FB: College Conference of Illinois and Wisconsin

[USee]

Playoff games are won and lost primarily at the Line of scrimmage. If it's equal there then skill players  can turn the tide. Finally it comes down to execution. For the third time in 3 years Wheaton lost a playoff game by the thinnest of margins.  They won the LoS on offense, clearly lost it on defense and the Bethel skill guys made a couple more plays thane Wheaton.  In terms of execution, Wheaton missed its first PAT ( the third huge game where a PAT cost a chance at victory—STJ 2019, Trinity 22, yesterday) and didn't execute on what could have been a game changing insides kick. Two turnovers cost the Thunder 10 more pts. 

Congrats to Bethel who earned the win with a physical running game and 3 critical pass receptions. Niewalds one handed 4th down catch was incredible but that's what great players do.  The Roste/Kidder connection for the final TD was just as clutch.  I'm bummed Wheaton lost their best cover corner for the game during the first series as he would likely have been involved in one or both of those plays. Bethel should run the freshman kid a lot more than they do. He is good. And Bethel ran for 209 yds while down one of their best OL, starting Senior at right guard.

Big test next week as Linfield has a senior defensive front that will provide a big challenge.

Overall a great game by two storied programs. The Thunder were a lot of fun to watch this year and Jesse Scott and his staff did a great job getting this inexperienced group to play at a high level all year.

I know some of the critical pieces have eligibility left and I hope we haven't seen the last of some of these guys. Depending on who returns, the Thunder should be even better next year.

[USee]

While I am at it I have  to say I am not a big fan of going for 2 early in a game after a missed extra point. I know what the chart says but the first half of a game is really early to be trying to make up those points. One- because you use one of your two point plays that you might need later and two- because you don't know what will play out (such as the other team also missing an extra point!!).  Stay on schedule with subsequent TDs and extra points and make the decision in the 2nd half based on the game. As it played out Wheaton went for two on the 2nd TD and missed it. Bethel missed an extra point and the. Wheaton had to go for two at the end again for the tie when if they had just stayed on schedule an extra point ties it at the end.

[USee]

Wheaton HC Jesse Scott's post game presser:

https://youtu.be/M_EO5QgBubI

Jesse really captures what Wheaton is all about as well as summing up the game with great class. Proud to him leading the program and for all these young men have accomplished.

[GoPerry]

While I am at it I have  to say I am not a big fan of going for 2 early in a game after a missed extra point. I know what the chart says but the first half of a game is really early to be trying to make up those points. One- because you use one of your two point plays that you might need later and two- because you don't know what will play out (such as the other team also missing an extra point!!).  Stay on schedule with subsequent TDs and extra points and make the decision in the 2nd half based on the game. As it played out Wheaton went for two on the 2nd TD and missed it. Bethel missed an extra point and the. Wheaton had to go for two at the end again for the tie when if they had just stayed on schedule an extra point ties it at the end.

What you say makes a lot of sense.  As a fan, more than a coach, I thought the going for two made sense at the time but it was coming more from frustration.  The FG/PAT game was suspect all season - putting it nicely.  Missing so many all season is fine when you're winning by 30+.  But the feeling it could bite us come playoff time had to be on the mind of Scott and the coaching staff. 

After missing that first one ( again? you kidding me??)  and then having to try another one, again into the wind, I thought going for the two was okay.  And yes, I immediately thought of St John's '19 and the scars.

You're reasoning however makes more sense.  Thanks.

[hazzben]

Bethel should run the freshman kid a lot more than they do. He is good. And Bethel ran for 209 yds while down one of their best OL, starting Senior at right guard.

Totally agree USee. My brother (another BU fb alum) and I have been saying all year we need to play Geebli more. He's just as physical as Kunkle, but much more elusive and explosive. He scares a D in ways Kunkle doesn't. If the latter wasn't a Sr I think they'd have made the switch long ago.

[GoldandBlueBU]

Bethel should run the freshman kid a lot more than they do. He is good. And Bethel ran for 209 yds while down one of their best OL, starting Senior at right guard.

Totally agree USee. My brother (another BU fb alum) and I have been saying all year we need to play Geebli more. He's just as physical as Kunkle, but much more elusive and explosive. He scares a D in ways Kunkle doesn't. If the latter wasn't a Sr I think they'd have made the switch long ago.

Yeah, I love Kunkle- runs super hard, very good ball security, doesn't lose yardage, and if it's 3rd and short, he's your guy, but Geebli is emerging as the more dynamic option.

[New Tradition]

NCC crew is top notch as well.

Hey, thanks!

*1/2 of the NCC crew

Fully acknowledge that Kevin and now Alex carry those broadcasts 

[kiko]

Sure, but do they namecheck My Sharona when referencing Aurora's conference?  I think not!

[New Tradition]

Sure, but do they namecheck My Sharona when referencing Aurora's conference?  I think not!

Hahahahahaha I usually make those stupid jokes for myself. I'm glad someone else appreciated it.

[Pat Coleman]

Sure, but do they namecheck My Sharona when referencing Aurora's conference?  I think not!

Hahahahahaha I usually make those stupid jokes for myself. I'm glad someone else appreciated it.

Glad to know the podcast is rubbing off on people!

[Thunderdome21]

As a Wheaton football parent whose son (MLB Jalen Shaffer) just played his last football game, I am full of a range of emotions.  While I'm sad that I won't see my son playing on Saturdays for the first time in 16 years, I am overjoyed and proud of the life-long lessons and the character that was developed under the tutelage of some of the best coaches in the nation. 

For the first 4 years of his college football career, he spent most of his time on the bench or on special teams, learning from his coaches and the 2 standout LBs who were in front of him on the depth chart at their respected positions...MLB all American Ryan Schwartz and OLB all-Region Wyatt Lee.  Jalen never complained about not getting enough playing time but rather concentrated on how he could support and encourage his teammates and become the best special teams player he could be, which last year culminated in Jalen blocking a NCAA-leading 6 punts.  After last year's season, Jalen took a month to pray, and talk to his coaches, teammates and his family on whether he would come back to play for his 5th year.  On the surface, it may seem like a slam dunk, no-brainer decision for him to play, but it wasn't. Jalen loves football but doesn't need football. It's not the main thing that defines who he is. None of his 8 roommates from last year were returning and the 9 months of grinding preparation for the season (daily lifts, sprints, spring and fall practices, etc...) and especially the season itself takes a toll on the body.

He came back this last year for a variety of reasons, but mainly for his teammates. He knew Wheaton losing 10 starters on the defense from last year would need as much experience as they could to keep Wheaton playing at a high, playoff level from a defensive standpoint. He also knew he'd be switched back to MLB for his leadership, even though his body and his skillset and strengths (lateral speed, pass coverage, etc)  are a little bit better suited at the Will.   He also came back to play with his cousin, Giovanni Weeks for one more year. The two have grown up together, constantly playing with and competing against each other since they were in diapers.

He made what I believe was the right choice for him and this year I saw the fruit of his hard work, dedication, and him embracing the ever-important concept of delayed gratification.  On Saturday, he played what possibly was his best all-around game this year (including 12 tackles) and left it all on the field with no regrets (except that they couldn't squeak out a win)  I also want to give a shout out to the several coaches that have mentored him including Wheaton's defensive Coordinator CJ Nightingale, his LB coach Mark Jackson, special teams coach Mikey Swider, and defensive assistant Wyatt Lee (the OLB that Jalen backed up last year). Their investment in my son has reinforced everything that we've attempted to teach in order for him to become the virtuous man that he is today.   

Since I am also Giovanni Week's uncle,  Gio has gone public and told several people already that he's planning on coming back to play next year for Wheaton. I believe 3 of the 4 4th year seniors O-line are coming back too.  It wouldn't surprise me if about half of the Defense who have eligibility comes back as well, although I am not free to say who that is right now.   

By the way, Gio played his last 3 games with a separated shoulder.     

[CardinalAlum]

As a Wheaton football parent whose son (MLB Jalen Shaffer) just played his last football game, I am full of a range of emotions.  While I'm sad that I won't see my son playing on Saturdays for the first time in 16 years, I am overjoyed and proud of the life-long lessons and the character that was developed under the tutelage of some of the best coaches in the nation. 

For the first 4 years of his college football career, he spent most of his time on the bench or on special teams, learning from his coaches and the 2 standout LBs who were in front of him on the depth chart at their respected positions...MLB all American Ryan Schwartz and OLB all-Region Wyatt Lee.  Jalen never complained about not getting enough playing time but rather concentrated on how he could support and encourage his teammates and become the best special teams player he could be, which last year culminated in Jalen blocking a NCAA-leading 6 punts.  After last year's season, Jalen took a month to pray, and talk to his coaches, teammates and his family on whether he would come back to play for his 5th year.  On the surface, it may seem like a slam dunk, no-brainer decision for him to play, but it wasn't. Jalen loves football but doesn't need football. It's not the main thing that defines who he is. None of his 8 roommates from last year were returning and the 9 months of grinding preparation for the season (daily lifts, sprints, spring and fall practices, etc...) and especially the season itself takes a toll on the body.

He came back this last year for a variety of reasons, but mainly for his teammates. He knew Wheaton losing 10 starters on the defense from last year would need as much experience as they could to keep Wheaton playing at a high, playoff level from a defensive standpoint. He also knew he'd be switched back to MLB for his leadership, even though his body and his skillset and strengths (lateral speed, pass coverage, etc)  are a little bit better suited at the Will.   He also came back to play with his cousin, Giovanni Weeks for one more year. The two have grown up together, constantly playing with and competing against each other since they were in diapers.

He made what I believe was the right choice for him and this year I saw the fruit of his hard work, dedication, and him embracing the ever-important concept of delayed gratification.  On Saturday, he played what possibly was his best all-around game this year (including 12 tackles) and left it all on the field with no regrets (except that they couldn't squeak out a win)  I also want to give a shout out to the several coaches that have mentored him including Wheaton's defensive Coordinator CJ Nightingale, his LB coach Mark Jackson, special teams coach Mikey Swider, and defensive assistant Wyatt Lee (the OLB that Jalen backed up last year). Their investment in my son has reinforced everything that we've attempted to teach in order for him to become the virtuous man that he is today.   

Since I am also Giovanni Week's uncle,  Gio has gone public and told several people already that he's planning on coming back to play next year for Wheaton. I believe 3 of the 4 4th year seniors O-line are coming back too.  It wouldn't surprise me if about half of the Defense who have eligibility comes back as well, although I am not free to say who that is right now.   

By the way, Gio played his last 3 games with a separated shoulder.   

Congratulations to your son on his career and taking advantage of the extra year! 

[hazzben]

As a Wheaton football parent whose son (MLB Jalen Shaffer) just played his last football game, I am full of a range of emotions.  While I'm sad that I won't see my son playing on Saturdays for the first time in 16 years, I am overjoyed and proud of the life-long lessons and the character that was developed under the tutelage of some of the best coaches in the nation. 

One of the toughest parts of football is that for 99.99% of college players, when that last game ends, they will never put on pads again. It's what makes the final game so gutting, but especially in the playoffs, where there is hope going in that there will still be one more week. It's such a tough thing, but also what makes football and the D3 playoffs so special. Best of luck to your son.

[GoPerry]

As a Wheaton football parent whose son (MLB Jalen Shaffer) just played his last football game, I am full of a range of emotions.  While I'm sad that I won't see my son playing on Saturdays for the first time in 16 years, I am overjoyed and proud of the life-long lessons and the character that was developed under the tutelage of some of the best coaches in the nation. 

For the first 4 years of his college football career, he spent most of his time on the bench or on special teams, learning from his coaches and the 2 standout LBs who were in front of him on the depth chart at their respected positions...MLB all American Ryan Schwartz and OLB all-Region Wyatt Lee.  Jalen never complained about not getting enough playing time but rather concentrated on how he could support and encourage his teammates and become the best special teams player he could be, which last year culminated in Jalen blocking a NCAA-leading 6 punts.  After last year's season, Jalen took a month to pray, and talk to his coaches, teammates and his family on whether he would come back to play for his 5th year.  On the surface, it may seem like a slam dunk, no-brainer decision for him to play, but it wasn't. Jalen loves football but doesn't need football. It's not the main thing that defines who he is. None of his 8 roommates from last year were returning and the 9 months of grinding preparation for the season (daily lifts, sprints, spring and fall practices, etc...) and especially the season itself takes a toll on the body.

He came back this last year for a variety of reasons, but mainly for his teammates. He knew Wheaton losing 10 starters on the defense from last year would need as much experience as they could to keep Wheaton playing at a high, playoff level from a defensive standpoint. He also knew he'd be switched back to MLB for his leadership, even though his body and his skillset and strengths (lateral speed, pass coverage, etc)  are a little bit better suited at the Will.   He also came back to play with his cousin, Giovanni Weeks for one more year. The two have grown up together, constantly playing with and competing against each other since they were in diapers.

He made what I believe was the right choice for him and this year I saw the fruit of his hard work, dedication, and him embracing the ever-important concept of delayed gratification.  On Saturday, he played what possibly was his best all-around game this year (including 12 tackles) and left it all on the field with no regrets (except that they couldn't squeak out a win)  I also want to give a shout out to the several coaches that have mentored him including Wheaton's defensive Coordinator CJ Nightingale, his LB coach Mark Jackson, special teams coach Mikey Swider, and defensive assistant Wyatt Lee (the OLB that Jalen backed up last year). Their investment in my son has reinforced everything that we've attempted to teach in order for him to become the virtuous man that he is today.   

Since I am also Giovanni Week's uncle,  Gio has gone public and told several people already that he's planning on coming back to play next year for Wheaton. I believe 3 of the 4 4th year seniors O-line are coming back too.  It wouldn't surprise me if about half of the Defense who have eligibility comes back as well, although I am not free to say who that is right now.   

By the way, Gio played his last 3 games with a separated shoulder.   

Thank you for the post and congratulations to Jalen in soaking up all he could over his years at Wheaton College and the FB team.

[formerd3db]

T-dome 21:

Thank you very much for sharing with us. Congratulations to Jalen for a fine season and career. He will have some great lifetime memories to not only enjoy, but that will also obviously help him in the future as he now goes on to the Next Great Adventure of his life. IMO, his story is what college football is really all about, especially DIII as we all know. Among many colleges/universities, Notre Dame has its Rudy story, Univ. of Michigan has its Don Warner story, and now Wheaton has its Jalen story. But more importantly, I believe his story will be an inspirational one to other Wheaton players who follow in future years. Congratulations to you also for being the supportive and loving parent that you have been. I wish you, Jalen and all your family a blessed and enjoyable Thanksgiving Day this week.