Joplin Outlaws head coach steps down

(From the Joplin Outlaws)

In order to continue his education, Outlaws Head Coach Jason Immekus has decided to step down from this position.

During the Outlaws Board of Directors fall meeting, we have interviewed and offered the Head Coach position to Outlaws Assistant Coach Jordan Camp.

He is actively researching & filling the roster for the 2016 campaign.

Don Lisi will remain with the Outlaws as Assistant Coach.

Pittsburg State downs MSSU 41-14 in Miners Bowl

(From MSSU Lions Athletic News)

The Missouri Southern football team got to within seven in the third quarter, but Pittsburg State scored 20 unanswered points to win the 2015 Miners Bowl inside Carnie Smith Stadium.

Southern (1-8, 1-8 MIAA) got a touchdown pass from TJ Fleeton as he went 14-25 in the air for 188 yards including a long of 53 yards. Will Gregory had 77 yards on 12 carries, whileCarson Day had 85 yards on four receptions. Jocqui Daviscaught one pass for 37 yards and a score, while Terrell Crawford had 35 yards on five receptions.

Defensively, Johnquavious McBride had a career-high 16 tackles on the day, including a half a tackle for a loss of two yards. KyJuan Tate and EJ McKenzie had an interception each, while McKenzie brought his back 35 yards for a pick six.Stephan Randall had a sack, while Chris Goss III had eight tackles.

PSU took the opening kickoff back 100 yards to go up 7-0 early on. The Gorillas then picked off a Fleeton pass and returned it 51 yards to go up 14-0 with just under 13 minutes left in the first quarter. Pitt added another score at the end of the first quarter to lead 21-0 after one.

The Lions got on the board in the second quarter when McKenzie picked off a pass from Thomas LePage and returned it 35 yards to make the score 21-7. That is how the half would end.

On the Lions' second possession of the second half, Southern's defense again keyed a scoring opportunity. Tate picked off LePage at the PSU 34 and Fleeton hit Davis for a 37-yard pass and score to cut the lead to seven at 21-14.

That, however, would be as close as the Lions got. PSU scored 20 unanswered to end the game.

Southern out gained Pitt 188-171 passing and the Lions had 291 yards of offense altogether.

The Lions will be back in action next weekend when Southern plays host to Fort Hays State. Kickoff from Fred G. Hughes Stadium inside the Robert W. Plaster Sports Complex is slated for 3 pm. The game will be Senior Day.

Southern volleyball loses to Nebraska-Kearney

(From MSSU Lions Athletic News)

The Missouri Southern volleyball team hit .310 in the opening set, but couldn't stop the hot-hitting Nebraska-Kearney Lopers as the Lions fell three sets to none today in MIAA action. Individual set scores were 16-25, 14-25 and 20-25.

The Lions (2-22, 1-12 MIAA) were led offensively and defensively by Callie Whetstone as she had nine kills and seven blocks. Bradyn Wall dished out 23 assists and added five digs, while Monica White had six kills and five blocks. Katie Wielehad a team-high eight digs, while Bridgette Jaeger had four kills and four digs.

The Lopers (23--5, 11-3 MIAA) had three capture double-figure kills, led by 12 from Tara Ziegelbein.

The first set saw three ties and no lead changes, while sets two and three saw UNK lead from start to finish.

The Lions celebrated its seniors prior to the match. Abby Finder, Payton Graves and Callie Whetstone played their final matches at Young Gymnasium as a member of the team. Finder has amassed 2,946 assists in her career, while maintaining a 3.90 GPA in biology. Graves has been the Lions' hottest hitter the past month averaging 2.96 kills and hitting .379. She has 542 kills in her career at MSSU. Whetstone will leave the program as one of the most dominant blockers the team has ever seen. She currently holds the MSSU career record for block assists (326), while also holding the single-season record for block assists at 150. She led the NCAA in 2014 in blocks per set, while ranking second in total blocks.

Southern will be back in action on November 3 as the Lions travel to Bolivar, Mo. for a 7 pm match against Southwest Baptist.

MSSU soccer closes season with loss to Central Oklahoma

(From MSSU Lions Athletic News)

The Missouri Southern soccer team closed their season today with a 3-0 loss to Central Oklahoma at Hal Bodon Field.

The Bronchos (11-5-2, 7-2-2 MIAA) out shot Southern (2-15-1, 0-10-1 MIAA) 20-8 in the match that saw UCO break the scoreless tie in the 36th minute as Victoria Neblett dribbled into the box from the right side and beat Lions' goalie Shawnee Phillips to the lower left 90. UCO would take advantage of a Southern own goal just four minutes later to take 2-0 lead before Neblett would get her second goal of the match in the 42nd minute off an assist from Katie Killion.

At halftime the Lions honored their seven seniors Michaela Altvater, Kayla Gajewski, Phillips, Kimmy Hulse, Kacie Hulse,Hannah Ishmael and Karley Thomas. Thomas gathered eight goals in her four years at Southern and finishes her career tied for 10th on the MSSU All-time leader board. She is also seventh on the all-time list in assists with 10 and is tenth in total points with 26 (8G, 10A). Karley is a nursing major and has been a member of the MIAA Academic Honor Roll the previous two seasons.

Michaela is a four year member of the Lions program playing in 68 contests during her time in Joplin. For her career, Michaela has recorded six assists, which sits just outside the top 10 on the career charts for the Lions. She is a physical therapy major with a GPA of 3.8 and has been a member of the MIAA Academic Honor Roll for the past two seasons.

For her career Kimmy has recorded 29 shots, 16 of those have been on goal. Kimmy is a nursing major with a 3.6 GPA, and has been a member of the MIAA Academic Honor Roll for the past two seasons.

Kacie has played in 57 of those combined matches recording 23 shots, 10 on goal for her career as a defender. Kacie is a health science business major with a 3.8 GPA and a member of the MIAA Academic Honor Roll for the past two seasons.

Hannah is a four year member of the soccer team after coming to Southern from Sand Springs, Oklahoma and Charles Page HS. Hannah has played in 54 matches in her career with her first goal coming this season, an equalizer, against Emporia State to give the Lions a 2-2 draw. Hannah is a foreign language major with a 3.70 GPA.

Kayla is also a four year member of the Lions soccer team playing in 55 matches in her career. Kayla's first goal came back in 2013 on October 11 in a 3-1 loss at Southwest Baptist.

In her lone season in the net for the Lions Shawnee finished sixth in minutes played in a single season (1,666:30) and seventh in the same career category. She also finished fourth in single season saves with 114 and that is also good enough for seventh on the all-time list.

Sophomore Taylor Beck led the Lions with three shots while Gajewski, Kimmy Hulse, and Thomas each added a shot a piece. Phillips played all 90 minutes in the net and recorded 12 saves on the afternoon.

MSSU volleyball loses in four to Fort Hays State

(From MSSU Lions Athletic News)

The Missouri Southern volleyball team came a point from forcing a fifth and deciding set, but fell three sets to one at home to Fort Hays State. Individual set scores were 23-25, 21-25, 25-22, and 25-27.

The Lions (2-21, 1-11 MIAA) had three in double-figures for kills tonight led by 14 from Bridgette Jaeger. Jaeger added nine digs. Callie Whetstone had ten kills and seven blocks, whilePayton Graves had 12 kills. Bradyn Wall dished out 34 assists and added 13 digs, while Katie Wiele had a match-high 17 digs.Abby Finder had 13 digs.

Hays (17-11, 6-7 MIAA) had 15 kils each from Crystal Whitten and Mallory Flagor.

The Tigers took the first set in a frame that saw ten tied scores and three lead changes. After falling 25-21 in set two, Southern fought back and led from start to finish in the third set, taking the frame 25-22.

In the fourth set, the Lions trailed 14-7 early on, but got to within three (18-15) to force a Tigers' timeout. Southern took the lead 21-20 and forced another FHSU timeout, and the Lions had set point at 24-23. However, Hays scored the final two points in the set after a kill from Graves tied the set at 25.

Southern will be back in action tomorrow afternoon as the Lions play host to Nebraska-Kearney at 4 pm inside Young Gymnasium. It will be Senior Day for the three Lions' seniors (Whetstone, Finder and Graves).

Brotherhood keeps rolling- Lamar 50, El Dorado Springs 6

Highlights- Carthage to play for district football title

(From KODE Sports)

Video- Highlights of Webb City's 14-7 win over Carl Junction

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MSSU soccer falls to Southwest Baptist 2-1

(From MSSU Lions Athletic News)

The Missouri Southern Lions soccer team fell 2-1 in overtime to Southwest Baptist Thursday afternoon at Plaster Stadium.

The Lions' (2-14-1, 0-9-1 MIAA) first chance to score in the half came in the 28th minute as sophomore Taylor Beck's shot was saved by the Southwest Baptist (9-8, 6-4 MIAA) goalie. Beck would have another shot saved in the 39th minute and seniorKimmy Hulse had a shot saved by the Bearcats' goalie in the 44th minute. However Southern's best opportunity came in the 43rd minute as Beck's shot went off the goal post. The Lions outshot the Bearcats 8-2 in the first half but neither team found the back of the net as they went to halftime in a 0-0 tie.

Southern would score first in the second half when in the 62nd minute senior Kayla Gajewski took the ball down the middle then sent passed left to senior Karley Thomas who beat the SBU goalie one-on-one for the score. Southern goalkeeper, senior Shawnee Phillips, would then have to face an onslaught of SBU shots as the Bearcats fired off six shots on goal before Caroline Karlsson would beat Phillips for the equalizing goal in the 88th minute and send it to overtime.

In overtime the Lions would get the first opportunity at the golden goal as sophomore Brooke Ishmael's shot was saved by the SBU goalie in the 97th minute. SBU countered with just 28 seconds left in the overtime period as Karlsson sent a pass from the far corner into the box and Karla Jamison beat the goalkeeper challenge for the game winner.

SBU out shot the Lions 16-13 for the match with Beck leading the Lions offense with five shots and Thomas recorded four. Phillips played 99:32 in the net recording seven saves on the day.

Southern will close out its season on Saturday as they host the Central Oklahoma Bronchos for senior day. Kick off from Hal Bodon Field is scheduled for 1 p.m.

Preview: MSSU football heads to Pittsburg for Miners Bowl

(From MSSU Lions Athletic News)

The Missouri Southern football team will head east across the state line as the Lions will play at Pittsburg State this Saturday. Kickoff for the Miners Bowl from Carnie Smith Stadium is slated for 2 pm. The game will also be the NCAA Division II Game of the Week and be seen on ESPN 3.

Game Information
Team Records: MSSU - 1-7, 1-7 MIAA | PSU - 5-3, 5-3 MIAAA
Date: Saturday, Oct. 31, 2015
Kick-Off: 2:00 p.m., CT
Location: Pittsburg, Kan.
Site: Carnie Smith Stadium (7,950)
Series Record: PSU leads the series 37-9-1
Coaches: Denver Johnson (1-7 at MSSU, 70-73 overall) | Tim Beck (52-17 overall/ at PSU)

Media Coverage
MSSU Radio: FM 99.7 Real American Country - Mike McClure, Play-by-Play, Scott Boudreaux, Color
Video Webcast:http://portal.stretchinternet.com/mssu/
Live Stats: http://sidearmstats.com/pittstate/football
Lions on Facebook: Facebook.com/mososports
Lions on Twitter: @mososports; @mosofootball

The Coaches: Denver Johnson was named the 13th head coach in Missouri Southern history on April 1, 2015. He comes to Southern after serving four seasons at the University of Tulsa as the Assistant Head Coach and Offensive Coordinator. In his four seasons at Tulsa, four of his offensive linemen earned first-team all-league accolades, including Stetson Burnett (2013), Brian DeShane and Jared Grigg (2012) and Clint Anderson (2011). Tyler Holmes was an honorable mention performer in 2011 and spent the 2012 season with the Minnesota Vikings. Johnson coached an offensive line that helped pave the way for a 1,000-yard rusher in two of his final three seasons at Tulsa. In 2012, Tulsa's offense ranked fourth nationally for fewest sacks allowed, ninth for rushing offense, 21st for fewest tackles for lost yardage allowed and 28th for total offense. Johnson has spent a total of 30 years coaching college football. In the summer of 2012, Johnson was awarded the Merv Johnson Integrity in College Coaching Award by the Jim Thorpe Association. Johnson has been the head coach at two Division I institutions garnering a 69-66 overall record in 12 seasons at Murray State and Illinois State. An All-Missouri Valley Conference offensive lineman as a senior for Tulsa, Johnson was an eighth round draft choice by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 1981. He spent two years (1981-82) with the Bucs and three seasons in the USFL, playing two years (1983-84) with the Los Angeles Express and the 1985 season with the Houston Gamblers. Johnson's USFL tenure included playing stints with NFL Hall of Fame quarterbacks Jim Kelly and Steve Young. Johnson earned his bachelor's degree in business management from Tulsa in 1981. He and his wife, Danita Kay, have two daughters: Taylor and Kelsey.

Tim Beck is in his sixth season as head coach at Pittsburg State. Beck previously served as Assistant Head Coach for two years, after being named to that role on the Pitt State staff on December 13, 2007. He was 6-6 in his first season, and led the Gorillas to a National Championship in 2013. He is 52-17 in his four plus years as head coach. During his 16 seasons as offensive coordinator, the Gorilla offense consistently has been ranked among the finest units in NCAA Division II. In 2004, PSU shattered a 118-year-old scoring record, scoring an amazing 837 points (55.8 ppg). His squad also set the NCAA all division records for rushing (5,320 yards) and total offense (8,976 yards). Beck, a Ness City, Kan., native, played football at Dodge City Community College for two years before joining the Gorilla program. 

The Series: Pittsburg State holds a 37-9-1 advantage in the series and had won 19 in a row before the Lions won 35-21 2013 in Pittsburg. Missouri Southern has won six of 24 meetings in Joplin, but the Lions have just three times in Pittsburg (3-19-1). The Lions are 6-17 in Joplin. The win in 2013 for MSSU stopped a 19-game winning streak and was the first win in Pittsburg since 1983. The two teams have played each year since 1968 in what is the longest running series for MSSU. The Lions led 5-4-1 after the first 10 meetings. The two teams began competing for the Miners' Bowl Trophy in 1986.

The Dish On Pitt State: Pittsburg State is coming off of a 24-19 road win at Nebraska-Kearney this past weekend. The Gorillas have wins at NSU Fort Hays and Nebraska-Kearney, while winning at home against Lindenwood and Fort Hays.PSU will be without its leading offensive threat and starting quarterback as John Roderique is done for the season with an injury. Before suffering the injury, Roderique had nine scores on the ground and had thrown for nine in the air. Jeff Seybold has 528 carries on the ground with five scores, while Marquise Cushon leads the receiving corps with 24 catches for 309 yards. Levi Copelin has 23 receptions for 333 yards and two scores, while Seybold has caught 16 passes out of the backfield for 174 yards and a pair of scores, as well.Defensively, Deron Washington leads the Gorillas in tackles with 70 total stops. Heath Wilson leads the team with 9.5 tackles for a loss and six sacks, while Darnell Walker has a team-leading five interceptions. The Gorillas average 220.5 yards per game on the ground and 175.5 in the air. They average 396.0 per game of total offense, while giving up 391.6. Pitt will be back in action next weekend as the Gorillas travel to Central Missouri.

A Victory vs. Pittsburg State Would: be the second in a row on the road against the Gorillas. It would be only the fourth overall in Pittsburg and just the third in the last 32 years.

NFL Representation: The Lions will have two different starters on NFL rosters to start the season. Brandon Williams is a starter on the defensive line for the Baltimore Ravens, while Allen Barbre will start on the offensive line for the Philadelphia Eagles.

NCAA Stat Leaders: 14th in fourth-down defense, while ranking 26th in turnovers forced. The team ranks 28th in both fewest penalties per game and fumbles recovered, while ranking 31st in fewest penalties and 36th in interceptions. The team ranks 40th in tackles for a loss, 46th in fewest penalty yards per game and 53rd in fewest penalty yards.

MIAA Stat Leaders: The Lions rank second in fourth down defense, while ranking third in turnovers forced, tackles for a loss, and fumbles recovered. They rank fourth in both fewest penalties and fewest penalties per game, while ranking fourth in interceptions.

Individual National Leaders: Chad Nolan ranks second nationally in yards per reception with 23.81 per catch. Ricky Green ranks 15th in passes defended and 24th in interceptions. Johnquavious McBrideranks 22nd in fumbles recovered and Stetson Broce ranks 51st in punting.

MIAA Individual Leaders: Nolan leads the MIAA in yards per catch, while ranking fifth in touchdown receptions. Green ranks second in passes defended, while McBride ranks third in fumbles recovered. Green and McBride rank 3rd and 5th, respectively in interceptions.

Lions On Radio: The Lions can be heard on the air every game live on KBTN 99.7 FM. Mike McClure is back for his third season covering the Lions, while Scott Boudreaux will provide color commentary.

Tough League/Region: The MIAA has three teams in the coaches top 25 this week. Northwest Missouri is 2nd, while Emporia State is 13th and Central Missouri is 25th. The Super Region Three, which the Lions are a part of, has eight teams in the top 25. There are 12 teams total that are either ranked or receiving votes in the poll from the region.

Lions On TV: Missouri Southern will be on regional and national TV twice this season. The Lions' homecoming game against Lindenwood will be part of the MIAA's TV Game of the Week, while the game at Pittsburg State will be the NCAA Division II Game of the Week, airing on ESPN3.

Lions On The Web: All of MSSU's football games are carried live online as part of the MIAA's streaming contract with Stretch Internet. Fans can view games live by clicking on the link on www.mssulions.com.

300-Yard Passer: TJ Fleeton threw for 368 yards against Lindenwood. He was the first Lion to accomplish that feet since 2011 when Collin Howard had 344 against Southwest Baptist

Interceptions 'R Us: EJ McKenzie and Ricky Green both have multiple interception games this season. The Lions, as a team, have 11 interceptions this year.

Have A Game Will: Will Gregory had his third 100-yard rushing efford of the season against Lindenwood when he recorded 126 yards against the Lions.

Three Field Goals: Brock Renken became the first Lion since 2010 to have three field goals in a game when Dallas Herndon had three against Missouri Western.

Take It To The House: Martice Buckley returned an interception for 30 yards and a score against Lindenwood. He was the first person since 2012 when Gatlin Ridgway took it to the house against South Dakota Mines.

Catch 'Em Long: Chad Nolan ranks second nationally in yards per catch hauling in 23.81 yards per reception. He also leads the MIAA in that category.

Welcome Back Kenny: Defensive Coordinator Kenny Evans is back in green and gold for MSSU. Evans spent nine seasons on the late John Lantz's staff at Missouri Southern from 1989-97 where he helped guide the program into the ranks of NCAA Division II and help MSSU go 51-35 during that stretch.

MIAA TV Game Of The Week: The MIAA Football Game of the Week will now be carried in Joplin! KGCS will carry each game of the week live on channel 22 over the air and on regional cable TV stations.

Weather Report: The weather report for the Pittsburg area on Saturday calls for a high of 62 degrees with a 90 percent chance of morning showers.

Up Next: The Lions will come back home for senior day as Southern plays host to Fort Hays State on November 7. Kickoff from Fred G. Hughes Stadium is slated for 3 pm.

MSSU golf finishes ninth at Payne Stewart Invitational

(From MSSU Lions Athletic News)

The Missouri Southern Golf team battled the 7,364 yard par 72 course and mother nature as they finished ninth at the Payne Stewart Invitational at the Branson Hills Golf Club hosted by Arkansas Tech University.

The Lions entered the final round today in sixth following a 15-over 303 round one yesterday afternoon and followed that up with a 21-over 309 in the rain soaked second round today. Junior Taylor Lansford led the way for Southern as he finished with a share of 18th with a 5-over 149 (72-77). Junior Cameron Hamilton, playing as an individual, moved up 12 spots into a tie for 20th as he improved his second round score by four strokes for a two day total of 150 (77-73) at 6-over. SophomoreConnor Neil was one stroke back of Hamilton in a tie for 24th with a 7-over 151 (75-76). Freshman Tristan Haltom was the biggest mover on the day for Southern as he climbed 16 spots into a tie for 31st shaving six strokes off his first round score of 80 for a 10-over 154 (80-74). Senior Ethan Hutcheson finished at 14-over 158 (76-82) and red-shirt freshman Grant Seifriedcarded a two round total of 169 (86-83).

Central Missouri won the team title with a two round total of 3-under 573. Lindenwood finished in seventh with a 33-over 609, followed by Southern in ninth, Lincoln University in 11th (631) and Southwest Baptist in 12th (643).

The Payne Stewart Invitational was the final event for the fall season for the Lions. They go into their off-season tied for third in the MIAA standings with six points and have three individuals Hutcheson, Lansford, and Hamilton in the top 20 in the individual standings.

Southern will begin their spring season February 15-16 in the San Antonio Shoot Out at the TPC San Antonio-Canyons Course/AT&T Oaks Course) hosted by Oklahoma Christian University.

HeroSports ranks MSSU women 15th in preseason poll

(From MSSU Lions Athletic News)

The Missouri Southern Women's Basketball team has been tabbed 15th in the HeroSports.com D2 Pre-Season Poll.

HeroSports.com is a ranking algorithm and sports media site that maximizes the exposure of schools by giving them an equal playing field to distribute their content. The various advanced metrics they display are of our own creation and the result of seasons of simulations. They use a data-driven algorithm to rank and file each team in the country. Top to bottom, in Division I, II and III across basketball, football and soccer. They delve deeper into the Top 25 than any other ranking service, providing a road map to where every school ranks and how they have performed to date. They use a dynamic strength of schedule measurement that evaluates the true value of a team's wins. Did the top ranked team live up to expectations and cover the spread against the cellar dweller? Or did they play down to their level and narrowly escape defeat? Quality wins are crucial to us as they try to figure out which teams are truly contenders.

Joining the Lions in the top 25 are five other MIAA schools with Emporia State and Pittsburg State in the number 1 and 2 positions. Fort Hays State comes in at number four, the Lions are next at 15th and followed by Central Missouri (19th) and Washburn (24th) to round out the top 25. The full top 25 ranking can be found at the bottom of this article.

Hubbard returns nine players from last season in which the Lions earned a first round by in the MIAA Post-Season Tournament before falling 70-64 to Central Missouri in the quarterfinals at Municipal Auditorium in Kansas City, Missouri. Returning is second team All-MIAA selection senior Sharese Jones who led the team in both scoring (13.7 ppg) and rebounding (7.3 rpg). Joining Jones in returning to the Lions are seniors Kenya Wilson-Brown, Tami Morice, and Verjell Bowleg along with sophomores Jordan Dinyer, Jenson Maydew, Anna Hignight, Dru Clark, and Kayla Kivinski. Hubbard and staff also added a JUCO transfer Deb Holcomb(St. Louis CC), D1 transfer Bri Shavers (New Orleans), senior transfer Sayna Azad (The Hauge University), and local freshmen Desirea Buerge(Webb City HS) and Chelsey Henry(Neosho HS).

The Lions open their season on November 8 as they travel to Fayetteville, Arkansas to take on the Razorbacks in an exhibition at 2 p.m.

BR TEAM
1 Emporia State
2 Pittsburg State
3 Adelphi
4 Fort Hays State
5 Alaska-Anchorage
6 Lewis
7 Wayne State (MI)
8 Ashland
9 Michigan Tech
10 Drury
11 Wayne State (NE)
12 Western Washington
13 California (PA)
14 Northern State
15 Missouri Southern
16 Florida Tech
17 Seattle Pacific
18 Southern Indiana
19 Central Missouri
20 Stonehill
21 Nova SE
22 West Texas A&M
23 Indiana (PA)
24 Washburn
25 Grand Valley State

Study examines MSSU sports economic impact on Joplin area

(From MSSU Lions Athletic News)

Economic Impact Study in PDF Format

The Missouri Southern Athletic Department has released its economic impact study on the Joplin area.

Conducted by Impact DataSource, LLC out of Austin, Texas, the study was commissioned as part of the University's overall study to isolate the economic and fiscal impact of the athletic department during the fiscal year 2013-14.

Missouri Southern, a university of nearly 6,000 students, studying in nearly 200 academic programs, serves the four-states region of Southwest Missouri, Southeast Kansas, Northeast Oklahoma and Northwest Arkansas.

The University has been the host of the NCAA Division II Cross Country Regional Meet, as well as the National Championships twice in the last four years (2012, 2015). This is an event that brings in hundreds of athletes, as well as thousands of spectators, but for the purpose of this study, those numbers were not included. With that being said, the economic impact of those events alone would greatly increase the numbers to follow.

The total economic impact of the department consists of direct, indirect and induced economic impacts attributable to the operations of MSSU Athletics. In total, the department directly, or indirectly supported 234 jobs, $5.4 million in workers' earnings and $20.5 million in economic output or sales in the region.

It's not just money spent at local retailers, restaurants, or hotels, but taxes are also collected as a direct result of the athletic department at Missouri Southern. In 2013-14, a total of $919,266 was collected and that can be broken down to $634,276 in sales tax, $22,150 in hotel tax, $74,116 in property tax and $188,725 in income tax.

The athletic department at MSSU reported a revenue of $6,376,278 in 2013-14. The department has 88 individuals employed either in part-time or full-time status with 33 full-time employees and pays out $2.1 million in workers' earnings. With that said, however, the department also supported another $600,000 in other earnings for workers in related spin-off jobs in the area. But, the economic output or sales of those individuals totaled nearly $10 million in that year.

The department's contribution to the community does not stop at support with jobs or other financial means, but also the department serves as a leader in philanthropical ventures in the area. In 2014, over 2,000 canned good items were collected and donated to a local food shelter. Another initiative spurred on by the female athletes raised over $13,000 for the Freeman Foundation for breast cancer and research. In total, the over 330 student-athletes, as well as staff, compiled over 16,000 hours of community service since 2011.

It's also not just the people directly connected to the University, but outside fans or spectators coming in for each of the department's events that help bring in business to the community. In 2013-14, the Missouri Southern men's and women's basketball programs ranked in the top 25 nationally in attendance, while football ranked 31st and baseball was 16th. In total, 132,380 people attended events on the campus of Missouri Southern in 2013-14. Those visitors to the community spent $553,746 in lodging and $7.5 million altogether. The study found that MSSU Athletics was responsible for 6,222 hotel nights used in the city of Joplin over the year.

It is safe to say the Missouri Southern athletic department has been quite the boon to the local economy and will continue to do so for years to come. Those interested in getting a more in-depth look at this study can view the entire report in PDF format by clicking on the link at the top of the story.

Late scores lift Lindenwood to 34-30 win over MSSU

(From MSSU Lions Athletic News)

The Missouri Southern football team out gained Lindenwood by more than 100 yards, but Lindenwood scored two fourth quarter touchdowns to come-from-behind and defeat Southern 34-30 today on homecoming.

The Lions (1-7, 1-7 MIAA) were led offensively by TJ Fleeton as the quarterback went 30-49 for 368 yards and a score. It's the first time a Missouri Southern quarterback has thrown for 300 yards since Collin Howard had 344 against Southwest Baptist in 2011. Will Gregrory had 27 carries for 126 yards and a score, while Terrell Crawford had 12 catches for 111 yards and a touchdown. Carson Day had six catches for 85 yards, whileChad Nolan caught three passes for 77 yards.

Southern, as a team, threw for 368 yards and rushed for 132 in gaining 500 total yards for the first time this season. The Lions had control of the ball for nearly 34 minutes and were 11-of-20 on third down conversions, while converting their only fourth-down try.

Lindenwood (3-5, 3-5 MIAA) quarterback Mason Bendigo went 20-25 for 192 yards and three touchdowns.

Defensively, the Lions were led by Johnquavious McBride. The junior had eight tackles, including a fumble recovery and three pass break ups. Kyjuan Tate had eight stops, a sack and a forced fumble, while Laynce Sanders had a sack of his own.David Smith, Rolandeis Toliver, Ryan Solomon and Justin Tomlinson had a half a sack each, while Chris Goss III andMartice Buckley had interceptions. Buckley returned his pick 30 yards for a score.

Southern started on fire as the Lions won the toss and deferred to the second half. The defense forced a three-and-out for Lindenwood and the offense scored on the next possession as Will Gregory capped off a ten play, 65 yard drive to put Southern up 7-0 at the ten minute mark of the first half. The defense then came through big on Lindenwood's next possession as Buckley picked off Bendigo's pass and returned it to the house for a 30-yard score to put Southern up 14-0 with 9:28 left in the first quarter.

Lindenwood added a score to start the second quarter as Connor Harris took the ball in wildcat formation and dove in from the one to cut the Southern lead in half.

Southern answered right back, however as the Lions used a 12 play, 67 yard drive this time, capped off by a touchdown pass from Fleeton to Crawford to go up 21-7 with 10:25 left to go in the second quarter. Lindenwood got a touchdown pass from Bendigo to Tre' Roby to make the score 21-14 and the Lions got a 34-yard field goal from Brock Renken to make the halftime score 24-14.

After Southern punted on its opening possession of the half, Bendigo tossed a 38-yard touchdown pass to make the score 24-20, Southern with 10:13 left.

Another Renken field goal, this time from 28 gave the Lions a seven-point lead at 27-20 just as the fourth-quarter started, but Lindenwood tied it up on its next possession. Renken again put the Lions up 30-27, this time from 29 with 7:20 to go in the game. That drive was started after Sanders had sacked Bendigo and forced a fumble that was recovered by Toliver.

After Southern forced a three-and-out, the Lions had the ball with just over five minutes to go. However, a Fleeton interception set up the Lindenwood go-ahead touchdown. Southern would, however, get the ball back as after Lindenwood had drove deep into Southern territory, the defense came up big as Sanders forced another fumble that was recovered by McBride at the Southern 14-yard line. The drive would stall, however, and Southern couldn't complete the comeback.

The Lions will be back in action next Saturday as Southern travels to Pittsburg State to take on the Gorillas. The game will be the NCAA Division II National Game of the Week and can be seen on ESPN 3. Kickoff is slated for 2 pm.

Soccer Lions fall to Northeastern State 1-0

(From MSSU Lions Athletic News)

The Missouri Southern Lions dropped a 1-0 heartbreaker to Northeastern State Sunday afternoon at DeLoach Field.

Senior goalkeeper Shawnee Phillips recorded six saves, four in the second half, on the day for the Lions (2-13-1, 0-8-1 MIAA) as Northeastern State (13-3-0, 7-2-0 MIAA) came away with the 1-0 win in MIAA play. Northeastern State out shot Southern 21-9 on the day, including a 7-1 advantage in shots on goal.

The lone goal of the game came in the 66th minute as NSU's Julia Mathis put a rebound shot off a free kick past Phillips. Southern had four chances to tie it up in the remaining minutes as junior Kelly Sutton's shot in the 70th minute from the far right wing sailed wide left, junior Hannah Cook's shot from the top of the box in the 76th minute went high and again in the 80th minute from the top of the box was blocked, and sophomore Taylor Beck's shot in the 80th minute from the close right wing sailed over the crossbar.

The Lions' lone shot on goal in the first half was taken by Sutton in the 35th minute from the left wing was saved by the RiverHawks goalie. Cook led the way for Southern with four shots, Sutton added three, Beck and junior Carly Cecil each had one shot.

The Lions will be back in action Thursday as they travel to Bolivar, Missouri to take on the Southwest Baptist Bearcats with kickoff scheduled for 3 p.m.

MSSU Golf heads to final fall tournament

(From MSSU Lions Athletic News)

The Missouri Southern Golf team will take part in their final fall tournament of the 2015-16 season Monday and Tuesday at the Payne Stewart Invitational hosted by Arkansas Tech University.

The 2015 Payne Stewart Invitational is being held at the Branson Hills Golf Club. The 6,741 yard par 72 course. Branson Hills course was designed by Chuck Smith with design consultant and PGA Professional, Bobby Clampett and incorporates the natural rock outcroppings, waterfalls and creeks and wooded areas into the design features while honoring one of Missouri's legendary golfers, Payne Stewart.

"This is an excellent opportunity for us to improve our ranking as a team both regionally and nationally," said head coachMike Wheeler. "[Branson Hills] is a great course and we should have good conditions for the tournament. Its up to us to stay focused and play smart as we look forward to a top three finish."

The Lions five man team will consist of junior Taylor Lansford, senior Ethan Hutcheson, sophomore Connor Neil, freshmanTristan Haltom, and red-shirt freshman Grant Seifried. JuniorCameron Hamilton will be playing as an individual in this last fall tournament.

Lansford is making his fifth appearance for Southern this season and is leading the Lions this season with a 74.6 scoring average in the four tournaments. Lansford's best finish this season was third place at the Texoma Championships with a 4-over 220 (73-75-72) and his lowest round came in the opening 18 holes of the season at the MSSU Men's Golf Fall Invitational at Shangri-La. Hutcheson is also making his fifth appearance for the Lions this season and holds a scoring average of 75.9 per round with his best finish of seventh and lowest round of 70 coming at the season opening MSSU Men's Fall Invitational. Neil is making his fifth tournament of the season for the Lions and is carding an average of 76.9 per round, his best finish so far this season was tied for 12th at the Texoma Championships with his lowest round coming in the opening round of the MSSU Men's Fall Invitational at Shangri-La. Haltom is making his second appearance for the Lions as a member of the five man team. His previous tournament was the Holiday Inn Express Classic hosted by Missouri Western at the St. Joseph Country Club. At the SJCC, Haltom finished tied for 36th at 15-over. Haltom played in a "B" tournament in Springfield at the Rivercut Golf Course where he led the Lions with a share of ninth place and a score of 8-over 224. Seifried is making his MSSU team debut this season after being red-shirted last year. Seifried also played at the Rivercut tournament finishing second on the team with a 10-over 226 for a share of 13th. Hamilton will be making his fifth appearance for the Lions after transfering from Murray State College this season. Hamilton's best finish came at the MSSU Men's Golf Fall Invitational as he shared 14th place with an 8-over 224, he also posted back-to-back rounds of 72, his lowest on the season, in the final two rounds at Shangri-La.

Joining the Lions at the Payne Stewart Invitational will be MIAA schools Central Missouri, Lincoln, and Lindenwood. Joining the MIAA teams will be Great American Conference members Arkansas-Monticello, Arkansas Tech (host), Harding, Henderson State, and Southeastern Oklahoma State.

MSSU volleyball falls to Missouri Western

(From MSSU Lions Athletic News)

The Missouri Southern volleyball program got 11 kills from Payton Graves and seven blocks from Callie Whetstone, but the Lions fell three sets to none tonight against Missouri Western inside Young Gym. Individual set scores were 16-25, 21-25 and 21-25.

The Lions (2-19, 1-9 MIAA) were led by Graves as the senior had 11 kills, hit .500 and addded four digs and a block. Whetstone had five kills and seven blocks, while Abby Finderdished out 29 assists and added five digs. Bridgette Jaeger had six kills and nine digs, while Monica White added seven kills and two blocks.

Western (16-5, 8-2 MIAA) was led by seven kills each from Jordan Chohon and Jessie Thorup. Chohon added 27 assists.

The first set saw four ties and one lead change, while set two saw two of each. In set three, the Lions raced out to an 11-7 lead, forcing a Western timeout. The score was 16-11, forcing another Western timeout, but the Griffons fought back out of the timeout to tie the set at 17. The score was tied again at 18, 20 and 21, but Western scored the final four points to take the match.

The Lions will be back in action tomorrow evening, playing host to Northwest Missouri. First serve is slated for 7 pm inside Young Gym.

MSSU cross country teams to compete in MIAA Championships

(From MSSU Lions Athletic News)

The Missouri Southern men's and women's cross country teams will compete in the 2015 MIAA Championships this Saturday at the Sand Plum Nature Trail in Hays, Kan.

The race is being hosted by Fort Hays State University. The women's 6k begins at 10 am and the men's 8k begins at 11 am. Both the Southern men's and women's teams are the defending MIAA Champs.

The Southern women come into the championships ranked fifth in the latest USTFCCCA Regional Rankings. Leading the Lions is Emily Harris, as the junior has a top time in the 5k this year of 17:34.80, ran at the Southern Stampede. She also ran a 17:37.24 at the University of Arkansas Chili Pepper Festival. The Lions have yet to run a 6k race this year. Southern finished second at both SBU and the Southern Stampede, while winning at Missouri S&T in the team's latest event.

Leading the men is freshman Vincent Kiprop. One of the top runners in the MIAA, as well as Division II this year, Kiprop has been the MIAA Men's Cross Country Runner of the Week twice this season. He won the Southern Stampede in a time of 24:15.96 throughout the 8k course. At the Arkansas Chili Pepper, Kiprop finished 11th, but was the third-fastest Non-DII runner in the race with a career-best time of 23:57.77 over 8k. Kiprop was also second at the Missouri S&T Jackling Jocks Invite two weeks ago. Southern finished third at SBU and was second at Missouri S&T.

Missouri Southern will serve as the host to both the 2015 NCAA Division II Central Region Championships, as well as the 2015 NCAA Division II National Championships.

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MSSU women's basketball picked for eighth in MIAA

(From MSSU Lions Athletic News)

The Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics Association (MIAA) announced their women's basketball coaches' pre-season poll this morning.

Missouri Southern, who finished last season 20-7 overall and 14-5 in MIAA play for a fourth place finish, were picked to finish eighth this season by the MIAA coaches. Head CoachRonda Hubbard enters her third season at the helm of the program after leading the Lions to their first 20 win season since the 1995-96 campaign. In two years on the bench Hubbard has an overall record of 39-15 (.722), which is the most wins in the first two years of any tenure in MSSU women's basketball history and the .722 winning percentage is the second best in the first two seasons following the .750 set by former AD Sallie (Roper) Beard in 1974-75 and 1975-76.

Hubbard returns nine players from last season in which the Lions earned a first round by in the MIAA Post-Season Tournament before falling 70-64 to Central Missouri in the quarterfinals at Municipal Auditorium in Kansas City, Missouri. Returning is second team All-MIAA selection senior Sharese Jones who led the team in both scoring (13.7 ppg) and rebounding (7.3 rpg). Joining Jones in returning to the Lions are seniors Kenya Wilson-Brown, Tami Morice, and Verjell Bowleg along with sophomores Jordan Dinyer, Jensen Maydew, Anna Hignight, Dru Clark, and Kayla Kivinski. Hubbard and staff also added a JUCO transfer Deb Holcomb(St. Louis CC), D1 transfer Bri Shavers (New Orleans), senior transfer Sanya (Si-nah) Azad (The Hauge University), and local freshmen Desirea Buerge (Webb City HS) and Chelsey Henry(Neosho HS).

Holcomb comes to the Lions from St. Louis Community College where she earned first team All-American honors her sophomore season. She was a first-team All-Conference and All-Region pick as a freshman, as well as a sophomore. A native of Denton, Texas, Holcomb finished second in the nation at the NJCAA D-II level with 25.2 points per game. Holcomb also was the first SLCC player to score 1,000 points as she finished with 1,088 for the Archers. During her two years with SLCC, Holcomb helped lead the Archers to a 40-15 record and two NJCAA Region XVI championship games.During her sophomore campaign Holcomb shot 45.5 percent (278-611) from the field and finished 16th in the nation in steals with 96. She also averaged 8.2 rebounds per contest, while shooting 71.8 percent (112-156) from the free throw line.Holcomb prepped at Billy Ryan High School where she was a 2011 graduate and played for coach Moesha Allen. Her sophomore season, Holcomb was an honorable mention All-Conference selection, while also being named Newcomer of the Year. She was a first-team All-District pick as a senior.

Shavers comes to Joplin from the University of New Orleans where she saw action in 22 games as a red-shirt freshman after sitting out 2013-14 due to an injury. She played 131 minutes in those 22 contests pulling down 33 rebounds with three steals and three blocks. A native of Carrollton, Texas, Shavers prepped at Creekview HS for coach Nikki Heath. She averaged 12 points and 10 rebounds during her senior season earning first team All-District and academic All-District honors to go along with second team All-State honors. During her junior season, she was named all-academic and was a honorable mention all-district selection.

Buerge, a Webb City standout, was a three sport star for the Cardinals lettering in basketball, softball, and track. In basketball, she earned first team All-District and second team All-COC during her sophomore season at WCHS and earned first team honors for both during her junior campaign while helping WCHS to a second place finish in MSHSAA Class 4 during her sophomore season. In Track & Field Buerge set the WCHS record in discus with a throw of 153'8 and in the shot put with a throw of 44'4". Buerge earned All-State in both shot and discus her junior year, winning the MSHSAA Class 4 title in discus, and All-State in discus her sophomore season. She will join Coach Patty Vavraand the Lions Track & Field team for the outdoor season as well. On the softball diamond Buerge led the Cardinals to a second place state finish her junior season while earning first team All-COC, All-District, and All-State honors at shortstop.

Chelsey played basketball for the Lady Wildcats for three years under Coach Lance Robbins and will play her senior season under Coach Grant Berendt. Under Robbins direction she earned first team All-COC and All-District honors her junior season. Henry was also selected as the MVP of the Neosho Holiday Tournament while being named to both the KURM basketball dream team and the Joplin Lady Eagle Classic All-Tournament team. Chelsey also set the Neosho High School record for most points in a season with 427 during her junior year. Chelsey also played volleyball and ran track for the Wildcats, earning Academic All-State in volleyball.

Azad comes to the Lions after spending three years at The Hague University of Applied Sciences in the Netherlands...averaged 7.8 points and 4.0 rebounds per contest while playing in the Netherlands...a 2010 graduate of Sint-Maartenscollege in Voorburg, Holland.

The Lions open their season on November 8 as they travel to Fayetteville, Arkansas to take on the Razorbacks in an exhibition at 2 p.m.

Joplin Table Tennis Tournament set for November 7

(From the City of Joplin)

Many of us have probably played table tennis, (aka “ping pong”) at some rec room or a friend’s house during our lifetime. Our level of play may have allowed us to beat our little brother in a game, but how would we fare against true competitors in the sport? Now’s your chance to find out by entering the Joplin Table Tennis 2015 Fall Classic coming to Memorial Hall in November. Or if you’d rather watch, you’re welcome to come out and enjoy the matches.

The Classic is being held on Saturday, November 7 and players of all levels are encouraged to sign up for the tournament, which offers several events of various categories. Entry fee is $12 per player. Players can register by calling 417-625-4750 or by going to www.joplinparks.org/ - go to Adult Sports, Browse All.

The Joplin Table Tennis Club is hosting the Fall Classic, and hosted a similar event earlier this year in the spring. According to Janus Lazarus, President of the Joplin Club, registration is ongoing for this four-state tournament.

“This is a great tournament for this area,” said Lazarus. “We’re seeing many players signing up and spectators should enjoy watching this competitive tournament with these highly skilled players.”

Lazarus said their club encourages the public to attend and watch this one of a kind tournament. Attending the tournament is free, and allows people to learn more about the sport and the local club. “This sport is great for both men and women, and adults of all ages, so we’re excited to have this tournament here in Joplin so more people know about our club and the sport itself.”
Lazarus said there has already been great interest in this tournament. Last year, the club saw players from several Oklahoma and Missouri communities, as well as Arkansas players.

For more information about the Joplin Table Tennis Club or for a schedule of the tournament, go to Joplin Table Tennis Facebook, or click on the link at the end of this article, or you may call Janus Lazarus at 417-319-1441.

More Info on Joplin Table Tennis Club & Tourney...

MSSU baseball team begins fall world series

(From MSSU Lions Athletic News)

The Missouri Southern baseball team will begin its fall world series tonight at Warren Turner Field. The series consists of three games on Thursday, Friday and Sunday, beginning at 5:15 pm tonight.

Tonight's opener will feature two Lions' aces going head-to-head as Cody Hutchinson will pitch for the Green team, whilePayton Walker starts for the Gold. Friday's game begins at 5:30 pm, while Sunday's game begins at noon. The team will be serving free hot dogs to fans attending Friday night's game.

Junior infielder Richie Gorski, as well as senior designated hitter Jesse Rall got to select their respective teams in a live draft held earlier this week. The Gold team consists of Jacob Bryant, Colin Chandler, Austin White, Sean Goostree, Lane Ketterman, Hunter Harrison, Joe Paulino, Matt Harvey, Trever Burkdoll, Jesse Rall, Payton Walker, Brett Graham, Garan Stevens, Drew Pearson, Tyler Sutherland, Austin Aspegren, Crag Larkin and Jack Kemper.

The Green team consists of Richie Gorski, Jackson Cain, Chris Hoffman, Danny Biggs, Hayden Steel, Chris Leonardi, Matt Smith, Conner Matson, Zach Litchen, Austin Carter, Kyle McCulloch, Austyn Gooch, Cody Smith, Tanner Brown, Cody Hutchinson, Kyle Smith, Derek Mann and Trenton Moeller.

MSSU soccer loses to Washburn 1-0

(From MSSU Lions Athletic News)

The Missouri Southern Lions fell Monday night 1-0 to visiting Washburn at Hal Bodon Field.

The Ichabods (4-7-3, 3-3-1 MIAA) scored the lone goal in the second half as Paige Swanson headed home her third goal of the season off a header assist from Presley Wiggins off a Washburn corner in the 51st minute.

Washburn out shot the Lions (2-11-1, 0-7-1 MIAA) 18-6 including 7-1 in the second half. Junior Carly Cecil recorded two shots for the Lions with seniors Kayla Gajewski, Kacie Hulse, and Karley Thomas all contributing one each. Southern's best chance to score came in the first half as sophomoreAnissa Williams took a cross and aimed for the lower right 90 but it was saved by the Ichabods' goalie.

Senior goalkeeper Shawnee Phillips once again played all 90 minutes in the net for the Lions coming up with eight saves on the night.

Southern will be back in action this Friday as they head to Edmond, Oklahoma to take on the University of Central Oklahoma. Kickoff from Tom Thompson Field is scheduled for 4 p.m.

MSSU to play host to Lindenwood for Homecoming

(From MSSU Lions Athletic News)

The Missouri Southern football team will play host to Lindenwood University this Saturday as the two teams tangle on Homecoming. The game, which will be televised as the MIAA Game of the Week, will kick off at 2:37 pm from Fred G. Hughes Stadium inside the Robert W. Plaster Sports Complex. 

Game Information
Team Records: MSSU - 1-6, 1-6 MIAA | LWU - 2-5, 2-5 MIAAA
Date: Saturday, Oct. 24, 2015
Kick-Off: 2:36 p.m., CT
Location: Joplin, Mo.
Site: Fred G. Hughes Stadium (7,000)
Series Record: Series Tied at 1-1
Coaches: Denver Johnson (1-6 at MSSU, 70-72 overall) | Patrick Ross (103-50 overall/89-47 at Lindenwood)

Media Coverage
MSSU Radio: FM 99.7 Real American Country - Mike McClure, Play-by-Play, Scott Boudreaux, Color
Video Webcast: http://portal.stretchinternet.com/mssu/
Live Stats: http://sidearmstats.com/mssu/football
Lions on Facebook: Facebook.com/mososports
Lions on Twitter: @mososports; @mosofootball

The Coaches:

Denver Johnson was named the 13th head coach in Missouri Southern history on April 1, 2015. He comes to Southern after serving four seasons at the University of Tulsa as the Assistant Head Coach and Offensive Coordinator. In his four seasons at Tulsa, four of his offensive linemen earned first-team all-league accolades, including Stetson Burnett (2013), Brian DeShane and Jared Grigg (2012) and Clint Anderson (2011). Tyler Holmes was an honorable mention performer in 2011 and spent the 2012 season with the Minnesota Vikings. Johnson coached an offensive line that helped pave the way for a 1,000-yard rusher in two of his final three seasons at Tulsa. In 2012, Tulsa's offense ranked fourth nationally for fewest sacks allowed, ninth for rushing offense, 21st for fewest tackles for lost yardage allowed and 28th for total offense. Johnson has spent a total of 30 years coaching college football. In the summer of 2012, Johnson was awarded the Merv Johnson Integrity in College Coaching Award by the Jim Thorpe Association. Johnson has been the head coach at two Division I institutions garnering a 69-66 overall record in 12 seasons at Murray State and Illinois State. An All-Missouri Valley Conference offensive lineman as a senior for Tulsa, Johnson was an eighth round draft choice by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 1981. He spent two years (1981-82) with the Bucs and three seasons in the USFL, playing two years (1983-84) with the Los Angeles Express and the 1985 season with the Houston Gamblers. Johnson's USFL tenure included playing stints with NFL Hall of Fame quarterbacks Jim Kelly and Steve Young. Johnson earned his bachelor's degree in business management from Tulsa in 1981. He and his wife, Danita Kay, have two daughters: Taylor and Kelsey.

Patrick Ross, the winningest football coach in Lindenwood history, is in his 11th season as the head coach of the Lindenwood program in 2014. He is in his 13th season overall as a collegiate head coach. Ross owns a career coaching record of 103-50 (.717), his teams have appeared in the NAIA Football Championship Series six times, and twice he has earned NAIA National Coach of the Year honors. In his first ten years in St. Charles, he has compiled a record of 89-47, won three HAAC championships, advanced to the NAIA national playoffs five times, including a trip to the national championship game in 2009, and played in the 2013 NCAA Division II Mineral Water Bowl. He became the all-time leader in wins at Lindenwood in 2007, and his .717 winning percentage shatters the previous best mark for the program.

The Series: This is the third-ever meeting between the two schools. Lindenwood took the first match-up in 2012, 45-30, while Missouri Southern won 31-17 in 2014. Both games were played in St. Charles. This will be the first game played in Joplin. The two teams were slated to play two years ago for MSSU's Homecoming game, but the event was cancelled after the tragic shooting death of MSSU Offensive Line Coach, Derek Moore.

The Dish On Lindenwood: Lindenwood is coming off its second win of the season as they defeated Nebraska-Kearney 28-10 at home this past weekend. The Lions won in week one on a last-second touchdown against Washburn, then lost five in a row, including games to three ranked opponents. The Lions have utilized two different starting quarterbacks this season, but Mason Bendigo is listed as the starter this week. He has gong 49-58 through the air for 669 yards and four scores. Jesse Scroggins went 66-140 in the air for 695 yards and three scores when he started. On the ground, Lavorrie Johnson had 70 carries for 284 yards, 4.1 per carry and two scores. Calen Campbell has 162 yards on 36 carries with two touchdowns, while Scroggins has just under 100 yards and two scores on the ground. In the air, Greg Coble and Tre' Roby have the only touchdowns for Lindenwood. Coble has 25 receptions for 396 yards and three scores, while Roby has caught 16 passes for 306 yards and four TD's. Defensivley, Lindenwood is led by Connor Harris. Harris leads the MIAA in tackles with 125, while posting 9.0 tackles for a loss and 3.5 sacks. Bakari Triggs has one of only two interceptions on the team, while Justin Taylor has 26 tackles and four tackles for a loss. The Lions have 13 sacks as a team.Lindenwood averages just 92.9 yards per game on the ground, while giving up more than 100 (194.6) to its opponents. The Lions are averaging 197.9 per game in the air and give up 230, while they average 290.7 of total offense and give up 424.6. The Lions will be back in action next week as they play host to Central Missouri at 1:30 pm. 

A Victory vs. Lindenwood Would: be the second in a row against Lindenwood and would be second out of three total games played between the two schools.

NFL Representation: The Lions will have two different starters on NFL rosters to start the season. Brandon Williams is a starter on the defensive line for the Baltimore Ravens, while Allen Barbre will start on the offensive line for the Philadelphia Eagles.

NCAA Stat Leaders: The Lions rank 24th in fourth down conversion defense, while ranking 30th in blocked kicks allowed. They rank 36th in turnovers gained, while ranking 37th in interceptions and 38th in fumbles recovered. The team ranks 36th in fewest penalties per game, while ranking 45th in fewest penalties overall.

MIAA Stat Leaders: The Lions rank second in both sacks allowed (fewest) and blocked kicks allowed (fewest). The team ranks third in fourth down defense, turnovers gained, and interceptions, while ranking fourth in fumbles recovered, fewest penalties and fewest penalties per game. They rank fifth in tackles for a loss.

Individual National Leaders: Ricky Green ranks 19th in interceptions, while Johnquavious McBride ranks 43rd. Green ranks 30th in passes defended, while Kyjuan Tate is 31st in total tackles. Stetson Broce is 50th in punting.

MIAA Individual Leaders: Green ranks second in interceptions, while McBride is third. Broce is third in punting, while Chad Nolan ranks third in receiving touchdowns. Green ranks sixth in passes defended, while Tate is sixth in total tackles.

Lions On Radio: The Lions can be heard on the air every game live on KBTN 99.7 FM. Mike McClure is back for his third season covering the Lions, while Scott Boudreaux will provide color commentary.

Tough League/Region: The MIAA has two teams in the coaches top 25 this week. Northwest Missouri is third, while Emporia State is 19th. The Super Region Three, which the Lions are a part of, has seven teams in the top 25. There are 12 teams total that are either ranked or receiving votes in the poll from the region.

Lions On TV: Missouri Southern will be on regional and national TV twice this season. The Lions' homecoming game against Lindenwood will be part of the MIAA's TV Game of the Week, while the game at Pittsburg State will be the NCAA Division II Game of the Week, airing on ESPN3.

Lions On The Web: All of MSSU's football games are carried live online as part of the MIAA's streaming contract with Stretch Internet. Fans can view games live by clicking on the link on www.mssulions.com.

You Look Familiar: Lindenwood offensive coordinator Matt Karleskint was on the staff at Missouri Southern from 2005-10, serving as the offensive coordinator at MSSU, as well. His brother Doug, is the men's basketball coach at Central Missouri.

Interceptions 'R Us: EJ McKenzie and Ricky Green both have multiple interception games this season. The Lions, as a team, have nine interceptions this year.

Have A Game Will: Will Gregory had a season-high for rushing this past week as the California native rushed for 142 yards and a score. The 142 yards is the most rushing yards by a single individual in a game this season for the Lions.

Welcome Back Kenny: Defensive Coordinator Kenny Evans is back in green and gold for MSSU. Evans spent nine seasons on the late John Lantz's staff at Missouri Southern from 1989-97 where he helped guide the program into the ranks of NCAA Division II and help MSSU go 51-35 during that stretch.

MIAA TV Game Of The Week: The MIAA Football Game of the Week will now be carried in Joplin! KGCS will carry each game of the week live on channel 22 over the air and on regional cable TV stations.

Weather Report: The weather report for the Joplin area on Saturday calls for a high of 71 degrees with a 50 percent chance of morning thunderstorms.

Up Next: The Lions will head back on the road next week as Southern heads to Pittsburg State to take on the Gorillas. The game will be broadcast on ESPN 3 as the NCAA Division II Game of the Week.