October 17th, 2026 1:00pm
Hillsdale, Michigan – The University of Findlay football team, ranked 16th in the country, traveled to Frank "Muddy" Waters Stadium to battle Great Midwest Athletic Conference (G-MAC) opponent Hillsdale College on Saturday, Oct. 17. On a Saturday, promoted by the home team as "Beat Findlay Day," the Oilers spoiled the festivities, willing their way to a 22-19 victory to improve to 6-1 overall and 4-1 in conference play. The win continues a long run of dominance in the rivalry, marking Findlay's 11th victory over Hillsdale in their last 13 matchups. Hillsdale, which is receiving votes in the latest national poll, falls to 5-2 (3-2 G-MAC).
Findlay controlled the tempo from start to finish, which was reflected in a lopsided team statistical battle. The Oilers dominated the time of possession, holding the ball for 36:58 compared to Hillsdale's 23:02. Findlay registered 23 first downs against the Chargers' 14, and outgained Hillsdale in total offense 337 to 282. A big factor was the ground game, where the Oilers' rushing attack generated 157 net yards, stifling Hillsdale to just 81 yards rushing on 21 attempts.
The game was a back-and-forth affair, highlighted by explosive special teams plays and a dominant second-half defensive shutout, the fourth second-half shutout by Findlay's defense this season.
Hillsdale struck first with a 23-yard field goal in the first quarter. Early in the second quarter, Findlay quarterback Chase Harrison connected with Denny Furlong for a 6-yard touchdown to give the Oilers a 7-3 advantage. Hillsdale immediately answered with an 85-yard kickoff return for a touchdown by Shea Ruddy.
Following a Hillsdale field goal that made it 13-7, the Oilers delivered fireworks of their own. Dominic Bennett fielded the ensuing kickoff and raced 98 yards for a touchdown to briefly regain the lead. Hillsdale managed a late second-quarter passing touchdown to take a 19-14 advantage into the locker room.