BLOG 47: Wilson - Preparation has led to success for Bulldogs

By Sandy Gholston

Ferris State’s Chad Wilson (8) had a big weekend as he scored a touchdown on a 75-yard interception return in the Bulldogs’ 31-24 home win over Northern Michigan last Saturday (Sept. 27) (FSU Photographic Services)

BIG RAPIDS – Chad Wilson’s performance in Ferris’ 31-24 come-from-behind victory over Northern Michigan last Saturday will probably be most fondly remembered for his game-winning 75-yard interception return for a touchdown with less than five seconds to play to seal the victory.

But, the junior strong safety’s big-time performance was more than just that highlight-reel play now being featured on Ferris State University’s Athletics Web site. He also had nine tackles (six solos) and two pass break ups in the victory. For his efforts, Wilson was first named the Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference Defensive Player of the Week (Sept. 30). But, that was just the start. D2football.com named Wilson its National Defensive Player of the Week.

Coming off a tough 31-13 loss to archrival and national power Grand Valley was a body blow for the Bulldogs who saw their three-game winning streak to start the season halted in Allendale. But, according to Wilson, a strong week of practice set the stage for Ferris’ come-from-behind win over a Northern squad that came to Big Rapids ready to play.

“Throughout the week we had a bunch of guys who were working hard and getting themselves ready to practice,” Wilson said. “There was no finger pointing or anything like that (after the loss to GVSU). Our guys were all together and we were all working hard to get ourselves back going again and to get ready for the game against Northern.

“We know we’re capable of making plays and I was fortunate I was able to make a big play in the end and then get some great blocking from my teammates to be able to score that touchdown,” the Howell native added. “It was definitely a team effort to get that touchdown and to get that win.”

That 75-yard interception return for a score could look pretty special for this season – especially if Ferris can continue its current level of success. Wilson’s big play helped vault the Bulldogs back into the national rankings, at No. 25.

“Their quarterback threw the ball and it really just came right to me,” said Wilson, who has 14 solo tackles (21 tackles in total) with two interceptions. “The coaches always tell us to try and get to the sidelines when we make an interception like that and that’s what I was trying to do especially since everything was all jumbled up in the middle.

“Guys were making great blocks down the field for me and I was really just trying to follow the blocks and get to the end zone.”

If you have any questions, ideas or comments feel free to contact Sandy Gholston at sgholston2@netzero.com