CLEVELAND, Ohio — The John Carroll Blue Streaks achieved a historic victory in last week’s Division III playoff game against the Mount Union Purple Raiders, finishing with a thrilling score of 10-7 after double overtime. The match marked a significant milestone for John Carroll, especially as it occurred on Mount Union’s home turf, an achievement that has been a long time coming for the Blue Streaks.
Coach Jeff Behrman, a graduate and former quarterback of John Carroll, expressed the magnitude of the victory, highlighting the emotional significance it holds for current students and alumni alike. “A win like this has eluded us for so long,” he stated, underscoring the pride felt within the JCU community. Athletic Director Brian Polian echoed this sentiment, noting that Mount Union has set the standard in collegiate football for over three decades. With the win, John Carroll improved its all-time record against Mount Union to 4-40-2, marking only the fourth time in history that they have triumphed over the storied program.
As the Blue Streaks celebrated their victory, emotional reactions were palpable among the fans, with many expressing how deeply the game resonated with them. Quarterback Nick Semptimphelter noted that several fans approached him with tears in their eyes, emphasizing the game’s profound impact on the community.
Mount Union has dominated its opponents in the Ohio Athletic Conference (OAC) for years, with the last time they lost a regular-season game being in 2016, also to John Carroll. In the past three decades, the Purple Raiders have lost only twice to OAC teams during the regular season.
JCU’s defense played a pivotal role in the victory, limiting Mount Union to their lowest score in nearly 20 years. Defensive Coordinator Dean Paul, who has a history with Mount Union as a former player under legendary coach Larry Kehres, expressed deep respect for their fierce competitiveness while also celebrating his team’s impressive performance. The Blue Streaks, despite early setbacks, maintained composure and did not allow another point after conceding an 85-yard touchdown pass on Mount Union’s first offensive play.
Kicker Colin Schuler became the hero of the game by successfully executing a 38-yard field goal that ultimately decided the match in John Carroll’s favor. Meanwhile, linebacker Davon Badley led the defense with 12 tackles, marking a standout performance against an opponent famed for its high-powered offense.
Semptimphelter, whose 79% completion rate this season has been nothing short of remarkable, has been nominated for the Gagliardi Trophy, recognized as the D-III Player of the Year. His connection with star receiver Tyren Montgomery, who set a school record with 100 receptions this season, solidified the Blue Streaks’ offense. Montgomery is expected to garner interest from several NFL teams.
In a strategic move, John Carroll switched its conference affiliation from the OAC to the North Coast Athletic Conference (NCAC) in 2025. Polian clarified that this decision was not aimed at distancing the program from Mount Union, but rather to enhance the university’s national footprint in attracting a diverse student body.
Looking ahead, the Blue Streaks are set to face Berry College in the D-III quarterfinals this Saturday, an encounter that holds the potential for more historic moments in this exhilarating season for John Carroll football. As the team prepares, both the players and coaches are focused on building a legacy that can elevate John Carroll into a national powerhouse.
