KENOSHA, Wis. – Carroll University football closed its 2025 season in a hard-fought rivalry matchup, falling 7-3 to Carthage in the 48th Battle for the Old Musket on Saturday at Art Keller Field. The Pioneers finish the year 4-6 overall and 4-5 in CCIW play.

Defense dominated the day as both teams combined for just 372 yards of total offense. After a scoreless first quarter, Carthage broke through midway in the second with an 18-play, 84-yard drive capped by a six-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Easton Heafner to Jackson Westmoreland. That proved to be the game's only touchdown, as Carroll's defense tightened and kept the Firebirds off the board the rest of the way.

Carroll's lone score came early in the fourth quarter when Matthew Swink drilled a 29-yard field goal to finish a 13-play, 81-yard drive. The Pioneers threatened late, highlighted by a 43-yard strike from Elisha Nieves to Mikey Coleman, but Carthage's defense held firm inside its territory.

Coleman led Carroll with 103 all-purpose yards, including 61 receiving and 42 rushing. Quarterback Charlie King threw for 100 yards and added a 13-yard run, while Nieves contributed 50 passing yards in relief. Daniel White added 40 receiving yards and a key fourth-quarter catch to set up the field goal.

Defensively, Carroll was relentless, recording five sacks and 11 tackles for loss. Braedon Curtin and Drake Emanuel combined for 19 tackles, while Clayton Huber posted a sack and three tackles for loss. Dezmend Esquivel and Luke Brosig also added sacks as the Pioneers pressured Heafner throughout the second half.

Despite the setback, Carroll outgained Carthage through the air (160-86) and showed resilience in a rivalry that continues to deliver drama. The Pioneers now turn the page to 2026 with momentum from a strong defensive finish.