Rochester's game last Friday was a loss, but they didn't let that memory haunt them on Friday. They walked away with a 38-30 win over the Normal University Pioneers. The score was all tied up 17-17 at the break, but the Rockets were the better team in the second half.
Rochester's victory was a true team effort, with many players turning in solid performances. Perhaps the best among them was Tanner Beal, who punched in three rushing scores, and also threw for 138 yards and a touchdown while completing 72.2% of his passes. Beal also put in work on the defensive side of the ball, making 11 total tackles and defending three passes. Kaiden Stout helped Beal out on the ground, rushing for 120 yards and a touchdown while picking up 7.5 yards per carry.
He was just one part of a punishing run game: Rochester was unstoppable on the ground and finished the game with 202 rushing yards. They easily outclassed their opponents in that department as Normal University only rushed for 62.
When it comes to explaining why Normal University lost, don't look at Alek Weiland. Despite the final result, he threw for 410 yards and four touchdowns. With that strong performance, Weiland is now averaging an impressive 315.8 passing yards per game. Deegan Aeilts was Weiland's top target, picking up 122 receiving yards and a touchdown.
Rochester now has a winning record of 3-2. As for Normal University, their loss dropped their record down to an identical 3-2.
Both squads are looking forward to the support of their home crowds in their upcoming games. Rochester will welcome Decatur Eisenhower at 7:00 p.m. on Friday. Rochester is facing Decatur Eisenhower at the right time seeing as Decatur Eisenhower is stuck on a five-game losing streak. As for Normal University, they will take on Glenwood at 7:00 p.m. on Friday. Both teams are headed into the matchup with plenty of momentum (Normal University has won eight straight at home dating back to last season, while Glenwood won three straight on the road), something that'll have to change.
Article generated by infoSentience based on data entered on MaxPreps
