By Eric Stock

BLOOMINGTON – Illinois Wesleyan scored 15 points within a 14-second span of the third quarter to launch a 43-point barrage as the Titans cruised to a 53-7 non-conference win over Alma at Tucci Stadium.

The 53-point outburst is the most IWU has scored in a game since a 57-29 win over Elmhurst in 2002.

The Titans showed some sloppiness and frustration in the first half, committing two turnovers and managing a 10-7 lead against a young Scots team that was blitzed 45-0 in its season opener against Heidelberg last week.

Stephen McGinnis’ interception set up IWU’s back-to-back scores early in the third quarter. After a 7-yard touchdown pass from Rob Gallik to Tate Musselman and PAT fake which led to a two-point conversion, the Titans would score two plays later. After recovering a fumble, the Titans went for the jugular, digging back into the trick play book as receiver Joe Musso completed a 25-yard strike to Alex Garvey on a reverse pass which opened a 25-7 lead.

Musselman caught three passes on the afternoon, all three were for touchdowns.

Junior Rob Gallik also threw for four scores, before giving way to sophomore Tyrell Bolden, who connected with Kevin Miller in the end zone, giving Illinois Wesleyan three players who had passing touchdowns in the game. Mike Heaton (fake punt) and Alec Starr also completed passes for the Titans.

Illinois Wesleyan has defeated 14 consecutive non-conference opponents and have won 15 straight in September.

The Titans (2-0) play their final non-conference game at Hope on Sept. 22.