Down 28-20 in the fourth quarter, the Jaguars needed to rally in order to win on their homecoming game. The Jaguars did just that by scoring 15 unanswered points and keeping North Gaston out of the end zone.
North Gaston received the ball first and went straight to work. The Jaguars defense had no answer for North Gaston’s power running triple-option attack. Their drive would be capped off with a Nick Haskin 13-yard touchdown run. The point after was missed.
It was then time for the Jaguars passing attack to go to work. And it did! Logan Bradley’s 25-yard touchdown pass to Mykelti Armstrong tied the game at 6 and Colton Rouse’s kick gave Forestview a one-point advantage.
Haskin put North Gaston back on top with a one-yard run into the end-zone. The two-point conversion failed. Bradley and Armstrong would hook up again for the Jaguars, this time with a 34-yard touchdown connection. After stopping North Gaston for the first time, the Jaguars added another touchdown. On the first play on the ensuing drive, Bradley hit Moe Neal in the flats and he took it 73 yards for a Jaguar touchdown. The kick sailed wide, however.
Forestview was in position to put another score on the board, but Bradley was intercepted by Andrew Ray in the end zone. The Wildcats were able to get deep into Forestview territory on the next drive but could not come away with any points as the half expired.
The Jaguars were hoping to create more separation in the second half, but North Gaston kicked short like they did most of the night and caught Forestview off guard as they recovered the short kick.
Haskin’s nine-yard run for a touchdown and a run for a two-point conversion tied the game at 20. A missed field-goal by the Jaguars gave North Gaston more momentum and they took advantage. Raquan Brown put the Wildcats on top with a 34-yard touchdown run. Haskin once again ran it in for the two-point conversion. It was 28-20 early in the fourth quarter.
The Jaguars would not quit, however. They went into their bag of tricks to get back in it. Calvin Johnson hit Mykelti Armstrong with a reverse pass for a 44-yard touchdown. Logan Bradley hit Armstrong with a two-point conversion to tie the game back up at 28-28.
The Jaguars defense came up with a big play when D.J. Davis forced a Nick Haskin fumble that Garrett Robinson recovered. The Jaguar offense took advantage. Bradley hit Moe Neal for a 20-yard touchdown pass to give the Jaguars a 35-28 lead. The Wildcats would not be able to answer as the Jaguars’ defense held once again and the offense was able to run out the clock.
Bradley passed for 248 yards to lead Forestview’s offense. Armstrong was the recipient of 103 of those yards while Moe Neal amassed 114. North Gaston fullback Corey Staley led the Wildcat rushing attack with 194 yards. Haskin amassed 108 and three touchdowns and two two-point conversion runs.
Forestview travels to South Point (a 30-13 winner over Ashbrook) next week while North Gaston hosts Crest (a 65-15 winner over A.C. Reynolds).
Saturday, September 29, 2012
Friday, September 21, 2012
Gaston, Lincoln and Cleveland County Week 6 Picks
Game of the Week: Forestview (4-1)(0-0) @ Crest (4-1)(1-0)
The Chargers started out conference play last week with a competitive 35-28 overtime win at Ashbrook. Now the Jaguars are hoping to start their conference schedule in the same fashion. The Jaguars, since their season opening 38-0 loss to Nation Ford, have won four straight. The Jaguars newly installed spread offense has put up record-setting numbers for the school. However, their opponents are a combined 2-17. One point is all that separates Crest from an undefeated season and that was against T.C. Roberson. Look for this to be another battle to the very end.
My pick: Crest 24 – Forestview 21
Ashbrook (2-2)(0-1) @ North Gaston (1-4)(0-1)
Ashbrook is looking to rebound after suffering two consecutive losses. North Gaston is looking for another win for the year. Ashbrook lost a heart-breaker in their conference opener against Crest as they were beat 35-28 in overtime. North Gaston suffered a 41-16 drubbing at the hands of Hunter Huss. Ashbrook will likely have the edge in this one.
My pick: Ashbrook 35 – North Gaston 21
Hunter Huss (4-1)(1-0) @ South Point (5-0)(1-0)
Hunter Huss has been good this year. However, South Point has been pretty dominant. Ever since their 34-21 win over Providence Day, none of the Red Raiders games have been close. The Huskies will have to bring their A+ game to have a shot in this one. The only formidable team they have faced this year is Concord and the Spiders won that game 48-28.
My pick: South Point 42 – Hunter Huss 21
Shelby (1-4)(0-1) @ Kings Mountain (2-3)(0-1)
These two teams take a break from conference play. But when these two teams get together, it’s anything but a break. Both teams have struggled mightily this year. A win tonight will right the ship for whoever wins this game. The loser of this game will probably leave scratching their heads and looking for answers. Despite the records, look for the tradition “Battle of Buffalo Creek” to be an all out battle.
My pick: Kings Mountain 28 – Shelby 21
Highland Tech (0-4)(0-1) @ Lincolnton (1-4)(0-1)
It’s been a struggle for Lincolnton. Youth and injuries have been a big obstacle for the Wolves as they are riding a four-game losing streak since opening the season up with a 9-7 win over Maiden. Highland Tech is hoping to even taste a win. The Wolves should be able to snap their losing streak tonight.
My pick: Lincolnton 42 – Highland Tech 0
Cherryville (2-3)(1-0) @ Bessemer City (0-5)(0-1)
The Ironmen are looking to win their second game in a row against arch-rival Bessemer City. The Yellow Jackets are hoping to get their first win. The odds point in Cherryville’s favor, but in a rivalry game anything can happen.
My pick: Cherryville 28 – Bessemer City 12
Lake Norman Charter (4-0)(1-0) @ West Lincoln (3-2)(1-0)
Look out now. Lake Norman Charter comes into this game undefeated. Could they be in the race for the South Piedmont Conference title? West Lincoln has struggled at times this year, but are still a very dangerous team. Look for this to be a very competitive game.
My pick: West Lincoln 28 – Lake Norman Charter 24
East Lincoln (5-0)(1-0) @ North Lincoln (0-5)(0-1)
The records speak for themselves. The Mustangs have been putting up numbers offensively this year. Quarterback Garrett Young already has over 1,600 yards passing and East Lincoln is putting up an average of 48 points a game. North Lincoln has struggled to find any rhythm so far this year. This could be a very long night for the Knights.
My pick: East Lincoln 56 – North Lincoln 13
Olympic (1-3)(0-0) @ East Gaston (0-5)(0-1)
East Gaston gave Berry Academy a good game last week. The Warriors were down 35-28 before Berry pulled away in the very end with a 48-34 win. But it will be a little tougher this week as they face off with the dangerous Olympic Trojans. This will be Olympic’s conference opener.
My pick: Olympic 42 – East Gaston 20
Freedom (4-1)(1-0) @ Burns (2-3)(0-0)
The Bulldogs open conference play tonight as they host Freedom. It has not been a smooth ride for the Bulldogs. The Bulldogs have had a brutal nonconference schedule and it won’t get any easier tonight as the Patriots come to town. Burns has taken the previous three games from Freedom, but this is a totally different year.
My pick: Freedom 28 – Burns 13
The Chargers started out conference play last week with a competitive 35-28 overtime win at Ashbrook. Now the Jaguars are hoping to start their conference schedule in the same fashion. The Jaguars, since their season opening 38-0 loss to Nation Ford, have won four straight. The Jaguars newly installed spread offense has put up record-setting numbers for the school. However, their opponents are a combined 2-17. One point is all that separates Crest from an undefeated season and that was against T.C. Roberson. Look for this to be another battle to the very end.
My pick: Crest 24 – Forestview 21
Ashbrook (2-2)(0-1) @ North Gaston (1-4)(0-1)
Ashbrook is looking to rebound after suffering two consecutive losses. North Gaston is looking for another win for the year. Ashbrook lost a heart-breaker in their conference opener against Crest as they were beat 35-28 in overtime. North Gaston suffered a 41-16 drubbing at the hands of Hunter Huss. Ashbrook will likely have the edge in this one.
My pick: Ashbrook 35 – North Gaston 21
Hunter Huss (4-1)(1-0) @ South Point (5-0)(1-0)
Hunter Huss has been good this year. However, South Point has been pretty dominant. Ever since their 34-21 win over Providence Day, none of the Red Raiders games have been close. The Huskies will have to bring their A+ game to have a shot in this one. The only formidable team they have faced this year is Concord and the Spiders won that game 48-28.
My pick: South Point 42 – Hunter Huss 21
Shelby (1-4)(0-1) @ Kings Mountain (2-3)(0-1)
These two teams take a break from conference play. But when these two teams get together, it’s anything but a break. Both teams have struggled mightily this year. A win tonight will right the ship for whoever wins this game. The loser of this game will probably leave scratching their heads and looking for answers. Despite the records, look for the tradition “Battle of Buffalo Creek” to be an all out battle.
My pick: Kings Mountain 28 – Shelby 21
Highland Tech (0-4)(0-1) @ Lincolnton (1-4)(0-1)
It’s been a struggle for Lincolnton. Youth and injuries have been a big obstacle for the Wolves as they are riding a four-game losing streak since opening the season up with a 9-7 win over Maiden. Highland Tech is hoping to even taste a win. The Wolves should be able to snap their losing streak tonight.
My pick: Lincolnton 42 – Highland Tech 0
Cherryville (2-3)(1-0) @ Bessemer City (0-5)(0-1)
The Ironmen are looking to win their second game in a row against arch-rival Bessemer City. The Yellow Jackets are hoping to get their first win. The odds point in Cherryville’s favor, but in a rivalry game anything can happen.
My pick: Cherryville 28 – Bessemer City 12
Lake Norman Charter (4-0)(1-0) @ West Lincoln (3-2)(1-0)
Look out now. Lake Norman Charter comes into this game undefeated. Could they be in the race for the South Piedmont Conference title? West Lincoln has struggled at times this year, but are still a very dangerous team. Look for this to be a very competitive game.
My pick: West Lincoln 28 – Lake Norman Charter 24
East Lincoln (5-0)(1-0) @ North Lincoln (0-5)(0-1)
The records speak for themselves. The Mustangs have been putting up numbers offensively this year. Quarterback Garrett Young already has over 1,600 yards passing and East Lincoln is putting up an average of 48 points a game. North Lincoln has struggled to find any rhythm so far this year. This could be a very long night for the Knights.
My pick: East Lincoln 56 – North Lincoln 13
Olympic (1-3)(0-0) @ East Gaston (0-5)(0-1)
East Gaston gave Berry Academy a good game last week. The Warriors were down 35-28 before Berry pulled away in the very end with a 48-34 win. But it will be a little tougher this week as they face off with the dangerous Olympic Trojans. This will be Olympic’s conference opener.
My pick: Olympic 42 – East Gaston 20
Freedom (4-1)(1-0) @ Burns (2-3)(0-0)
The Bulldogs open conference play tonight as they host Freedom. It has not been a smooth ride for the Bulldogs. The Bulldogs have had a brutal nonconference schedule and it won’t get any easier tonight as the Patriots come to town. Burns has taken the previous three games from Freedom, but this is a totally different year.
My pick: Freedom 28 – Burns 13
Saturday, September 15, 2012
Bradley’s record-breaking performance crushes Lincolnton
What was a slow start for the Jaguars in the first half turned into a second half rout and a record breaking performance by Forestview quarterback, Logan Bradley. The Junior threw five touchdowns, a feat never accomplished by a Forestview quarterback. Logan hit Mykelti Armstrong for three touchdowns (4, 72, and 30). He hit Calvin Johnson for a 42-yard touchdown pass and also hit C.J. Bumgardner for a 6-yard score.
It did not start off smoothly for the Jaguars as Bradley was picked off near midfield by Lincolnton’s Tanner Cantrell, who returned it all the way to the 18-yard line. Lincolnton would punch it in a few plays later with a four-yard run by Darian Roseboro. Braden Willis’s extra point gave the Wolves a 7-0 lead.
Sound Familiar? The Jaguars faced a similar situation earlier this year against Clover when Bradley threw an interception on their opening drive. The Jaguars would end up winning that game by a convincing score of 38-16.
Tonight would duplicate that as Forestview answered the call on their next drive. Freshman runningback Moe Neal got Forestview on the board with an 11-yard run. Colton Rouse’s extra point tied the game at 7-7. Then the Logan Bradley show started. Bradley connected with Armstrong to give the Jaguars a 14-7 lead. That would be the half-time score.
The Jaguars went on a tear in the second half. Forestview’s offense scored 28 third quarter points and the Jaguar defense would not let Lincolnton get any momentum going. Bradley’s touchdown passes to Mykelti Armstrong on two consecutive drives gave Forestview a 28-7 advantage.
Special teams got in other action as Garrett Robinson blocked a Lincolnton punt and Marcus McCluney recoved the ball inside Lincolnton’s ten-yard line. Montavis Rogers would punch it in from the one-yard line to give Forestview a 35-7 lead. Bradley’s 42-yard pass to Johnson capped off the third quarter scoring for the Jaguars. Bradley’s six-yard touchdown pass to C.J. Bumgardner in the fourth quarter made the final 49-7.
“They were a solid team” Forestview head coach Chris Medlin said of Lincolnton “They played us hard the first half and gave us all we can handle. We scored 35 points in the second half and came out and separated.”
Medlin was proud of his team’s effort as a whole.
“The offensive line protected, the defense stopped. The whole team played great.”
“In the third quarter, the snowball started.” Lincolnton head coach Scott Cloninger said “We didn’t have anybody to stop it. We are dealing with adversity. I was happy the first half, 14-7 to (Forestview). Give me four quarters. We’re in a little lull right now. We’re beat up and young.”
Logan Bradley passed for 210 yards, five touchdowns and one interception. Forestview sophomore tailback Moe Neal rushed for 115 yards.
Lincolnton will host Highland Tech next week as they resume conference play. Forestview will start their conference schedule next week at Crest.
It did not start off smoothly for the Jaguars as Bradley was picked off near midfield by Lincolnton’s Tanner Cantrell, who returned it all the way to the 18-yard line. Lincolnton would punch it in a few plays later with a four-yard run by Darian Roseboro. Braden Willis’s extra point gave the Wolves a 7-0 lead.
Sound Familiar? The Jaguars faced a similar situation earlier this year against Clover when Bradley threw an interception on their opening drive. The Jaguars would end up winning that game by a convincing score of 38-16.
Tonight would duplicate that as Forestview answered the call on their next drive. Freshman runningback Moe Neal got Forestview on the board with an 11-yard run. Colton Rouse’s extra point tied the game at 7-7. Then the Logan Bradley show started. Bradley connected with Armstrong to give the Jaguars a 14-7 lead. That would be the half-time score.
The Jaguars went on a tear in the second half. Forestview’s offense scored 28 third quarter points and the Jaguar defense would not let Lincolnton get any momentum going. Bradley’s touchdown passes to Mykelti Armstrong on two consecutive drives gave Forestview a 28-7 advantage.
Special teams got in other action as Garrett Robinson blocked a Lincolnton punt and Marcus McCluney recoved the ball inside Lincolnton’s ten-yard line. Montavis Rogers would punch it in from the one-yard line to give Forestview a 35-7 lead. Bradley’s 42-yard pass to Johnson capped off the third quarter scoring for the Jaguars. Bradley’s six-yard touchdown pass to C.J. Bumgardner in the fourth quarter made the final 49-7.
“They were a solid team” Forestview head coach Chris Medlin said of Lincolnton “They played us hard the first half and gave us all we can handle. We scored 35 points in the second half and came out and separated.”
Medlin was proud of his team’s effort as a whole.
“The offensive line protected, the defense stopped. The whole team played great.”
“In the third quarter, the snowball started.” Lincolnton head coach Scott Cloninger said “We didn’t have anybody to stop it. We are dealing with adversity. I was happy the first half, 14-7 to (Forestview). Give me four quarters. We’re in a little lull right now. We’re beat up and young.”
Logan Bradley passed for 210 yards, five touchdowns and one interception. Forestview sophomore tailback Moe Neal rushed for 115 yards.
Lincolnton will host Highland Tech next week as they resume conference play. Forestview will start their conference schedule next week at Crest.
Friday, September 14, 2012
Gaston, Lincoln and Cleveland Week 5 Picks
Game of the Week: Crest (3-1) @ Ashbrook (2-1)
Both of these teams were undefeated before last week. Now, both are looking to rebound. Tonight is Ashbrook’s homecoming and the home team has won the last four games in this series including a playoff game in 2010 in which Crest won 29-26. Look for this to be a close, competitive ball game.
My pick: Ashbrook 20 – Crest 17
South Point (4-0) @ Kings Mountain (2-2)
Kings Mountain rebounded in a big way after losing their previous two games in a 55-33 win over Alexander Central. Now, they welcome a red hot Red Raiders squad to John Gamble Stadium. Other than their 34-21 win over Providence Day, none of their other wins have been that close.
My pick: South Point 34 – Kings Mountain 20
North Gaston (1-3) @ Hunter Huss (3-1)
The Huskies lost for the first time this season last week, but they must rebound quickly against an improved North Gaston team. The Wildcats got their first win of the year a few weeks ago and are looking to get their first conference win since 2007.
My pick: Hunter Huss 27 – North Gaston 21
Lincolnton (1-3) @ Forestview (3-1)
The Jaguars and the Wolves continue going in opposite directions. The Jaguars have won three straight games after losing the season opener. Lincolnton has lost three consecutive games after winning their season opener. The trend will likely continue.
My pick: Forestview 35 – Lincolnton 14
Bessemer City (0-4) @ East Lincoln (4-0)
This one will probably get out of hand quick.
My pick: East Lincoln 56 – Bessemer City 6
North Lincoln (0-4) @ Cherryville (1-3)
This has been a tough start for both teams. The Ironmen came close to tasting victory last week but fell short. As bad as the Knights have struggled this year, Cherryville should get their second win of the season.
My pick: Cherryville 24 – North Lincoln 10
West Lincoln (2-2) @ North Iredell (0-4)
The Rebels started off 2-0, but have since then lost two in a row. The Rebels are hopeful about stopping the bleeding against a winless North Iredell team.
My pick: West Lincoln 24 – North Iredell 14
East Gaston (0-4) @ Berry Academy (1-3)
It hasn’t been the start that either team would hope for. But one of these teams will walk out with a victory.
My pick: Berry Academy 28 – East Gaston 21
Shelby (1-3) @ Freedom (3-1)
The Golden Lions got their first win of the season last week but run into a dangerous Freedom team. The Golden Lions will have their hands full in this game.
My pick: Freedom 34 – Shelby 13
Q Foundation (1-2) @ Burns (1-3)
Burns should be able to get their second win of the season here.
My pick: Burns 35 – Q Foundation 6
South Point is the only unbeaten team left. The Red Raiders have been pretty dominant this year. They were picked by many to finish second behind Crest, but it looks like they are poised to win their sixth straight conference title and their 12th in 14 years.
The South Piedmont Conference currently has two unbeaten teams, East Lincoln and Lake Norman Charter. East Lincoln will look to keep their streak alive against Bessemer City. Lake Norman Charter is on a bye week.
Both of these teams were undefeated before last week. Now, both are looking to rebound. Tonight is Ashbrook’s homecoming and the home team has won the last four games in this series including a playoff game in 2010 in which Crest won 29-26. Look for this to be a close, competitive ball game.
My pick: Ashbrook 20 – Crest 17
South Point (4-0) @ Kings Mountain (2-2)
Kings Mountain rebounded in a big way after losing their previous two games in a 55-33 win over Alexander Central. Now, they welcome a red hot Red Raiders squad to John Gamble Stadium. Other than their 34-21 win over Providence Day, none of their other wins have been that close.
My pick: South Point 34 – Kings Mountain 20
North Gaston (1-3) @ Hunter Huss (3-1)
The Huskies lost for the first time this season last week, but they must rebound quickly against an improved North Gaston team. The Wildcats got their first win of the year a few weeks ago and are looking to get their first conference win since 2007.
My pick: Hunter Huss 27 – North Gaston 21
Lincolnton (1-3) @ Forestview (3-1)
The Jaguars and the Wolves continue going in opposite directions. The Jaguars have won three straight games after losing the season opener. Lincolnton has lost three consecutive games after winning their season opener. The trend will likely continue.
My pick: Forestview 35 – Lincolnton 14
Bessemer City (0-4) @ East Lincoln (4-0)
This one will probably get out of hand quick.
My pick: East Lincoln 56 – Bessemer City 6
North Lincoln (0-4) @ Cherryville (1-3)
This has been a tough start for both teams. The Ironmen came close to tasting victory last week but fell short. As bad as the Knights have struggled this year, Cherryville should get their second win of the season.
My pick: Cherryville 24 – North Lincoln 10
West Lincoln (2-2) @ North Iredell (0-4)
The Rebels started off 2-0, but have since then lost two in a row. The Rebels are hopeful about stopping the bleeding against a winless North Iredell team.
My pick: West Lincoln 24 – North Iredell 14
East Gaston (0-4) @ Berry Academy (1-3)
It hasn’t been the start that either team would hope for. But one of these teams will walk out with a victory.
My pick: Berry Academy 28 – East Gaston 21
Shelby (1-3) @ Freedom (3-1)
The Golden Lions got their first win of the season last week but run into a dangerous Freedom team. The Golden Lions will have their hands full in this game.
My pick: Freedom 34 – Shelby 13
Q Foundation (1-2) @ Burns (1-3)
Burns should be able to get their second win of the season here.
My pick: Burns 35 – Q Foundation 6
And Then There Was One
Before last week, the Big South 3A conference had four unbeaten teams. This week, only one remains. Ashbrook saw their streak snapped against Charlotte Catholic. The Cougars routed Ashbrook 49-21. Hunter Huss saw their undefeated season vanish in a 48-28 blowout at Concord. Crest fell just one point short of keeping theirs alive in a 28-27 matchup against T.C. Roberson.South Point is the only unbeaten team left. The Red Raiders have been pretty dominant this year. They were picked by many to finish second behind Crest, but it looks like they are poised to win their sixth straight conference title and their 12th in 14 years.
The South Piedmont Conference currently has two unbeaten teams, East Lincoln and Lake Norman Charter. East Lincoln will look to keep their streak alive against Bessemer City. Lake Norman Charter is on a bye week.
Still Searching For That First Win
There are four area teams still seeking their first win of the season. Bessemer City, East Gaston, Highland Tech and North Lincoln are all winless on the season. The Yellow Jackets have another tall order tonight as they face undefeated East Lincoln. North Lincoln travels to Cherryville and East Gaston will play at Berry Academy tonight. Highland Tech is off.Waiting Another Week
While most teams are starting conference play, there are two that have an extra week to prepare for conference play. Forestview will have one final nonconference matchup against Lincolnton. The Jaguars will then open up conference play at Crest. Burns will host the Q Foundation before opening up conference lay next week. Burns will be at Freedom next week. Lincolnton and county rival, West Lincoln, aren’t playing conference games this week but they already have conference matchups under their belts.Saturday, September 8, 2012
Elijah Hood, Charlotte Catholic wallop Ashbrook
Coming into the game with Charlotte Catholic, Ashbrook knew it would be a test. It did not take real long to see how big of a test it really was. The Cougars started quick using power running lead by junior fullback, Elijah Hood. But it was a 14-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Ryan Miller to Drew Tomsho that got Catholic on the board early.
The Cougars capped off their second drive with a 16-yard touchdown run by Zach Gabriel. Mitch Lochbihler’s extra point made it 14-0. This time last week, the Cougars blew a 14-0 lead and ended up losing 31-28 to Charlotte Country Day. Catholic was determined not to repeat that mistake.
Elijah Hood got on the board with a 43-yard touchdown run in the second quarter. The Cougars, however, would give the Green Wave a gift. Forced to punt midway through the second quarter, the Cougars mishandled the punt. Ashbrook took possession of the ball at the 11-yard line. Quarterback Dre Brice got Ashbrook on the board with a three-yard touchdown run. Ross Taylor’s extra point cut the Cougars’ lead to 21-7.
Catholic just kept pouring it on. Hood broke loose for another long touchdown run. This time it was from 53 yards out. The score would be 28-7 at the half. Ashbrook has been in a situation similar to this before. Week 1, they rallied from being down 35-21 at the half to win 45-42 over Olympic.
This mountain would keep getting steeper for the Green Wave. Gabriel extended the Cougar lead with his second touchdown run of the day – this time from 15 yards.
The Green Wave refused to go away. Brice broke off a 39 yard run to score his second touchdown of the evening. The Cougar lead was back down to 21.
Each time Ashbrook gathered momentum, the Cougars dashed those hopes. Hood answered the Green Wave score with another 53-yard touchdown run. This game was getting out of hand.
Tre Brice tried one more time to lead the Green Wave to another comeback. This time he used his arm when he hit Grant Stafford for a 23-yard touchdown pass. Ashbrook would not get closer and Catholic put the nail in the coffin when quarterback Ryan Miller punched another touchdown in from the one-yard line.
Elijah Hood had a big night for Charlotte Catholic. The Junior Fullback rolled up 306 yards and three touchdowns. Charlotte Catholic (3-1) opens up conference next Friday at home against Garinger. Ashbrook (2-1) opens conference play at home against Crest.
Hill on his team “Our kids don’t quit. They play hard.”
Hill on Catholic and Ashbrook's schedule “They are the toughest we’ve played since I’ve been at Ashbrook. It’s an opportunity to measure where we’re at. It doesn’t get any easier. Our nonconference schedule will prepare us for conference. To be the man, you have to beat the man. We don't dodge anybody.”
Catholic Coach Jim Oddo on Hood “He’s special. He’s got the heart of an elephant. He will you a smart coach. I coached his dad and his uncle. He’s got a good pedigree. He’s a good student and a good kid.”
Oddo on the team “We looked good, but we need to get better. We’ll get there. We’re young.”
The Cougars capped off their second drive with a 16-yard touchdown run by Zach Gabriel. Mitch Lochbihler’s extra point made it 14-0. This time last week, the Cougars blew a 14-0 lead and ended up losing 31-28 to Charlotte Country Day. Catholic was determined not to repeat that mistake.
Elijah Hood got on the board with a 43-yard touchdown run in the second quarter. The Cougars, however, would give the Green Wave a gift. Forced to punt midway through the second quarter, the Cougars mishandled the punt. Ashbrook took possession of the ball at the 11-yard line. Quarterback Dre Brice got Ashbrook on the board with a three-yard touchdown run. Ross Taylor’s extra point cut the Cougars’ lead to 21-7.
Catholic just kept pouring it on. Hood broke loose for another long touchdown run. This time it was from 53 yards out. The score would be 28-7 at the half. Ashbrook has been in a situation similar to this before. Week 1, they rallied from being down 35-21 at the half to win 45-42 over Olympic.
This mountain would keep getting steeper for the Green Wave. Gabriel extended the Cougar lead with his second touchdown run of the day – this time from 15 yards.
The Green Wave refused to go away. Brice broke off a 39 yard run to score his second touchdown of the evening. The Cougar lead was back down to 21.
Each time Ashbrook gathered momentum, the Cougars dashed those hopes. Hood answered the Green Wave score with another 53-yard touchdown run. This game was getting out of hand.
Tre Brice tried one more time to lead the Green Wave to another comeback. This time he used his arm when he hit Grant Stafford for a 23-yard touchdown pass. Ashbrook would not get closer and Catholic put the nail in the coffin when quarterback Ryan Miller punched another touchdown in from the one-yard line.
Elijah Hood had a big night for Charlotte Catholic. The Junior Fullback rolled up 306 yards and three touchdowns. Charlotte Catholic (3-1) opens up conference next Friday at home against Garinger. Ashbrook (2-1) opens conference play at home against Crest.
Quotes from the coaches:
Ashbrook coach Greg Hill on Elijah Hood “God has blessed that kid. (Hood) is a big-time back.”Hill on his team “Our kids don’t quit. They play hard.”
Hill on Catholic and Ashbrook's schedule “They are the toughest we’ve played since I’ve been at Ashbrook. It’s an opportunity to measure where we’re at. It doesn’t get any easier. Our nonconference schedule will prepare us for conference. To be the man, you have to beat the man. We don't dodge anybody.”
Catholic Coach Jim Oddo on Hood “He’s special. He’s got the heart of an elephant. He will you a smart coach. I coached his dad and his uncle. He’s got a good pedigree. He’s a good student and a good kid.”
Oddo on the team “We looked good, but we need to get better. We’ll get there. We’re young.”
Friday, September 7, 2012
Gaston, Lincoln and Cleveland Week 4 Picks
Game of the Week: Hunter Huss (3-0) @ Concord (3-0)
This will be Huss’s first true test of the year. They have had Concord’s number the past three years. Can they make it four in a row?
My pick: Concord 31 – Hunter Huss 24
Ashbrook (2-0) @ Charlotte Catholic (2-1) Ashbrook faces a Catholic team coming off their first loss of the season. The Cougars are still going to be a tall order for the Green Wave.
My pick: Charlotte Catholic 35 – Ashbrook 21
South Point (3-0) @ Burns (2-1) The Red Raiders just keep on rolling. Coming off their first loss of the season, the Burns Bulldogs will have their hands full with Jaquan Brooks, Tyler Bray and company.
My pick: South Point 35 – Burns 14
T.C. Roberson (3-0) @ Crest (3-0) One of these teams will have their first loss of the season. The odds point to the Chargers walking away the victor. The Rams have never beaten the Chargers.
My pick: Crest 21 – T.C. Roberson 14
North Gaston (1-2) @ Hickory (2-1) The Wildcats are still looking for their first road win since 2007. But it won’t be easy as Hickory is getting better every week.
My pick: Hickory 28 – North Gaston 14
Shelby (0-3) @ Lincolnton (1-2)(0-1) Two of the areas traditional powerhouses have fallen on hard times. But one of these teams will see their luck change while the other could go reeling even further.
My pick: Lincolnton 24 – Shelby 17
Forestview (2-1) @ Bessemer City (0-3) Forestview will face a team with the mascot “The Yellow Jackets” for the second consecutive week. This game should also have the same result as last week’s.
My pick: Forestview 56 – Bessemer City 6
East Gaston (0-3) @ East Lincoln (3-0) The Warriors have fallen on hard times this year. It will not get any easier as they face a red hot East Lincoln squad. They are averaging 48 points a game.
My pick: East Lincoln 52 – East Gaston 13
Alexander Central (1-2) @ Kings Mountain (1-2) The Mountaineers are looking to get back on track after losing back-to-back road games. The Alexander Central Cougars are also hungry and cannot be taken lightly.
My pick: Kings Mountain 21 – Alexander Central 17
West Lincoln (2-1)(1-0) @ East Rutherford (1-2) The Rebels are trying to get back on track after being tripped up by Fred T. Foard last week. However, they have not had a solid track record against East Rutherford.
My pick: East Rutherford 24 – West Lincoln 21
Chase (1-2) @ Cherryville (1-2) Which one of these two teams will hit .500 tonight?
My pick: Chase 24 – Cherryville 13
Bandys (2-1) @ North Lincoln (0-3) After suffering their first loss of the season last week, the Trojans will probably take a lot of that frustration out on the winless Knights.
My pick: Bandys 38 – North Lincoln 6
Metrolina Christian Academy (0-1) @ Highland Tech (0-3) The struggling Rams probably won’t get their first win of the season tonight.
My pick: Metrolina 28 – Highland Tech 6
Breakdown:
Red Raiders still dominant
Many wondered how the South Point Red Raiders would fare after they graduated 27 seniors from last year. Well, the Red Raiders picked up right where they left off. Their performances the first two weeks have left more answers than questions. First, South Point rallied from 21-13 down to defending NCISAA champion Providence Day to go on to win 34-21.
The following week, the Red Raiders score 49 unanswered points after Lincolnton went up 8-0 in the first quarter. Then last Friday, they put a whopping 78 points up against East Gaston. That broke a school record in scoring. Their previous record was 76. That was back in 2003 when they throttled Berry Academy 76-6. The Red Raiders won the 3A state title that year. They also broke the record in single rushing yards for one game.
If this doesn’t convince you that South Point is still legit, then what can? The Red Raiders travel to take on Burns. The Bulldogs lost for the first time last week against Mooresville 28-6.
It’s Test Time
The Huskies have started the season on fire. They have outscored their first three opponents 152-14 and pitched two shutouts doing so. However, their opponents are a combined 0-8. The Huskies will face their first test this week as they travel to Concord. The Spiders are 3-0 on the season. The Spiders have outscored two of their opponents by more than 20 points in two of their games.
Ashbrook is 2-0 with a hard-fought 45-42 win over Olympic and a 24-10 win over winless Shelby. Ashbrook travels to take on Charlotte Catholic. The Cougars lost for the first time last week as they were upended 31-28 by Charlotte Country Day. That also snapped Catholic’s 26-regular season game winning streak. Ashbrook will have their hands full trying to stop Catholic’s Wing-T offense featuring bruising fullback Elijah Hood.
Who would have thought this?
Lincolnton was the 2A state runner up last year. They were 14-2 overall. Shelby, after a 1-4 start, made it all the way to the fourth round of the playoffs. This year, however, both teams are a combined 1-5 coming into tonight’s game. Shelby has not won a game yet and Lincolnton already has their first conference loss as they dropped a close one to Lake Norman Charter 30-28. Both teams are going to try and redeem their season with a win.
My pick: Concord 31 – Hunter Huss 24
Ashbrook (2-0) @ Charlotte Catholic (2-1) Ashbrook faces a Catholic team coming off their first loss of the season. The Cougars are still going to be a tall order for the Green Wave.
My pick: Charlotte Catholic 35 – Ashbrook 21
South Point (3-0) @ Burns (2-1) The Red Raiders just keep on rolling. Coming off their first loss of the season, the Burns Bulldogs will have their hands full with Jaquan Brooks, Tyler Bray and company.
My pick: South Point 35 – Burns 14
T.C. Roberson (3-0) @ Crest (3-0) One of these teams will have their first loss of the season. The odds point to the Chargers walking away the victor. The Rams have never beaten the Chargers.
My pick: Crest 21 – T.C. Roberson 14
North Gaston (1-2) @ Hickory (2-1) The Wildcats are still looking for their first road win since 2007. But it won’t be easy as Hickory is getting better every week.
My pick: Hickory 28 – North Gaston 14
Shelby (0-3) @ Lincolnton (1-2)(0-1) Two of the areas traditional powerhouses have fallen on hard times. But one of these teams will see their luck change while the other could go reeling even further.
My pick: Lincolnton 24 – Shelby 17
Forestview (2-1) @ Bessemer City (0-3) Forestview will face a team with the mascot “The Yellow Jackets” for the second consecutive week. This game should also have the same result as last week’s.
My pick: Forestview 56 – Bessemer City 6
East Gaston (0-3) @ East Lincoln (3-0) The Warriors have fallen on hard times this year. It will not get any easier as they face a red hot East Lincoln squad. They are averaging 48 points a game.
My pick: East Lincoln 52 – East Gaston 13
Alexander Central (1-2) @ Kings Mountain (1-2) The Mountaineers are looking to get back on track after losing back-to-back road games. The Alexander Central Cougars are also hungry and cannot be taken lightly.
My pick: Kings Mountain 21 – Alexander Central 17
West Lincoln (2-1)(1-0) @ East Rutherford (1-2) The Rebels are trying to get back on track after being tripped up by Fred T. Foard last week. However, they have not had a solid track record against East Rutherford.
My pick: East Rutherford 24 – West Lincoln 21
Chase (1-2) @ Cherryville (1-2) Which one of these two teams will hit .500 tonight?
My pick: Chase 24 – Cherryville 13
Bandys (2-1) @ North Lincoln (0-3) After suffering their first loss of the season last week, the Trojans will probably take a lot of that frustration out on the winless Knights.
My pick: Bandys 38 – North Lincoln 6
Metrolina Christian Academy (0-1) @ Highland Tech (0-3) The struggling Rams probably won’t get their first win of the season tonight.
My pick: Metrolina 28 – Highland Tech 6
Breakdown:
Red Raiders still dominant
Many wondered how the South Point Red Raiders would fare after they graduated 27 seniors from last year. Well, the Red Raiders picked up right where they left off. Their performances the first two weeks have left more answers than questions. First, South Point rallied from 21-13 down to defending NCISAA champion Providence Day to go on to win 34-21.
The following week, the Red Raiders score 49 unanswered points after Lincolnton went up 8-0 in the first quarter. Then last Friday, they put a whopping 78 points up against East Gaston. That broke a school record in scoring. Their previous record was 76. That was back in 2003 when they throttled Berry Academy 76-6. The Red Raiders won the 3A state title that year. They also broke the record in single rushing yards for one game.
If this doesn’t convince you that South Point is still legit, then what can? The Red Raiders travel to take on Burns. The Bulldogs lost for the first time last week against Mooresville 28-6.
It’s Test Time
The Huskies have started the season on fire. They have outscored their first three opponents 152-14 and pitched two shutouts doing so. However, their opponents are a combined 0-8. The Huskies will face their first test this week as they travel to Concord. The Spiders are 3-0 on the season. The Spiders have outscored two of their opponents by more than 20 points in two of their games.
Ashbrook is 2-0 with a hard-fought 45-42 win over Olympic and a 24-10 win over winless Shelby. Ashbrook travels to take on Charlotte Catholic. The Cougars lost for the first time last week as they were upended 31-28 by Charlotte Country Day. That also snapped Catholic’s 26-regular season game winning streak. Ashbrook will have their hands full trying to stop Catholic’s Wing-T offense featuring bruising fullback Elijah Hood.
Who would have thought this?
Lincolnton was the 2A state runner up last year. They were 14-2 overall. Shelby, after a 1-4 start, made it all the way to the fourth round of the playoffs. This year, however, both teams are a combined 1-5 coming into tonight’s game. Shelby has not won a game yet and Lincolnton already has their first conference loss as they dropped a close one to Lake Norman Charter 30-28. Both teams are going to try and redeem their season with a win.
Saturday, September 1, 2012
Jaguars start fast, pitch shutout
Last week, things did not start off well for Forestview. Though they won 38-16, the first play from scrimmage resulted in an interception return for a touchdown. The Jaguars flipped the script on that one when they stopped Lexington for a loss on two consecutive plays. After that, Colin Munson returned an interception 25 yards for a touchdown.
The Jaguars defense would continue to torment the Yellow Jackets’ offense from there on. Forestview’s offense got rolling in the first half. They capped off a drive with a Logan Bradley connection to Isaiah McCaskill for an eight-yard touchdown. Colton Rouse’s extra point made it 14-0.
Lexington’s Raekwon Byrd was intercepted again in the second quarter, this time by Kameron Timmons. It was initially returned for a touchdown but it was called back due to an illegal block. But that did set up Bishop Ford’s four-yard touchdown run to put Forestview up 20-0. The extra point was no good. Rouse made up for it later with a 33-yard field-goal to make it 23-0 at half-time. Rouse added another field-goal in the second half. This time it was from 20 yards out.
Bradley added another touchdown for Forestview late in the third quarter when he hit Mykelti Armstrong for a 36-yard touchdown pass. The Jaguars put another score on the board in the fourth quarter. Moe Neal’s five-yard touchdown run made the score 40-0.
The Yellow Jackets threatened to score in the second half, but was unable to complete a drive. It did not help that they were without their starting tailback, Marquez Grayson. He missed the game with a high ankle sprain.
“We want to have something go right early.” Forestview head coach Chris Medlin said about Forestview’s interception on the first drive “We’ve had this happen before. Things start bad and then snowball.”
Medlin was also pleased with how Forestview kept making plays offensively in the second half. Last week, Forestview was up 38-14 at half-time but the offense sputtered.
“We finished!” Medlin said “In the second half we continued.”
“We got our butt kicked.” Lexington head coach Kwayu Graham said “Throw an interception first play of the game, jump off sides, lose focus, it’s disgusting. Coaches did a great job. We got to make plays.”
Forestview will be on the road again next week as they travel to Bessemer City. Lexington will host Davie County.
The Jaguars defense would continue to torment the Yellow Jackets’ offense from there on. Forestview’s offense got rolling in the first half. They capped off a drive with a Logan Bradley connection to Isaiah McCaskill for an eight-yard touchdown. Colton Rouse’s extra point made it 14-0.
Lexington’s Raekwon Byrd was intercepted again in the second quarter, this time by Kameron Timmons. It was initially returned for a touchdown but it was called back due to an illegal block. But that did set up Bishop Ford’s four-yard touchdown run to put Forestview up 20-0. The extra point was no good. Rouse made up for it later with a 33-yard field-goal to make it 23-0 at half-time. Rouse added another field-goal in the second half. This time it was from 20 yards out.
Bradley added another touchdown for Forestview late in the third quarter when he hit Mykelti Armstrong for a 36-yard touchdown pass. The Jaguars put another score on the board in the fourth quarter. Moe Neal’s five-yard touchdown run made the score 40-0.
The Yellow Jackets threatened to score in the second half, but was unable to complete a drive. It did not help that they were without their starting tailback, Marquez Grayson. He missed the game with a high ankle sprain.
“We want to have something go right early.” Forestview head coach Chris Medlin said about Forestview’s interception on the first drive “We’ve had this happen before. Things start bad and then snowball.”
Medlin was also pleased with how Forestview kept making plays offensively in the second half. Last week, Forestview was up 38-14 at half-time but the offense sputtered.
“We finished!” Medlin said “In the second half we continued.”
“We got our butt kicked.” Lexington head coach Kwayu Graham said “Throw an interception first play of the game, jump off sides, lose focus, it’s disgusting. Coaches did a great job. We got to make plays.”
Forestview will be on the road again next week as they travel to Bessemer City. Lexington will host Davie County.
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