GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. - The William Jewell football team suffered a 40-3 season opening loss at Colorado Mesa University on Thursday evening in the first-ever meeting between the two programs. 

HOW IT HAPPENED

• Will Schneider rushed for four first downs on the opening drive putting the Cardinals in field goal range. Freshman Josh Click connected on the first attempt of his career, from 23 yards out, to put Jewell on top first, 3-0.
• Colorado Mesa got off a field goal attempt in the first quarter but missed on their first try. The Mavericks began the second quarter with back-to-back field goals on their way to 40 unanswered points as the Jewell offense could not find a rhythm. 

INSIDE THE BOX SCORE

• Tabren Yates led the Cardinals on the ground with 61 yards while Jesse Thomas was the top receiver with 44 yards on four catches. 
• Kian Betancourt posted a team high nine tackles while Taveris Albury added eight. Gianni D'Arienzo broke up two passes. 
• Jewell was held to just 208 yards of total offense, compared to 533 by the Mavericks. 
• The Cardinals were 2-for-2 on fourth down conversions and did not commit a turnover.

UP NEXT
Jewell will be back in Greene Stadium next weekend. for the first time this fall, as they host Black Hills State at 1 p.m.