USD Plays Host to Menlo College Today

SAN DIEGO — 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.