The Grand Valley State University football team went on the road to Roosevelt University in a battle of the Lakers. GVSU controlled most of the game, and was able to stop a late push by Roosevelt. They ended up securing the win in their regular season finale, 34-21. 

The first two drives from each team were unsuccessful, resulting in punts. After GVSU was able to cross midfield, they pinned Roosevelt back with a deep punt. Roosevelt started on their own five-yard line, but was still forcing the ball downfield.

This didn’t bode well for Roosevelt, as sophomore Jason Hardy was able to pick off the Roosevelt quarterback on the 38-yard line. GVSU’s offense took over in enemy territory and didn’t waste the opportunity.

GVSU ran the ball seven straight times, switching between quarterback Avery Moore and running back Khalil Eichelberger. They were finally able to complete a touchdown with Eichelberger, and go up 7-0 after the turnover. This would be the one and only score of the first quarter. 

However, as the first quarter ended, GVSU put together a fantastic drive. When the second quarter opened up, they were at Roosevelt’s three-yard line and within scoring range. 

Roosevelt was able to force a field goal attempt, but on the snap, they picked up a personal foul, which gave GVSU an automatic first down. GVSU capitalized on their bonus chance to score. On third down, Moore was able to find senior Kyle Nott for a touchdown. 

GVSU continued to shut down any scoring attempts from Roosevelt. After forcing yet another punt from Roosevelt, GVSU added another field goal, making the game 17-0. The scoreboard was entirely GVSU so far, but Roosevelt was still pushing forward.

Just before halftime, GVSU brought in backup quarterback Vinnie Meschi. It is unknown exactly why Moore left the game, but he had previously dealt with several injuries throughout the season.

At this point, Roosevelt forced their first turnover of the game on a fumble recovery. The takeaway happened at GVSU’s 35-yard line. With such a good starting position, Roosevelt was able to score with just seconds remaining before the half. There was new life for Roosevelt, but they still trailed 17-7 to GVSU at halftime. 

Out of the half, GVSU’s defense came out flying. Roosevelt was forced to go backwards after a penalty, and could never gain their yardage back. 

GVSU once again forced a punt deep into Roosevelt territory, and started their drive at midfield. Another quarterback change was made– Ike Udengwu was given command of offense. 

On his first drive, Udengwu completed a 35-yard throw to redshirt freshman Jaylen Johnson, which left GVSU at the one-yard line. Udengwu was not done making an impact yet. He dropped back and found the six-foot-two-inch Harrison Unger for the touchdown pass. This extended the team’s lead to 17 points.

“Whenever your number gets called, just go out there and make a play,” said Udengwu.

Roosevelt was able to answer with a drive of their own, but GVSU’s defense held strong again. Roosevelt was forced to turn over after a failed fourth down attempt. GVSU was able to gain three more points after a field goal, and went up 27-7 going into the final frame of the game. It was clear at this point, GVSU owned the third quarter. 

Roosevelt’s chances were slim, as they needed 20 unanswered points against a GVSU defense that had controlled the game. The final nail in the coffin came from junior defensive tackle Thomas Jolly in what was arguably the most exciting play of the game. Jolly was able to catch an interception and sprint for a 55-yard return to earn GVSU their final touchdown of the game. The score was now 34-7 and Roosevelt’s chances of catching up were extremely low.

While Roosevelt was able to get a few more points on the scoreboard, it was no match for the lead that GVSU had already created for themselves. GVSU escaped with a solid 34-21 victory, ending their season with a 10-1 record. 

“I thought our defense played a great game,” said senior Grant Hart. “(We) executed the game plan at a fast level.”

Up next for GVSU is the playoffs, where they will try to win their fifth national championship. Udengwu noted that going into the playoffs provides a clean slate for the team, and that they’re ready to start playing again.

“It’s a new season, everyone 0-0,” said Udengwu, “We got our heads down.”