Last year, Washburn was on better terms regarding bowl eligibility by the end of the season. In fact, the Ichabods were far from losing two straight and were surging during the second half of the season.

These two seasons were completely opposite. Washburn left the Mineral Water Bowl with low spirits after suffering a 13 point loss to Bemidji State University, but this time around the Ichabods were the ones dancing.

“Last year was pretty heartbreaking,” said Bob Marco, senior offensive lineman. “It was a big turnaround. It felt awesome to end my college career holding up that trophy.”

This year, the Ichabods came in with a determination and energy like no other. Washburn came to Copperas Cove, Texas determined to leave with the trophy. The Ichabods faced off Dec. 2 against the Angelo State University Rams.

The Ichabods gave an impressive offensive performance. Leading 21-3 at the halftime break, the Ichabods were relentless against the Rams.

The scoring was a massive forefront for the Ichabods who upended one of the best offenses in the nation with one of their best performances of the season.

Blake Peterson, sophomore quarterback, recorded 251 passing yards and one passing touchdown.

Other key players in Washburn’s unrelenting campaign for the trophy were Peter Pfannenstiel and Jake Wright, who both recorded interceptions on the day. Pfannenstiel in particular brought his interception all the way back to the end zone.

The final score was 41-25, the Ichabods definitively defeating the Rams in their final game of season. The Ichabods closed out their season at 7-5 overall and 6-5 in conference.

Craig Schurig, head coach, was proud of the team for their performance during the bowl game.

“We were disappointed how we ended the season against good teams,” Schurig said. “We felt we could have done better. It was a great final touch to our season to end up with the bowl win.”