Box Score

STORM LAKE, Iowa - Bethel University used three fourth quarter touchdowns to take a 38-21 win over Buena Vista in both teams season openers Saturday.

The Royals finished with an impressive 463 yards of total offense in which 328 of that came on the ground. Phil Porta continued his climb up Bethel's all-time rushing record list as he moved into fourth place carrying the ball 27 times for 189 yards and two scores. In the air, Ben Wetzell completed 14 of 25 passes for 135 yards, an interception and a touchdown. Jon Croyle was the Royals leading receiver finishing with six receptions for 78 yards and one score.

Buena Vista opened the scoring in the first quarter on a 70-yard pass play from Chris Hawkins to Jesse Schmidt to take the early 7-0 lead. Bethel answered on their next possession as Steve Moline capped off a 3-play 79-yard drive with a 2-yard score. With the extra point blocked, Bethel entered the second quarter trailing 7-6. Bethel opened the second quarter scoring two straight touchdowns to take what looked to be a commanding 20-7 lead. The Beavers, however, would not go away as they drove 74-yards and scored on another long pass play to head into the half trailing 20-14.

Buena Vista retook the lead in the third on what was their third big pass play of the day, a 34-yard strike from Hawkins to Devin Stewart. Bethel took charge in the fourth on a key interception by Brandon Carr that set up a 4-yard touchdown run by Phil Porta. From here on out Bethel held control, scoring two more fourth quarter touchdowns to take the opening day win. The scoring included another rushing TD from Porta and a 2-yard score by Josh Holm.

The Bethel defense stifled the Beaver rushing game allowing only 82 yards on 37 carries. The Royals defense was led by a host of players including Jake Schneider who had 6.5 tackles and 1.5 sacks, Kirby Carr who finished with 10 tackles and Matt Ammermann who ended the day with 3.5 tackles, 2 sack, and 2 forced fumbles.

Bethel hopes for redemption on last years 21-20 OT loss next Saturday when they host Central College at Royal Stadium. Kickoff is at 1:00 p.m.