Kicker Mike Tomlinson boots a field goal this afternoon against Wittenberg University. The senior converted on two field goals in his final home game at Oberlin.

Photo by Seth Binder '07

October 28, 2006 -- During today's North Coast Athletic Conference football game between Oberlin College and Wittenberg University, mother nature pulled every trick out of her sleeve, giving both teams difficult playing conditions at Dill Field. High winds, hail, snow, and frequent rains resulted in low yardage totals from both the Yeomen and the Tigers. Wittenberg took advantage of an early 15-0 lead, though, to pick up a 22-6 conference victory. With the loss, Oberlin's record slips to 4-4 overall and 3-2 in the NCAC, while Wittenberg bettered its mark to 5-3 (4-1 NCAC).

In his final game at Dill Field, senior kicker Mike Tomlinson was responsible for all six of Oberlin's points this afternoon, booting field goals of 33 and 40 yards. After falling behind 0-15 with 11:19 left in the first half, Tomlinson scored six unanswered points, bringing the Yeomen to within 6-15 with 10:39 left in the third quarter. The Yeomen threatened on numerous occasions, but a 21-yard touchdown pass from Aaron Huffman to Tristan Murray put the Tigers ahead 22-6 with four minutes remaining in the third quarter. Neither team managed to put the ball into the end zone in the final period, giving the Tigers the 16-point road win.

Oberlin's defense provided sparks throughout the contest. A trio of juniors, Clayton Thurmer, Chris Pisani and Chase Palmer, put together outstanding performances for Defensive Coordinator Andy Stillman. Pisani tallied two sacks for 11 yards on the day, giving him Oberlin's career record for quarterback takedowns. His total of 19 sacks breaks the previous mark of 18, set by Sam Hobi (2000-01). Pisani also added eight tackles in the contest (four for a loss). Palmer continued to pace the Yeomen in tackles, racking up a game-high 13. Thurmer's efforts today were certainly impressive as he tallied 10 tackles, registered a half-sack, and also blocked a punt.

On the offensive side of the ball, sophomore running back R.V. Carroll led Oberlin on the ground and in the air, tallying seven receptions for 39 yards and 67 yards rushing. Classmate Greg Mangan was solid from the quarterback position, completing 20 of his 27 pass attempts for 162 yards. Junior Cassius Harris was again a favorite target for Mangan, as he caught six passes for 46 yards.

For the game, Oberlin out-gained the Tigers 210-188. Oberlin had 14 first downs to Wittenberg's 12 and the hosts were not forced to make a single punt in the game. Head Coach Jeff Ramsey's squad won the time of possession advantage as well, holding the ball for 31:10.

Wittenberg was led by Murray's 118 yards and one touchdown on the ground. The senior also caught three passes for 22 yards and six points. Huffman finished the game 9-16 for 77 yards and a score. Oberlin's defense managed to sack the freshman quarterback four times.

Although their 2006 home slate is over, the Yeomen will look to pick up a road victory at Kenyon on November 4. The NCAC showdown with the Lords is scheduled to begin at 1:00 p.m.

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