Illinois Wesleyan football endures delay, early miscues to top Franklin

Posted on September 5, 2015

By Eric Stock

FRANKLIN, Ind. – Illinois Wesleyan forced seven turnovers and endured a lightning delay of two and a half hours to defeat Franklin, 34-24, in their season opener at Faught Stadium.

The Titans were the sloppy team early as two fumbles in IWU territory set up scoring chances in which the Grizzlies were unable to capitalize while already leading 7-0. IWU sophomore Jack Warner threw three first half touchdown passes while completing 10 of 11 passes for 153 yards. He finished the game 16 of 24 for 201 yards.

PODCAST: Listen to Joel Swanson’s postgame interview with IWU coach Norm Eash.

Timmy Smith, Ben Bouie and Zach Till all intercepted Franklin’s Chase Burton, who in his first career start tied the record for the most completions (35) the Titans have allowed in a game.

Senior Artie Checchin led the Titans in rushing (61 yards) and receiving (67 yards) as IWU racked up 410 yards of total offense. Michael Kelly connected on two second-half field goals, including a 35-yarder with 4:53 to go to put the Titans up 10.

The Titans play their home opener on Sept. 12 vs. Alma.

Eric Stock can be reached at [email protected].

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