuve and fifth year wide receiver Mitch Neilsen say the loss to Ashland stung.
“A loss is not great, but the way you respond to it is exactly what you look for in a team,” said Reuve.
The Oilers won the next four games with a solid win against Northwood this past week. Neilsen says this game is the most memorable game this season so far due to the team’s exponential performance on all parts of the field.
“That’s the most complete game we’ve put together,” said Neilsen.
Coach Allen attributes the team’s success not only to their performance on the field but the outstanding leadership from the captains, upperclassman, and the younger players.
“It’s been a blend,” Allen said.
Through Neilsen’s five years in this program he has seen all the ups and downs. He credits the team’s chemistry and Coach Allen in recruiting the right players to fit the team’s dynamic to their success this season.
“This is the most put-together team I’ve ever seen. The chemistry we have between players and coaches is unlike anything I’ve seen here before,” said Neilsen.
With the pressure of maintaining a successful record based on their performance this season and potentially earning a spot in the playoffs, Coach Allen and his team are prepared and ready to fight. Treating this game like any other game.
“This is what we expected, and we are excited to go out and fight.”
Rueve expresses the importance of maintaining a week-to-week mindset with the same goal in mind each week.
“Going 1-0 for the week and letting the rest figure itself out,” said Rueve.
The Oilers are currently sitting at fifth in the Super Region 3, understanding the significance of finishing strong.
“No one remembers what happened in the first half of the season. It’s all about November and December,” said Rueve.
Coach Allen shares the same message with players before every game.
“It’s not what you do,” Allen said. “It’s how you do it.”
As the Battle of 224 is one of the most intense rivalries in Division II football the stakes are high with a playoff spot and a share in conference title on the line.
