Notebook: Oliver continues dominance

When it comes to Cowboy wrestling, all eyes are on Jordan Oliver, the defending national champion at 133 pounds.

This was especially true Sunday night when Oliver faced Ohio State freshman Logan Stieber, three-time Big Ten Wrestler of the Week.

The highly anticipated match did not disappoint, for the score was tied at 2 at the end of the second period.

"I know Stieber has a great offense, and I have a great offense, and it was just going be who wrestles their style better," Oliver said.

Oliver took control in the third period, edging out Stieber 7-3. Oliver's season record is now 17-1.

Byers steps in for

Injured Rosholt

With Blake Rosholt injured, Cayle Byers stepped in to win both of his 197-pound matches.

Byers, 18-3 on the season, was matched up against Ohio State's Andrew Campolattano, who was ranked 20th in his weight class.

"It's good to have someone like Cayle," coach John Smith said. "Rosholt probably could have wrestled this weekend if we had to have him, but we have a lot of confidence with Cayle."

After a scoreless first period, Byers controlled the second and took a 3-0 lead. Byers allowed a one-point escape in the third period, but those were the only points he gave up as he defeated Campolattano 3-1.

Home mat advantage

Oliver said the home crowd had an affect on his match against Stieber in helping him achieve victory.

"You're told not to listen to the crowd," Oliver said. "But sometimes in a tough match, you hear that crowd behind you pushing you, giving you that will to want to win."

The Cowboys will be able to remain at home next weekend for the semifinal and championship matches. OSU will wrestle Illinois in the semifinals with the winner facing the winner of Minnesota and Iowa in the finals.

"We get to stay right here and wrestle for a National Dual Title," said Oliver. "I'm hoping we can pack this place."

sports@ocolly.com