Yellowjackets Sting Doane in Record-Setting Rout
CRETE, Neb. – Graceland University's offense exploded in a 49-11 victory over Doane University on Saturday, highlighted by wide receiver Gerald Monroe's record-shattering performance. Monroe hauled in 16 catches for 387 yards and five touchdowns, setting a new NAIA single-game receiving yards record that had stood since 1990.
"I've coached a lot of great players over the years," said Graceland head coach Patrick Ross. "I can tell you confidently Gerald is on THAT level. He has been doing it at practice and games for three years," continued Ross.
"On top of that, he is one of the best blockers I have ever coached. I'm happy for Gerald, and his teammates. This recognition is well deserved."
The Ross-to-Monroe connection has proven virtually unstoppable, as the duo has now amassed 113 catches, over 2,300 yards, and 27 touchdowns in just 11 games together.
Junior quarterback Cade Ross orchestrated the aerial assault for the Yellowjackets, completing 19 of 38 passes for 382 yards and five touchdowns. Ross spread the ball around in the win connecting with seven different Jacket receivers. Not only was he lethal through the air, Saturday, but the quarterback led GU in rushing as well finishing with 55 yards on five carries.
"It's been a lot of fun throwing G the ball," he said. "I knew from the first time we went and worked out together that he was 'that' guy. He works so hard, he earned that record. He is just getting started."
The Graceland defense was equally impressive in the season-opening win limiting Doane to a mere 159 total yards. Junior linebacker Jacob Morales and senior lineman Kevin Orange led the charge. Morales tallied six tackles (two for a loss), one sack, and one forced fumble. Orange wreaked havoc in the Tiger backfield with five tackles (2.5 for a loss) and two sacks. Junior DB Donnell Dye added two tackles and an interception.
The Yellowjackets' win over Doane marks the second year in a row they've won their season opener. Graceland (1-0) will now turn its attention to conference play, opening its Heart of America Athletic Conference schedule next Saturday against Missouri Valley. Kickoff is set for 6 p.m. at Gregg-Mitchell Field in Marshall, Missouri.
Yellowjacket Quick Leaders:
Passing Stats: Cade Ross (GU) – 19-38/382/5
Rushing Yards: Cade Ross (GU) – 55
Receiving Yards: Gerald Monroe (GU) – 387
Receptions: Gerald Monroe (GU) – 16
Touchdowns: Gerald Monroe (GU) – 5
Tackles: Jacob Morales (GU) – 6
Sacks: Kevin Orange Jr. (GU) – 2.5
Takeaways: Donnell Dye (GU) – 1
Stay tuned to GUjackets.com for continuing coverage of the Graceland football team and all of Jacket athletics.