Northwest Missouri State football prioritizing the red zone

MARYVILLE, Mo. (KQTV) -- The Northwest Missouri State football team is now 5-1 (4-1 MIAA) and is ranked No. 11 in the nation.

A big part of their success this season is stemming from their production in the red zone.

When the Bearcat offense gets inside the 20-yard line, they score on 96.6% of their possessions. That puts them fifth in the nation, scoring 28 out of 29 times. Head Coach John McMenamin emphasized this area of the field to his team during the offseason.

"Offensively(in the red zone last season), we were average, is what I would say at best," said McMenamin. "It's taking care of the ball, making quick decisions and making sure you score."

On the defensive side of the ball, they are ranked 14th in the nation in scoring defense, allowing just 15.3 points per game.

They have also only allowed 10 total touchdowns this season. Bearcat Senior Baruch Hasabu spoke on the mentality he and his teammates have when teams enter the red zone.

"We just work on it so much," said Hasabu. "It's just like once we get back in the red zone with our backs against the wall, what do you have to lose? Get off the field."

Northwest will be back on the road Saturday, Oct. 24, in Kearney, Nebraska, where they will take on the Nebraska-Kearney Lopers.

Kickoff for the game is set for 1 p.m.