By Craig Lynch
Quarterback Broc Rutter has started all four years for North Central College. The graduate of Neuqua Valley High School in Naperville has led the Cardinals’ run through the Division III playoffs this season to Saturday’s semifinal game at 11 a.m. at Muhlenberg College in Allentown, Pa..
Rutter completed 23 of 33 passes for 263 yards and two touchdowns to propel the Cardinals, 12-1, into the semifinals by defeating visiting Delaware Valley, 31-14, in Naperville Saturday.
“I couldn’t be happier for Broc,” said head coach Jeff Thorne.”
North Central scored 14 points in the first quarter on the way to a 17-0 halftime lead. The Aggies, 11-2, cut the lead to 17-14 before North Central answered with 14 straight points.
”We were tested and survived,” said Rutter.
The victory marked the Cardinals second appearance in the semifinals, the first since 2013.
“I am happy for Broc because we have lost in the second round three times,” said Thorne. “That is no reflection on him as a player, but now we have a chance to go further.”
Rutter appreciated his team’s success.
“We couldn’t get past the second round, but we don’t want to be satisfied.
Thorne heaped more praise on his quarterback. “Broc has been a great leader here,” said Thorne. “He is a servant leader. He will make someone a great coach if that is what he decides to do.”