North Manchester, Ind. - Manchester University showed moments of offensive brilliance but couldn't keep pace with Capital University's high-powered attack, falling 52–27 on a sunny Homecoming afternoon in North Manchester. Despite the loss, the Spartans produced one of their most balanced offensive outings of the season, displaying big-play ability and several standout individual performances.
Senior quarterback Kaleb Hall directed Manchester's best offensive showing of the year, throwing for 251 yards and two touchdowns on 17-of-33 passing. His top target, freshman Marquez Williams, turned in a breakout performance—hauling in four receptions for 119 yards and two scores, including long touchdown catches of 47 and 38 yards that kept the Spartans within striking distance.
In the backfield, sophomore James Lewis led the ground game with 94 rushing yards and two touchdowns on 16 carries, highlighted by an electric 40-yard scoring run that energized the home crowd. He also contributed as a receiver, catching six passes for 51 yards to finish with 145 all-purpose yards.
Though Capital's balanced offense racked up points, the Manchester defense created key moments. Senior Blake Haiflich and freshman Ethan Witz each came up with interceptions, with Haiflich returning his pick 25 yards to halt a promising drive. Linebackers Ziare Sullivan and Mason Daring anchored the defense with nine tackles apiece, showing consistency and toughness throughout the contest. Freshman returner Jaydon Berkley added a major boost on special teams, totaling 228 kickoff return yards, including a 50-yard burst that set up a second-quarter touchdown. Kicker Grant Ridgway was steady on extra points, converting three of four attempts.
Manchester's 27-point performance marked a season-high, showing the offense's growing rhythm and playmaking ability despite the defeat. The Spartans (0–5, 0–1 HCAC) will look to carry their offensive momentum and improved balance into next week's conference matchup as they continue searching for their first win of the season.
