By Adekale Ande, Campus Carrier Asst. Sports Editor
The Vikings offense exploded as they defeated the LaGrange College Panthers in a shootout 52 to 37. This marks the highest scoring output in the programs short history.
Junior running back Austin Lowe led Berry’s offense. He rushed 27 times for 169 yards, breaking his own personal record for most rushing yards in a single game, which he set last year. Berry used the “ground and pound” method and ran the ball 55 times for 302 yards.
This is the first time in Berry’s program that they have started off the season 2-0.
“We as a program feel very happy about where we’ve come from,” Head Coach Tony Kunczewski said. “The guys who’ve stuck with it for the past three years deserve the credit.”
This will be the first graduating senior class in Berry’s football program’s history who have gone through all four years. Kunczewski knows that when they put up their pads for the last time in November, he will be leaving the seniors with something more than football.
“The beauty of sports, especially football, is it teaches you to never give up,” Kunczewski said. “It’s a life lesson, and I hope they stick with it for the rest of their lives.”
This victory was crucial to many players on the team because of the significance of LaGrange College.Coach Kunczewski was the defensive coordinator and head strength and conditioning coach at LaGrange College for seven years. At LaGrange, he led them to a 9-2 overall record in 2008 and 18th national ranked defense.
Including last season, Berry is 9-3 in their last 12 games. Berry’s defense had been carrying the majority of the load, but the offense has produced more yards and capitalized on scoring opportunities as of late. Senior Chris Lilly set the record with three touchdown receptions against LaGrange.
“We believe it’s a very bright future, and it starts at the top with the administration,” Kunczweski said. “The game day atmosphere is second to none.”
Berry’s next game is on the road against conference rival Rhodes College Lynx on Saturday. Their next home game will be against the Sewanee Tigers on Sept. 24. A team that the Vikings beat last year 14-3.
This next home match-up will be a Pack The House event. The first 20 students who arrive with their student ID will get a free t-shirt. Don’t forget to pick up your ticket from the Krannert info desk.