Flying High, Going Nowhere

Most college football fans have never heard of the University of Dayton, except perhaps in terms of basketball. But the Flyers football team isn't a bad one, either. Playing in Division I-AA non-scholarship, Dayton doesn't quite get the respect that they deserve. After all, their only loss this season was a 41-7 blowout at the hands of St. Mary's, the only scholarship team they played.

But subtract that game, and UD was 10-0, tying for first in the Division I-AA mid-major rankings and winning their 7th Pioneer League title in 9 seasons. They also outscored those 10 opponents 444-124. Even with the St. Mary's game, they outscored their opponents 451-165.

Being non-scholarship puts Dayton in a precarious position, however. Though non-scholarship teams are eligible for the I-AA playoffs, none have ever been invited. The Patriot League champion does get an automatic bid, but for Dayton to sneak in from the Pioneer League is unlikely. And it's unfortunate. They are, after all, ranked #1 in Mid-Major I-AA college football. They were, simply put, dominant this year.

Lest you should think that the Flyers put together this season on the heels of one or two players, look at the awards their players have won so far. Five players won Academic All-District honors (CB Marty McNamara, DT Andy Bentley, S Mark Kasmer, OT Nick Sellett, and WR Jason Schmidt.) Ten were named All-PFL (HB Fermaine Bailey, G Justin Willhoite, OT Eric Willman, DL Trent Karn, RB Tyler Bowersock, S Mark Kasmer, S Aaron Furman, P Jeff Fallis, and KR Ryan Jones were first team selections. DT Andy Bentley was named to second honors.) Kasmer had 9 interceptions, tying him for 1st in I-AA in interceptions per game. Fullback Geno Mattioda carried seven times for 80 yards and two touchdowns in the PFL championship game. The 210-pound sophomore 'scampered' for a 31-yard touchdown run and a 29-yard TD romp. He finished the year with an even 200 yards rushing on 23 carries, good for 8.7 yards per carry. The Flyers' 3 back backfield averaged 5.5 yards per carry this season, with 763 yards rushing on 138 carries, and 19 TDs. RB Tony Hurps was not tackled for a single loss in the season (303 yards, 15 touchdowns).

If this team is left out of the Division I-AA playoffs, these playoffs do not deserve to happen. Sure, they may get trounced in the first round. But then, they may not. The bottom line is, with schools like Cal State Northridge closing up shop for good as far as football is concerned, I-AA non-scholarship needs to be given a chance to show its mettle. It is a viable alternative for budget-concerned schools, but it needs to grow. A good way to do that is to get some of these teams into the playoffs. Remember, the NCAA doesn't make any money when a football team folds.

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