WINFIELD, Kan. — Southwestern will look to build on recent momentum when it hosts Midland University in a conference matchup Wednesday, April 8, at 6 p.m. at Richard L. Jantz Stadium.
The Builders enter at (6-4) (5-4) while the Warriors are (8-5) (7-2). Southwestern is coming off a 26-0 shutout of Texas Wesleyan on April 1, while Midland defeated Baker 12-0 on April 4.
Southwestern has relied on an efficient passing attack and a defense that creates turnovers. The Builders have totaled 1,551 passing yards and 18 touchdowns this season, led by quarterback Kennedi Hayes, who has thrown for 1,284 yards and 15 scores. Hayes has also added 133 rushing yards, providing mobility behind a limited ground game.
Mary Jones has been Hayes' primary target, recording 27 receptions for 451 yards and seven touchdowns. Vivianna Solis has added 45 catches for 339 yards and three scores, while Aiyana Sims has contributed as a deep threat, averaging 18.3 yards per reception with two touchdowns.
Southwestern has leaned heavily on its passing game, averaging 172.3 yards per game through the air compared to 35.4 rushing yards per game. The Builders have shown an aggressive approach, particularly on fourth down, converting 6 of 19 attempts.
Defensively, Southwestern has been disruptive, collecting 12 interceptions and holding opponents to 170.1 yards per game. Jones leads the team with seven interceptions. Up front, Andrea Moon has recorded 44 tackles, 17.5 tackles for loss and 11.5 sacks, while Kennedy Wesley has added 42 tackles and five sacks, helping generate pressure that leads to turnovers.
Midland enters with a more balanced, methodical approach, emphasizing ball security and defense. In its win over Baker, the Warriors totaled 180 passing yards, committed no turnovers and recorded three interceptions. Midland has shown it can control games without relying heavily on explosive rushing plays.
The Warriors also hold the edge in recent history, defeating Southwestern 33-6 on April 5, 2025. In that matchup, Midland threw for 292 yards and four touchdowns while limiting Southwestern to 157 total yards.
Despite that result, Southwestern has demonstrated an ability to stay competitive with a defense that has produced four shutouts and allowed just 203 rushing yards this season, often forcing opponents into passing situations.
The matchup could hinge on Southwestern's ability to protect Hayes and limit turnovers. If the Builders can establish rhythm in the passing game with Jones and Solis, they could remain competitive. Midland, meanwhile, will look to control field position and capitalize on mistakes.
The game features a contrast in styles, with Southwestern's aggressive, pass-oriented offense facing a Midland team that relies on efficiency, defense and timely execution.
