WINFIELD, Kan. — Southwestern College returns to Richard L. Jantz Stadium on Saturday for a matchup with Ottawa University, with both teams receiving votes in the latest NAIA Football Coaches' Poll.
The Builders enter the matchup 2-1 after opening the season with wins over Bethel and Tabor before falling to Evangel. Southwestern is averaging 446.7 yards and 33 points per game, with much of its production coming on the ground. The Builders are averaging 257 rushing yards per contest and 6.4 yards per carry through three games.
James Odom has led the Southwestern offense with 552 passing yards and four touchdowns while also adding 192 rushing yards and two scores. Christian Steward has been another key part of the ground game, leading the Builders with 249 rushing yards and three touchdowns. Bryce Chambers leads Southwestern's receiving corps with 13 catches for 170 yards and two touchdowns, while Noah Roberts has added 133 receiving yards and two scores.
Southwestern has also been strong defensively, holding opponents to 227 yards and 16 points per game. The Builders have been especially effective against the run, allowing just 51.7 rushing yards per contest. Southwestern has forced eight turnovers through three games, including five interceptions, while recording six sacks.
Ottawa enters Saturday unbeaten at 3-0 and has produced 45.3 points per game. The Braves have leaned on a passing attack that is averaging 246.3 yards per contest, with quarterback Luke Edwards throwing for 658 yards, eight touchdowns and no interceptions.
De'Anthony Curtis leads Ottawa with 193 receiving yards, while Jayden Johnson has 182 yards and three touchdown receptions. AJ Moore has added 170 receiving yards and two scores. On the ground, Amiri Mumba has rushed for 116 yards and five touchdowns to lead the Braves.
Ottawa's defense has also created problems for opposing offenses, totaling 10 sacks and six interceptions through its first three games. The Braves have allowed 16 points per game, setting up a matchup between two teams that have paired productive offenses with defenses capable of creating turnovers.
Saturday's contest will serve as Millard Management Night. Kickoff is scheduled for 7 p.m. from Richard L. Jantz Stadium in Winfield, Kansas.
