HANOVER, Ind. – The Hanover Panthers (0-2 overall) welcomed Division I foe Butler to Alumni Stadium and C. Wayne Perry Field on Saturday afternoon, falling in a defensive battle 16-7.

Defensive Dominance
The Hanover Panthers' defense put on a steller performance against Division I opponent Butler, limiting the Bulldogs to just one offensive touchdown in a gritty 16-7 defeat.
 
The Panthers' defensive unit showed remarkable resilience and determination throughout the contest, forcing Butler to settle for a field goal on a 14-play drive in the first quarter.
 
The Panther secondary, featuring standout freshman Cole Shively who recorded a momentum-shifting interception late in the first half, demonstrated discipline against Butler's passing attack. Senior Garron Jenkins also made his presence known with a blocked kick attempt. The Panthers' defensive front consistently pressured Butler's backfield, forcing difficult third-down situations and two key turn over on down stops.
 
Key Moments
The Panthers struck first when junior quarterback Eian Roudebush connected with junior Curbrian Shelby on a 27-yard touchdown pass at the 11:58 mark of the first quarter, capping a quick three-play, 32-yard drive to give Hanover an early 7-0 lead. Senior Clint Hearne's extra point was good.
Butler responded with a field goal late in the first quarter to cut the lead to 7-3 after a methodical 14-play, 74-yard drive.
The game's momentum shifted late in the second quarter when Cole Shively intercepted Jarrin Alley's pass at the Hanover 15-yard line and returned it 20 yards to the Hanover 35.

Butler took the lead on a 10-yard touchdown run with 3:04 remaining in the second quarter, making it 10-7.
The Bulldogs extended their lead in the third quarter returning the opening kickoff 90 yards for a touchdown. The extra point attempt was blocked by Garron Jenkins, leaving the score at 16-7, which would prove to be the final margin.
 
Hanover returns to action on Saturday, Sept. 20 when they held to  Alma.