JCU runs over Ohio Northern

As the leader of the John Carroll offense, quarterback Anthony Moeglin didn’t mind admitting it.

“Our offense had been falling behind the defense,” said Moeglin. “It was time for the offense to help out the defense.”

It did that and more on Oct. 13. The JCU offense dazzled at Ohio Northern in a 49-17 victory to improve to 5-1, 4-1 Ohio Athletic Conference.

The No. 10-ranked Blue Streaks racked up 550 yards on offense, 31 first downs and got the best performance of the season by their quarterback.

Moeglin completed 14 of 22 passes for 254 yards and two touchdowns. His only mistake was an interception in the end zone in the fourth quarter with the game out of reach. Moeglin was also called on as a runner, and didn’t disappoint with 126 yards on 16 carries.

“I don’t shy away from contact,” said Moeglin. “I like to get a hit a little bit, but it’s really whatever our team needs.”

What JCU needed was a road win to stay in the hunt for an NCAA Division III at-large playoff spot. With four games to play in the regular season — three at home — the Blue Streaks cleared a big road hurdle. Up next is 6-0 Marietta Oct. 20 at Don Shula Stadium.

As a team, JCU rushed for 296 yards. Joining Moeglin in the 100-yard club was Mayfield graduate Michael Canganelli, who had 109 yards on 25 carries and three TDs. Canganelli had 216 allpurpose yards.

“You gotta grade the offense really high,” said JCU coach Rick Finotti. “To see use score in the red zone was great. It was great to see us get on track. I just know how hard we’re working (on offense). We were a little overdue.”

JCU played without senior running back and Kirtland graduate Sam Kukura, who was out with an ankle injury. Finotti said Kukura is day to day. He wasn’t needed on this day.

Following a scoreless first quarter, the Blue Streaks responded with a 28-point second quarter, and led, 28-14, at the break.

After spotting the Polars Bears (4-2, 3-2 OAC) a 7-0 lead, JCU took back the lead on TD throws from Moeglin to tight end Danny Disbrow (22 yards), and Jonathan Oilvera (9 yards). Anthony McFadden then threw a 71-yard TD to Anthony Amison to tie the game at 14-14, but the Blue Streaks closed out the first half