Actually, it was different by day and by night.
The Little Giants lost their first-ever North Coast Athletic Conference game 41-10 to Wittenberg University on Saturday (9/23). The biggest stat of the game, however, was the difference between the play of the Little Giants at Byron P. Hollett Little Giant Stadium and their play at the Athenian Complex at Crawfordsville High School.
Yes, Crawfordsville High School.
With Wabash driving in an attempt to put its second score of the day on the scoreboard in a game that was tied 7-7, the officials stopped play after seeing lightning strike nearby. Play was halted with 6:58 remaining in the second period as both teams headed for their lockerrooms and game officials, coaches, and Wabash officials met to determine the next course of action.
With a delay of an hour already in place, the decision was made to move the game to Crawfordsville High School to take advantage of their lighted field. After transporting both teams to the new site of competition, Wabash resumed its drive, but could not move the football.
Wittenberg had no problems on offense at the Complex, outscoring Wabash 34-3 at CHS.
The three Wabash points came from the foot of junior kicker Todd Bower (Indianapolis, IN/Speedway), who kicked a career-long 46-yard field goal in the third quarter.
The Little Giants had amassed 138 yards of offense through the first 23 minutes of the game, but finished with only 173 yards of total offense in the game.
Quarterback Jake Knott (Lafayette, IN/Jefferson) moved to eighth place on the career passing chart at Wabash. The sophomore finished 18-34-1 for 136 yards and one TD. Sophomore receiver Ryan Short (Indianapolis, IN/Perry Meridian) made his fifth touchdown reception of the season.
The Little Giant defense became the first team in seven games to hold two-time NCAC Player of the Year Casey Donaldson to under 100 yards rushing. Donaldson had 22 carries for 84 yards and one five-yard TD.
Wabash will regroup and prepare for Oberlin on Saturday. The Yeomen travel to Wabash as part of the annual Homecoming festivities on campus. Kickoff is scheduled for 2 p.m. at Byron P. Hollett Little Giant Stadium.