JOLIET, Ill. -- This Saturday afternoon, the University of Saint Francis (Ind.) Football team traveled to Joliet, Illinois to take on St. Francis University (Ill.) at Joliet Memorial Stadium. An unfortunate slow start in the first half would eventually lead to the Cougar's second loss of the season and first-ever loss to the Fighting Saints since their inaugural game in 2013, with a final score of 0-17.

Even though the season opener for the Cougars left them with a few injured players, they could still hold their own on the defensive side against the Fighting Saints. Leading the team in total tackles was senior linebacker Nate Talhelm, with an overall total of 6 solo tackles and 6 assisted tackles. Talhelm also recorded one interception that gave the Cougars a 12-yard advantage. However, the Fighting Saints took over with a field goal right before halftime, making the score 0-3. 

Unfortunately, the Cougars were unable to create a change in pace and would end the game with a 0-17 loss, but not without a few notable players. Sophomore quarterback Garret Yoon ended the game with a total of 75-passing yards and Freshman quarterback, Bohde Dickerson tallied 45-rushing yards.

USF is now 0-2 overall and will not compete again until Saturday, September 23rd. The Cougars will travel Davenport, Iowa to Brady Street Stadium to compete against the St. Ambrose University Fighting Bees (0-2) with a 2pm EDT kick-off time. 

Cougar fans stay updated with all events and recaps with USF Athletics by visiting saintfranciscougars.com or by downloading the Saint Francis Cougars app.

-Gwen Jakway-