USD Plays Host to Menlo College Today

For the first time this season, the University of San Diego football team has been included in the top 20 rankings of the NCAA Division III, despite a 34-7 loss to St. Mary’s last Saturday.

USD, ranked No. 20, could gain a spot in the Division III playoffs, but it must win today when it plays host to Menlo College at 1:30.

“If we can win this one, we’ll have a shot at getting in,” said Brian Fogarty, USD coach. “We’re ranked No. 5 in our region, and they take five teams. So you’d think a win would get us a playoff shot.”

But a victory won’t be easy. Menlo College (6-2) is ranked No. 16 and also will be trying to secure a playoff berth. Menlo defeated Azusa Pacific, 43-10, last week. Earlier this season, USD (6-2-1) lost to Azusa Pacific, 23-18.

“They are a similar team to us,” Fogarty said. “They run the ball at you a lot, but they hurt you most when they pass.”

Not many opponents’ offenses have hurt USD this season. The Toreros have four shutouts and have limited 6 of their 9 opponents to fewer than 10 points. Menlo’s defense hasn’t recorded any shutouts, but it did hold Azusa Pacific to three first downs last week.