FRANKLIN, Ind. -- Illinois Wesleyan survived the waiting game of a three-hour lightning delay, took advantage of six turnovers and defeated No. 23-ranked Franklin College in the football season opener for both schools.
 
The Titans have won eight straight season opening games and IWU is 18-11 in opening-day games under Norm Eash.
 
The Titans had 410 total offense yards (201 passing, 209 rushing) while Franklin had 400 total yards, including 326 passing. The Grizzlies were 36 of 56 in the air and the 36 completions is a single-game record for an opponent against Illinois Wesleyan. The old mark was 35 by Wheaton in 1984.

Sophomore Jack Warner was 16 of 24 for 201 yards and touchdown passes to Austin Wagner, Artie Checchin and Austin Harrell. Checchin was the leading rusher with 61 yards on four carries and made four catches for 67 yards. Senior Anfernee Roberts also had a rushing touchdown.

Linebacker Luke Roth led IWU defensively with 12 total tackles and a fumble recovery and cornerback Ben Bouie made 10 tackles with an interception. Senior Timmy Smith also had an interception with a 35-yard return. Other Grizzly fumbles were recovered by Matt Campbell and Darrow Traylor.
 
IWU led 28-21 at halftime when lightning was spotted in the area and a more than three-hour weather delay ensued. The teams combined for 49 points and 535 offensive yards in the first half but the squad accounted for only three field goals and 275 yards offensively after the long weather break.
 
What's Next
The Titans will open their home season with a 1 p.m. game against Alma on Saturday, Sept. 12. This is the second year of the College Conference of Illinois and Wisconsin vs. Michigan Intercollegiate Athletic Association scheduling.