SALEM, Ore. --- The George Fox football team finished the season on a high note Saturday evening, capping off the season finale against the Bearcats of Willamette University with a 21-7 victory.

Recap:
The game started in favor of the Bearcats, who used a 12-play opening drive to draw first blood. After going 56 yards downfield, Bearcats' Jimmy Sharpe completed the drive with a 1-yard touchdown. The Bruins were quick to answer, scoring on their first possession. Grant Schroeder led the way for the Bruins, finding Trevor Daniels on the seventh play for a 5-yard touchdown pass. The quarter ended with both teams tied at 7-7.

The Bearcats were unable to get anything going in the second quarter, as the Bruins' defense showed just how good they are. With the defense keeping the Bearcats off the board, Schroeder was able to work his magic late in the first half. With the clock winding down, Schroeder scrambled into the end zone for the go-ahead touchdown.

The Bruins went into the half with the lead, 14-7.

The third quarter was a standstill until Austin Taylor sparked some momentum for the Bruins with an interception at the 3:54 mark. Schroeder used his feet again, rushing for a 35-yard touchdown to put the Bruins up by 14, 21-7.

The rest of the game was all Bruins, as they held the Bearcats to just seven points.

Top Performers:
The defense was spectacular all game, recording a program-best four interceptions in a single game. Ryan Russo, Taylor, Charles Riga and Caylen Clardy all recorded one interception in the game. Riga also led the Bruins' defense with a new program record 19 total tackles. He passes Jesse Bresser, who set the record in 2015 against Willamette with 16. Schroeder led the offense with three total touchdowns on the day, throwing for 103 yards and rushing for 118.

What It Means:
The win gives the Bruins their first winning season since 1960. They finish the 2016 season at 5-4 and 5-2 in the Northwest Conference. With the 5-2 record in the NWC, the Bruins record their highest finish in conference at third. 

What Comes Next:
The Bruins will enjoy some much deserved rest before they get ready for the 2017 season. Stay tuned for ticket announcements.