October 7, 2006 - Kalamazoo College vs. Tri-State University (MIAA Contest)

Chris Werme

KALAMAZOO - Special teams was key for Kalamazoo College in a 33-30 double-overtime win over Tri-State University in the Hornets' 2006 home opener. Kalamazoo scored 21 of its 33 points on special teams play, including a 95-yard kickoff return by Shane Nolan to start the game.

Kalamazoo sophomore kicker Jon Rea made three extra points and four field goals, including one from 47 yards to tie the game at 30-30 with eight seconds left in regulation. Despite missing a field goal at the end of the first overtime period, Rea made a 20-yard field goal at the start of the second overtime period. The Hornet defense pushed Tri-State back two yards after three plays on their possession, and Tri-State's kicker missed a 44-yard field goal to end the game.

Kalamazoo had several standouts on the day, but senior Chris Werme stole the show. Werme finished the game with five tackles, a forced fumble, a 54-yard fumble return, an interception, and two pass break-ups. Werme intercepted a pass for the ninth consecutive game, tying an NCAA Division III record for most consecutive games with an interception. After Tri-State took a 30-27 lead with 47 seconds left in the fourth quarter, Werme returned the ensuing kickoff 53 yards to the Tri-State 28, setting up the eventual 47-yard field goal to tie the game and send it to overtime.

Kalamazoo quarterback Jordan Tallman led Kalamazoo in rushing with 80 yards on 14 carries with one touchdown. Stephen Johnston had 42 yards on nine carries.

Tallman was 26-of-50 passing for 279 yards with two interceptions. Mike Leifeld had career-highs in receptions (11) and receiving yards (146). Randy Rzeznik had eight catches for 71 yards. Jimmy Semelsberger had four catches for 39 yards.

Tri-State was led by Nick Garvie's 57 rushing yards on 10 carries. Quarterback Levi Knach had 54 yards on 12 carries with a touchdown. Mikeal Glidden had 51 yards on 11 carries. Knach was 7-of-16 passing for 97 yards with two touchdowns and an interception.

Steve Charon led the Kalamazoo defense with nine total tackles. Blake MacDonald had seven tackles and a forced fumble. Dave Kelly had five tackles, two sacks, and a fumble recovery.

Kalamazoo travels to Hope next Saturday. Tri-State travels to Adrian.

Game Statistics