Crawfordsville, Ind.- Coming off last week's bye, the Denison Big Red were shutout 36-0 in their first in-conference test against the Wabash Little Giants. Denison's loss brings their record to 1-2, while the win for the Little Giants propels them to a 4-0 record. 

The Wabash offensive unit got off to a strong start, reaching the end zone in their very first drive off a pass from Brand Campbell to Kannon Chase to get off to a quick 6-0 start. However, in the next drive for the Little Giants, junior linebacker Nick Pellicciotta forced a fumble for the Big Red which was recovered by junior linebacker Chase Daniel. Denison was unable to capitalize on this turnover, as the Big Red were subsequently denied on fourth and goal for a turnover on downs.

After starting their next drive at their own two-yard line, the Little Giants put together a methodical 13-play drive that resulted in a field goal to extend the Wabash lead to nine early in the second quarter. The Big Red's next offensive chance ended with a 52-yard interception return for Wabash, giving the Little Giants a 16-0.

With just over three minutes left in the first half, Wabash went for a four play, 54-yard touchdown drive to bring the score to 23-0 at the half. 

The Big Red defense was able to handle the run-heavy Wabash attack better in the second half, holding them to 10 points in the third quarter and only three points in the fourth quarter, although Denison's offensive woes unfortunately continued in spite of their defensive improvement.

Reigning North Coast Athletic Conference Newcomer of the Year Tyler Green mustered a respectable 102.1 passer rating despite his first-half interception, looking to junior halfback Blayton Reid for six of his 20 completions.

Denison had 12 first downs compared to Wabash's 24, and the Big Red finished with 211 passing yards. Wide receiver Grayson Kerscher led the Big Red in receiving with four grabs for 69 yards. Three Denison receivers had over 50 yards receiving in the loss. Reid carried the ball 16 times for 33 yards, and his counterpart Mikey Malone had two carries for 13 yards.

On defense, Colton Morrow led the team in tackles with nine, and Pellicciotta added seven, bringing his total on the season to 21, which leads the Big Red. Drew Duffy and Daniel both recorded half a sack in the loss.

Punter Arjun Narang had eight punts for 274 yards, an average of 34.2 yards per punt. The first-year also pinned two punts inside the 20, giving the Big Red good field position on the defensive front.

Up Next for the Big Red

The Big Red will play their home opener against the Ohio Wesleyan Battling Bishops next Saturday, Nov. 4 at 2 pm at Deeds Fields-Piper Stadium.