By Stephen Morisani III ’28, staff writer
LVC’s final home game of the season was secured by a sophomore defensive lineman.
As the final minutes ticked away on senior day at Arnold Field, sophomore defensive end Dakota Baublitz found himself in an unexpected position—under the football instead of chasing it. On a third down late in the game, Baublitz dropped into coverage, read the play perfectly and came up with his first career interception in LVC’s 38–7 win over Alvernia.
“It was a third down, late in the game, so we knew it was likely a passing down,” Baublitz said. “I was originally playing off the ball, but we checked into a four-front putting me in a lineman stance. The play we checked to had me dropping into coverage in the middle of the field, and I just had a gut feeling I was going to have a chance. The ball snapped, I dropped back, saw the receiver crossing the middle and then everything kind of blurred out for a second before I was celebrating with my teammates.”
For Baublitz, that moment represented far more than just a highlight on the stat sheet.
“Once I caught the ball, it was a whirlwind of emotions,” he said. “The adrenaline rush of making the big play, hugging my coach—it was all exhilarating. But then I started to get emotional, almost to tears. This year has been filled with adversity, and at times I felt like I could do nothing right. Having that 15 seconds of fame reminded me that the hard work I’m putting in is for a reason, and that I have to trust myself and the process.”
The play not only showcased Baublitz’s instincts and preparation but also reflected the strength of LVC’s defensive culture—a group that has become one of the best in the MAC.
“This defense is special,” Baublitz said. “Coach Beidler took over this year, and he set up a culture built on discipline, being fast and physical and a blue-collar mentality. Those values have been in our heads since day one. My role is to embody that culture and help maintain it when it’s my turn to lead.”
Baublitz also credited the seniors for shaping both his mindset and the team’s success.
“I couldn’t ask for a better group of guys to lead our team,” he said. “They not only set the standard in the field but helped build this new culture. For me, being able to build relationships with them has been a blessing; they’ve taught me a lot both in and out of football.”
As LVC closed out a dominant senior day win, Baublitz’s interception served as a perfect snapshot of perseverance and payoff; a sophomore finding his stride on a defense defined by toughness and unity.
“To see everyone celebrate me in my biggest moment meant the world,” Baublitz said. “It solidified my thought that there’s no place I’d rather be than with this team, at this school.”
The Dutchmen have a 5-4 record and face Albright for the final game of the regular season Saturday, Nov. 15, at 12 p.m.