One year ago, UW-Oshkosh quarterback Cole Warren found himself in the midst of his final season at Hononegah High School. He has truly arrived, etching his name into UWO history by orchestrating one of the most remarkable comebacks you will ever see. Despite UW-La Crosse looking poised to take control of the game, Warren and his teammates kept the faith. In the competitive world of the WIAC, hard-fought victories are the norm, not the exception. Facing a nineteen-point deficit in the second half, the Titans defied expectations, coming back to defeat UW-La Crosse 34-33. This victory improved the Titans’ record to 3-2 and solidified their status as a team to watch.
Photo Cred: Terrance Biggs
The Adjustment
Whatever UWO defensive coordinator Craig Steinbroten conveyed to his defense during halftime needs to be bottled and shared throughout college football. After allowing twenty-eight points in the first half, Steinbroten’s squad surrendered just three points in the final thirty minutes, courtesy of a 29-yard field goal by UWL that ricocheted off the crossbar. The Titans showcased an aggressive defense that stifled the Eagles’ offense and rushed the passer with renewed determination. Senior linebacker Connor Lund capped off a dominant defensive effort by intercepting Kyle Haas to end a UWL drive.
Going Alone
UW-La Crosse quarterback Kyle Haas typically operates within a two-quarterback system, but with injuries sidelining others, he took the reins solo. Haas amassed 290 total yards and accounted for three touchdowns, moving the offense effortlessly down the field. The sophomore displayed a strong connection with his backs and receivers, illustrating a promising future for the Eagles.
Turning Point
With under twelve minutes remaining, Oshkosh needed to maintain momentum deep in Eagles’ territory. However, two penalties—a fifteen-yard personal foul followed by a five-yard false start—stalled their drives, pushing UWO back to the UWL 48-yard line. Facing a daunting third-and-thirty, Warren connected with running back Justice Lovelace on a short pass. Lovelace broke free for a stunning thirty-three-yard gain. Converting such a lengthy third down is rare, but Lovelace seized the opportunity and dashed downfield. While games usually hinge on more than one play, without that conversion, a fourth-and-thirty would have loomed large.
Three Minutes, Seven Seconds, Ten Plays, 54 Yards
As Oshkosh began their drive into Eagles’ territory, a sense of calm and execution emerged. Operating exclusively in a no-huddle offense, Warren targeted wideout Trae Tetzlaff five times, culminating in the sixteen-yard game-winner with just sixty-one seconds left. Tetzlaff proved to be a persistent threat, repeatedly beating defenders, especially in the closing moments. The chemistry between quarterback and receiver was evident to all. If the Titans embark on a successful run in the WIAC, this pivotal moment could be seen as the turning point of their season. After a heartbreaking loss to UW-Whitewater the previous week, UW-Oshkosh needed to regroup, and they did so spectacularly.
Overview
The WIAC offers fans, players, coaches, and alumni a competitive brand of football that continues to impress every Saturday. The AFCA routinely ranks several conference teams in its weekly polls, and for good reason. Those who navigate the grueling conference schedule successfully are poised to make a postseason impact. Oshkosh and La Crosse demonstrated why they will be key players in the standings as October draws to a close.
