Simpson football team looses MVP quarterback

The Simpson College football team hopes to build off the momentum gained from a 2003 season in which the Storm posted a 9-2 mark and advanced to the division-three national playoffs for the first time in six years. The biggest question mark for coach Jay Niemann at quarterback following the graduation of standout Mike Donnenwerth. Niemann says Donnerwerth was a two-time all-conference player, and in his final year he was the league M-V-P and an all-American at quarterback and punter. Niemann says they’re just hoping someone will come in and be a team leader; they’re not expecting Donnerwerth’s replacement to begin the season posting the same kind of numbers. Among those battling for the job are four returning players and Niemann says there is no plan to move away from the spread offense. An experienced front seven returns on defense as well as both corners. Simpson opens the season at home September 4th against Illinois Wesleyan.