The rain poured on September 2, 2021 for the Wayne State Wildcats matchup against the University of Mary Marauders, but the Wildcats survived the storm as they won their game 34-27.
From the get-go, Wayne State controlled the game and the clock, having a 10 play, 64 yard drive to open the scoring. The Wildcats took an early lead, thanks to sophomore Tavian Willis’ throwing ability, 17-0 at the end of the first half.
After scoring immediately at the start of the second half, thanks to another touchdown throw by Willis to senior wide-receiver Trystan Ducker, the Marauders from University of Mary got on the scoreboard on a 47 yard throw by quarterback Logan Nelson to make the score 24-7 in the third quarter.
After another field goal made by Alex Powders and senior running-back Anthony Watkins rushing touchdown, the Wildcats led 34-14 late in the fourth quarter.
But as the rain came down, the pass defense for the Wildcats got lost in the storm. University of Mary scored twice in the final three minutes of play, letting University of Mary within 7 points.
Only allowing 4 yards rushing for 60 minutes of play gives reason to celebrate on the defensive side of the football. Giving up almost 400 yards passing gives the secondary something to work on for next week.
Tavian Willis threw for 268 yards and 3 TDs, with 7 different receivers getting receptions throughout the game. The Taurean Grady and Tavian Willis connection was strong as ever, with the wide receiver catching 5 passes for 60 yards and 1 TD.
The Wildcats take on Bemidji State next week on Saturday in Minnesota at 2 p.m.