GUNNISON, Colo. (September 10, 2016) – A slow start plagued by three interceptions in the first quarter, positioned Adams State University in a difficult spot against Western State Colorado University during the 70^th Colorado Classic on Saturday.

The dismal start helped the Mountaineers jump to a 35-0 lead by the end of the first quarter. Moving forward the Grizzlies' defense fought back by creating four turnovers but the damage was too much to overcome as Adams State fell, 56-25.

Adams State (0-2, 0-2 RMAC) was able to gain traction after halftime with notable defensive plays from Tim Brown Jr. and Wesley Brandon.

On Western State's first drive of the third quarter, Brown Jr. picked off quarterback Cameron Shumway and returned the ball 39-yards to reach paydirt. The senior defensive back added another interception in the fourth that allowed the Grizzlies to go on an 8 play, 34-yard scoring drive. The drive was capped off by a two-yard rush into the end zone from freshman quarterback Stetson Stallworth.

On the ensuing kickoff, Brandon made his impact with a forced fumble and recovery that he returned from the Western State six-yard line for a Grizzly touchdown. Despite the momentum shift, Adams State still found themselves trailing, 49-25, after Brandon's touchdown.

For the game Brandon finished with 5 tackles (2 solo) as Brown Jr. added 2 tackles (2 solo) and a pair of picks. John Reed led all players with 12 tackles (6 solo) as Michael Cirino came down with an interception in the third.

The ASU offense struggled to the tune of 240 yards of total offense as Auston Hillman, Jorge Hernandez, and Stallworth all saw snaps under center. Hernandez finished 14-of-27 for 139 yards with a touchdown and interception. Hillman received the starting nod in the rivalry game but saw limited action after two early interceptions. The senior concluded the game 4-of-8 for 30 yards. Chad Hovasse pulled down six receptions for 51 yards while Addie Brown carried the ball 12 times for 49 yards.

The Western State offense thrived early and ultimately finished with 485 yards of total offense. The attack was led by running back Austin Ekeler's 123 yards rushing and three touchdowns. The Mountaineers notched two defensive touchdowns in the game thanks to a Rodrick Waters pick-six and a Jordan Woodyard forced fumble and recovery.  

The Grizzlies are back home on Sept. 17^th against Fort Lewis College in the annual Musket Game. Kickoff is scheduled for 1pm from Rex Field.

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