Conquistadors shut out at Iowa Western

Council Bluffs, Ia. (westernkansasnews.com)–Iowa Western’s defense pitched a shutout Saturday, giving way for the offense to erupt for 463 yards, and the second-ranked Reivers blew out Dodge City 46-0 at Titan Stadium.

The Reivers, fresh off a trip to the national championship game last season, finished in the top 10 in numerous defensive categories, and entered this season with high aspirations on that side of the ball again. That defense lived up to the billing Saturday, holding the Conquistadors to just one first down before halftime and 33 total yards on the ground.

Iowa Western shined offensively too in a balanced attack, racking up 214 rushing yards and 249 yards through the air. Reiver quarterback Andre Goodman went 11-for-24 with 131 yards, one touchdown and one interception.

Conquistador head coach Terry Karg shuffled the lineup multiple times in an attempt to spark the offense. Grant Ciccarone started the game under center, but after a 4-of-13 first half for only six yards, Ciccarone was replaced by DeRhon King to start the third quarter.

King had moments of promise, including leading a 49-yard drive that sputtered at the one yard line following a false start and a missed field goal. He finished the game 7-of-16 for 87 yards.

The Reivers stay perfect against Dodge City all-time, winning all eight meetings between the programs.

Dodge City falls to 0-1 with the loss and was shut out for the first time since a 49-0 loss against Garden City last October.

The Conquistadors return to action next Saturday when they host Coffeyville in their home opener at Memorial Stadium. Kickoff is scheduled for 7 p.m. CT.