Mequon, WI - The Martin Luther College football team fell to Concordia-Wisconsin in the opening game of the 2023 season by a final score of 55-14. 

The Knights struggled to get the running game going from the early get go as running back Carson Oestreich  was stuffed at the line of scrimmage on various runs.  The senior was held to just 3 yards rushing on the day.

The Knights would find a little success in the air as quarterback Max Nordlie went 9-17 for 118 yards. Backup quarterback Jack Pittenger got a few reps in the game as well, including a 48 yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Jude Pederson. The freshman wide receiver had three receptions for 96 yards to lead the Knights, while Mason Cox also had three catches for 84 yards, including a 41 yard catch.

The Falcons found a balanced attack to lead themselves offensively over the Knights, rushing for 223 yards, while gaining 301 yards through the passing game. The MLC defense also struggled to get off of the field on third down and gave Concordia-Wisconsin multiple opportunities to sustain drives. The Falcons converted on 11 of 16 chances on third down and scored five touchdowns once they reached the red zone.

Despite the struggles, the defense was led in tackles by freshman, Ethan Melso, who recorded 14 tackles. Fellow linebacker, Tom Balge, was second on the Knights' defense with 11 tackles.

MLC will look to tighten up their miscues on both sides of the ball and shake off the early season rust when they head back to New Ulm for their home opener next Saturday, September, 9, against Macalester. Kickoff is scheduled for 1 p.m. at the MLC Bowl.