Four Downs with Andy Waddle

FB: Valparaiso testing 'next man up' philosophy after war of attrition in Homecoming setback

The starting quarterback was out with a concussion. The other quarterback who has started a handful of games was lost to a shoulder injury. The third-string quarterback exited quickly due to an injury. The fourth-string quarterback was recently lost for the season due to an arm injury.

It all added up to fifth-string quarterback Nathan Downey taking the field in the fourth quarter, looking to lead Valparaiso to a Homecoming victory over Morehead State.

Throw in injuries to several running backs and the top receiver and it all led to the Beacons falling 17-13 last Saturday.

First-year Valparaiso coach Andy Waddle had never seen anything like it. Now the Beacons are left to pick up the pieces as they prepare for their final four games of the season, beginning with Saturday’s tilt at Presbyterian.

Waddle discusses the recent injuries and the path forward in the latest edition of Four Downs.