September 19th, 2026 1:35pm
TOPEKA, Kan. – The Washburn Ichabod defense stood firm down the stretch as the Ichabods picked up an MIAA victory with a 14-10 Washburn Family Day over Central Oklahoma on Saturday as the defense forced three turnovers, came up with a second quarter goal-line stand, improving to 2-1-1 overall and 1-1 in MIAA play. Washburn continues MIAA play next week at Nebraska-Kearney.
Despite being outgained 359-202 in total offense, Washburn made the biggest plays when it mattered most. The Ichabod defense held the Bronchos to just 88 rushing yards on 36 attempts, averaging only 2.4 yards per carry, while forcing three turnovers and recording three sacks.
After a scoreless opening quarter, Washburn capitalized on a pair of miscues by the Bronchos (1-2, 0-1 MIAA) early in the second. First, Reece Watkins forced a fumble on a catch by Andrew Carney that was recovered by Jayson Green. Moments later, Keith Guidry recovered a muffed punt at the UCO 16-yard line, setting up the game's first touchdown. Four plays later, Quinton Renfro scooted in from two yards out with 11:57 remaining in the second quarter to give the Ichabods a 7-0 lead.
One of the biggest defensive stands came late in the second quarter when Central Oklahoma mounted a drive deep into Washburn territory. Following a 24-yard run by Jadaniel Nettles, the Bronchos had first-and-goal at the Washburn 1-yard line. Washburn stopped four consecutive rushing attempts from the 1-yard line, highlighted by tackles from J.C. Heim, Brody Hayes, Jayson Green, and Al-Mani Jimerson. A chop-block penalty pushed UCO backward, and after more defensive resistance the Bronchos settled for a 30-yard field goal from Bradley Thao, leaving Washburn with a 7-3 halftime lead.