Case Western Reserve Surged Past Shenandoah 48-41
The Spartans improved to 2-0 as running back Andy Kavcic set a new school single-game rushing record.
Updated on Sept. 19, 2026 in Football
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Case Western Reserve defeated Shenandoah 48-41 at DiSanto Stadium to maintain an undefeated start to the season. During the victory, head coach Greg Debeljak achieved his 150th career win.
Why it matters
The victory highlights an explosive start for the Spartans, who leveraged an early 27-0 lead and a strong rushing performance to overcome the visiting team from Virginia.
Running back Andy Kavcic recorded 256 rushing yards, breaking the previous program single-game record of 253 yards established in 1999. Case Western Reserve currently holds a 2-0 record on the season.
The players
Andy Kavcic
He is the Case Western Reserve running back who set a new school single-game rushing record during the win against Shenandoah.
Greg Debeljak
He is the head coach at Case Western Reserve currently in his 23rd season who recorded his 150th career win.
The details
Case Western Reserve secured the win by executing a kickoff lateral trick play for an opening touchdown and possessing the ball for the final five minutes of the contest. The Spartans initially dominated the early game, building a 27-0 lead in the first quarter.
Timeline
September 19, 2026: Case Western Reserve played Shenandoah at DiSanto Stadium.
1999: Frank Peters set the previous school single-game rushing record.
September 26, 2026: Case Western Reserve plays Washington & Jefferson.
Season Trajectory
This win positions Case Western Reserve for a strong conference run as they build upon the early season momentum established under coach Greg Debeljak. The team now prepares for a significant upcoming matchup against Washington & Jefferson on September 26.
With a 2-0 record, the Spartans have solidified their standing early in the season ahead of their next test. Andy Kavcic production establishes him as a primary focus for opposing defenses in upcoming game planning.
The takeaway
The Spartans' ability to hold the ball for the final five minutes of the game demonstrates high-level clock management that will be critical in future close contests. This win showcases the effectiveness of the team's creative play-calling, such as the opening kickoff lateral trick play.
What happens next
Case Western Reserve will continue its season with a game against Washington & Jefferson scheduled for September 26, 2026.
Further reading
For more updates on the Spartans' season, visit the Football section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The News-Herald.
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