Yellowjackets Secure Dominant Home Victory Over Saint Mary's

LAMONI, Iowa — The Graceland University women's flag football team delivered a commanding 35-8 win over the University of Saint Mary on Saturday afternoon, capping off a wire-to-wire performance that saw efficient execution on both sides of the ball in NAIA action at Huntsman Field. The Yellowjackets opened the game with back-to-back touchdown drives, capitalizing early on favorable field position. Graceland's offensive tempo was led by quarterback Caitlin Shannon, who completed 28 of 41 passes for 251 yards and five touchdowns, spreading the ball to five different receivers. Shannon's decision-making and quick release neutralized the Spires' defensive rush throughout the afternoon.

Graceland scored in all four quarters, including a second-quarter surge that saw the Yellowjackets post 13 unanswered points. A 24-yard touchdown strike to Ahmari Byrd and a short-yardage score to Shyla Barrios helped build a 19-0 halftime advantage. After the break, Shannon connected with Kymani Freeman for a 30-yard touchdown, followed by a fourth-quarter strike to Mikiah Verdum to round out the scoring. The Yellowjackets added a safety late in the contest, courtesy of a tackle in the end zone by linebacker Aiyanna Hannah, extending the margin to 35-0 before Saint Mary scored a late touchdown and successful two-point conversion.

Graceland's defense was stout, forcing four turnovers—three interceptions and one safety—while holding Saint Mary to -21 rushing yards on six attempts. Defensive backs Delaney Mondino, Shyla Barrios, and Hannah each recorded interceptions, with Barrios returning hers for two yards. The Yellowjackets limited Saint Mary to 79 total yards of offense and only five first downs.

"Our team did a good job of coming out focused and playing with energy," said head coach Aaron Richardson following the win. "It was great to get a result that reflects how hard our team has worked, but there's still a lot we have to clean up—especially in terms of execution in the red zone and conversion opportunities after scores. We left some points on the board, and against tougher opponents, that can make a difference. This is a step forward, but we're not where we need to be yet."

Offensively, Graceland amassed 255 total yards with a pass-heavy approach. Freeman led all receivers with 83 yards and one touchdown on five receptions, while Byrd followed closely with 77 yards and a score. Barrios added eight catches for 33 yards and a touchdown, and also contributed 27 rushing yards on three carries.

Defensively, the Yellowjackets were anchored by Ahmari Byrd and Aiyanna Hannah, each recording six solo tackles. The secondary held Saint Mary to just 3.4 yards per pass attempt, aided by disciplined coverage and consistent pressure in the backfield. With the win, Graceland improves its overall record and earns a critical conference victory.

NEXT UP: Road Test at Baker University

The Yellowjackets face a quick turnaround as they travel to Baldwin City, Kansas, on Monday, April 14 to take on conference foe Baker University. Kickoff is set for 6 p.m. at Liston Stadium. The matchup marks a pivotal point in the conference standings as both programs vie for playoff seeding in the latter half of the regular season.

For more information on the Graceland women's flag football team and all Graceland athletics, visit GUjackets.com.