The MIAA-NACC Challenge took place on Saturday afternoon on AU's Spartan Athletic Park with the Spartans welcoming Adrian College. AU would fall to Adrian 27-5.

THE BASICS
FINAL SCORE: Adrian College 27, Aurora University 5
LOCATION: Montgomery, Illinois – Spartan Stadium at Spartan Athletic Park
RECORDS: Aurora University 0-3; Adrian College 2-1
ATTENDANCE: 472
WEATHER: 85 degrees and sunny with a 10 mph northeast wind
 
HOW IT HAPPENED
- AU trailed 14-0 at the end of the first quarter after a pair of Adrian touchdowns.
- The Spartans gained momentum early in the second quarter with a 43 yard pass from Gavin Zimbelman to Sean Mullen.
- AU continued to the Adrian 25 but a turnover on downs brought their drive to an end
- On the Spartans next drive, the offense moved the ball but Adrian intercepted a pass at the goal line..
- Following an Adrian touchdown the Spartans got on the board with one second remaining in the first half.
- A 36 yard field goal from Zac Mirabelli. AU trailed 21-3 at the end of the second quarter.
- The Spartan defense made a big stop to start the second half as they forced an Adrian field goal attempt which was short from 41-yards out.
- The teams traded a pair of possessions before Adrian got on the board again. A broken play resulted in a long touchdown run.
- The Spartans blocked the extra point attempt and Keion Adams completed the block, scoop and score for two points.
- AU trailed Adrian 27-5 at the end of the third quarter, which would be the games final score.
 
FOR THE SPARTANS                                                     
- Zac Mirabelli connected on a 36-yard field goal.
- Keion Adams blocked a point after try and returned it for two-points.

SPARTAN STAT LEADERS
Offense:
Passing:
 - Completions and Attempts: Gavin Zimbelman (20-37)
- Yards: Gavin Zimbelman (231)
Rushing:
- Carries: Gavin Zimbelman (10) and Connor Olson (8)
- Yards: Tyran Bailey (41)
Receiving:
- Catches: Connor Olson (6), Sean Mullen and Colton Jewell (4)
- Yards: Sean Mullen (80) and Connor Olson (54)
Defense:
Tackles: Cole Sinn (8), Casey Dycus and Juan Carreno (4)
Sack: Chase Foreman (1)
 
UP NEXT:
Next action for the Spartan football team comes on Saturday, September 28 when they travel to Eureka College for the 2018 Northern Athletics Collegiate Conference Opener. Game time is set for 7:00 p.m. in Eureka, Illinois.