USD Has Plenty of Goals to Reach, Spare

Good thing they didn’t spend it all in one place.

Before the University of San Diego opened its football season in early September, several seniors talked of goals. But the central one was a postseason appearance, because it would be the last time the Toreros could make the playoffs before they jump to Division I-AA next year.

Then a 28-7 loss to Redlands in Week 3 and a 48-35 setback to Occidental a week ago put a different spin on the remainder of the season.

So now what? How does USD make its remaining two games, including today’s 1 p.m. kickoff at Pomona-Pitzer, matter?

“There’s always something to shoot for,” USD Coach Brian Fogarty said. “They know they’re a good team, and they still have some things to prove. That’s how we’ll approach (the rest of the season).”

Fogarty said the mood at Monday’s practice was a bit gloomy, but spirits had picked up by the next day. USD takes its updated goals and attitude to today’s game against a team that has won two consecutive games, including last week’s 33-20 victory against its hyphenated rival, Claremont-Mudd.

Pomona-Pitzer (4-3) runs a Wing-T offense, similar to USD (5-2-1). The Sagehens balance their offense with backs Robert Hicks and Tony Fadulu and receiver Todd Tuney, who caught six passes last week.

USD continues to look to senior quarterback Michael Bennett (81 of 144 for 1,051 yards, 10 touchdowns) for leadership and points. Bennett is close to 60% on his completion percentage and is running the ball more and more.

Torero fullback Scott Sporrer is averaging 110.3 rushing yards per game. Against Occidental, running back Michael Henry shifted gears and caught seven passes for 135 yards.

“They’re always going to focus on our fullback,” Fogarty said. “After him, you have to see who you can go to.”

Last week marked the first time USD’s time of possession was less than its opponent.

“That’s the first time that’s happened,” Fogarty said. “We need to get back in control.”