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The Spokesman-Review Newspaper
Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

Pirates in California to take on La Verne

The Spokesman-Review

Whitworth’s domination of California football teams ended a week ago, but the Pirates have a chance to start another streak today.

The Pirates (0-1), whose 14-game winning streak against California opponents ended with a 24-12 home loss to Redlands, visit La Verne (0-1) at 1 at Arnett Stadium.

“I talked to the guys Sunday night and they were coming in a little down, which is natural,” Whitworth coach John Tully said. “I told them there were so many positives, so much more than the non-positive side, but it usually comes down to two or three plays.”

Senior running back Chris Ahsing, slowed most of fall camp by a hamstring injury, is expected to start, but Tully isn’t sure how much he’ll be able to play. Tully said junior quarterback Kory Kemp “did some really nice things” in his first collegiate start last week. “He handled the offense well,” Tully said. “My sense is he’s going to continue to improve.”

La Verne lost to Puget Sound 21-7 in its opener. Senior quarterback Troy Doolittle was 21 of 33 for 148 yards. The Leopards threw 51 passes – including 15 by Doolittle – in a 37-16 loss to the Pirates last season.

“They’re very big up front on offense and defense,” said Tully, whose team has three straight home games after today. “We have to use our quickness.”