ST. LOUIS, Mo. - Spartan Football faced a difficult challenge in the No. 3 Benedictine Ravens in the first day game at Spartan Field in 2026.Â
MBU received the opening kickoff but were unable to produce much against the tough Ravens defense, punting for just 27 yards after three plays. On the other side, Benedictine took advantage of their advantageous field position, scoring after five plays for an early 7-0 lead.Â
The following drives would follow a similar script for both sides. Missouri Baptist was stopped on each of their five drives throughout the rest of the first half. Punter Connor Meffen accrued 173 yards across those punts.Â
BC's five remaining drives of the first half had the following results: touchdown, field goal, touchdown, missed field goal, field goal. Entering the break, Benedictine had control over the contest with a 27-point lead.Â
The second half would be much the same for each team. Missouri Baptist was unable to find success on offense, while Benedictine added three touchdowns for a final total of 48. A tough outing on both sides against a strong opponent dropped the Spartans to 2-7 on the season.Â
Mitchell Price led the Spartan squad in passing with 84 yards and a long of 23. Elijah Stevens led all rushers with 19 yards, while Jayden Hines was the top receiver with 31 yards on a pair of receptions.Â
Evan DeWilde commanded the defense with nine total tackles and a half tackle-for-loss. Nick Stepney Jr. added the lone sack for MBU for a loss of six yards. Punter and Kickoff Specialist Connor Meffen forced a fumble on the opening kickoff of the second half and recovered the ball himself.Â
Missouri Baptist Football finishes their 2026 campaign with a home game against Missouri Valley next Saturday at 1 p.m.Â
