The Championship Journey Begins: John Carroll vs. UW-Whitewater's Season Opener
In the world of Division III football, few matchups could generate as much buzz as the one we're about to witness in Week 1. The #19 John Carroll Blue Streaks will host the #11 University of Wisconsin-Whitewater Warhawks at Don Shula Stadium on September 2nd at 1:30.. This isn't just a game; it's a statement for both programs, each under new leadership and each with something to prove.
The Warhawks are no strangers to the limelight, boasting six national championships in DIII, the last one coming in 2014. On the other side, John Carroll had an impressive 8-2 run last season and preseason coach polls have them finishing #2 in the OAC. The Warhawks finished 8-3 but were ousted in the first round of the playoffs. The last time these two teams met was in 2016, a historic win for John Carroll, who defeated the top-ranked Warhawks 31-14, propelling them to the National Semifinals for only the second time in their history.
Both teams will be under new head coaches for this game. Jace Rindahl, who was an assistant coach for Whitewater in the 2016 game, has replaced Kevin Bullis. Jeff Behrman was hired by John Carroll in the offseason, replacing Rick Finotti and interim coach Drew Nystrom. "The transition is exactly what you expect—ups and downs, but so many new ideas that are making this team better," says Jahiem Peake, John Carroll's senior outside linebacker. "The future is bright under Coach Behrman."
The Players to Watch
John Carroll's QB Joe Collins, a second-year starter, finished last season with an impressive 2,286 yards passing, 26 touchdowns, and only five interceptions. Running back Evan McVay, a junior, rushed for 677 yards and seven touchdowns last season. He also caught four touchdown passes and was named to the 2023 Lindy's Sports Preseason All-American Second Team.
Anchoring the line is junior center Matt Wrather. A key figure in both the running and passing game, Wrather has received numerous accolades, including 2022 All OAC First Team and 2023 Lindy's Sports Preseason All-American Second Team. His academic achievements are equally impressive, making him a well-rounded asset to the team.
On the defensive side, Jahiem Peake is a man on a mission. "I want to be the best defensive player in Division 3 football," he says. "But even more than my personal accolades, I want a national championship. This team has the capabilities and the leadership to make it to the most important game of the year." In 2022 Peake recorded 45 tackles, 11.5 TFL and 7 sacks.
John Carroll vs. Wis.-Whitewater By the Numbers (2022 Stat Comparison)
The Scoring Machines
John Carroll, with an average of 38 points per game last season, knows how to light up the scoreboard. The Warhawks, who posted a respectable but lower 28.82 points per game. If you're a fan of offensive fireworks, keep your eyes on the Blue Streaks.
The Battle for Territory
When it comes to first downs, the Warhawks have a slight edge with 226 total, compared to John Carroll's 211. This could be crucial in a game where every inch of turf will be hotly contested.
Ground and Pound
Both teams have proven they can move the chains on the ground, but the Warhawks have the upper hand with 2166 rushing yards last season, just edging out John Carroll's 1972 yards. Expect a gritty battle in the trenches.
The Aerial Assault
John Carroll's QB Joe Collins, a second-year starter, threw for 2286 yards last season, averaging an impressive 8.64 yards per attempt. While the Warhawks had more total passing yards, the Blue Streaks' efficiency could be a game-changer.
The Clock Masters
Wis.-Whitewater holds the advantage in time of possession, averaging 32:43 per game. In a game that could come down to the final minutes, controlling the clock will be paramount.
The Final Word
"When you can do the little things correctly when you're tired, you'll be the more successful team at the end of the day," Peake adds. "So headed into the season, we just need to stay disciplined and focused, no matter the team on the other side."
This isn't just a game; it's a litmus test for two programs with high aspirations. The stage is set, the players are ready, and the fans are eager. The road to the national championship begins here, and neither team would have it any other way.