Bethel Game: Heart Attack City (UUN #13-21)
Dear Fellow Coronary Patients —
Where does one start describing this game? With the crowd of just about 6,000 jammed into Bethel’s nice, but unfinished football stadium? With the cloudy skies and 33º temperature? With three shockingly fast Bethel touchdowns, and a quick 21-8 deficit for St. John’s in the first half? With SJU’s methodical ground game in the second half slowly bringing the Johnnies back into the game 28-22? Or with the sickening feelings of loss that came, first by not scoring when we had the ball on the Royals’ six-yard line, and second when we went four-and-out on our own 35 yard-line turning over the ball to Bethel with 2:50 left? Or at the Bethel 4 with no timeouts, fourth down and 10 seconds on the clock?
Actually, it’s time to turn this over to a writing professional, in this case, Patrick Reusse, Sports Columnist for the Minneapolis StarTribune.
Sports writer Patrick Reusse interviews Johnnies quarterback Chris Backes after the game.
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Wild St. John's-Bethel finish is another for the Royal Stadium books
There has been a long-held contention that the worst football loss ever witnessed came on Oct. 6, 2012, at Royal Stadium in Arden Hills. The victims were Concordia (Moorhead) and coach Terry Horan.
Bethel was inside the 10-yard line in the final seconds, quarterback Erik Peterson was sacked, there was a fumble, it was recovered by the Cobbers, and a 14-7 victory was secure.
Then, through an amazing set of circumstances, Bethel was awarded one last play with 0:00 on the clock. The Royals scored a touchdown and a two-point conversion for a 15-14 victory.
On Saturday, again at Royal Stadium, and in late-game snow, Bethel came up with its contender for worst ever loss — 29-28 to St. John's, on a touchdown scored with 0:01 on the clock, in the first MIAC championship game featuring division winners.
This was Bethel's second loss of the season, both narrowly to St. John's, and is likely to cost it a berth in the 32-team NCAA Division III bracket that will be announced Sunday.
St. John's Gary Fasching and Bethel's Steve Johnson were having the pregame, on-field chat and Fasching said: "That's the trouble with this division system we've started in the MIAC. It's going to make it tougher, not easier, to get two teams in the field.''
There are only five at-large berths in Division III, and Bethel probably will be punished for having two losses, even though both were to the No. 5-rated Johnnies.
The Royals appeared to have Saturday's game won more than twice:
First, when they dominated the first half behind quarterback Jaran Roste and led 21-8. Second, when freshman Jacob Holmen blocked a punt as cleanly as possible and David Brandt ran it in for touchdown and a 28-15 lead late in the third period.
And finally, when the Royals defense stopped the Johnnies with a four-and-out with 2:59 remaining and took over at the St. John's 34.
Bethel rushed three times and the St. John's timeouts were gone. On fourth-and-5, a pass from backup quarterback George Bolt to the Royals' terrific freshman receiver, Joey Kidder, was broken up.
In the greater scheme of things, this outstanding defensive play by sophomore defensive back #10 Mateo Cisneros with assistance by junior d-back #24 Cayden Saxon saved the game by breaking up a critical fourth down pass to Bethel freshman wide receiving phenom #2 Joey Kidder.
St. John's had the ball at its 29 with 1:59 left and headed into what was now blowing snow. Chris Backes, a senior and career backup until Aaron Syverson broke a fibula in Game 7, threw a couple of passes that weren't close.
With each of those, the cheers grew louder from Bethel's large fandom. The Royals had lost seven straight to the Johnnies. The last win was in 2013, also the year of Bethel's last MIAC title.
Both droughts appeared to be ending.
"I had not thrown a ball in the snow for a long time,'' Backes said. "The first couple of passes, the ball was slipping in my hand. I told myself, 'Concentrate. Grip it. Turn it loose.'“
Sophomore wide receiver Jimmy Buck caught this 36-yard reception on third-and-10 on SJU's game-winning drive Nov. 13 at Bethel (photo by Libby Auger).
Seemingly out of nowhere, receiver Jimmy Buck was open in the middle, Backes hit him and for a moment it looked like it might go the distance before a trip-up tackle.
"A touchdown would've been great, but what I really had to do was make sure I caught it,'' Buck said.
That pass play went for 36 yards. Then, the Johnnies went quickly and Backes took off left for 25 yards to the 10.
Two runs, an incomplete pass, and St. John's was at the Bethel 3 and the clock was rolling. It was under 10 and Backes still was getting his receivers organized. Then it was at 5 and the QB was taking a final look.
Worried the clock would run out? "No, because Chris is extra smart; he's been a 4.0 student his whole life,” Fasching said. "His composure was incredible. He knew exactly what he wanted.”
What Backes saw as the best possibility was a pass to the left pylon to Alex Larson, a 6-7 tight end. He threw it, Larson snatched it, and Conor Pavelko kicked the winning point into the snow.
Backes threw it high enough so only you could get it? "That was the idea,” Larson said, still smiling widely in the maze of Johnnies and fans on the field.
Moment after Junior tight end #83 Alex Larson's game-winning, three-yard touchdown reception. For his performance, including six receptions for 58 yards against Bethel, Alex was named to d3football.com's Team of the Week. (Photo by Libby Auger).
Somewhere in the football ether, there was also a smile from John Gagliardi, for 60 years the Johnnies coach before Fasching, 489 wins and dozens with the reaction, "How did that happen?''
Fasching nodded and said: "Yup. This was definitely a Gagliardi win.”
And a Terry Horan loss, this time for Bethel's Johnson — coach of this stout team with the MIAC's No. 1 player, the excellent Roste (injured late in the game), but saddled with a crushing 0-2 vs. the Johnnies.
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Cruising through a Fourth Quarter mini-blizzard, senior running back Henry Trost adds precious yardage as he breaks for a large gain.
Masterful writing by Mr. Reusse, but there are items he didn’t put in his thrilling account. For instance, he didn’t mention junior wide receiver and kick-off returner Nick VanErp who made two outstanding individual plays in the first half: his awesome, over-the-head catch of a bullet-like, line-drive initial kick-off on our 12-yard line that would have gone into the end zone for a touchback, but instead led to his 23 yard return to our 35 for excellent starting field position; and second, his fast-thinking athletic grab of a muffled PAT attempt for which he was the holder, and then scampering around the right side to the pylon for an unplanned but crucial two-point conversion. Truly, without that heads-up play, we would not have won the game.
While Patrick mentioned in passing the extra point that freshman kicker Conor Pavelko made after Alex Larson’s TD grab to tie the game with one second left, he didn’t really credit the lad for his excellence throughout the day, plus making that last PAT under incredible pressure and after Bethel had tried to “ice” him with a time out before the kick during a snow squall that was piling up on the artificial turf.
He forgot to mention that our long snapper, junior #45 Jack Eibensteiner, suffered a suspected torn ACL while covering the first punt of the game. Jack stayed in and still made the short snaps, including the snap on the game-winning kick with one second left. Although he couldn’t run, he wanted to tough it out and come in for extra points and field goals — a real profile in courage and an ultimate team player.
Although he did talk about Chris Backes’ last drive, including a crucial 25-yard run, feinting out two Royals and stepping out of bounds to preserve the little time we had left, Patrick failed to tell of Chris’ powerful, determined run for a touchdown earlier when he literally ran over a Bethel defender — BAM! — a few yards out and then dove for the score. The last time I saw that was at the Stagg Bowl in 2003 when our guy steamrollered a defender to score as time ran out in the first half.
Leaving a stunned Bethel defender on the ground in his wake, senior quarterback Chris Backes dives for St. John’s first score.
And he didn’t mention how SJU’s defense adjusted over half time and completely shut down Bethel’s potent offense in the second half, their only score coming from a clean block of our punt attempt by another Royal freshman, Jacob Holmen. And, in fact, how many freshmen started for Bethel last Saturday. Out of a squad of 110 players, they have 60 freshmen and only six seniors, plus 44 sophomores and juniors, including the probable All-American junior quarterback Jaran Roste. All three Royal TDs were caught by freshmen, including another All-American candidate one of these years, Joey Kidder. Their kicker, Hugo Cienfuentes, is a frosh. I think Bethel will be at the top of the MIAC for many more years, especially if they can find a way to keep Roste around as long as Gustavus has kept the talented, but oft-injured Michael Veldman eligible.
Leaving a stunned Bethel defender on the ground in his wake, senior quarterback Chris Backes dives for St. John’s first score.
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Unbelievable! Johnnies Win MIAC Title on Last-Second Touchdown
https://gojohnnies.com/news/2021/11/13/football-unbelievable-johnnies-win-miac-title-on-last-second-touchdown.aspx
(Embedded in this report are some “Don’t Miss” videos, plus game account and box score.)
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Here are two more similar accounts but I just love the headlines:
Johnnies storm back for 29-28 victory in MIAC Football Championship game
https://www.miacathletics.com/sports/fball/2021-22/releases/20211113mxoytf
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No. 5 SJU’s Last Second Touchdown Breaks Bethel’s Hearts in MIAC Championship Game
https://athletics.bethel.edu/news/2021/11/13/football-no-5-sjus-last-second-touchdown-breaks-bethels-hearts-in-miac-championship-game.aspx
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Battle Between the Sexes, Recreation Department —
A man staggers into an emergency room with two black eyes and a five iron wrapped tightly around his throat. Naturally the doctor asks him what happened.
“Well, it was like this,” said the man, “I was having a quiet round of golf with my wife when she sliced her ball into a pasture of cows. We went to look for it and while I was rooting around, I noticed one of the cows had something white at its rear end. I walked over and lifted up the tail and sure enough, there was my wife’s golf ball — stuck right in the middle of the cow’s butt. That’s when I made my mistake.”
“What did you do?” asks the doctor.
“Well, I lifted the tail and yelled to my wife, ‘Hey, this looks like yours!'”
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At the Game —
Part of the joy of Johnnie football is mingling with classmates and friends, sharing the ups and downs of a contest, and — we would hope — celebrate a victory together. I was able to do that again before and at the Bethel game. A couple handfuls of us queued up by the front door of Grumpy’s, located a couple miles south of Bethel and managed by a Johnnie, just before it opened. One of those present was Libby Auger (Au-Zhay), the sharp-eyed photographer whose game photos often appear (with her blessing) in the UUN. Libby is the wife of Andy ’95 and mother of Tommy ’19.
Once inside I was joined by Jeff Norman ’78 and Tom ’60/’64 and Lynn McKasy where we enjoyed a quick lunch and some good conversation, including Jeff’s exciting memories of the final frantic moments of 1976 National Championship game, which, we would soon discover, resembled what was to occur a little while later at Bethel. On our way out Jeff introduced me to four members of the Class of 1980, one of whom was an offensive lineman on that very 1976 team, Jeff Korsmo, who with his buddies Steve Mullen, Dave Osberg and Mike Erpenbach, were ready to head out for the game.
In the stadium I chose to sit on the Bethel side for a number of reasons: a better, higher-up view, a cramped visitors’ section, and the 6 mph wind to my back. Climbing up around the 30 yard line I came across three good pals from the Class of 1966 that I often see together at sporting events: Pat Maxwell, Roger Hipwell and Joe Mucha. Pat shared his blanket with me for a welcome barrier to the chill of the aluminum seats. Later we were joined by two more of their classmates, John Silver (and his wife Cathy) and Terry Hartman. Joe and Terry played on two National Championship teams — ’63 and ’65. Spotting two friends from the Class of 1962 — Frank Ziegler and Bob Christensen — I waved them up to some spaces in front of us where we kibitzed and opined throughout the game. Joining then in that row were Vic Moore ‘72, Michael Dady ’67/’71, and Gene Ranieri ’69. I said hello to an old friend who doesn’t make it up to Collegeville as much as he used to, Huy Tran, who introduced me to his son Alex. Huy became an honorary Johnnie 15 or more years ago when he decided the Minnesota Gophers, his Alma Mater’s team, wasn’t worth the effort in those years and began following St. John’s both home and away. Finally I said goodbye to Lou Gottwalt ’49/’54 as he left disheartened pretty much earlier in fourth quarter…I didn’t bail until the 2:50 mark when we were four-and-out and turning it over to the Royals on our own 35 yard line. I couldn’t bear listening to the gloating Bethel fans any longer and left the field, only to listen in my car to the unbelievable turnaround with the Johnnies regaining the ball with under two minutes left and no time-outs. Wow! Just wow!
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The View From The Field - Bethel Game —
By Ron Tomczik ’65
Some Observations/Comments
IN SUMMARY: per several very happy players: "Best thing that comes out of this game: Knowledge that our team can repeatedly come back from significant deficits against a good team.” They can learn from mistakes, make half-time corrections/changes (e.g. going to a second half running game against Bethel), take control and win the game--as was done in the second half. The team also proved that they could reduce penalties.
*Per hurting Henry Trost, and double-teamed, really hurting Ravi Alston —their leg and shoulder injuries should have time to recover, and they were super happy at game’s end and will be ready for next week’s game.
*Per Ravi--Star of the game is quarterback Chris Backes who demonstrated that he could lead the team back to victory.
Chris realized that he made some wrong calls/executions, but he never lost faith. He believed we could come back in the second half and with his last two-minute drive/execution, under extreme stress, in a snowstorm, proved that he deserved to be our quarterback. His performance installs tremendous confidence in the players. After the game at a nearby restaurant, per Chris B. "even the food tastes better when you win.”
Per our super center/OL leader Nick Neumann at game’s end: "This is why I came back after Covid—to play in a game like this. We do have two injured OL guys who will be out for the rest of the season. They are being replaced by a freshman and senior.”
A couple of our players mentioned some "very crappy/offensive" language from a couple of Bethel players. But other Johnnies told me they did NOT experience that poor sportsmanship. Kind of like the Gustavus game, where a few were quite chippy ad mouthy. This kind of behavior should NOT occur in D3!
As you know, Bethel allowed us to have adult beverages in the tailgate area. Some people said that some Bethel students were very tipsy and making "foul comments" to our fans. Maybe Bethel is attempting to adapt to the 21st century, but alcohol loosens the tongue and for sure, pregame emotions and expectations were high.
In any event, brother Pat and I, especially Pat, spoke with many tearful Bethel players/fans at game end. I personally wished them well and told them that I hoped they would receive a Class C bid, which I am happy they did.
Finally, as many already know, their excellent quarterback Jaran Roste, got injured and did not play the last two series. Hopefully he can play against Central. If not, Bethel will be hurting.
Miscellaneous:
*On Friday 11/12, I received a call from George Hawkins, a 1949 Johnnie grad, questioning our chances against Bethel. He would not be able to attend the game, but his son was again going to hook up his laptop to a large screen for better viewing. Besides his obvious interest in SJU football, I also discussed his WW 2 experiences. He was trained to be a B-29 navigator—he told the pilots where to fly, gave flying directions. Amongst his training for the possible Japanese invasion/atomic bomb drop— 12-hour round trip B-29 training missions, at night, navigating by the stars from Tinian to Japan and back! As he said, ”There was no GPS at that time." After the war, he entered SJU, and lived in the Quonset huts where Mary Hall is now located.
On Sunday, before the NCAA announcements, he was delighted/excited about the Bethel results and inquired about our “seating," possible opponents and location for this week's game. He is a sharp, enthusiastic Johnnie football fan, as well as SJU Historian! He makes a person proud to be a Johnnie!
*Per good sources, former great Johnnie quarterback, Jackson Erdmann, plans to play Spring/Summer football for the Vienna, Austrian team.
In summary, after a game like this, using one of my cliche’s, "For an old person, this game was hard on the heart!” Go Johnnies! — Ron.
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An Awaited Proposal —
A senior Bennie, who had been dating a senior Johnnie for most of their college years, really thought she'd been very patient through a long period with no talk of marriage.
One night her steady, but clueless Johnnie boyfriend took her out to a Chinese restaurant in Waite Park. As he looked over the menu, he casually asked her, "So... how do you want your rice? Plain or fried?"
Without missing a beat, our Bennie looked over her menu at him and replied, “Thrown."
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The Uncasual Fan —
What a difference a few seconds makes — in football outcomes and in life. If I would have walked out that door ten seconds earlier, I may have never met my wife but that is a whole different story.
I am really glad that I waited until the following Monday or Tuesday before I tried to write any game summaries or team evaluations. I almost started writing the summary following the Bethel blocked punt and I am telling you right now that it was not going to be a very positive one based on what I was seeing and how I was feeling about the first 2 ½ quarters. But the last 3 seconds of the game (and 2-3 days of thinking about it) changed how I was feeling and how I thought about the game.
Looking back to the start of the season if someone would have told any of the Johnnie faithful that we would be undefeated at the end of the regular season, win the first MIAC playoff, and be the #1 seed heading into the NCAA III Playoffs we would have taken that in a heartbeat. To be honest, at the beginning of the season we would have taken any chance to be in the playoffs and said thank you very much
Football games against competitive, well-coached teams are hard to win no matter where you play or what the circumstances are. That’s why the outcomes of some games are not decided until the final minutes or even the final seconds.
Another interesting thing about football games is that sometimes a football team can look average to awful in the first half and then look like a completely different team in the second half. The mark of a good team is that when you do not look very good in the first half you make some adjustments at halftime and come out do what you need to do to win the game. That usually means finding a way to score and then have your defense find a way to stop the other team’s offense.
We did that very same thing (again for about the 4th time this year) this past Saturday against Bethel.
In our first game of the year we came from behind and outscored Aurora 25-13 in the second half to win 39-33. Then in our 3rd game we outscored Bethel 24-19 to win 31-25. In our 7th game of the year, after weathering a couple of punches and not looking very good in the first half we outscored Gustavus 27-0 in the second half to win 37-7 and this past weekend we did it again to Bethel by outscoring them 21-7 , in the second and beating them 29-28.
Some people can look at that and say we came out flat or not ready to play or whatever…or we can be thankful for the caliber of young men and our coaches for having the courage to not tuck their tails between their legs and run and instead face the adversity and challenge in front of them and come out victorious. You only need to look about 70 miles southeast of Collegeville to see what the opposite of that looks like when teams play to not lose or lack the leadership needed to come from behind and find a way to win ( See Gophers 6-4, and Vikings 4-5). Those teams wish they had a culture that would allow them to make sure a poor first half does not result is an equally poor second half.
So here is my quick review of the game:
The Good: - the second half and the final score
The Bad: - The first half
The Ugly: - The blocked punt
I am looking forward to home playoff game #1 against Lake Forest and see you at the tailgate lot. — The Uncasual Fan
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SJU 2021 Football Schedule
(All games are played on Saturdays, beginning at 1 pm)
Date Opponent Location
Sep. 4 Aurora Collegeville W 39-33
Sep. 11 Bye
Sep. 18 Martin Luther Collegeville W 55-7
Sep. 25 Bethel Collegeville W 31-25
Oct. 2 Concordia Moorhead, MN W 49-0
Oct. 9 Augsburg Collegeville W 50-0
Oct. 16 St. Olaf Collegeville W 56-0
Oct. 23 Gustavus St. Peter, MN W 37-7
Oct. 30 St. Scholastica Collegeville W 81-0
Nov. 6 Carleton Northfield, MN W 38-10
Nov. 13 Bethel Arden Hills, MN W 29-28
Nov. 20 Lake Forest* Collegeville
* First NCAA D-III Playoff Game
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MIAC Standings
MIAC All
Northwoods Division
St. John’s 8-0 10-0
Gustavus 6-2 8-2
St. Olaf 4-4 5-5
Carleton 5-3 7-3
St. Scholastica 0-8 0-8
Skyline Division
Bethel 6-2 8-2
Concordia 3-5 4-6
Augsburg 4-4 4-6
Macalester 2-6 3-7
Hamline 2-6 4-6
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Last Week’s Results —
11th Week, Saturday, November 13
Gustavus at Concordia — This is going to be a good game that could go either way, but I’m picking the Gusties 24-19. Actually, it wasn’t close at all with the Gusties creaming the Cobbers 39-7.
St. Olaf at Augsburg — Wow…another good, close one. The Oles should persevere 28 to 24. Actually, the Oles prevailed 35 to 28.
Carleton at Macalester — Carleton should bury Mac, maybe 34-12. Actually, and I’m quite surprised at this score, Carleton won 48-45…who would have thunk Mac had that much gas in its tank, or that both teams forgot how to play defense?
St. Scholastica at Hamline — The Pipers already took the Saints once and I’m thinking they’ll do it again handily 33-17. Actually, another shocker: Hamline 21 - St. Scholastica 20. Wow!
St. John’s at Bethel — We beat them once but I’m not positive we can do it again as certain things stand…nevertheless, SJU 31-Bethel 28. Actually, it was even closer than I predicted, SJU 29 - Royals 28.
Other Game of Interest:
St. Thomas at Drake University — After the Tommies’ humbling 42-15 loss to Davidson last week, they travel again this week to Drake in Des Moines, IA (by bus, no doubt) where they shall reek their revenge. The lowly Bulldogs are 2-6, 1-4 PFL, so look for Glenn and Company (7-2, 4-2 PFL) to run things up unmercifully. Actually, from the look of the 21-14 score, the Tommies were fortunate to get out of Des Moines with a win. Nearly 1,900 souls were present for this D-I game.
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More Scenes From Stearns County —
Following Bernie Kloppmeier’s tragic death from a kick to the head by their mule, the grieving widow was receiving condolences from her many women friends at the wake in St. Anna. She repeatedly nodded her head “yes” and followed that with a shake for “no.”
The mortician later asked Mrs. Kloppmeier why she made so many nods and shakes during the visitation.
“Vell,” she replied, “da women vould ask if I’m doing alright, to vhich I’d reply with a nod. Den dey would ask if da mule was for sale.”
(Contributed by Thom Woodward ’70, himself a resident of Stearns County.)
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All About Lake Forest College —
Chicagoland is full of pleasant leafy suburbs and Lake Forest is yet another one of them. Located thirty miles north of downtown Chicago, Lake Forest College sits about a half mile from Lake Michigan. The institution is a private liberal arts college founded in 1857 by a group of Presbyterian ministers.
Now a nonsectarian college — Presbyterians seemingly an endangered species these days — it enrolls approximately 1,500 students, both men and women. Lake Forest College (LFC) offers 32 undergraduate major and minor programs. The majority of the students (75%) live on campus in one of eleven residence halls on the college’s wooded 107-acre campus. About 86% of students participate in off-campus internships and 40% participate in a study abroad program. For such a small institution LFC sure has a lot of sororities (6) and fraternities (4).
LFC competes in NCAA Division III (except for Handball) and offers 23 varsity sports — 12 women’s and 11 men’s. The Handball team completes in Division I and has won 49 national championships and received national media attention. (So they are a handball college, like Gustavus used to be a golf and tennis college, and Augsburg is a wrestling college.) LFC has been a member of the Midwest Conference since 1974. (Go here to see who else they play: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Midwest_Conference )
Known by the nickname The Foresters, LFC’s football team has really cleaned up on their lackluster conference this season, turning in a 10-0 overall record. It was good enough to win the Midwest Conference and give the Foresters their second NCAA appearance, the first coming back in 2002 after winning the conference with a perfect 9-0 record. Overall LFC has enjoyed six conference football titles dating back to 1952.
So, what’s the skinny on the Foresters? They have some pretty skilled people, have scored a lot of points on lesser competition, and seem to be pretty solid on defense. Offensively they have a running emphasis rather than a passing one, but have done both successfully throughout the season.
The Foresters have one bona fide star and several other very capable players. The star is junior wide receiver and punt returner #0 A.J. Jackson. The kid is a burner and has the resume to prove it: this season he has had four punt returns for touchdowns, including two in one game. He now has an NCAA Division III record eight career punt return touchdowns in just 21 games. Jackson is first in the nation for yards per return, averaging 30.1 yards. He now holds the program record in punt return yards with 511 on just 17 attempts. As a junior he’s only 85 yards shy of the Midwest Conference record in career punt return yards; he sits with a total of 1,100 currently, which is a team record by a wide margin. (Note to self: Don’t punt to this young man.) He is also a threat as a receiver; in fact he’s broken the team record with his scoring receptions. Jackson shares the limelight with senior tight end Cooper Tomlin.
The fellow tossing those passes to the two main targets is junior quarterback #6 Tre Stewart. Besides his passing, he’s a sprinter too, often taking off during options plays. In total, his quarterback efficiency rating of 165.7 this fall is the best mark in the MWC and ranks 22nd in the country. Rounding out LFC’s offense is senior tailback #9 Damon Bonds who averages about 9 yards per carry, if I read his stats correctly. Finally, another Forester getting some good reviews throughout the season is their junior punter #89 Logan Persson who is steady as a rock, punting for nearly 40 yards per kick and specializing in putting them right near the opponents’ goal line. Senior placekicker #67 Patrick Goldammer is very accurate too. Defensively, one standout is junior defensive back #15 Dante Esposito, who is now tied for the national lead with 2.0 passes defended per game and six interceptions this season. Lake Forest has forced 19 turnovers this fall, which is tied for the fourth-highest total in the country.
By my count they have 106 team members, 22 of whom are seniors…so here we have another pretty young team in the making. But here’s something funny: 38 of the players — over a third — come from Arizona, while only 26 are from Illinois…and a lot of those AZ players are young, so LFC is spending a lot of time recruiting down there recently. Another factoid I found amusing is that the Foresters have the same number of players from Catholic high schools as does St. John’s — 14 each. Average home attendance (and Larry Haeg will love this since he’s the UUN Attendance Czar) is LFC - 622 in five games versus SJU - 7,789 for six games. My, my, my…you’d think the Foresters are running a Pioneer League D-I program with those numbers.
How are we going to do against Lake Forest? Well, like at Gustavus, we can’t take them for granted, but over the course of the game I think we’ll just wear them down and ultimately over-power them. Once again, we have to watch our penalties — and we know the Jays can do it; only two last week at Bethel. And we have to watch out for their skill guys, especially A.J. Jackson. The Football Whisperer weighed in from afar and said one key is turnovers…we gotta not have any. He thinks that might be the key to the game if everything else is equal. He also warned their quarterback (Tre Stewart) is a transfer from Wheaton who has a cannon for an arm. He left Wheaton because he was behind two D-I transfers.
Saturday's meeting will be the first for SJU against Lake Forest on the football field. Let’s make it memorable for them: look at something like 42-17, SJU of course.
* * * *
Lake Forest Revelation —
Two Forester classmates were walking past a poster in the entrance of their college library.
It featured a photo of Einstein with the words “Even Einstein reads books.”
One of the students was amazed. Turning to his companion, he said, “I didn’t know Einstein’s first name was Even.”
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NCAA D-III Playoffs —
12th Week, Saturday, November 20
Tournament First Round
Lake Forest (IL) at St. John’s — If all goes as it should, SJU should handle the Foresters 42-17.
Bethel at Central (IA) — Central is to the newly-named American Rivers Conference as St. John’s is to the MIAC, this year at least. The outcome is dependent upon whether Jaran Roste is able to play [well]. If not it should be Central 36 to 21; if he can, it will be Bethel 36-21.
Other Game of Interest:
We have this advisory note from Larry Haeg ’63/’67: D1 powerhouse Presbyterian College (2-8, enrollment 1,172, Clinton, SC) comes to O’Shaughnessy for 1 pm tilt with UST this Saturday. Just wanted to alert you if you see long lines at ticket windows on Cretin Avenue.
Larry also noted some enrollment figures: Lake Forest College: 1,592; Presbyterian College: 1,172
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Strength of schedule —
(Note: Larry Haeg also sent over this interesting information. To me it shows that, at least this year, the MIAC is a stronger conference than the WIAC, at least in the category of “Strength of Schedule.” And it shows St. John’s had the top SOS in D-III football.)
The NCAA Division III playoff selection committee determines strength of schedule using opponents' winning percentage and opponents' opponents' winning percentage. A team's SOS is two-thirds opponents' winning percentage (OWP) and one-third opponents' opponents' winning percentage (OOWP).
Those numbers follow, calculated by PrestoSports.
We've sorted these teams by their strength of schedule. This is only part of the process used to determine who will get selected to the NCAA playoffs.
Team
D3
record
D3
win %
OWP (rank)
OOWP
NCAA
SOS
10-0
1.000
.6747 (1)
0.5545
0.635
2 Ithaca
8-2
0.800
.6556 (2)
0.5280
0.613
3-5
0.375
.6429 (4)
0.5461
0.611
5-4
0.556
.6441 (3)
0.5219
0.603
5-5
0.500
.6404 (5)
0.5028
0.595
8-2
0.800
.6098 (8)
0.5533
0.591
5-3
0.625
.6176 (7)
0.5372
0.591
8 Trine
6-4
0.600
.6222 (6)
0.5112
0.585
0-10
0.000
.6000 (12)
0.5414
0.580
4-6
0.400
.6071 (9)
0.5227
0.579
11 UW-La Crosse
7-1
0.875
.5882 (14)
0.5440
0.573
10-0
1.000
.5904 (13)
0.5381
0.573
13 Aurora
8-2
0.800
.6067 (10)
0.5046
0.573
14 Shenandoah
5-3
0.625
.6034 (11)
0.5070
0.571
15 Bethel
8-2
0.800
.5698 (25)
0.5704
0.570
7-3
0.700
.5862 (15)
0.5159
0.563
10-0
1.000
.5795 (18)
0.5272
0.562
18 Rochester
3-7
0.300
.5843 (17)
0.5108
0.560
19 Utica
6-4
0.600
.5795 (20)
0.5162
0.558
20 Adrian
5-5
0.500
.5862 (16)
0.4994
0.557
7-1
0.875
.5667 (28)
0.5335
0.556
22 Kean
4-5
0.444
.5714 (24)
0.5182
0.554
23 Husson
7-3
0.700
.5795 (19)
0.5012
0.553
4-6
0.400
.5730 (22)
0.5119
0.553
25 Hope
8-2
0.800
.5618 (33)
0.5307
0.551
Mount Union was #45; Linfield #58; North Central #62; Lake Forest #160; Mary Hardin-Baylor #163; and Central #173. Certainly SOS was one of the criteria considered when naming SJU as one of the top four seeds in the playoff bracket. Go here for the full article and list: https://www.d3football.com/seasons/2021/schedule?tmpl=sos-template
* * * *
D3Football Top 25 —
Week 11 brought a few minor changes of a few teams moving up or moving down a spot or two. However, for former #8, now #10 Hardin-Simmons, it was a major change since they did not get a bid as an at-large team for then playoffs despite a 9-1 record with their only loss to #2 Mary Hardin-Baylor. These NCAA D-III folks are sooo strict, especially with criteria like strength of schedule.
#14 Bethel dropped just a point after their close loss to the Johnnies, BUT they did get an at-large bid, getting to travel to #8 Central in Pella, IA, who moved themselves up from #9. If the Royals’ Roste is not too badly hurt, I pick Bethel. SJU’s opponent, Lake Forest, just jumped into the Top 25 at #24 this week. Four lower-ranked teams — #19 UW-Oshkosh; #20 Baldwin Wallace; #23 Union; and #25 DePauw — all dropped out but #22 UW-River Falls jumped into the Top 25 on the strength of their 8-2 record in the miserably tough WIAC. Good for the Falcons, who almost beat #3 UW-Whitewater and did beat UW-Oshkosh 28-21…still no bid. However, River Falls does get to play Washington U. in the post-season Culver’s Isthmus Bowl in Madison, WI. Winners gets to eat ButterBurgers to their hearts’ delight.
https://www.d3football.com/top25/2021/week11
* * * *
NCAA Division III Bracket —
John Gagliardi would absolutely love this: St. John’s at home in the play-offs for possibly three games (if they keep winning…and that’s always a big “if” during the playoffs). SJU, UW-Whitewater, North Central and Mount Union all ended up as Top Seeds. My early money is on North Central to take it all.
https://www.ncaa.com/brackets/football/d3/2021
Here are the First Round games; Central versus Bethel, and Aurora versus Wheaton are going to be really tough games:
https://www.d3football.com/scoreboard/2021/ncaa-playoffs?date=2021-11-20
* * * *
Johnnie Radio Network —
Saturday’s game can be heard live on WBHR-660 AM across central Minnesota, KDIZ-1570 AM in the Twin Cities and KOWZ-1170 AM in Waseca, which covers most of southern Minnesota and into western Wisconsin. Mark Lewandowski, Bryan Backes, Mike Carr and Charlie Carr will call all the action, beginning with Johnnies Magazine at 11 a.m. and the pre-game show at 11:30 a.m. The game will also be broadcast on the SJU football website via Stretch Internet. This is the 23rd season SJU football can be heard worldwide over the internet.
* *
Listening via the Internet: https://portal.stretchinternet.com/csbsju/
Viewing via live streaming: https://portal.stretchinternet.com/csbsju/
(Note: Assume you will will be charged to watch this game.)
* * * *
The Reel 2021 | MIAC CHAMPIONS
https://mail.aol.com/webmail-std/en-us/suite
* * * *
Ticket Information
A ticket must be purchased by each patron to gain admittance to the game. Tickets are $8 for adults and $4 for ages 5-college (w/college ID). SJU season-ticket holders own the rights to the reserved seat/s, but must purchase a ticket to the game. SJU (game/season) or MIAC passes are invalid for NCAA games. Gates open at 10 a.m., two hours prior to kickoff. Tickets may also be purchased online at www.gojohnnies.com/tickets (starting at 8 a.m. Monday, Nov. 15).
* * * *
Tailgate and After —
The weather — if not the 60s and 70s we came to appreciate and cherish for most of this season — will still be pretty darn nice for November 20th. It will be mostly sunny, low wind, and around 40º during the game. That means that the tailgate will be running, but people will be wrapped up pretty well.
For those seeking a more relaxing venue after the game than found in the loud drinking emporia of St. Joe, some of us are heading for Fisher’s Club in Avon nestled upon Middle Spunk Lake for a nice beer or other adult beverage and some quiet conversation with no continual microphone announcements, blaring country music, or video horse racing to distract us. You certainly would be welcome to join us, whoever you are.
* * * *
Battle Between the Sexes, Military Life —
A retired four-star general ran into his former orderly, also retired, in a Manhattan bar and spent the rest of the evening persuading him to come work for him as his butler.
“Your duties will be exactly the same as they were in the army,” the general said. “Nothing to it — you’ll catch on again fast.”
Next morning promptly at eight o’clock, the ex-orderly entered the ex-general’s bedroom, pulled open the drapes, gave the general a gentle shake, strode around the other side of the bed, spanked his employer’s wife on her bottom and said, “OK, sweetheart, it’s back to the village for you.”
* * * *
Top Ten Signs You Weigh Too Much —
10. Hundreds of volunteers have started to stack sandbags around you.
9. Doctor tells you your weight would be perfect for a man 17 feet tall.
8. You are responsible for a slight but measurable shift in the earth's axis.
7. Right this minute you're laughing up pie on the carpet.
6. You decide to take a little nap and wake up in mid-July.
5. World's fattest man sends you a telegram, warning you to "back off!"
4. CBS tells you to lose weight or else.
3. Getting off your couch requires help from the fire department.
2. Every escalator you step on immediately grinds to a halt.
1. You're sweatin' gravy.
* * * *
Five Johnnies Earn CoSIDA Academic All-District Honors —
Five Saint John's University student-athletes were named to the College Sports Information Directors of America (CoSIDA) Academic All-District VI football team on Thursday, Nov. 18.
The honor was the third consecutive for senior running back Henry Trost and the second for senior cornerback Tommy Deters and senior offensive lineman Tyler Johnson. A pair of defensive linemen, senior Collin Franz and junior Michael Wozniak, earned their first Academic All-District distinction.
Nominees must be of a sophomore academic standing or better, with a 3.30 GPA or higher. The Academic All-District and All-America teams are voted on and selected by registered members of CoSIDA. SJU has now had 51 Academic All-District selections in the past 17 seasons. Read more about each of the long men here: https://gojohnnies.com/news/2021/11/18/football-five-johnnies-earn-cosida-academic-all-district-honors.aspx
* * * *
Gagliardi Legacy Fund —
As our grass-roots fund raising effort to bolster the endowment of the Gagliardi Legacy Fund begins to wind down, we urge all those non-football alumni who nevertheless enjoy St. John’s football, support the team and coaches, faithfully read the UUN, and bleed Johnnie Red who haven’t yet contributed to please assist us now. Everything helps and will go exclusively for the benefit of the team and its many expenses. To get you in the mood, read through this article, written by a d3football columnist after the 2003 Championship Game upset of heavily-favored Mount Union. It contains some wonderful Gagliardisms that may inspire your further generosity. — Bernie Weber SJP ’63/SJU ’67
https://www.d3football.com/columns/around-the-nation/2003/people-make-stagg-bowl-special
(Please Note: You’ll help by sending a check to St. John’s University in care of St. John’s University, PO Box 7222, Collegeville, MN 56321. Be sure to note in the check memo that your tax-deductible contribution is for the Gagliardi Legacy Fund. If you would prefer to make your contribution via a credit card, please call 320-492-0851. Or go to this link for Giving at St. John’s and put Gagliardi Legacy Fund in the “additional comments” area. Use Pay Pal or credit card. https://securelb.imodules.com/s/1433/gid3/form.aspx?sid=1433&gid=3&pgid=397&cid=1052 )
* * * *
Seven Deadly Sins Still Are —
These are still valid, despite our secular society. Can you name them before opening this article?
https://simplycatholic.com/understanding-the-7-deadly-sins/ (2-min. read)
* * * *
From Our Readers —
From Chris Chalmers ’88, Albert Lea, MN —
Please add me to the email list - Chris Chalmers '88. My father Rich Chalmers '63 was captain of first undefeated SJU FB team in 1962 and coached with John for first National Championship in 1963. I played QB in late 80's and my son Sam ('21) has been creating the highlight videos and hype videos the last couple of years. Thanks — Chris
* * * *
From Rick Speckmann ’72, Alumni Association President —
Bob, great to see you at “Reunion” before the Carleton game…Adam Herbst said he sent you the info and photo of our 5 classmate Presidents spanning 39 yrs up to including my 2 year term---it has been 1 yr terms—now it has changed to a 2-yr term with my entry---good consideration for a slow learner---any news on the pre-game gathering for Bethel game tomorrow---thanks for your incredible communications to keep the SJU community strong, vibrant, and joyful---my favorite quote of the moment “Tradition is of no value if it does not lead us into the future” ….you and many others leverage our tradition with relevancy to nourish and enrich a future for all alums generations of alums. Pax my friend — Rick
* * * *
From Father Kevin McDonough, Pastor, Incarnation Parish, Minneapolis —
Roberto: I have to take issue with your speculation about the cause of the Tommies' shellacking at Davidson last weekend. You blamed distraction by the Southern belles. But the prettiest Davidson undergraduate -- my niece Addie -- was not on campus. Daughter of our Johnnie brother Denis, Addie is in Europe for a semester's studies. There had to be another cause. I would speculate further, but Addie's aunt -- my sister-in-law Amy -- is chief of staff to Saint Thomas President Dr. Sullivan, and Amy is pretty disappointed at the outcome. — Kevin
(Editor’s Reply: One would have thought with Addie’s SJU pedigree — her dad Denis ’92, uncles Jim ‘95 and Bill ‘78, and your own named scholarship at St. John’s for inner-city youth, she might have considered our sister College of St. Benedict. This is what happened once Denis left our area and hung out in Washington, DC for so long. The kids get used to the humidity and Southern accents and mild winters and forget about the joys of Stillwater, not to mention Stearns County. Regarding your sister-in-law, she most assuredly does not receive the UUN, so you should feel free to speculate away about Tommie losses in the future…only I don’t expect them to lose again this season.)
* * * *
From Peg Marrin ’67, Dallas TX —
Dear Bob, Thank you for adding that touch of culture to the UUN. Assessing a football team's performance as "discombobulated" was delightful. I had the pleasure of going to a Martin Short and Steve Martin show. I laughed so loud that Bill [Marrin ’61/’65] sought another seat mate. Of course, he couldn't hear most of their lines so he didn't find almost two hours of slapstick amusing. — Peg
* * * *
From Kathleen Ziegler, Lino Lakes, MN —
Last week Dave Swanson sent you Steve Martin on Johnny Carson doing his "fly magic” (not sure how that passed the censors when the girl puts the phone back). Dave said he missed Steve Martin who is alive and well. He needs to watch MURDER ONLY IN THIS BUILDING (on HULU) with Steve Martin and Martin Short. It has about 10 hilarious episodes.
(Editor’s Correction: It wasn’t Dave who mistakenly thought Steve Martin was no longer with us; it was me. In my rush to get the UUN out I confused the late Phil Hartman with Steve…my bad.)
* * * *
From Conrad Macina, Landing, NJ —
Q: What is written on the Bethel backup QB’s wrist band that he consults before every play?
A: INHALE
EXHALE
INHALE
EXHALE
* * * *
From Nellie Klein ’60, St. Cloud, MN —
Rob — Wow! Loved reading all the real important info regarding our game with Bethel and other points of football interest!! However, I have to admit that I may be temporarily “foot-balled out” as I laughed out loud at the Rabbi/poison wife joke!! (Even smart Bennies need an intellectual vacation at times)!!
Right now I’m going to assume my Johnnies win and my football life continues. If not, please know that I probably beat the record of “dammits” said during the Johnnie game! (Set a World record during the last Viking game!) Praying for one awesome victory Saturday. — Nell
* * * *
From Denny Bracco ‘75, Oak Park, IL —
Just saw a article on my newsfeed that today is Bonnie Raitt's birthday- 72 years young and can still sing. They released an album from back in '72 when we were young freshmen on 3rd Mary, but no one ever saw it. The article said, "Raitt returned to Philadelphia on February 22, 1972 to perform at Sigma Sound Studios’ Rainbow Room. The show was broadcast on local Philly station WMMR but would not see the light of day again until an official release in 2011, hence the name, The Lost Broadcast- Philadelphia 1972."
So they sent a link to the album! Thought you might like to listen as you pen this next "Playoff Edition" of the UUN for the folks. Great stuff; am sure your readers who are as old as we are can listen as well...here's the link. https://www.jambase.com/article/bonnie-raitt-the-lost-broadcast-philadelphia-1972-live-album (57:10 min. — good for listening to while doing other work on your computer or reading something. One could just pour himself or herself a single malt scotch, or make a Stinger, or sip some Fireball, or enjoy a nice crafty IPA while you just sit and listen.)
* * * *
From Suzie Gooding, Durham, NC —
They say every piece of chocolate eaten shortens your life by two minutes. I've done the math. Seems I died in 1537.
I got myself a seniors' GPS. Not only does it tell me how to get to my destination, it tells me why I wanted to go there.
* * * *
From Jeff Norman ’78, New Brighton, MN—
Bob, please add Bob Brigham ’78 and Jeff Korsmo ’80 to the UUN mailing list. Bob was a star offensive tackle on the ‘76 National Championship Team. He went on to become a senior administrator at Mayo and lead the expansion of their Jacksonville, FL. clinic. Jeff also was a great starting offensive lineman on the championship team and went on to become a senior executive at Mayo as well. They both have received the Bob Basten Excellence in Leadership Award, Jeff in 2013 and Bob in 2017. Thanks. — Jeff
* * * *
From an exultant John Chromy ’64, Washington, DC —
Wow---you all got your money's worth in emotional drama at the Bethel/Johnnie game:
- First some sadness when Bethel scored early.
- Second, some real concern when they scored again.
- Third--a flicker of hope when the Johnnies scored and added the two pointer (how prescient was that move?).
- Fourth, serious, very serious concern when Bethel scored again and led 28-15 at half time.
- Renewed spirits and hopefulness when the Johnnies scored a touchdown in the second half.
- Very, very serious concern (bordering on depression) when the clock was winding down and the Johnnies still 6 points down.
- Then, hopefulness as the last drive was unfolding.
- Finally enormous joy/excitement/delirium when the Johnnies scored with one second remaining on the clock!!!!
- And overwhelming delirium and possible cardiac arrests when the PAT was good.
Wow—a real show-stopper and emotional soap opera for Johnnie fans. Not bad for six bucks a ticket. Well done, Big Red Machine!!! — John
* *
A quick follow-up from John Chromy to me and Karen Backes ’87 —
Bob, I don't know if many of the guys in our class know it, but young Chris Backes is the grandson of Dave Sieben [and son of Karen], who was a running back on the 1960 SJU team when the likes of Tom McKasy, John McDowell, Bernie Beckman, John McCormick, Bob Spinner, Ken Roering, Denny Lynch, Jim Herickoff and Craig Muyres were all fledgling Johnnies just beginning to head towards future glory. Hopefully they remember Dave Sieben who along with Jim Glowack, Bernie Kukar, Tom Wagner, Gene Kramer and the like humbled the Tommies, battled fiercely with the UMD Bulldogs and smote all the Lutherans, especially the Gusties. They too were a formidable Class--the Class of ’61 & ’62. Great memories! — John
PS - It has come to my attention that Chris is also the great grandson of Omer Sieben, a member of the 1938 Johnnie MIAC Football Conference Champions. Johnnie football traditions are a good thing. — JC
(Reply from Karen:)
What a great email! My dad remembers fondly that there were so great guys behind him and having to step aside some. He loved playing football and running track for SJU! Still the biggest fan today! — Karen
(Editor’s Note: Speaking of Bernie Kukar ’62, here’s a fine article by Frank Rajkowski on him in the gojohnnies website: https://gojohnnies.com/news/2021/11/16/basketball-bernicks-take-me-back-tuesday-kukar-already-had-eye-on-officiating-during-time-at-sju.aspx )
* * * *
From Dan McDermott ’84, Plymouth, MN —
Bob — Whoa, Nellie! - What a "Johnnie Magic" finish. I can only imagine the crowd and hype if we meet Bethel a third time in the playoffs. I won't comment on the notion of the MIAC championship game, I'm sure others will cover that.
I'm more interested in our opponent next week, Lake Forest. I don't know them or their conference but I did find this tidbit: Lake Forest beat Wisconsin Lutheran earlier this year 27-10. Close game, in fact Wisconsin Lutheran led 10-6 at the half. The following week Wisconsin Lutheran LOST to Martin Luther in New Ulm, giving up 42 points to them. Your readers will recall that we BEAT Martin Luther 55-7 at home with many reserves playing. — Dan
P.S. — Thought your readers would like to see this amusing example of ‘truth in advertising’:
* * * *
From Huy Tran, Honorary Johnnie for many, many years —
Mr. Wicker, it is a shame to admit that my son (Alex) and I left the game just before the last winning drive for the Johnnies. To my astonishment while waiting to pick up our dinner at Portillo’s (45 minutes later), we found out the results for one of the greatest comeback in the program’s history (in my opinion). It wasn’t pretty but they did it under a great amount of pressure and the magnitude of the game (Inaugural MIAC Championship after all). I’m very proud of the boys and for the program!
I was surprised not to see more familiar faces at the game like I have in the past. It was indeed very nice to see you again in person…I always look forward to the weekly newsletter during the football season and thank you for always considering me as a Honorary Johnnie. — Huy (a.k.a. Wingman)
* * * *
From Tony Sandeen ’94, Hong Kong S.A.R.
Wick, What a game. Per usual I listened to the game on Sunday AM tuning in to the radiocast. Wow — dramatic, how I wished I could have been there. I've seen references to video clips but have only managed to see the grainy twitter version. Do you links to any others I could view? Cheers. — Tony
* * * *
From Marie Eli, Institutional Advancement —
Did you leave the game early? I saw you leave with a few minutes to go. I am definitely going to give you a very hard time about that for a very long time. You diehard Johnnie fans need to believe. They never give up!!
By the way, the burly, unidentified friend in the picture by John Sipe is my Ben!
Ben Eli ’17, shown carrying Aaron Syverson from the Carleton game in Northfield, is an assistant coach at SJU. During his playing days at center on the offensive line, Ben was named a first-team All-American and also All-MIAC first-team, both in 2016. He’s made a career of taking care of his quarterbacks!
* * * *
From Scott Springman ’95 St. Anthony, MN —
Rob - You left early today and missed the big play at the end! (You were in the same row, just across the aisle from my SJU roommate, Andrew Kaus ’96, and my son Leo. Can’t believe we won!! And we made it to church at St. C’s at 4:30. — Scott
PS. The fake punt by Bethel still baffles me. They snap it to the up man and it gets whistled dead so we knew they planned a fake. Then they do it again and we are ready…
(Editor’s Comment: Busted! Yes, after that four-and-out on our 35-yard line with 2:50 left and turning the ball over to the Royals, I couldn’t bear having to listen to those clamorous Bethel fans when they finally won. But I did get to my car, turn on Mark and Bryan, and listen in amazement while still in the parking lot. I was tempted to jump out, run back to the field, but figured I’d miss something big anyway if I did. It was touching to hear the emotion — pride and joy and relief — in Bryan’s voice after, first, the TD, and then the extra point. What a day!)
* * * *
From Jim Weiss ’64, Lexington, SC —
As to yesterday's SJU-Bethel "championship" game, yes it was exciting but it should not have been played — that is unless every other D3 conference pits its top two teams against each other in the final regular season game. And, if those conferences do even a back-of-the-envelope analysis, they will not support that match-up.
Why? Injuries and fatigue - and the first playoff game is less than seven days away.
So in doing what the MIAC has done in creating this cutesy end of season, “let’s pit the strong against the strong and the weak against the weak” to conclude the season, has put its playoff teams at a disadvantage. In the case of yesterday’s SJU-Bethel game, both teams had their best-available players on the field at the end of the game, scrapping for every bit of real estate. Note I didn’t say starters -
SJU’s unquestionably best ball carrier Henry Trost was injured on the very last series.
And in the case of Bethel, whose offense sputtered in the 4th quarter, their quarterback Jarden Roste (17 completions, 3 TDs/0 interceptions, 252 yards) was hurt late in the game and didn't play in the last few series.
Are these vitally important players going to be available for Saturday's 1st playoff game? Do you suppose that a North Central, Mary Hardin Baylor, Whitewater, Mt Union starter regardless of position was anywhere near the field at the end of the game yesterday? Hell, they couldn't even find their helmets by that time.
You may find the table below to be interesting..
Yes, BCS D1 conferences do have have a championship game, but participants have more than a month off to heal and rejuvenate. — Jim
D3 football ranking
11/10/21
Team
Saturday, 11/13/2021
Opponent/
Record as of 11/11/21
Score
1
North Central
North Park – 2 wins, 6 losses
84-6 North Central
2
Mary Hardin Baylor (MHB)
McMurry – 2 wins, 6 losses
77-3 MHB
3
Whitewater
Stevens Point – 2 wins, 7 losses
56-10 Whitewater
4
Mt Union
Marietta – 4 wins, 5 losses
37-10 Mt Union
5
St John’s
Bethel – 8 wins, 1 loss
29-28 St Johns
6
Wheaton
Millikin – 3 wins, 6 loses
49-7 Wheaton
7
Linfield
Lewis and Clark – 3 wins, 5 loses
51-17 Linfield
8
Hardin-Simmons
Texas Lutheran – 3 wins, 5 loses
65-0 Hardin-Simmons
9
Central
Buena Vista – 5 wins, 4 loses
65-6 Central
10
Delaware Valley
Widener – 7 wins, 2 loses
27-0 Delaware Valley
Yes, BCS D1 conferences do have have a championship game, but participants have more than a month off heal and rejuvenate. — Jim
* * * *
From John Taylor ’58, Institutional Advancement —
Here is some great ROTC news: It has been busy over here for the Fighting Saints!
The Ranger Challenge teams were busy dominating at Task Force Ranger Challenge in Camp Ripley in October and last weekend at Third Brigade Ranger Challenge in Fort Leonard Wood Missouri. The 9-person and the 5-person teams both took first place in both competitions. It has been a job well done for the 5-person team as they end the Ranger Challenge season this year. As for the 9-person team, they are on the road to train for Sandhurst at West Point in April. We wish them the best when training for this incredible opportunity.
There is also a way for you all to support the Fighting Saints when it comes to helping us afford the expenses to go and compete in competitions such as Ranger Challenge, Bataan, Northern Warfare, and KU Buddy Challenge along with many others. Please consider making a donation to help offset these competition expenses: https://securelb.imodules.com/s/1433/gid3/form.aspx?cid=1052&gid=3&pgid=397&sid=1433 Let Johnnie/Bennie pride recognize the excellence, hard work and well-honed skills our ROTC cadets have brought to the U.S. Army and nation from our small schools. Be sure to note that your gift is for the Fighting Saints ROTC competition fund.
* * * *
From Todd Mueller ’74, Arden Hills, MN —
Hi Rob, If they rated quarterbacks based on tenacity and composure, no one in D-3 football would score higher marks than Chris Backes. How many of us were thinking (especially when we were behind 14-0 early in the first quarter)) that our chance of overcoming this deficit might have been greater if season starter Aaron Syverson was the play caller.
Yet under Chris, the offense kept driving up the middle throughout the game, slowly gaining more yards per carry as they tired the Bethel D-line. Chris played a big part in the success of the rushing game, running for over 100 yards and getting pounded repeatedly for his efforts.
Perhaps the most amazing (and exasperating) series of downs was at the end of the game, as the Johnnies got the ball to the three yard line with no time outs remaining. There were less than 10 seconds left and the Johnnies calmly - and way too slow for my liking - strolled to their positions as the clock ticked down to single digits. I'm yelling at my computer screen to please hike the damn ball. Chris drops back and throws a perfectly aimed pass to Alex Johnson in the end zone with one second left. Please pass the blood pressure pills.
Lightly tested by lop-sided victories, there is no doubt Chris Backes has become an even more confident leader who has the ability to take this team into the tough playoff schedule. Congratulations, Chris. You deserve the laurels coming your way. — Todd
PS — I received this text after the game from our neighbor and former Bethel president Jay Barnes: "Congratulations again. We were in New Jersey listening to the bitter end. One second and a 6'7" receiver make all the difference."
(Editor’s Note: Here’s a great story about Chris, his father Bryan Backes, and the Bethel game: https://gojohnnies.com/news/2021/11/18/football-st-cloud-orthopedics-feature-thrilling-comeback-was-true-father-son-moment-for-chris-and-bryan-backes.aspx )
* * * *
From John Diffley ’64, Stewartville, MN —
Bob, the win yesterday made my weekend. I was watching the game via Bethel’s video system and the Bethel announcer was near to being awestruck to the degree that it was almost as though he couldn’t believe what was unfolding before his eyes. I’m sure the Royals, both on the field and in the stands, were wondering how they got deserted by John 5:14 in their moment of need when a simple “Hail Mary, full of Grace - put the Royals….[in second place]” did the job. Thanks again. — John
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From Vic Murphy ’92, St. Paul, MN —
I was trying to watch from a tailgate party at Kinnick (U of Iowa Stadium)…horrible phone service. During a third quarter bathroom break I got a text from Tim Ward ’78 saying that we had tied it up with 1 second to go. Then i had to suffer watching PJ Fleck’s horrible offense.
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From Dave Steil ’64, Bristol, PA, —
Wow, what an amazing close to the game yesterday. Will be eager to read the UUN this week to hear why it was so close. Even my friend from St. Norbert’s was impressed. I noticed in the last UUN that Bob Costa will be at the Polidazzle Social in Minneapolis. Bob is a personal friend of mine, who graduated from a local high school and was an Intern in my Legislative Office one summer. He is an enormously talented young man. Let me know your impressions. — Dave
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From Harry Acker, Honorary Johnnie, Virginia Beach, VA —
Wow, what a comeback victory! Good luck in the playoffs. Hope all is well with you and yours. All OK here. Beginning to get ready for the Holidays. Grandkids are growing up way too fast. Happy Thanksgiving. —“Roadblock"
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From Bill Marrin SJP ’61/SJU ’65, Dallas, TX —
The Royal Rout morphed into a Johnnie Jolt. The Royals deserve to be PO-ed!
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From Nellie Klein ’60, St. Cloud, MN —
DAMMIT..... we are sooooooo good!! Awesome end to this “two halves” football game…yeah! (I think I did break the record for “dammit’s“ for this game.) — Nell
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From Bob Christensen ’62, Minneapolis, MN —
Hi Wick, After a rough start I guess the Johnnies played “Johnnie smart” enough, with a never say die attitude to pull off a literally last second win today! Truly amazing! Looking forward to the playoffs, hopefully we didn’t suffer any serious injuries today. It was fun watching the game with you and Ziggy today. See you up on Krauthill next Saturday! — Bob
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From Frank Ziegler ’62, Lino Lakes, MN —
Wick, Watching Chris Backes hold the Johnnies together today made me think about a kid from Minnetonka named Ryan Keating ’03. Wasn't Ryan a backup QB that stepped in after No.1 went down??
PAYBACK????? Ironically Bethel's hockey team beat SJU last Wednesday evening in the LAST SECOND of overtime after the Jays dominated the majority of the game. — Ziggy
(Editor’s Comment: Irony is lovely, especially when it’s in front of 6,000 fans, more than half of whom figured the Royals had it locked—and were quite boisterous about it…until they weren’t.)
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From Bill Cahoy ‘74, Cold Spring, MN —
That was quite a game on Saturday. I was in Omaha for a Theology Day so didn't get to listen to it. But saw the last play on YouTube. Amazing! The charming Cobber [Bill’s wife Jennifer] nailed it when we were talking about it: They've been in these situations so many times; they just don't give up. Let's hope that translates to life off the field as well. A steady confidence (not cockiness), that shows in actions. Now to the playoffs. I hope they have a good run. I hope you and Chris have a wonderful Thanksgiving. — Bill
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Battle Between the Sexes, Unspoken Communications —
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UUN’s Handy Guide to Understanding Technology,
A Continuing Series —
Regarding SmartPhone use, it helps if you imagine auto correct as a tiny little elf in your phone who’s trying so hard to be helpful but is, in fact, quite drunk.
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THE FINAL WORD —
Two SJU Alums Get Together
(Compliments of Denny Bracco ’75, Oak Park, IL)
Two St. John’s roommates graduated in 1961, but one moves to New York after college and the other to Washington. They agree to meet every ten years in Florida to play golf and catch up with each other.
At age 32 they meet, finish their round of golf, and head for lunch. "Where you wanna go?" one asked the other.
“How about Hooters."
"Why Hooters?"
"They have those servers with the big boobs, the tight shorts, and the gorgeous legs." "You're on."
At age 42, they meet and play golf again. ”Where you wanna go for lunch?"
"Hooters."
"Again? Why?"
"They have a cold beer, big-screen TVs, and side action on the games."
"OK."
At age 52 they meet and play again. ”So where you wanna go for lunch?"
"Hooters"
"Why?"
"The food is pretty good and there's plenty of parking."
"OK."
At age 62 they meet again. After a round of golf, one says, "Where you wanna go?"
"Hooters."
"Why?"
"Wings are half price and the food isn't too spicy."
"Good choice"
At age 72 they meet again. Once again, after a round of golf, one says, "Where shall we go for lunch?"
"Hooters."
"Why?"
"They have six accessible parking spaces right by the door and they have senior discounts."
"Great choice."
At age 82 they meet and play again. "Where should we go for lunch?"
"Hooters."
"Why?"
"Because we've never been there before."
“Okay, let’s give it a try."
(Editor’s Note: Any resemblance between the characters in this fable and ’61 graduates Mike Murphy and Hank Gallagher is strictly coincidental.)
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Goodbye for now…Our team will need all our voices yelling in unison, even if you don’t make it up to the game:
GO JOHNNIES ! !
(Axe the Foresters…or something like that.)
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Submitted before Round One of the NCAA D-III playoffs.
R.L. Wicker SJP ’60/SJU ’64, St. Paul, MN
651-699-4697
theowick@aol.com
https://www.unofficialundergroundnews.com