McKibbins sets TD record but Panthers fall in playoff rematch

MCMINNVILLE, Ore. – Senior RB Jeremiah McKibbins broke Chapman's all-time rushing touchdown record but Chapman fell 52-14 at Linfield in its season-opener. The Panthers (0-1) had a fast start but fell into a multiple touchdown hole by halftime.

McKibbins record-breaking moment came just five plays into the game as he punched in a touchdown from the one-yard line to cap a five-play, 75-yard drive. Junior QB Andrew Chavez was 4-for-4 on the Panthers first drive of the season, hooking up with senior WR Sean Myers twice for seven and 27 yards.

Chavez started the game 6-for-8 for 81 yards in the first quarter but the Wildcats (1-0) defense limited the Chapman passing game the rest of the way as he finished 15-for-32 for 175 yards and one touchdown. McKibbins ended the game with 12 rushes for 62 yards.

The Chapman defense forced a punt on its first appearance of the season but momentum swung Linfield's way when the return was fumbled on the five.

Linfield (1-0) punched in the score to tie the game before QB Sam Riddle found Spencer Payne for a 29-yard TD and a 14-7 Wildcats lead. Linfield scored twice more in the second quarter as it returned a blocked punt for a TD and Riddle threw his second TD with just six seconds left for a 28-7 halftime lead.

Special teams and turnovers continued to be a factor in the second half as Linfield returned an interception for a touchdown in the third quarter and began the fourth quarter with a 77-yard punt return for a another touchdown.

Chapman's defense was able to match Linfield with a pair of forced turnovers although neither turned into points. In the second quarter, freshman DB Lorenzo Marks forced a fumble and fellow freshman Joe Covarrubias jumped on the loose ball near midfield. With Linfield driving in the third quarter, senior DB Drew DeMarco stepped in front of Riddle's pass at Chapman's 39.

The Panthers added a late touchdown when Chavez connected with senior WR Riley Guilbeault for a 26-yard score on fourth-and-five.

Chapman is off next week but returns to Ernie Chapman Stadium on Sept. 26 to host Whitworth at 7 p.m. in its 2015 home-opener.

by Steven Olveda
Sports Information Director

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