ELMHURST, Ill. (Duhawks.com) - Playing with the intent to prove that 2016 was not indicative of Loras College Football, the Duhawks set out on a mission on Saturday and left little doubt, handing Elmhurst a 41-9 setback on the road. Senior Ike Cloward rushed for 86 yards and three touchdowns while the defense held Elmhurst to three third down conversions and forced four turnovers.

INTERVIEWS



MOMENTS THAT MATTERED
- After forcing a three-and-out on the first Elmhurst drive of the game, Loras marched down the field and capped a 10-play, 61-yard drive with a rushing touchdown by senior Cody Mighell from three yards out.
- The Duhawks forced two interceptions in the second quarter and quickly turned the turnovers into six points to take a 24-3 lead.
- On the opening drive of the second half, Loras started at its own 29-yard line and capitalized on a costly holding penalty by the Bluejays, which resulted in senior Ike Cloward's 42-yard touchdown run two plays later.
 
NOTABLES
- Saturday was Loras' largest margin of victory on Opening Day since Sept. 3, 2005 (W, 48-3)
- The Duhawks did not commit a turnover on Saturday for the first time since Oct. 25, 2014 in a 27-24 win over Simpson
- Loras converted on all six of its red zone chances on Saturday while limiting Elmhurst to one field goal in two trips
- In the first half, the Duhawks' average starting field position was the Elmhurst 43-yard line
- Loras' defense finished with 10 tackles for loss and four sacks while adding two forced fumbles and two interceptions
 
FRIEDMAN GROUP PLAYER OF THE GAME – IKE CLOWARD
The senior tailback made the most of his 17 carries, motoring into the end zone on three occasions while averaging 5.1 yards per carry.
 
UP NEXT
Loras returns to the Key City for its home opener against Aurora. The Spartans dropped their home opener to Carthage on Saturday, 24-0. Kickoff from Bierie Field inside the Rock Bowl is set for 1 p.m.