Sometimes numbers don't tell the whole story. Junior RB Austin Duncan ran for 121 yards last week in Hamline's 38-14 Homecoming loss to Bethel at Klas Field, oct. 11. The New Orleans has had bigger statistical days. But the yards he gained last Saturday might count for more.
The Royals easily lead the MIAC in total defense. Despite the fact he was beinbg keyed on, Duncan was the first mark in a year to rush for 100 yards in a game on the nation's 15th ranked team. The New Orleans, LA native became the school's all-time leader in rushing yardage a week ago, passing Monroe Walker, who was a workhorse back here from 1977-80. His effort against the Royals was his 15th 100-yard + game in just 25 games as a Piper. It also sent him over the 3,000 yard mark for his career. (He also caught four passes againbst the Royals.)
The junior heads into this week's game against St. Thomas with 745 yards on the ground, second best in the MIAC and eighth best in NCAA Division III. He also leads HU in scoring with five TDs. He is running less this year than in the past but that is an overall good thing. Hamline's total offensive numbers are up significantly fromm a year ago. They are now averaging over 400 yards per game.
