The Denison University Big Red struck early and often in their season opener, defeating the visiting Quakers of Earlham College in dominating fashion.
The Big Red jumped to a 21-0 first quarter lead and never looked back en route to a 51-28 win at Deeds-Piper Stadium in Granville, Ohio.
Earlham’s troubles began early. Denison linebacker Joel Elliott intercepted Quakers’ quarterback Matt Couch on Earlham’s second play from scrimmage for the first of the Big Red’s four interceptions on the day.
Meanwhile, Denison’s Brandon Sklenar, in his first career start at quarterback, completed 16 of 22 passes for 196 yards and tossed a pair of touchdowns. Sklenar completed a 49-yard touchdown pass to DuShawn Brown on the Big Red’s second play.
Running back John Wilson led the Bid Red’s ground game, compiling 102 yards on 14 attempts for a 7.3 yards per carry average, while receiver Dushawn Brown nabbed three passes for 57 years to lead the Big Red’s receiving corps.
The Big Red dominated the game from start to finish, holding the ball for 41:41. Conversely, the Quakers managed just 18:19 in time of possession.
Denison (1-0) plays Hiram College next week. Earlham (0-1) plays at home in Richmond, Ind., against Kenyon College.