Appears like we made it! 4 months of the common season, one weekend of convention championships, and right here we’re, within the T-Cell Middle in Kansas Metropolis preparing for the fruits of probably the most glorious match of the world’s oldest and biggest sport.
Match Notes: First Spherical | Second Spherical | Quarterfinals | Semis + Bloodround | Medal Spherical
We’re on the 2024 NCAA D1 Wrestling Championships, and we’ll have an account of all of the motion right here for you in actual time!
2024 NCAA Championships Watch Get together
Have a while to kill earlier than the wrestling begins? May I like to recommend spending an hour watching the newest FloSports Unique: Spencer & Austin? I am admittedly biased however in my humble opinion it guidelines.
The place Are Brackets?
I am hoping you got here right here for the reside weblog however in case you simply need the brackets I perceive as effectively. All of us crave brackets. Right here is the hyperlink to the D1 NCAA Championship occasion web page on Trackwrestling. Brackets are very simple to search out from there. Candy candy brackets.
What Concerning the Schedule?
Certain, proper right here.
Saturday, March 23
Session 5 – 11:00 am (Inserting Matches)
Session 6 – 7:00 pm (Championship Finals)
And that’s the final time I’ll reduce and paste that info into the reside weblog. Now, they’re lastly right here, reside from KC and in prime time on ESPN, the 2024 NCAA Championship finals!
FINALS MATCHUPS
Utilizing NCAA rankings, not seeds. Finals are beginning at 285 and getting into weight class order.
285: #1 Greg Kerkvliet, Penn State vs #8 Lucas Davison, Michigan
Kerkvliet beat Davison on the 2022 Massive Tens and in a twin meet this season. Kerkvliet had a quick stint at Ohio State earlier than transferring to Penn State his freshman season. He’s a four-time All-American (seventh, 4th, 2nd, ?) with yet another season of eligibility remaining. Davison certified for 4 NCAAs at Northwestern and earned two All-American honors (sixth & fifth) earlier than transferring to Michigan for his remaining yr of eligibility.
Davison comes sauntering out to Slipknot’s Duality. Good. I do not acknowledge Kerkvliet’s music which isn’t stunning as I get additional and additional out of contact with standard music with every passing day. Sounds cool although!
1st interval: Fierce handfighting. Neither of those guys have a number of further kilos on them for heavyweights. Kerk takes floor, picks and ankle, collects the opposite leg and will get a takedown on the boundary for the early 3-0 lead. Davison stands and is out shortly to make it 3-1. In brief time, Kerkvliet quick drags an arm and grabs one other leg, the energy he should have to cease Davison from kicking free is unbelievable. One other takedown, although Davison escapes earlier than the interval ends. 6-2.
2nd interval: Davison chooses down. Once more no bother getting out. That is no small feat given how Kerkvliet has ridden many All-People this season. Kerkvliet fires off a shot, Davison reattacks, is in on Kerkvliet’s legs however Kerk defends after which counters together with his personal leg assault. He finishes for 3 extra. Unimaginable velocity and exact timing by Kerkvliet and he leads 9-3 going into the third.
third interval: Kerk will get a activate backside. Kerk sits and is free. 10-3, Davison in a deep gap, although on the plus aspect using time is not an element. One minute to go, Davison unable to get by means of Kerk’s hand and arms protection. He shoots anyway however Kerkvliet down blocks and goes behind for 3 extra, 13-3. Yet one more escape is all Davison will get. It is a 13-4 main choice as Kerkvliet completes an ideal 20-0 season!
I do not suppose Kerkvliet gave up something however escapes all season. He is within the operating for the Hodge, with solely a few individuals who can problem him ( you, 197-pound remaining).
FINAL: Greg Kerkvliet (Penn State) over Lucas Davison (Michigan) MD 13-4
🎥 Kerkvliet takes dwelling title at 285! #PSUwr pic.twitter.com/uaGWf9t8mZ
— Penn State WRESTLING (@pennstateWREST) March 23, 2024
125: #2 Drake Ayala, Iowa vs #11 Richard Figueroa, Arizona State
That is the primary collegiate assembly between Ayala and Figueroa, though Ayala did beat Figueroa in highschool at 2020’s Who’s Quantity One. That is Ayala’s first All-American honor. He has two extra years of eligibility. The identical could be mentioned for Figueroa.
I forgot to concentrate to what they walked out too, sorry. 2nd match and already I am slipping. By the way in which the smoke machine retains pumping out fog after the stroll outs and the lights are on. Appears like somebody is hitting a large vape. Anyway.
1st interval: Ayala in on the primary shot after a few slide by makes an attempt. He will get Difueroa’s leg however FIgs kicks free. Ayala taking extra floor and the stall chants from the group are popping out with a minute to go within the interval. Figueroa just a little extra lively in brief time however no scores after three minutes.
2nd interval: Fgueroa chooses backside and is out in six seconds. Ayala pressuring in. Duck underneath try by Figueroa thwarted by Ayala. Spectators requires stalling are gaining momentum however I feel the refs need extra pictures from Ayala first. Slide by try from Figs in brief time, now one from Ayala. Drake throws in a leg on the lookout for a merkle however Figueroa drops down on a leg, pops his head out and grabs the far ankle from Ayala. He drags a toe of his personal and collects the three simply earlier than the interval ends. Or does he? Official overview. Name upheld, it is three. Now a brick from Coach Manufacturers. Undecided what the foundations are on this state of affairs however perhaps he’s asking for one thing else to be reviewed? Because it stands it 4-0 Figueroa and Ayala may have alternative within the third. Ah, I feel Manufacturers wished a takedown referred to as on the merkle. In that case it will be 5 to three I feel? Some boos now from an impatient crowd. Coach Zeke Jones not completely satisfied both. And at last the ruling is not any change. All that to return to the unique name. 4-0 Figs.
third interval: Ayala within the backside place. He stands, is introduced down, then stands and is out to make it 4-1. Ayala assaults, they exit of bounds, no stall name, although the Hawkeye trustworthy disagree. An assault by Ayala, Figs counters, has a leg however they exit of bounds. Extra stress from Ayala, out of bounds, and now a stall name. Once more Figs taking floor, Figueroa drops a stage and has a leg, a protracted scramble, it chews up a number of clock, and Figueroa will get the takedown to ice it. Yet one more escape and it is 7-2 formally, Richard Figueroa is a nationwide champion!
And he does just a little breaking within the middle of the mat to have a good time. After the handshake in fact. Now it appears like the entire Figueroa household is dancing to RIchie’s stroll out music as Quint Kessenich tries to interview him, lol. Nice second for them.
FINAL: Richard Figueroa (Arizona State) over Drake Ayala (Iowa) Dec 7-2
ARE YOU NOT ENTERTAINED? pic.twitter.com/gKAADpgOEX
— Solar Satan Wrestling (@ASUWrestling) March 23, 2024
133: #2 Vito Arujau, Cornell vs #3 Daton Repair, Oklahoma State
This can be a rematch of final yr’s NCAA semifinals, gained by Vito 11-3. Each Arujau and Repair graduated highschool in 2017. Arujau is a four-time All-American, Repair is a five-time All-American. Each even have senior world medals in freestyle at 61kg, Repair a silver and Vito a gold.
Arujau hps out to a traditional, Hypnotise by Biggie. Repair jogs out to a music I do know I’ve heard earlier than, begins with a number of horns, then some singing. Sorry I’m dangerous at this.
1st interval: Repair is the undefeated high seed, whereas Arujau had two losses to Ryan Crookham this season (avenged within the semifinals), therefore him receiving the 6 seed. And after lower than 30 seconds we have to pause for blood time for Vito. Appears like a reduce on the highest of Vito’s head. However that is cleaned up and we’re again to motion. Pause for an inadvertent eye poke from Repair however we’re good once more and wrestling. Now we pause to wash up some schmutz on the mat. Additionally they’re fixing up Vito’s head once more so perhaps he began bleeding once more. Okay, right here we go. Go behind/slide by from Repair however Vito runs out of hazard. Shot by Vito misses. Repair assaults, reattack by Vito will get to Repair’s legs however no scores and the interval ends scoreless.
2nd interval. Repair begins on backside, and after 10 seconds both Coach Smith or Coach Scott thinks they noticed locked arms from Vito in order that they throw the problem brick and we get one other stoppage. And good problem as a result of the no-call is overturned, Vito locked his arms and Repair will get a degree. Arujau says non-obligatory begin and Repair is out for an additional level and leads 2-0. Arujau shoots, stall name on Repair. One other shot, Arujau comes shut however Repair scrambles they usually exit of bounds, no takedown. Or is there? Coach Gray throws the problem brick. Appears shut on the replay however I do not suppose Vito had it. And it is confirmed, no takedown. Crowd boos, no less than the Cornell followers do. Again to motion, one other shot by Vito however once more Repair counters, this time practically scoring a takedown himself however no cube. Below 10 left after the restart and we go to the third, nonetheless 2-0 Repair.
third interval: Vito’s alternative, however first, extra blood time. Vito beneath, he is out very quickly, cuts the lead in half. He shoots Repair out of bounds and the Cornell coaches and portion of the sector wished a stall name. No name although, again to motion after some extra blood time, I feel for Repair although. One other shot by Vito, there’s the stall on Repair and it is tied 2-2. Vito works his manner round for the three and leads 5-3. Or does he? The Cowboy nook throws one other brick saying it mustn’t have been a takedown. And one other good problem, name overturned! 2-2, 1:17 to go, using time not an element, we’re wrestling in impartial. And Vito catches Repair off steadiness on an assault and pounces for 3. So it is again to 5-2, Arujau. Repair escapes to make it 5-3. Vito on the assault once more, and one other takedown on the sting to make it 8-3. Or is it? Now an official overview. Followers are naturally not having fun with the numerous stoppages of this match however guidelines are guidelines! And as soon as once more the decision is overturned, so no takedown and it is 5-3. Repair nonetheless within the match however solely 15 seconds left. Repair on the assault, altering ranges, however Vito will not be denied! Again to again champion, Vito Arujau!
No Vougar on the mic within the submit match interview however Vito proudly spoke to Quint together with his mother and siblings.
Very robust for Daton Repair, who finishes as a five-time All-American and four-time runner-up. Nice wrestler and particular person and ought to be remembered as an Oklahoma State legend.
FINAL: Vito Arujau (Cornell) over Daton Repair (Oklahoma State) Dec 5-3
That championship feeling!#familynotfactory #yellcornell #gobigred @allysonschwab pic.twitter.com/mGy3Tm5pNa
— Cornell Wrestling (@BigRedWrestling) March 24, 2024
141: #1 Jesse Mendez, Ohio State vs #2 Beau Bartlett, Penn State
These two have met twice this season. Bartlett beat Mendez in extra time in a twin meet and Mendez gained within the Massive Ten finals 4-1. Mendez is a real sophomore who completed sixth at NCAAs final season. Bartlett is now a two-time All-American who completed third final season and has one yr of eligibility remaining.
Mendez runs out to Black Eyed Peas’ thumping Imma Be whereas Bartlet comes out to Two Door Cinema Membership’s ear worm What You Know.
1st interval: A tactical first half to the primary interval. Collar ties, small stage modifications and fakes. Checking distances and probing for weaknesses. Mendez is the primary to the touch an opponent’s leg however he solely has a grasp on Bartlett for a second and it is again to impartial. Bartlett perhaps getting the higher of the ties in brief time however it’s immaterial and we bought bagels on the scoreboard after 3 minutes.
2nd interval: Mendez begins on backside, he stands however Bartlett runs him off the mat. Mendez is out shortly after the restart. One other tactical 90 seconds of wrestling and we’re all the way down to the ultimate 30 seconds, nonetheless 1-0 Mendez. Barlett reaches in and has a leg however Mendez steps over and finds a leg for himself they usually scramble for the remainder of the interval. Nonetheless 1-0, good protection from Mendez.
third interval: Bartlett will get a activate backside. Mendez rides for just a little over 30 seconds, at one level might need been considering spladle, which he hit on Brock Hardy within the quarterfinals, however Bartlett is not having any of that and he kicks free and escapes to knot the rating. Lower than a minute left in regulation. This bout is zipping by as in comparison with final match. Quick time left, using time not an element. Now a shot by Bartlett, he is behind Mendez, however a ahead roll and extra loopy protection from Mendez, he is bought considered one of Bartlett’s legs, time is operating out, now he will get the opposite, there’s three, and time is out! Mendez wins, or does he? Coach Sanderson (or Coach Sanderson) threw a problem brick. Did Bartlett have a takedown earlier than Mendez? It could give Mendez three and Mendez simply two for the reversal so this overview mainly decides the match. Name on the mat confirmed, the Buckeyes have a nationwide champion!
FINAL: Jesse Mendez (Ohio State) over Beau Bartlett (Penn State) Dec 4-1
The baddest man alive 😤
Jesse Mendez is the primary Ohio State Champion since Kyle Snyder in 2018 ‼️ pic.twitter.com/AjtdTZIdzJ
— Ohio State Wrestling (@wrestlingbucks) March 24, 2024
149: #4 Caleb Henson, Virginia Tech vs #5 Austin Gomez, Michigan
Henson is a real sophomore from Georgia who completed fifth no less than yr’s NCAA. Austin Gomez completed within the spherical of 12 in 2019 whereas at Iowa State. He later transferred to Wisconsin the place he was a two-time qualifier and 2022 All-American. He’s utilizing his remaining yr of eligibility at Michigan. He additionally represents Mexico in worldwide freestyle competitions and has certified for the 2024 Olympic Video games in Paris. These two have ever wrestled one another in school.
Gomez walks out to one thing with an excellent Latin beat that I can not place. Henson goes with the final word Corridor of Fame steel observe, Enter Sandman by Metallica. And we get just a little further time with the headbanging legends, I feel due to TV time, however I am not complaining.
1st interval: Gomez losing no time, will get an early takedown on a reattack on considered one of Henson’s ankles. Now 3-1 Gomez as Henson escapes. Now Henson reattacks on a Gomez shot and takes Gomez to his again. That is three plus two nearfall for the Hokies as Gomez bridges out of bounds. Extraordinarily highly effective bridge by the way in which. And on the restart a chin drop for Henson and he is bought 4 extra. Similar to that it is 10-3 Henson. Escape for Gomez. Now has Henson in a entrance headlock. Goes cement mixer however Henson stops him and places Gomez on his again once more! No nearfall as Gomez bellies out earlier than a two rely by that is three extra and Henson will get the journey out to make it 13-4 going into the second. Dang that was quite a bit for one interval.
2nd interval: Henson chooses backside, he escapes to make it a ten level lead. However Gomez shouldn’t be finished by any stretch of the creativeness. He shoots on a leg and collects a takedown to make it 14-7. Escape by Henson and it is 15-7. Gomez in on a shot in brief time however Henson defends and the interval ends, nonetheless 15-7.
third interval: Gomez chooses impartial. He is bought dwelling run transfer capabilities however Henson will know Gomez will likely be swinging for the fences this era. Below a minute to go, nonetheless 15-7. 30 to go, Gomez drops on a leg however Henson is taking part in the sting and the exit of bounds. No stall calls on Henson but so that is going to be robust for Austin. And Henson will win a championship! 15-7 victory and the Hokies have their second nationwide champ in program historical past!
I consider Metallica helped energy Henson to victory. Enter Sandman can also be the stroll out music for Hokie soccer so perhaps the pigskin squad can take some factors from Caleb and firm.
Henson the primary nationwide champ from the state of Georgia. Thanks Bryan Hazard and Jason Bryant, the in-house MCs, for that little bit of trivia.
FINAL: Caleb Henson (Virginia Tech) over Austin Gomez (Michigan) MD 15-7
👑𝐍𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍𝐀𝐋 𝐂𝐇𝐀𝐌𝐏𝐈𝐎𝐍. 𝐂𝐑𝐎𝐖𝐍 𝐇𝐈𝐌👑
By no means a doubt. For simply the second time in program historical past, we’ve a Nationwide Champion and his title is 𝐂𝐀𝐋𝐄𝐁 “𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐇𝐢𝐭𝐦𝐚𝐧” 𝐇𝐄𝐍𝐒𝐎𝐍!#ALLINALLTHETIME #Hokies 🦃 pic.twitter.com/M4irf2V9eo
— Virginia Tech Wrestling (@HokiesWrestling) March 24, 2024
And now we bought a musical interlude. A part of a TV break. ESPN is displaying a pretaped video whereas the T-Cell Middle will get a reside efficiency of Eminem’s Lose Your self by some guys I’ve by no means heard of. They’re gifted although!
157: #1 Levi Haines, Penn State vs #2 Jacori Teemer, Arizona State
Haines is a real sophomore who completed runner-up eventually yr’s NCAAs, shedding to North Carolina’s Austin O’Connor. Teemer is a redshirt senior who might or might not have one other yr of eligibility remaining relying on if he bought a medical redshirt for final yr (I feel he does however am unsure). He is a three-time All-American and has by no means earlier than wrestled Haines in school.
Lengthy Seaside, New York’s Jacori Teemer walks out to Wu-Tang, and Biglerville, Pennsylvania’s Levi Haines has Hank Williams Jr taking part in as he makes his method to the mat. For music
1st interval: Not a lot after 90 seconds, principally wrestling from area. 30 seconds left within the interval and plenty of circling and probing however not a lot in the way in which of flurries or something. The interval ends with goose eggs.
2nd interval: Haines chooses down, stands and is out with minimal resistance from Teemer. Little motion for an additional minute and now Teemer banged for stalling after Haines shoots in. Haines is taking floor and the stall calls are flying in from the numerous Penn State followers in attendance. second interval ends, 2-0 Haines.
third interval: Teemer elects to remain in impartial for the third interval. He is shedding and has a stall name on him so he is as incentivized as you could be to create motion at this level. Haines decides to take issues into his personal arms, hits a lightning fast high-c to a double and takes the elusive Teemer down for 3 and a 4-0 lead. Haines nonetheless on high as we spherical the ultimate minute of regulation. Teemer will get to his toes however Haines brings him again all the way down to earth and has a leg in. Using time goes over a minute because the clock retains ticking. 15 seconds left, Haines is shut and the followers realize it. Haines will journey out the match for a nationwide championship! 5-0 formally for the Nittany Lion!
FINAL: Levi Haines (Penn State) over Jacori Teemer (Arizona State) Dec 5-0
A takedown to seal the title for Levi Haines at 157!#PSUwr pic.twitter.com/c1jsFOHtJi
— Penn State WRESTLING (@pennstateWREST) March 24, 2024
165: #2 David Carr, Iowa State vs #4 Mitchell Mesenbrink, Penn State
Carr is a five-time NCAA qualifier and four-time All-American (1st, third, 2nd, ?). He has by no means wrestled redshirt Mitchell Mesenbrink earlier than, who transferred to Penn State final summer season after a quick stint at California Baptist.
Stroll out songs: Cannot Be Touched by Roy Jones Jr (I feel, I cheated and used Shazam) for Carr and Drake for Mesenbrink.
1st interval: Takedown proper off the whistle for Carr. Blast double, arms behind the knees, no change for Mesenbrink to defend. A few mat returns preserve Mesenrbrink on the mat for 30 seconds and counting. Extra spectacular mat returns for Carr. He is utilizing a number of vitality however he is additionally racking up a number of using time. 1:38 to be exact as they exit of bounds with 1:16 left within the interval. This time Mesenbrink stands and peels arms and is out to make it 3-1. Mesenbrink very lively from impartial however Carr is maintaining tempo. 30 seconds left within the interval as they two circle one another like hyperactive panthers. The intervals ends nonetheless 3-1 for Carr, who has 1:42 of using time as effectively.
2nd interval: Carr has alternative and he takes backside. Mesenbrink chops an arm and pinches the close to aspect leg together with his personal however Carr slips his leg free and escapes to make it 4-1. Mesenrbrink shoots Carr out of bounds and induces a stall name on Carr. Shot from Mesenbrink, Carr crotch locks however Mesenbrink is near getting behind for 3. One way or the other although Carr holds on and forces a stalemate and it is nonetheless 4-1. 44 seconds left after the subsequent restart. Mesenbrink shoots and a fast stall name on Carr for a degree to Mesenbrink, however Carr counters that shot and has a leg. He finishes to make it 7-2 with quick time left within the interval. Mesenbrink stands however cannot free himself earlier than he runs out of actual property and he is nonetheless beneath with simply 7 seconds left within the interval. Mesenbrink solely wants 5 seconds to flee although, so the interval ends 7-3 in favor of Carr, using time at 1:52. Carr additionally already has 2 stall calls.
third interval: Mesenbrink chooses down. He retains standing and Carr on the lookout for a mat return. Now one other stall on Carr after which an escape by Mesenbrink and it is 7-5 in favor of Carr. Mesenbrink on the assault and he is bought a a takedown! Scoreboard says 8-7 Mesenbrink however Carr has the RT level locked up. Mesenbrink cuts him. Mitchell expenses ahead, Carr circling, reattacking. 8-8 however actually 9-8. Quick time, they exit of bounds in brief time. Now Carr has his bearing and may see the end line, Mesenbrink’s assaults have slowed. Time runs out and David Carr is a two-time nationwide champion! The look of aid on Carr’s face. He beat O’Toole within the semis and now Mesenbrink within the finals. Unimaginable efficiency for David Carr!
FINAL: David Carr (Iowa State) over Mitchell Mesenbrink (Penn State) Dec 9-8
🚂🚂🚂@Carrchamp pic.twitter.com/av8zKhYDwQ
— Iowa State Wrestling (@CycloneWR) March 24, 2024
174: #1 Carter Starocci, Penn State vs #6 Rocco Welsh, Ohio State
Starocci is a redshirt senior with yet another yr of eligibility that he might or might not use. He is a three-time NCAA champion in search of to turn into the sixth four-time in NCAA historical past (the opposite 5 are Pat Smith, Cael Sanderson, Logan Steiber, Kyle Dake. and Yianni Diakomihalis). Starocci beat true freshman Welsh in a twin meet 4-2. Welsh was pressed into service when teammate and All-American Carson Kharchla went down with a season ending harm. Starocci was injured within the remaining twin meet of the yr and harm defaulted in two matches at Massive Tens, however is displaying little issue wrestling at this match.
Welsh jogs out to Iniko’s stirring The King’s Affirmation. Starocci walks out to Jason’s theme from the film Halloween, which then cuts to inspiring quotes from Mike Tyson.
1st interval: And after about 15 seconds of scrapping we have already bought to cease for bloodtime. I feel that is going to be a reasonably bodily bout. Yeah Welsh’s proper cheek is bleeding. However the Buckeye trainers patch him up and we’re again to motion. Plenty of handfighting, not a lot in the way in which of pictures after two minutes. Degree change from Starocci however that is stuffed by Welsh. And a hi-c by Starocci can also be stopped by Welsh however it earns him a stall name, his first warning. Starocci retains taking pictures within the remaining seconds of the interval and Welsh is banged once more so he concedes the primary level to Starocci on stall calls.
2nd interval: Some extra blood time as Welsh’s brow is bleeding too now. He then defers and Starocci chooses down. 12 seconds in we have to cease for extra blood. Again in motion and Starocci stands and escapes to double his result in two. Welsh fires off a shot and he is in deep however a heavy sprawl from Starocci will get the motion stalemated. Starocci seems to be profitable the hand battle which permits him to take extra low danger pictures which can get Welsh dinged for stalling once more. None of that occurs although so we go to the third, nonetheless 2-0, using time not an element.
third interval: Welsh picks impartial so we keep on our toes for the ultimate stanza of regulation. Not a lot motion within the firs minute. Welsh doing a greater job holding floor. Now It is Starocci backing up and reacting. Right down to the ultimate 30 seconds of regulation. Starocci hit for stalling on the 20 second mark however instantly will get in on a leg and chews up extra clock. 8 seconds left on the restart. A takedown will do it however Welsh would not have a lot time. Welsh assaults, however Starocci defends. And the escape was all he wanted. Starocci pitches a shut out to turn into the primary four-time NCAA champion in Penn State historical past! Unimaginable grit to come back again from an harm and run by means of that bracket from the 9 seed!
FINAL: Carter Starocci (Penn State) over Rocco Welsh (Ohio State) Dec 2-0
4x Nationwide Champion Carter Starocci!! 👊👊👊👊#PSUwr pic.twitter.com/YtIvVJ6p0O
— Penn State WRESTLING (@pennstateWREST) March 24, 2024
184: #1 Parker Keckeisen, Northern Iowa vs #2 Dustin Plott, Oklahoma State
Keckeisen is a redshirt senior with yet another yr of eligibility remaining. He is a four-time All-American (third, third, 2nd, ?). He is beat Plott twice this season, 12-6 in a twin and 14-5 at Massive 12s. Plott is a real junior with yet another yr of eligibility. He is a three-time All-American (sixth, sixth, ?).
Keckeisen will get us all pumped up by operating out to Pump It Up by Endor. Dustin Plott has us stomping our feed to Jerry Reed’s East Sure and Down.
1st interval: Our penultimate bout is underneath manner! Keckeisen on the assault early, sliding on a knee on the lookout for Plott’s legs. He connects about 30 seconds in and completed for the primary factors of the match. Massive mat return fires up (or ought to I say pumps up) the Panther followers within the area. Plott escapes after 40 some seconds of using time. Keckeisen is again in on a shot not too lengthy after and places on a grasp class of staying within the cylinder and finishes a double when you’re opponent has a decent chest lock. Very good stuff from Keeckeisen had a hand trailing in bounds, switches to a foot, then dragged a toe as he popped his head. I can not clarify it proper, go watch the replay. Escape however Plott and it is 6-2. That is how the interval ends, 1:04 of RT for Keck.
2nd interval: Plott chooses down. He is out after a couple of ticks of the clock, 6-3. Plott fires off a pleasant shot, has a single leg, however Keckeisen defends they usually exit of bounds, no rating. Plott the aggressor however Keckeisen doing sufficient to keep away from a stall name. Interval ens nonetheless 6-3.
third interval: Keckseisen’s alternative, however first, some blood on Plott’s head wants consideration. Non-compulsory begin for Plott, Keckeisenis out and it is 7-3. Plott urgent in, on the lookout for a shot. Head snap from Keckeisen and he is again in on Plott, ending clear for 3 extra and a 10-3 lead. Plott’s out, 10-4. One minutes to go. Throw by try from Keckeisen. Extra snaps from Keckeisen and he is again in on a double and has three extra. 13-4, that ought to ice it. Escape from Plott and that is it. By no means unsure and with all of the takedowns, Parker Keckeisen is a nationwide champion by main choice! Northern Iowa now has two 184-pound champs within the final 5 years, plus the primary seed at 184 on the canceled 2020 NCAAs. Superior to see that type of success at a program like UNI. Not a number of sources in comparison with the majors however loads of accomplishments.
FINAL: Parker Keckeisen (Northern Iowa) over Dustin Plott (Oklahoma State) MD 14-5
SCREAM IT FROM THE ROOFTOPS!
PARKER KECKEISEN IS A NATIONAL CHAMPION!!!!!#PantherTrain | #EverLoyal | #NCAAWrestling pic.twitter.com/mnEedFKlJ4
— UNIWrestling (@UNI_wrestling) March 24, 2024
197: #1 Aaron Brooks, Penn State vs #2 Trent Hidlay, NC State
Brooks is a a five-time qualifier and four-time All-American in search of his fourth NCAA title. Whether or not he may very well be the sixth or seventh four-timer will depend on what his teammate Starocci does earlier within the finals. He’s the present Hodge Trophy Award entrance runner and in his remaining yr of eligibility. Hidlay is redshirt senior and in addition a five-time qualifier and four-time All-American (2nd, fifth, 4th, ?) and in his remaining yr of eligibility. Brooks defeated Hidlay as soon as in every of the final three seasons, although they haven’t met this yr. They’re additionally each bumped up from 184 to 197 and are undefeated on the season.
The group is introduced at 15,950 in attendance. Excellent crowd for my part. Loud, knowledgable, maybe a bit tipsy. A+
The traditional Sandstorm ushers Trent Hidlay onto the mat like rolling thunder. Brooks jogs to the mat to the melodious Heavs Beat by Not Your Dope
1st interval: That is it, one undefeated wrestler will finish their profession with a loss, the opposite with a win, an NCAA title, and probability at profitable the Hodge. Brooks goes on the assault first, transferring Hidlay round and grabbing his ankle, Hidlay avoids the takedown although and we’re again to impartial. Brooks working an underhook and he is controlling these ties. Double leg from Brooks however Hidlay hips into him with a whizzer and defends the shot. Brooks’ stress and exercise will get Hidlay hit with a stall name with about 30 seconds left within the interval. We pause to sop up some blood on Hidlay’s face. Again in motion, heavy arms from Brooks helpsthe Nittany Lion discover a gap and he powers Hidlay to the mat and comes out on high for 3 factors simply earlier than the interval ends.
2nd interval: Brooks chooses down and is out in about 10 seconds. 4-0 early within the second. Brooks taking extra floor and he flips Hidlay over on the fringe of the mat. Hidlay shakes it off. Again to the mat and Brooks continues to take floor. One other stall name on Hidlay and it is 5-0. The interval ends that manner and it is Hidlay’s alternative.
third interval: Hidlay takes backside. A few standup makes an attempt are stymied by Brooks. Hidlay nonetheless beneath after 40 some seconds of wrestling. Brooks beginning to put on on Hidlay, all with principally a decent waist and wrist management. Using time over a minute and counting. Below 30 to go. Hidlay cannot break away. 8 second now similar place. Brooks is correct on the end line. Hidlay stands and is out within the remaining seconds however that is it! 6-1 win for Aaron Brooks, who’s the second four-timer in Penn State historical past and seventh in NCAA historical past!
FINAL: Aaron Brooks (Penn State) over Trent Hidlay (NC State) Dec 6-1
🥇 one other have a look at Aaron Brooks capturing his 4th title 🥇#PSUwr pic.twitter.com/rYglBz1axg
— Penn State WRESTLING (@pennstateWREST) March 24, 2024
Penn State just about all of the information immediately. Most factors, largest margin of victory. Every little thing however 10 All-People and 6 champs, which I assume would be the subsequent information to fall underneath the tread of the unstoppable juggernaut Cael has created.
Congrats to the Penn State Nittany Lions and congratulations to you, the smart and realized wrestling fan who has reached the tip of one other superior NCAA season! Apologies for the typos, see you on the Olympic Crew Trials!
FINAL TEAM SCORES
PLACE | TEAM | QUALIFIERS | SCORE |
---|---|---|---|
1 | Penn State | 10 | 172.5 |
2 | Cornell | 9 | 72.5 |
3 | Michigan | 9 | 71 |
4 | Iowa State | 9 | 68.5 |
5 | Iowa | 9 | 67 |
6 | Arizona State | 8 | 64.5 |
7 | Virginia Tech | 10 | 64 |
8 | Ohio State | 9 | 62 |
9 | Nebraska | 9 | 60.5 |
10 | Oklahoma State | 10 | 56 |
11 | Missouri | 10 | 49.5 |
11 | NC State | 10 | 49.5 |
13 | South Dakota State | 8 | 48.5 |
14 | Northern Iowa | 7 | 39.5 |
15 | Lehigh | 8 | 36.5 |
16 | Stanford | 5 | 34 |
17 | West Virginia | 5 | 31.5 |
18 | Wisconsin | 5 | 24.5 |
19 | Little Rock | 5 | 24 |
20 | Rutgers | 8 | 22.5 |
21 | Air Pressure | 3 | 21.5 |
22 | Minnesota | 10 | 21 |
23 | Oklahoma | 5 | 20 |
23 | Oregon State | 5 | 20 |
25 | Ohio | 3 | 16 |
26 | Indiana | 6 | 13 |
26 | Lock Haven | 3 | 13 |
26 | Navy | 5 | 13 |
26 | Pittsburgh | 7 | 13 |
30 | Campbell | 6 | 12.5 |
31 | Columbia | 4 | 12.5 |
31 | North Carolina | 5 | 12.5 |
33 | Wyoming | 3 | 10 |
34 | Military West Level | 6 | 9.5 |
34 | Rider | 5 | 9.5 |
36 | Maryland | 5 | 8.5 |
37 | Pennsylvania | 8 | 8 |
38 | Illinois | 3 | 7.5 |
39 | Appalachian State | 5 | 7 |
40 | Binghamton | 4 | 6.5 |
40 | Bucknell | 5 | 6.5 |
42 | Central Michigan | 3 | 5 |
42 | Virginia | 4 | 5 |
44 | Michigan State | 5 | 4 |
44 | North Dakota State | 1 | 4 |
46 | Princeton | 3 | 3.5 |
47 | Cal Poly | 5 | 3 |
47 | California Baptist | 2 | 3 |
47 | George Mason | 3 | 3 |
50 | Northern Colorado | 3 | 2.5 |
50 | Northwestern | 3 | 2.5 |
50 | Purdue | 5 | 2.5 |
53 | Buffalo | 2 | 1.5 |
53 | Chattanooga | 2 | 1.5 |
53 | Harvard | 3 | 1.5 |
56 | Franklin and Marshall | 2 | 1 |
56 | Gardner-Webb | 2 | 1 |
56 | LIU | 1 | 1 |
56 | Utah Valley | 1 | 1 |
56 | VMI | 1 | 1 |
61 | Cleveland State | 2 | 0.5 |
61 | SIU Edwardsville | 1 | 0.5 |
63 | American | 1 | 0 |
63 | Brown | 1 | 0 |
63 | Clarion | 1 | 0 |
63 | Hofstra | 1 | 0 |
63 | Northern Illinois | 2 | 0 |
63 | The Citadel | 1 | 0 |