Mount Marty University football opened its home schedule in a big way Saturday, cruising to a 55-6 victory over the Clarke University Pride at Crane-Youngworth Field in Yankton. The Lancers battled through scorching temperatures throughout the afternoon, but the heat did little to slow down the Lancer Offense. Redshirt Junior quarterback Rugby Ryken put together an outstanding performance, completing 23 of 28 passes for 361 yards and 5 touchdowns. Sophomore Demetrius Valadez also saw time under center, completing 2 of 4 passes for 38 yards and a touchdown.
Sophomore running back Jordan Anderson was a major contributor in both phases, rushing 15 times for 54 yards and 1 touchdown while adding 6 receptions for 72 yards and another score. Through the air, Sophomore Moshe Richmond had a breakout performance with 5 catches for 182 yards and a touchdown, while Senior Rodney Broadnax hauled in two passes for 34 yards and 2 touchdowns. Junior Colin Schack added 2 receptions for 25 yards and two touchdowns as well. Up front, seniors David Grabow and Nicholas Bunkers, along with junior Jaden Barrow, helped provide the physical presence needed for the Lancers to control the game.
Defensively, Mount Marty continued to set the tone and made life difficult for Clarke throughout the afternoon. Senior linebacker Brock Lubbers led the way with 7 total tackles, 2.5 tackles for loss totaling 25 yards, two sacks for 23 yards, and 2 forced fumbles. His performance earned him GPAC Defensive Player of the Week honors, adding another accomplishment to an already strong day. Junior defensive lineman Brycen Mitchell recorded 4 tackles and added a half tackle for loss, while sophomore Jay Bryant finished with 3 tackles and 1.5 tackles for loss. In the secondary, senior Trevor Lambeth recorded 5 tackles and 1.5 tackles for loss, while sophomor Arturo Estrada finished with 4 tackles.Â
The defensive effort was a complete team performance, with the Lancers consistently flying to the football and keeping Clarke from finding any offensive rhythm. The group also showed the depth of the roster, as several younger players were able to gain valuable experience throughout the second half. Saturday's victory was about more than just the final score. Playing at home, on Senior Day, and in some of the hottest conditions of the season made the afternoon a memorable one for the Lancers and their families. The seniors were able to celebrate their contributions to the program with a dominant performance in front of the home crowd, while the younger players continued to show that the future of Mount Marty football is in good hands. From Ryken's five-touchdown day to Lubbers' defensive performance and the continued contributions from players across the roster, the Lancers showed energy, toughness, and togetherness from start to finish. With a 55-6 win to open the home schedule, Mount Marty gave its fans plenty to celebrate and plenty of reason to be excited about what is ahead.
Now, the Lancers turn their attention to their first GPAC matchup of the season, as they welcome rival Briar Cliff to Crane-Youngworth Field on Saturday, September 5, for a 6 p.m. kickoff. The matchup carries even more meaning with the Catholic Cup on the line. Mount Marty and Briar Cliff began the Catholic Cup tradition in 2024, with the Lancers winning the inaugural trophy, before Briar Cliff reclaimed it with a 34-20 victory in Yankton in 2025. With the traveling trophy back in the hands of the Chargers, the Lancers will be looking to reclaim the Catholic Cup in front of their home crowd. After the momentum of a dominant season-opening victory,Mount Marty will look to carry that energy into GPAC play and start conference competition with a statement against one of its biggest rivals.
