Written By: Case Conley
Davenport football is off to their best start in program history after their 6-0 start and 22nd ranking in the latest AFCA Division 2 coaches’ poll football rankings. They are led by Northwestern graduate transfer quarterback Jason Whittaker who leads the GLIAC in passing yards per game and has thrown 20 touchdowns this season which is already a school record. This explosive offense also has 3 of the top 6 leaders in receiving yards in the league led by Ferris State transfer Sy Barnett who averages 93 yards a game. Preston Smith and Roy Livingstone round out this receiving core with 13 touchdowns combined. The rushing attack has been solid as well with a two-man tandem of Caleef Jenkins and Kyshawn Richards who both average over 60 yards per game. The defense also is second in the league in yards given up and second in the league with 10 interceptions forced.
The Panthers have already faced a lot of adversity this season trailing or being tied at halftime in 3 games and winning on a game-winning field goal in Marquette against Northern Michigan. Last weekend against Wayne State, Whittaker threw a touchdown with 9 seconds left to Alonzell Henderson to win the game 47-43. With Ferris State falling to Grand Valley State last weekend, both Grand Rapids schools are the only undefeated teams left in the GLIAC. This weekend the Panthers play their last non-conference game at home against 1-5 Lincoln (California) before their huge end to GLIAC play. They end the season with an away game at #24 Saginaw Valley State, a trip to Big Rapids to take on #7 Ferris State, and a rivalry game at home against #1 Grand Valley State Lakers. The Panthers will be tested but they are one of the most battle-ready teams in Division 2 and their high-powered offense will make them a threat to everybody.
If you are interested in buying tickets, follow this link https://dupanthers.com/sports/2021/5/17/hometown-ticketing.aspx?id=1323
Written By: Case Conley – Michigan Sports Network Intern
Photo Courtesy of: Davenport University Athletics
