The Shepherd University Rams continued their strong play on Saturday, Oct. 11, shutting out the Cavaliers of the University of Virginia College at Wise 51-0.
Home-field advantage has been a key factor for Shepherd thus far. In three home games, the Rams are outscoring opponents 163-7, including two shutouts.
Sophomore quarterback Jeff Ziemba had a career day. He ended the game completing 16 of 21 passes, 271 yards and four touchdowns, all to different receivers. He had 258 of those passing yards and all four of his touchdowns come in the first half. Those two marks are now career highs for Ziemba.
“I was feeling pretty good”, said Ziemba after the game, “we knew what defense they brought and it worked out.” He added that he was happy about breaking his previous career-highs.
Head Coach Monte Cater spoke highly of Jeff’s performance. “He did a great job spreading the ball,” said Coach Cater, “he might be a sophomore, but he plays like a two year senior.”
Ziemba’s first touchdown came on a 63-yard touchdown pass to senior wide receiver William McKenzie. Sophomores Billy Brown and Tony Squirewell, as well as junior running back Allen Cross were on the receiving end of Ziemba’s other touchdown passes.
On special teams, sophomore CJ Davis returned a punt 62 yards for a touchdown in the third quarter. Davis now has two special teams touchdowns this season and six touchdowns in his career.
On the defensive side of the ball, it was another dominating performance. The Cavaliers were contained to nine rushing yards and 107 yards of total offense.
The Rams’ defense also did a great job at forcing turnovers. Senior defensive back David Carter and senior outside linebacker De’Ontre Johnson each recorded interceptions. Carter now has four on the season. The team was also able to recover a fumble off of a muffed punt return.
Shepherd recorded six tackles for loss and two sacks against UVa-Wise. Junior defensive end Shaneil Jenkins got to the quarterback once again, recording his team-leading sixth sack on the season. The other sack came from redshirt-freshman defensive end Myles Humphrey.
Sophomore running back Jabre Lolley led the running game with 111 yards on 12 carries with a touchdown. Lolley now has 11 rushing touchdowns this season.
Redshirt-freshman running back Malik “Mouse” Harleston added a 58-yard receiving touchdown from backup quarterback Caleb Demback. Harleston came out of the backfield uncovered and it was Mouse to the house.
Next on the schedule is a road game against Notre Dame College (Ohio) on Saturday, Oct. 18. The Fighting Falcons are 4-2 this season.
Coach Cater expects a very physical game but believes in his team. “We play with a lot of enthusiasm,” coach said, “these kids are hungry for a challenge.”
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