Early sun quickly turned into storms and torrential rain at Strong Stadium forcing game officials to shorten the Buccaneer football game against the University of Chicago Saturday. Despite the shortened contest, the game is final and official with the Maroons topping Beloit 48-0.

The teams were able to get the first half in with little rainfall but the weather took a big turn during halftime. The forecast showed weather moving in but the rain held off for Buccaneer fans to recognize the Hall of Honor Class of 2019 (Inductees: Alex Cherney and Chris Hawn) and the 2018-19 winners of the Janssen Award given to the top junior student-athletes at Beloit College (Honorees: Danny Belling, Madi Christine, Nicole Dolcimascolo). By that time, a storm was brewing and the public address announcer notified everyone in attendance that the start of the second half would be pushed back due to lightning in the area. Another strike added more time to the delay while the radar showed more inclement weather on its way causing game officials to meet.

In a mutual agreement among the coaches, officials, administrators and conference office, the third and fourth quarters were shortened due to impending inclement weather and safety concerns. The playing of the shortened quarters makes the contest official for the Midwest Conference and NCAA.

The Maroons posted 34 points in the first and 14 points in the second quarter. In the second half, both teams opted to take a knee during their possessions to run out the clock and end the game. 

The Buccaneers will open MWC North play Saturday, October 12 against Lawrence University. Kickoff is scheduled for 1 p.m. at Strong Stadium.