By: Riley Bushnell & Sarah Reid
NEWBERG, Ore. --- The George Fox Bruins (3-6) head into the last game of the season having already surpassed their marks from last season earning three wins and keeping the score close until the final whistle in nearly every game. As they prepare to face the Willamette Bearcats (2-6) this weekend, the Bruins are keenly aware they have one conference win – similar to last season – and are determined to best that mark.
Willamette is just above George Fox in the conference standings, with their only wins coming in a narrow 10-9 victory over Pacific Lutheran and a sizeable defeat of Lewis & Clark. A win by George Fox would not only yield two in-conference wins but would allow the Bruins to climb the ladder to sixth place in the Northwest Conference, which would be an improvement from last year.
Unlike the many pass-heavy offenses the Bruins have faced this season, Willamette tends to gain as many yards on the ground as they do through the air. Their run packages are the most effective tool in their toolbox; it's not uncommon for Willamette to do a reversal or double reversal in their backfield featuring a wide receiver, or even a jet sweep. Bearcat Quarterback Trent Spallas is second in the conference for rushing yards per game, so he too is a threat to tuck the ball and run. That's good news for the Bruins, whose rush defense has been strong this season.
Willamette run defense allows 140 yards per game, which is more yards than George Fox averages (133). This bodes well for the leading rusher in the Northwest Conference, John Shaffer, who looks to cap off his collegiate career with a huge performance on Saturday.
Grant Schroeder must be accurate with his throws considering Willamette's pass defense is second to only Linfield's in the conference. They're also tied for third in sacks, so protecting the passer will be imperative for the George Fox offensive line. Offensive tackles Nolan Schuler and Nathan Corliss must prevent the Willamette defense from collapsing the pocket.
Both teams will be hungry to end the season on a positive note. For George Fox, ending a four game losing streak and capping the season with a fourth win would be the ultimate prize for a team that's been on the verge of breaking through all season.
The Bruins host the Bearcats for the 2015 season finale on Saturday at 1:30 PM at Stoffer Family Stadium.
Additional Information
Tickets
General admission tickets in the uncovered bleachers are $10 for adults, $5 for seniors (65+) and kids age 10-18, and free for kids under 10 with an adult. Group prices are available to fans who purchase 10 or more general admission tickets to a game. George Fox staff and students are eligible to receive one complimentary ticket per home game with a valid student/staff ID. To purchase tickets online, click here.
Tailgating
Tailgating will take place from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and will be located in the Bauman parking lot (behind Stoffer Family Stadium). Come join other George Fox alumni and Bruin fans at a fun tailgate party. Bring your own tailgate treats or purchase from our on-site vendors.
Live Stream/Stats
George Fox offers a live stream that comes with stats at no cost. To watch the game, click on the following link: Video - Live Stats
Map
To view the map of Stoffer Family Stadium, click here.
Senior Day
The Bruins will honor the following eight seniors before the game starts.
John Shaffer
Lawrence Potts
Lenana Meekisho
Matt Miller
Ryan Hess
Jesse Bresser
Mark Sanchez
Tony Long
