Linfield football is back on display as our Wildcats hosted the University of Redlands on Sept. 15.  

A boisterous crowd of supporters witnessed the Linfield defense deny the Redlands Bulldogs any points during the ‘Cats’ first home game.  

Although the ‘Cats took the win, it was not a sure thing. The offense, specifically, could not find a rhythm and it showed through the entire game.  

The beginning of the first half was promising for the Wildcats. The second possession lead to a 27-yard field goal by junior Willy Warne. But, in the Wildcats’ next drive, freshman quarterback Wyatt Smith threw his first of two picks.

The entire second half was back and forth between defensive stops, in which neither team’s offense was able to get past.  

While the new band and dance team entertained the crowd during half time, the Wildcat offense was preparing their attack for the second half.

On their first possession of the half, the ‘Cats marched down the field. Then, on a first down play on the Redland’s 17-yard line, Smith was able to find sophomore Max Novak for a Wildcat touchdown to take a two-score lead.

The ‘Cats would add to that lead with only a single field goal in the fourth quarter.

However, the defining takeaway from the game was the impressive work of the Linfield defense. Holding any team from scoring is an impressive accomplishment.

“[The defense’s] chemistry is coming together and we are doing a lot to limit big plays and coverage mistakes,” sophomore defensive tackle Sam Gomez said.

Gomez also said the defensive line needs to work on their technique, but he is still really impressed with the entire defense.

Having as large of a crowd as the game did added to the excitement on the field.

“The student section showed up and it was a really great environment and a good game,” field reporter Joe Stuart, ‘19, said.

Stuart also said this was a great start for the Wildcats. This is especially true looking at the long journey to the postseason.

The Wildcats will make a trip to Spokane to take on Whitworth at 1 p.m. on Sept. 29 for their first conference match.