Rush defense - Carroll didn't have too much trouble stopping Western running back Charlie Dotson and the very mobile quarterback Micah Mamiya, holding the entire Bulldogs' squad for 96 yards on 21 carries. The team better known for passing, however, did end up with one big drive to finish out the first half. Thanks to five carries, all on draw plays, for 50 yards Mackenzie Crossley was able to connect on a 36-yard field goal as time ran out. Head coach Mike Van Diest took responsibility for the letdown, having sent his players out in prevent coverage.

Grade: A-

Pass defense - What hurt Western's high-scoring aerial attack more: the big gusts of wind or Carroll's defensive line? Seeing as Carroll junior quarterback Gary Wagner had little trouble connecting with his receivers, the heavy winds weren't nearly as bad as the Saints' defense, which got an interception from junior cornerback Mike Waldenberg. Giving up just one reception in the first half is also pretty amazing.

The only thing that spoils this is a late touchdown pass when the game was already decided.

Grade: B

Rush offense - Freshman Chance Demarais has the ability to break through just about anything, which is the reason why he has the least amount of carries among the top three running backs but is still one of its rushing leaders. He had a team-high 89 yards on just eight carries while senior Gabe Le had 85 yards on 22 carries. Junior John Camino added 13 runs for 29 yards. Big thumbs up to backup center Nick Petrusha, who filled in for a sick Andy Fjeseth and helped the offensive line to a total of 201 yards rushing. Grade: A

Pass offense - The Saints certainly have depth at the receiving position. While juniors Christian Prosperie and Corey Peterson were absent with illness, Bubba Bartlett once again guided his squad in a five-catch, 86-yard and two-touchdown performance. Sophomore Lat Wipplinger, meanwhile, stepped into the role as a main target. On a day when wind reduced everything to short passes, he was the perfect answer, using his physical presence to fight for every yard. He finished with five catches for 46 yards.

Grade: A

Special teams - Give the young man some credit, Le can do just about anything. Though short of freshman kick-off specialist Tom Yaremko's average, Le did a pretty good job filling in. David Kries had some excellent punts, but once again the Saints struggled to get the ball through the uprights. A blocked field goal, missed PAT and missed 2-point conversion attempt were horrible to watch. With tougher competition only awaiting the Saints in the playoff, they can't worry about making the little, tying scores in a close game. It will end up costing them. Grade: C