Thunder football program is well-represented in NCAA statistical leaders

Wheaton, Ill. - Five weeks into its season the Wheaton Thunder football team is well represented in the current NCAA Division III statistical leaders. Wheaton is ranked in the top-20 in nine different team categories and ranked in the top-20 in two individual categories. As a team Wheaton is ranked in five defensive categories, two offensive categories and two special teams categories.

The Thunder defense is ranked second in the nation in tackles for lost yardage (TFL) with an average of 10.60 TFL per game. Wheaton is ranked fourth in Division III in total defense, holding foes to 216 yards per game. The unit is ranked fourth in pass efficiency def (78.69), fifth in pass defense (115.80 YPG) and seventh in scoring defense (10.60 PPG).

Wheaton's offense is averaging 43 points per game, which ranks the unit 11th in Division III in scoring. The Thunder offense is 16th in pass efficiency with a rating of 171.62. The squad is ranked seventh in net punting with an average of 37.46 yards per punt attempt. Also on special teams, Wheaton is ranked 11th in kickoff returns with an average of 26.91 yards per return.

Thunder quarterback Jordan Roberts is ranked third in Division III in pass efficiency with a rating of 193.55. Junior running back Justin Swider is ranked 16th in the country in kickoff returns with an average of 31.00 yards per kickoff return.

Originally published by Wheaton College Athletics: /news/2012/10/9/FB_1009125608.aspx