Aurora University Athletics

The Aurora University Spartans fell behind in the first-half and made a valiant comeback attempt but came up just short as they fell in the 2017 finale 20-14.

THE BASICS
FINAL SCORE:  Benedictine University 20, Aurora University 14
LOCATION: Lisle, Illinois
RECORDS: Aurora University; 5-5, 4-2 NACC; Benedictine University 7-2, 5-1 NACC
ATTENDANCE: 867
 
HOW IT HAPPENED
- AU trailed 7-0 after the first quarter and 14-0 going into halftime.
- The Spartans took the opening drive of the second-half and drove 75 yards in 12 plays. The final play was a nine yard touchdown pass from Gavin Zimbelman to Lou Isringhaus.
- Early in the fourth quarter, the AU deficit grew to 20-7.
- The Spartan defense scored next when Kam Dawtyne forced a fumble and Frankie Gordey scooped up the loose ball and scampered 43 yards for a score.
- Midway through the fourth, AU was within six at 20-14.
- On their final possession, the Spartans drove deep into Benedictine territory but turned the ball over on downs.
 
SPARTAN STAT LEADERS
Rushing:
            Carries: Tyran Bailey (19)
            Yards:  Tyran Bailey (118)
Passing: Gavin Zimbelman; 18-30 for 144 yards and one touchdown  
Receiving:
            Catches: Alex Cowan (6)
            Yards: Alex Cowan (49)
            Touchdown: Lou Isringhaus (1)
Tackles: Casey Dycus (12) and Kam Dawtyne (11)
Sacks: Ray DiMatteo and Brendan Fulton (1)
 
UP NEXT:
The Spartans finished the 2017 season with a 5-5 overall record.