Without their head coach and an assistant, and without two key starters (one on each side), many wondered how Forestview would respond to the challenge as they faced an unbeaten Lake Norman Charter. Those questions were answered in a big way as they smashed the Knights 63-7. The win also breaks the previous record of points scored by the team. That was set in 2003 when they beat Berry Academy 61-0.
The Jaguars raced out to a 28-0 lead in the first quarter. In fact, the first time Forestview had the ball they scored on their first play. The play was a Logan Bradley 33-yard touchdown strike to Moe Neal. Bradley, on the next drive, found his other top target (Mykelti Armstrong) for a 47-yard touchdown reception.
A backwards pass of Lake Norman Charter that was recovered by Forestview’s C.J. Bumgardner at the one-yard line gave Forestview a chance to put another score up. This time it would be Montavis Rogers that punches it in from the one-yard line. He also ran it in for a two-point score. Special teams got in on the fun too as J.C. Crawford picked up a low punt and returned it 21 yards for another Jaguar touchdown.
Bradley would connect with Armstrong again early in the second quarter, this time from ten yards out. Colton Rouse’s kick made it 35-0. The Knights did have a few bright spots and they were able to avoid a shutout thanks to Michael Dorsainvil four-yard touchdown pass to Petey Fabian.
After that, the night belonged to Forestview. On the Jaguars first possession in the second half, they would score. This time it was Rogers taking it in from 58 yards for the score. Rogers scored on another two-point try. Lake Norman Charter looked like they were going to answer the score, but they fumbled in their red-zone and Storm Payne scooped up the loose ball and took it deep into Knights’ territory. Bradley would cap off the drive with an eight-yard pass to Moe Neal. Neal’s run for the two-point conversion gave the Jaguars a 51-7 lead.
Once again the Knights would get close but could not taste the end-zone as Forestview stopped them at the three-yard line. Backed-up near their own goal-line the Jaguars turn to their run game and it resulted in a Neal 97-yard touchdown run to put the score at 57-7.
That would be it for the starters. Josh Dawkins (normally a starting defensive-back) took over the runningback roll late in the game and ended up putting Forestview’s record-setting score on the board with a nine-yard run.
Rogers tallied up 101 yards rushing and two touchdowns on the night. Neal tallied up 193 all-purpose yards (105 yards rushing and 88 yards receiving) and three touchdowns. Logan Bradley passed for 173 yards and four touchdowns. Marcus McCluney, Wesley Heavner, Tate Payne, Davious Byrd, and Tramone Duncan each had tackles for losses. Payne, McCluney, Heavner, Xzavier Davis, and Nathan Whitaker each registered sacks.
“The team did a great job. They responded on what they needed to.” Jaguars interim head coach Dave Faquharson said “That’s what a team is supposed to do, to respond to adversity and take some ownership of the team. When you start tearing down the foundation, we got to reach down deep and see what they’re made of. It was a hard week for the kids.”
“It’s unfortunate.” Quarterback Logan Bradley said of the events that transpired during the week “Medlin not being there was scary, but our coached did well. (Coach) Farquharson did a good job leading the team. (Coach) Rayfield did a good job with the offense and (Coach) Hall did a good job with the defense. The seniors were a big help and they would not let the team get down on themselves. I think we showed everybody that we can pull together under adversity.”
The Jaguars will welcome back head coach Chris Medlin and assistant Jon Putnam back next week and they will take a break from conference play as they host Bessemer City. The Jaguars will resume conference play the following week as they travel to North Gaston. Lake Norman Charter will be home against East Gaston next week.
Friday, September 27, 2013
Thursday, September 26, 2013
Gaston, Lincoln and Cleveland Week 6 picks
Game of the Week: Lincolnton (4-0) @ West Lincoln (2-2): Both teams will come in well-rested after a bye week. The Rebels are off to a hot 4-0 start while Lincolnton has struggled and are at 2-2. But their two losses came against undefeated teams, South Point (5-0) and North Gaston (4-0). West Lincoln has not faced a team with a winning record, though. They faced one-win teams in Draughn (1-4), North Lincoln (1-3), Cherryville (1-4) and a winless Fred T. Foard team. The Wolves will bring a different challenge for the Rebels as they travel to take on their county rivals.
My pick: Lincolnton 27 – West Lincoln 20
Lake Norman Charter (5-0) @ Forestview (3-1): The Jaguars open conference play with Lake Norman Charter rolling into town. The Knights bring a 5-0 record to Joe Alala Stadium. But their five teams have a combined 5-18 record. Two of them haven’t won a game. The Jaguars, prior to their bye week, knocked off defending 2A state champ East Lincoln 44-27. The Jaguars, however, will miss two key starters and head coach Chris Medlin for tonight’s conference opener. But the Jaguars, having been a little more battle-tested in two of their games should still have the edge.
My pick: Forestview 42 – Lake Norman Charter 21
Hunter Huss (1-4) @ North Gaston (4-0): The Records look lopsided, but one has to consider a couple of things. The Huskies have played a more strenuous nonconference schedule. Three of Huss’s toughest teams (Vance, Rocky River and Burns) have a combined record of 18-2. Nobody on North Gaston’s schedule has a solid winning record. Lincolnton (2-2) is the only team in that group that is at .500. The Wildcats bring a strong triple-option running attack to the table as they host Huss. The Huskies bring a solid passing game to Trudnak Stadium. This one should be a real tight ball game.
My pick: Hunter Huss 28 – North Gaston 21
East Gaston (0-4) @ South Point (5-0): This game could get ugly quick. The Warriors are coming off a 19-14 loss to a previously winless Cherryville squad. They were plagued with seven turnovers last week and have also been hit hard with injuries. It does not help them that they have to travel to face a red-hot South Point team for their traditional “Black Friday” matchup.
My pick: South Point 56 – East Gaston 0
Ashbrook (2-2) @ Cuthbertson (2-3): These two teams are heading in opposite directions. Cuthbertson started the season 2-0, but lost their last three games. On the other hand, Ashbrook started 0-2, but won their final two games prior to last week’s bye week. Cuthbertson is coming off their worst loss of the season, a 57-28 drubbing to Forest Hills.
My pick: Ashbrook 35 – Cuthbertson 21
Cherryville (1-4) @ Parkwood (2-3): Cherryville got their first win of the year last week as they took down East Gaston. But Parkwood will be on a different level than East Gaston.
My pick: Parkwood 34 – Cherryville 14
East Lincoln (3-1) @ Bandys (2-2): East Lincoln had their 19-game winning streak snapped two weeks ago as they dropped a 44-27 game to Forestview. Now coming off their bye week, the Mustangs are looking for a fresh start as they open up conference play with Bandys. The Trojans are looking to snap their two-game losing streak, but the Mustangs may prove too much for them. My pick: East Lincoln 34 – Bandys 20 South Iredell (4-0) @ North Lincoln (1-3): After losing two tough games to county rivals, Lincolnton and West Lincoln, and being blown out by East Lincoln 34-7, the Knights got their first win of the season against Bessemer City a couple weeks ago. But the Knights welcome the 2012 2A state champion, South Iredell, to start conference play. The Vikings have not shown any signs of slowing down either as they are coming off a 56-0 beating of Salisbury.
My pick: South Iredell 42 – North Lincoln 7
Burns (5-0) @ East Burke (1-3): The Bulldogs survived a scare last week as they escaped Kings Mountain 20-15. The Mountaineers led 15-14 with just a minute or so left. The Bulldogs should not have much of a problem as they travel to East Burke.
My pick: Burns 48 – East Burke 6
Shelby (3-2) @ Kings Mountain (2-3): The “Battle of Buffalo” is still alive and well. Shelby won last year’s battle 14-7. That game was also in Kings Mountain. The Mountaineers do not want to lose two in a row at home to their rival. They are also trying to stop a three-game losing skid. They almost overtook conference favorite, Burns, last week as they held a brief 15-14 lead. But the Bulldogs ended up scoring last to win 20-15. The Golden Lions enter this game on a two-game winning streak. Prior to that, they lost two straight. One of those was to South Point, a game which Shelby led 24-14 before losing. This game could go either way.
My pick: Shelby 24 – Kings Mountain 21
Crest (3-1) @ R-S Central (1-3): The Chargers started the season with a 35-16 loss to South Point, but have won three straight since then. R-S Central has had a rough year so far and this could be another long night for the Hilltoppers.
My pick: Crest 42 – R-S Central 14
Highland Tech (0-4) @ Southlake Christian (5-0): Not a favorable matchup for a team still seeking their first win since 2009. This is the second unbeaten team the Rams have faced in three weeks.
My pick: Southlake Christian 50 – Highland Tech 6
My pick: Lincolnton 27 – West Lincoln 20
Lake Norman Charter (5-0) @ Forestview (3-1): The Jaguars open conference play with Lake Norman Charter rolling into town. The Knights bring a 5-0 record to Joe Alala Stadium. But their five teams have a combined 5-18 record. Two of them haven’t won a game. The Jaguars, prior to their bye week, knocked off defending 2A state champ East Lincoln 44-27. The Jaguars, however, will miss two key starters and head coach Chris Medlin for tonight’s conference opener. But the Jaguars, having been a little more battle-tested in two of their games should still have the edge.
My pick: Forestview 42 – Lake Norman Charter 21
Hunter Huss (1-4) @ North Gaston (4-0): The Records look lopsided, but one has to consider a couple of things. The Huskies have played a more strenuous nonconference schedule. Three of Huss’s toughest teams (Vance, Rocky River and Burns) have a combined record of 18-2. Nobody on North Gaston’s schedule has a solid winning record. Lincolnton (2-2) is the only team in that group that is at .500. The Wildcats bring a strong triple-option running attack to the table as they host Huss. The Huskies bring a solid passing game to Trudnak Stadium. This one should be a real tight ball game.
My pick: Hunter Huss 28 – North Gaston 21
East Gaston (0-4) @ South Point (5-0): This game could get ugly quick. The Warriors are coming off a 19-14 loss to a previously winless Cherryville squad. They were plagued with seven turnovers last week and have also been hit hard with injuries. It does not help them that they have to travel to face a red-hot South Point team for their traditional “Black Friday” matchup.
My pick: South Point 56 – East Gaston 0
Ashbrook (2-2) @ Cuthbertson (2-3): These two teams are heading in opposite directions. Cuthbertson started the season 2-0, but lost their last three games. On the other hand, Ashbrook started 0-2, but won their final two games prior to last week’s bye week. Cuthbertson is coming off their worst loss of the season, a 57-28 drubbing to Forest Hills.
My pick: Ashbrook 35 – Cuthbertson 21
Cherryville (1-4) @ Parkwood (2-3): Cherryville got their first win of the year last week as they took down East Gaston. But Parkwood will be on a different level than East Gaston.
My pick: Parkwood 34 – Cherryville 14
East Lincoln (3-1) @ Bandys (2-2): East Lincoln had their 19-game winning streak snapped two weeks ago as they dropped a 44-27 game to Forestview. Now coming off their bye week, the Mustangs are looking for a fresh start as they open up conference play with Bandys. The Trojans are looking to snap their two-game losing streak, but the Mustangs may prove too much for them. My pick: East Lincoln 34 – Bandys 20 South Iredell (4-0) @ North Lincoln (1-3): After losing two tough games to county rivals, Lincolnton and West Lincoln, and being blown out by East Lincoln 34-7, the Knights got their first win of the season against Bessemer City a couple weeks ago. But the Knights welcome the 2012 2A state champion, South Iredell, to start conference play. The Vikings have not shown any signs of slowing down either as they are coming off a 56-0 beating of Salisbury.
My pick: South Iredell 42 – North Lincoln 7
Burns (5-0) @ East Burke (1-3): The Bulldogs survived a scare last week as they escaped Kings Mountain 20-15. The Mountaineers led 15-14 with just a minute or so left. The Bulldogs should not have much of a problem as they travel to East Burke.
My pick: Burns 48 – East Burke 6
Shelby (3-2) @ Kings Mountain (2-3): The “Battle of Buffalo” is still alive and well. Shelby won last year’s battle 14-7. That game was also in Kings Mountain. The Mountaineers do not want to lose two in a row at home to their rival. They are also trying to stop a three-game losing skid. They almost overtook conference favorite, Burns, last week as they held a brief 15-14 lead. But the Bulldogs ended up scoring last to win 20-15. The Golden Lions enter this game on a two-game winning streak. Prior to that, they lost two straight. One of those was to South Point, a game which Shelby led 24-14 before losing. This game could go either way.
My pick: Shelby 24 – Kings Mountain 21
Crest (3-1) @ R-S Central (1-3): The Chargers started the season with a 35-16 loss to South Point, but have won three straight since then. R-S Central has had a rough year so far and this could be another long night for the Hilltoppers.
My pick: Crest 42 – R-S Central 14
Highland Tech (0-4) @ Southlake Christian (5-0): Not a favorable matchup for a team still seeking their first win since 2009. This is the second unbeaten team the Rams have faced in three weeks.
My pick: Southlake Christian 50 – Highland Tech 6
Saturday, September 21, 2013
Vance’s Rushing Attack Too Much For Huss
After playing stiff competition against teams like Burns and Rocky River, the Huskies had to withstand one more daunting test before conference play starts. That challenge was stopping the Vance rushing attack led by Kyderian Green. He had 197 yards rushing and three touchdowns. But make no mistake, Huss put up a fight.
It did not start really well for Hunter Huss as Kerrion Moore was tackled in the end-zone on the opening kickoff for a safety. The Cougars built on that lead with an eight-yard touchdown run by Green. Then Vance took to the air when quarterback Laquell Thames hit Christian Hatcher for a 55-yard touchdown pass. Just like that it was 15-0.
The Huskies would come to life later in the half when quarterback Andrew Jordan hit Kerrion Moore for a 31-yard touchdown pass. Seth Jones extra point made it 15-7. That would be the score half-time. The Cougars would pick up right where they left off in the second half. Green scored his second touchdown of the night on the first drive of the second half, this time from four yards out. Jake Spiedal’s extra point made it 22-7.
The Huskies would chip away at that lead once again on another Jordan-to-Moore touchdown pass. The lead was back down to eight (22-14). Vance held Moore’s ground game in check but he amounted 177 yards receiving and two touchdowns. But that would not be enough.
Thames’s 40-yard touchdown pass to Trey Foggie and another eight yard touchdown run by Kyderian Green put the game away as Vance leaves Gastonia with a 36-14 win.
Devin Allison and Delmonte McClure combined for three sacks for the Huskies. Dion Eaddy and Raheem Adams each had an interception. The Huskies also recovered a Vance fumble. Vance also had two interceptions and a sack against Hunter Huss.
Along with Green’s 197 yard rushing performance, Thames threw for 153 yards and two touchdowns.
“We came out and did a good job running the football. Our offensive line did a great job.” Vance head coach Keith Wilkes said. He was, however, displeased with the three turnovers (two interceptions and a fumble) that kept Huss in the game in the first half.
“We got a young team. We hung tough out there. The kids came a long way. Our tenth graders are really stepping up and playing tough football.”
“For the most part, we fought hard.” Huss head coach Steve Gardner said “You can’t have dropped balls and leave your defense out there.”
“We got stuff we got to do well. Stop the mistakes on offense and stop the run on defense.”
Though the Huskies had a challenging nonconference schedule, Gardner said his team still expected wins. They will begin conference play next week as they travel to Dallas to face North Gaston. Vance will also open up conference play on the road as they travel to Jay M. Robinson in Concord.
It did not start really well for Hunter Huss as Kerrion Moore was tackled in the end-zone on the opening kickoff for a safety. The Cougars built on that lead with an eight-yard touchdown run by Green. Then Vance took to the air when quarterback Laquell Thames hit Christian Hatcher for a 55-yard touchdown pass. Just like that it was 15-0.
The Huskies would come to life later in the half when quarterback Andrew Jordan hit Kerrion Moore for a 31-yard touchdown pass. Seth Jones extra point made it 15-7. That would be the score half-time. The Cougars would pick up right where they left off in the second half. Green scored his second touchdown of the night on the first drive of the second half, this time from four yards out. Jake Spiedal’s extra point made it 22-7.
The Huskies would chip away at that lead once again on another Jordan-to-Moore touchdown pass. The lead was back down to eight (22-14). Vance held Moore’s ground game in check but he amounted 177 yards receiving and two touchdowns. But that would not be enough.
Thames’s 40-yard touchdown pass to Trey Foggie and another eight yard touchdown run by Kyderian Green put the game away as Vance leaves Gastonia with a 36-14 win.
Devin Allison and Delmonte McClure combined for three sacks for the Huskies. Dion Eaddy and Raheem Adams each had an interception. The Huskies also recovered a Vance fumble. Vance also had two interceptions and a sack against Hunter Huss.
Along with Green’s 197 yard rushing performance, Thames threw for 153 yards and two touchdowns.
“We came out and did a good job running the football. Our offensive line did a great job.” Vance head coach Keith Wilkes said. He was, however, displeased with the three turnovers (two interceptions and a fumble) that kept Huss in the game in the first half.
“We got a young team. We hung tough out there. The kids came a long way. Our tenth graders are really stepping up and playing tough football.”
“For the most part, we fought hard.” Huss head coach Steve Gardner said “You can’t have dropped balls and leave your defense out there.”
“We got stuff we got to do well. Stop the mistakes on offense and stop the run on defense.”
Though the Huskies had a challenging nonconference schedule, Gardner said his team still expected wins. They will begin conference play next week as they travel to Dallas to face North Gaston. Vance will also open up conference play on the road as they travel to Jay M. Robinson in Concord.
Thursday, September 19, 2013
Gaston and Cleveland Week 5 Picks
Game of the Week: South Point (4-0) @ A.C. Reynolds (3-1) – South Point takes their 16-game regular season winning streak to Asheville as they take on the Rockets of A.C. Reynolds. A.C. Reynolds opened the season with a 28-0 loss to West Forsyth but have been on a roll since then. The Red Raiders have only been challenged once this year and that was in their 35-24 come-from-behind win over Shelby after trailing 24-14. Both are coming off blowout wins from last week. Which team will keep their momentum going?
My pick: South Point 42 – A.C. Reynolds 28
Vance (2-1) @ Hunter Huss (1-3) – A brutal schedule continues for Hunter Huss. Vance is coming off a 71-0 rout of Garinger and just the week before that, they gave 4A powerhouse Richmond a competitive ball game. The Huskies played Rocky River tough in the first half before falling 28-17. This will be just as tough a challenge for them.
My pick: Vance 38 – Hunter Huss 21
East Gaston (0-2) @ Cherryville (0-3) – Both teams are seeking their first win of the season. But East Gaston would have the edge in this game. The Warriors are only losing games by an average margin of 16 points. Cherryville’s margin is much bigger and they have allowed 50+ points in three of their losses. This one could get out of hand real quick.
My pick: East Gaston 42 – Cherryville 12
Highland Tech (0-3) @ Bessemer City (1-3) – The Bessemer City Yellow Jackets are seeking their second win of the season against a conference foe in a non-conference match-up. Highland Tech is looking to just get in the win column.
My pick: Bessemer City 34 – Highland Tech 12
Kings Mountain (2-2) @ Burns (4-0) – Kings Mountain is hoping to stop their two-game losing skid. But they are running into a stout Burns team. The Bulldogs routed two previously unbeaten teams in these past two weeks alone (Freedom and Chase). This could be a long night for the Mountaineers.
My pick: Burns 41 – Kings Mountain 21
Crest (2-1) @ T.C. Roberson (2-2) – T.C. Roberson is also hoping to halt a two-game losing streak. But they too could have their hands full as they host Crest. The Rams are coming off a 31-21 loss to Ashbrook. Whereas Crest handled Draughn 39-6. This one could be a tight ball game.
My pick: Crest 24 – T.C. Roberson 14
Chase (2-1) @ Shelby (2-2) – Chase saw their 2-0 start vanish in thin air as they were dropkicked by Burns 48-9. The Trojans hope to rebound from that as they travel to Shelby. Shelby, on the other hand, had no problem with R-S Central as they throttled the Hilltoppers 45-14. Will Chase be able to rebound from last week’s crushing defeat?
My pick: Shelby 42 – Chase 28
My pick: South Point 42 – A.C. Reynolds 28
Vance (2-1) @ Hunter Huss (1-3) – A brutal schedule continues for Hunter Huss. Vance is coming off a 71-0 rout of Garinger and just the week before that, they gave 4A powerhouse Richmond a competitive ball game. The Huskies played Rocky River tough in the first half before falling 28-17. This will be just as tough a challenge for them.
My pick: Vance 38 – Hunter Huss 21
East Gaston (0-2) @ Cherryville (0-3) – Both teams are seeking their first win of the season. But East Gaston would have the edge in this game. The Warriors are only losing games by an average margin of 16 points. Cherryville’s margin is much bigger and they have allowed 50+ points in three of their losses. This one could get out of hand real quick.
My pick: East Gaston 42 – Cherryville 12
Highland Tech (0-3) @ Bessemer City (1-3) – The Bessemer City Yellow Jackets are seeking their second win of the season against a conference foe in a non-conference match-up. Highland Tech is looking to just get in the win column.
My pick: Bessemer City 34 – Highland Tech 12
Kings Mountain (2-2) @ Burns (4-0) – Kings Mountain is hoping to stop their two-game losing skid. But they are running into a stout Burns team. The Bulldogs routed two previously unbeaten teams in these past two weeks alone (Freedom and Chase). This could be a long night for the Mountaineers.
My pick: Burns 41 – Kings Mountain 21
Crest (2-1) @ T.C. Roberson (2-2) – T.C. Roberson is also hoping to halt a two-game losing streak. But they too could have their hands full as they host Crest. The Rams are coming off a 31-21 loss to Ashbrook. Whereas Crest handled Draughn 39-6. This one could be a tight ball game.
My pick: Crest 24 – T.C. Roberson 14
Chase (2-1) @ Shelby (2-2) – Chase saw their 2-0 start vanish in thin air as they were dropkicked by Burns 48-9. The Trojans hope to rebound from that as they travel to Shelby. Shelby, on the other hand, had no problem with R-S Central as they throttled the Hilltoppers 45-14. Will Chase be able to rebound from last week’s crushing defeat?
My pick: Shelby 42 – Chase 28
Saturday, September 14, 2013
Forestview snaps East Lincoln’s 19-game winning streak
Both teams entered this game knowing it would be a test. The Jaguars were faced with a task of trying to stop East Lincoln’s 19-game winning streak and slowing down Mustang quarterback Chaz Surratt and company. The Mustangs were faced with the task of slowing down Forestview’s high-powered offense led by quarterback Logan Bradley and runningback Bishop Ford.
Early in the game, it would be the defenses that set the tone. The Mustangs would turn it over on their first two drives and the Jaguars turned it over on their second drive as well. In fact, the first score of the game would be by the defense. The Jaguars forced a safety on East Lincoln to get on the board with a 2-0 lead. On the ensuing drive, the offense got on the board too. Logan Bradley connected with Moe Neal for a 29-yard touchdown pass. Just like that, it was 9-0.
The Mustangs went to work and cut Forestview’s lead to 9-7 with a Surratt 80-yard touchdown pass to Chris Tomberlin. The Mustangs would be poised to take the lead later in the second quarter, but fumbled the ball just short of the goal-line. But they would redeem themselves before half-time when Surratt punched it in from the one-yard line. The Mustangs took a 13-9 lead into the break.
Surratt would extend the Mustangs’ lead to 20-9 with a three-yard touchdown run. But that would be the end of their fun as the Jaguars would go on a tear from there. Logan Bradley led his Jaguars to a come-back with three touchdown passes. Two to Mykelti Armstrong (from 24 yards out and 13 yards out) and Moe Neal (35 yards). Bradley’s 35-yard touchdown connection to Neal gave the Jaguars the 23-20 lead early in the fourth quarter. Armstrong’s 13-yard touchdown reception extended Forestview’s lead to 30-20.
The Mustangs were not done yet. Surratt continued using his feet to get the Mustangs back in it. His eight-yard touchdown run cut Forestview’s lead to 30-27. But East Lincoln’s defense could not hold. On fourth-and-goal from the two-yard line, Montavis Rogers punched it in and gave the Jaguars a 37-27 advantage. A sack and forced fumble by Jarvis Jeffries and the recovery by Garrett Robinson of Forestview gave the Jaguars one more chance to put points on the board. And they do with another Bradley-to-Armstrong connection. This time from ten-yards out. Kicker Colton Rouse was perfect on his extra points, going 6-for-6.
Forestview had two turnovers on the night (one fumble and one interception) while East Lincoln had five (four fumbles and one interception).
“We got tired and we were not as deep as they were.” East Lincoln head coach Mike Byus said “You got to run some fresh bodies out there. We just didn’t have the depth (due to injuries). We got to get healthy and we got to execute better.”
“That’s why we play two halves.” Forestview head coach Chris Medlin said “They played a complete game and responded to the challenge. I am proud of them.”
Said Medlin about his defense that forced five turnovers “We played well on defense. We bent and bent, but we stood up when we had to.”
On Logan Bradley’s five-touchdown performance “Logan stepped up to the challenge. He showed the type of leadership that he was capable of. I’m proud of him.”
Both teams will have a bye week next week before opening conference play. Forestview will be home against Lake Norman Charter in two weeks. East Lincoln will travel to Bandys.
“It’s a great time for a bye week.” Medlin said “Have a chance to get some rest and to get healthy.”
Early in the game, it would be the defenses that set the tone. The Mustangs would turn it over on their first two drives and the Jaguars turned it over on their second drive as well. In fact, the first score of the game would be by the defense. The Jaguars forced a safety on East Lincoln to get on the board with a 2-0 lead. On the ensuing drive, the offense got on the board too. Logan Bradley connected with Moe Neal for a 29-yard touchdown pass. Just like that, it was 9-0.
The Mustangs went to work and cut Forestview’s lead to 9-7 with a Surratt 80-yard touchdown pass to Chris Tomberlin. The Mustangs would be poised to take the lead later in the second quarter, but fumbled the ball just short of the goal-line. But they would redeem themselves before half-time when Surratt punched it in from the one-yard line. The Mustangs took a 13-9 lead into the break.
Surratt would extend the Mustangs’ lead to 20-9 with a three-yard touchdown run. But that would be the end of their fun as the Jaguars would go on a tear from there. Logan Bradley led his Jaguars to a come-back with three touchdown passes. Two to Mykelti Armstrong (from 24 yards out and 13 yards out) and Moe Neal (35 yards). Bradley’s 35-yard touchdown connection to Neal gave the Jaguars the 23-20 lead early in the fourth quarter. Armstrong’s 13-yard touchdown reception extended Forestview’s lead to 30-20.
The Mustangs were not done yet. Surratt continued using his feet to get the Mustangs back in it. His eight-yard touchdown run cut Forestview’s lead to 30-27. But East Lincoln’s defense could not hold. On fourth-and-goal from the two-yard line, Montavis Rogers punched it in and gave the Jaguars a 37-27 advantage. A sack and forced fumble by Jarvis Jeffries and the recovery by Garrett Robinson of Forestview gave the Jaguars one more chance to put points on the board. And they do with another Bradley-to-Armstrong connection. This time from ten-yards out. Kicker Colton Rouse was perfect on his extra points, going 6-for-6.
Forestview had two turnovers on the night (one fumble and one interception) while East Lincoln had five (four fumbles and one interception).
“We got tired and we were not as deep as they were.” East Lincoln head coach Mike Byus said “You got to run some fresh bodies out there. We just didn’t have the depth (due to injuries). We got to get healthy and we got to execute better.”
“That’s why we play two halves.” Forestview head coach Chris Medlin said “They played a complete game and responded to the challenge. I am proud of them.”
Said Medlin about his defense that forced five turnovers “We played well on defense. We bent and bent, but we stood up when we had to.”
On Logan Bradley’s five-touchdown performance “Logan stepped up to the challenge. He showed the type of leadership that he was capable of. I’m proud of him.”
Both teams will have a bye week next week before opening conference play. Forestview will be home against Lake Norman Charter in two weeks. East Lincoln will travel to Bandys.
“It’s a great time for a bye week.” Medlin said “Have a chance to get some rest and to get healthy.”
Thursday, September 12, 2013
Gaston and Lincoln Week 4 Picks
Game of the Week: East Lincoln (3-0) @ Forestview (2-1): This will be one for the fans around the area to watch. The defending 2AA state champs come to Joe Alala Stadium riding a 19-game winning streak and would love to make it to 20. The Jaguars, however, have other ideas. Since their 57-56 loss to Nation Ford, the Jaguars defense has not allowed any more than 14 points in their two games. The Mustangs will bring a bigger challenge for the host Jaguars. They have scored 40 points in their two previous games and have allowed now more than seven points. The Jaguars though, have not been held less than 40 in their previous games. So something is going to have to give.
My pick: Forestview 45 – East Lincoln 38
T.C. Roberson (2-1) @ Ashbrook (1-2): Ashbrook got into the win column last week as they took down Asheville on the road. The Green Wave can make it to .500 as they host T.C. Roberson, another Asheville area squad. Ashbrook has been getting better every week and should be able to withstand a dangerous Rams team.
My pick: Ashbrook 21 – T.C. Roberson 14
Q Foundation (0-2) @ South Point (3-0): The Red Raiders got a scare last week as they survived a tough game from Shelby 35-24. This game against the Q Foundation should bear no such challenge.
My pick: South Point 49 – Q Foundation 6
North Gaston (3-0) @ Cherryville (0-3): North Gaston had to sweat to earn their last two wins as they narrowly beat East Rutherford (43-42) and Lincolnton (10-7). Cherryville has had a difficult time finding a win. Other than their 20-12 loss to conference rival, Bessemer City, none of their other games were even close. This game should be another one of those lopsided affairs. With a win, North Gaston would have their first 4-0 start since 2006.
My pick: North Gaston 42 – Cherryville 6
Rocky River (2-1) @ Hunter Huss (1-2): Hunter Huss got their first win of the season last week as they touted Bessemer City 35-0. But the road gets tougher once again as they play host to Rocky River. The Huskies should be able to compete with the Ravens, but look for the Ravens to pull away late in the game.
My pick: Rocky River 31 – Hunter Huss 21
Bessemer City (1-2) @ North Lincoln (0-3) – The Knights of North Lincoln came so close in two of their games of getting that elusive win. The Yellow Jackets, win one win under their belts, run into their second winless team of the year. Of course, their first win was against a Cherryville team that has given up over 50 points in their other two games. The Knights should be able to get their first win of the season on this night.
My pick: North Lincoln 35 – Bessemer City 6
East Gaston (0-2) @ Lincolnton (1-2): The Lincolnton Wolves hope to get back to their winning ways after two straight losses. The Warriors are hoping to get their first win of the season. The Wolves have scored only seven points in the past two weeks alone. The Warriors though have given up 38.5 points in their two match-ups.
My pick: Lincolnton 28 – East Gaston 14
West Lincoln (3-0) @ Fred T. Foard (0-3): West Lincoln is off to a solid 3-0 start, but they had to battle hard in two of their wins. They travel to face a Fred T. Foard team that has had more than their fair share of struggles. These past two weeks alone the Tigers have only managed two points. One was in a 33-2 loss to Bandys and the other was a game they were shutout 34-0. The Rebels are poised to start the season 4-0.
My pick: West Lincoln 42 – Fred T. Foard 13
Lake Norman Charter (3-0) @ Highland Tech (0-2): The Rams held their first lead of the season last week as they were up 7-0 on First Assembly of Concord. They went on to lose 25-7. Now undefeated Lake Norman Charter, a former conference rival, comes to town. Don’t think the Rams will be holding a lead in this game.
My pick: Lake Norman Charter 48 – Highland Tech 6
My pick: Forestview 45 – East Lincoln 38
T.C. Roberson (2-1) @ Ashbrook (1-2): Ashbrook got into the win column last week as they took down Asheville on the road. The Green Wave can make it to .500 as they host T.C. Roberson, another Asheville area squad. Ashbrook has been getting better every week and should be able to withstand a dangerous Rams team.
My pick: Ashbrook 21 – T.C. Roberson 14
Q Foundation (0-2) @ South Point (3-0): The Red Raiders got a scare last week as they survived a tough game from Shelby 35-24. This game against the Q Foundation should bear no such challenge.
My pick: South Point 49 – Q Foundation 6
North Gaston (3-0) @ Cherryville (0-3): North Gaston had to sweat to earn their last two wins as they narrowly beat East Rutherford (43-42) and Lincolnton (10-7). Cherryville has had a difficult time finding a win. Other than their 20-12 loss to conference rival, Bessemer City, none of their other games were even close. This game should be another one of those lopsided affairs. With a win, North Gaston would have their first 4-0 start since 2006.
My pick: North Gaston 42 – Cherryville 6
Rocky River (2-1) @ Hunter Huss (1-2): Hunter Huss got their first win of the season last week as they touted Bessemer City 35-0. But the road gets tougher once again as they play host to Rocky River. The Huskies should be able to compete with the Ravens, but look for the Ravens to pull away late in the game.
My pick: Rocky River 31 – Hunter Huss 21
Bessemer City (1-2) @ North Lincoln (0-3) – The Knights of North Lincoln came so close in two of their games of getting that elusive win. The Yellow Jackets, win one win under their belts, run into their second winless team of the year. Of course, their first win was against a Cherryville team that has given up over 50 points in their other two games. The Knights should be able to get their first win of the season on this night.
My pick: North Lincoln 35 – Bessemer City 6
East Gaston (0-2) @ Lincolnton (1-2): The Lincolnton Wolves hope to get back to their winning ways after two straight losses. The Warriors are hoping to get their first win of the season. The Wolves have scored only seven points in the past two weeks alone. The Warriors though have given up 38.5 points in their two match-ups.
My pick: Lincolnton 28 – East Gaston 14
West Lincoln (3-0) @ Fred T. Foard (0-3): West Lincoln is off to a solid 3-0 start, but they had to battle hard in two of their wins. They travel to face a Fred T. Foard team that has had more than their fair share of struggles. These past two weeks alone the Tigers have only managed two points. One was in a 33-2 loss to Bandys and the other was a game they were shutout 34-0. The Rebels are poised to start the season 4-0.
My pick: West Lincoln 42 – Fred T. Foard 13
Lake Norman Charter (3-0) @ Highland Tech (0-2): The Rams held their first lead of the season last week as they were up 7-0 on First Assembly of Concord. They went on to lose 25-7. Now undefeated Lake Norman Charter, a former conference rival, comes to town. Don’t think the Rams will be holding a lead in this game.
My pick: Lake Norman Charter 48 – Highland Tech 6
Saturday, September 7, 2013
Big South 3A/2A Perfect in Week 3
The Big South represented themselves well Friday Night as all teams won their games. Six out of seven of the teams played. East Gaston was on their bye week and did not play. Some of those games were really competitive.
The South Point Red Raiders found themselves down by ten twice in the Shelby game (17-7 and 24-14) and then rallied in the fourth quarter to win 35-24. South Point remains unbeaten at 3-0 on the year.
Ashbrook won for the first time this season, beating Asheville 23-14. Hunter Huss also got their first win of the season as they dominated Bessemer City 35-0.
Forestview continued their dominance on offense and continued to show improvement on defense as they routed Kings Mountain 41-14.
North Gaston found themselves in a scoreless stalemate with Lincolnton at half-time, but came away with a 10-7 victory. The victory was won on a last second field-goal. North Gaston 3-0 for the first-time since their state title season.
New league member, Lake Norman Charter, also remains unbeaten at 3-0. They dominated Pine Lake Prep 51-6.
Next week will be a new week of course. South Point will be home again as they host the Q Foundation. Ashbrook returns home against another Asheville team, T.C. Roberson. Hunter Huss will host Rocky River. Forestview will be back at home after two straight road games. They play reigning 2AA Champion, East Lincoln. North Gaston travels to Cherryville. East Gaston will be back in action as they travel to Lincolnton.
Lake Norman Charter will visit Gaston County, but it will not be against any of their conference foes. They play Highland Tech, a former conference foe in last year’s Southern Piedmont 2A/1A Conference.
The South Point Red Raiders found themselves down by ten twice in the Shelby game (17-7 and 24-14) and then rallied in the fourth quarter to win 35-24. South Point remains unbeaten at 3-0 on the year.
Ashbrook won for the first time this season, beating Asheville 23-14. Hunter Huss also got their first win of the season as they dominated Bessemer City 35-0.
Forestview continued their dominance on offense and continued to show improvement on defense as they routed Kings Mountain 41-14.
North Gaston found themselves in a scoreless stalemate with Lincolnton at half-time, but came away with a 10-7 victory. The victory was won on a last second field-goal. North Gaston 3-0 for the first-time since their state title season.
New league member, Lake Norman Charter, also remains unbeaten at 3-0. They dominated Pine Lake Prep 51-6.
Next week will be a new week of course. South Point will be home again as they host the Q Foundation. Ashbrook returns home against another Asheville team, T.C. Roberson. Hunter Huss will host Rocky River. Forestview will be back at home after two straight road games. They play reigning 2AA Champion, East Lincoln. North Gaston travels to Cherryville. East Gaston will be back in action as they travel to Lincolnton.
Lake Norman Charter will visit Gaston County, but it will not be against any of their conference foes. They play Highland Tech, a former conference foe in last year’s Southern Piedmont 2A/1A Conference.
Friday, September 6, 2013
Jaguars start fast, roll Kings Mountain
Last week, it took the Jaguars until the second quarter to get rolling. On this night, the Jaguars did not waste any time. Set up by a Bishop Ford 56-yard dash to the two-yard line, the Jaguars were able to get on the board first with a Montavis Rogers one-yard plunge into the end-zone. Colton Rouse’s extra point gave the Jaguars a 7-0 lead.
Forestview would keep piling it on early and often. The Jaguars would use their areal assult to extend their lead. Logan Bradley connected with C.J. Bumgardner for a 26-yard touchdown reception. Ford got in on the scoring with an 18-yard dash into the end-zone and just like that, it was 20-0.
The Mountaineers were able to get a scoring drive going midway through the second quarter. Quartback Brandon Bell capped off the scoring drive with a 43-yard touchdown pass to Jake Merchant. Cameron Hoard’s kick cut Forestview’s lead to 20-7.
The Jaguars would claw back, though. Bradley, under immense pressure late in the second half, turned what looked to be a sack for loss into another touchdown pass. This time to Moe Neal from 32 yards out. The score would remain 27-7 at half.
Things just kept getting better for Forestview and worse for Kings Mountain. Montavis Rogers scored on another touchdown run, this time from four yards out, to give Forestview a 34-7 lead. Moe Neal, whom accounted for a touchdown reception earlier in the game, scored on a one-yard run to give the Jaguars a 41-7 advantage.
Kings Mountain did score one more time when Bell connected with Tico Crocker for an eight-yard touchdown pass. That would be all the highlights for the Mountaineers on this night. Both teams threatened to score in the fourth quarter, but would come up empty.
“I thought we played really, really well. We had a great game but we had a few lapses.” Forestview head coach Chris Medlin said “(East Lincoln) will be a big challenge and we better be ready.”
The Jaguars will host the Mustangs this Friday. They are 34-7 winners over North Lincoln and are currently riding a 19-game win streak.
“Forestview is good. They are the best we will play this year.” Kings Mountain head coach Greg Lloyd said “We played good, but not as good as we could have though.”
Kings Mountain starts conference play next week as they host East Rutherford.
Forestview would keep piling it on early and often. The Jaguars would use their areal assult to extend their lead. Logan Bradley connected with C.J. Bumgardner for a 26-yard touchdown reception. Ford got in on the scoring with an 18-yard dash into the end-zone and just like that, it was 20-0.
The Mountaineers were able to get a scoring drive going midway through the second quarter. Quartback Brandon Bell capped off the scoring drive with a 43-yard touchdown pass to Jake Merchant. Cameron Hoard’s kick cut Forestview’s lead to 20-7.
The Jaguars would claw back, though. Bradley, under immense pressure late in the second half, turned what looked to be a sack for loss into another touchdown pass. This time to Moe Neal from 32 yards out. The score would remain 27-7 at half.
Things just kept getting better for Forestview and worse for Kings Mountain. Montavis Rogers scored on another touchdown run, this time from four yards out, to give Forestview a 34-7 lead. Moe Neal, whom accounted for a touchdown reception earlier in the game, scored on a one-yard run to give the Jaguars a 41-7 advantage.
Kings Mountain did score one more time when Bell connected with Tico Crocker for an eight-yard touchdown pass. That would be all the highlights for the Mountaineers on this night. Both teams threatened to score in the fourth quarter, but would come up empty.
“I thought we played really, really well. We had a great game but we had a few lapses.” Forestview head coach Chris Medlin said “(East Lincoln) will be a big challenge and we better be ready.”
The Jaguars will host the Mustangs this Friday. They are 34-7 winners over North Lincoln and are currently riding a 19-game win streak.
“Forestview is good. They are the best we will play this year.” Kings Mountain head coach Greg Lloyd said “We played good, but not as good as we could have though.”
Kings Mountain starts conference play next week as they host East Rutherford.
Thursday, September 5, 2013
Gaston, Lincoln and Cleveland County Week 3 Picks
Game of the Week: Forestview (1-1) @ Kings Mountain (2-0): After giving up 57 points in their season opening loss to Nation Ford. The Jaguars rebounded last week with a 41-6 whipping of Clover. The young Mountaineers squad has been a pleasant surprise this year, starting 2-0. They will have their hands full stopping the Jaguars’ potent offense. They average 48.5 points a game. The Mountaineer offense could also test the Jaguar defense. They average 34 points a game.
My pick: Forestview 35 – Kings Mountain 21
Shelby (1-1) @ South Point (2-0): The Red Raiders continued their dominance last week as they pounded Lincolnton 49-0. Shelby lost a tough one last week to 4A power A.C. Reynolds (whom South Point will face in a couple of weeks) 49-42. The Golden Lions offense has averaged 40 points a game so far this year. However, they will need to shore up their defense in order to have a chance at slowing down a red hot South Point team.
My pick: South Point 42 – Shelby 21
Ashbrook (0-2) @ Asheville (2-0): The Ashbrook Green Wave lost two tough games to open the season. The two games combined were only seven points. They are looking to have a breakout game against the Cougars. It will not be easy though and it might get a little worse before it gets better for the Green Wave. Note: the last time these two teams met was in 2002 in the 3AA Western Regional Championship Game. Ashbrook won that game 22-19 and went on to win the 3AA State Championship.
My pick: Asheville 28 – Ashbrook 14
Hunter Huss (0-2) @ Bessemer City (1-1): If there was a week for the Huskies to rebound, this would be it. Runningback Kerrion Moore returns after a one-game suspension and he and the Huskies are hoping to make a statement after being blown out by Burns 51-12 last week. The Yellow Jackets took down arch-rival Cherryville last week, but Huss will be a much bigger challenge.
My pick: Hunter Huss 42 – Bessemer City 12
Lincolnton (1-1) @ North Gaston (2-0): The Wildcats are looking for their first 3-0 start since 2007 when they reached the 3A State Title. A win tonight would match their win totals for the past five years. The Wildcats are averaging 42.5 points a game. Their defense heading into this game will be a big question mark after giving up 42 points in their narrow 43-42 win against East Rutherford last week. The Wolves are coming off a 49-0 blowout loss to South Point.
My pick: North Gaston 42 – Lincolnton 28
North Lincoln (0-2) @ East Lincoln (2-0): North Lincoln completes their tour of Lincoln County tonight as they face off with East Lincoln. The Knights are coming off two hard-fought losses against their other county rivals, Lincolnton (28-27) and West Lincoln (35-27). The Mustangs don’t look to be any easier as they appear to be picking up right where they left off last year. Do look for North Lincoln to put up a fight though.
My pick: East Lincoln 34 – North Lincoln 20
Cherryville (0-2) @ West Lincoln (2-0): It’s been tough sledding for the Ironmen early on. After being blown out by Bunker Hill 51-14, they fell to arch-rival, Bessemer City, by a score of 26-20. The Rebels had to fight hard to get their two wins. But they may not have to sweat as hard in this game as they did the previous two.
My pick: West Lincoln 41 – Cherryville 14
Burns (2-0) @ Freedom (2-0): This should be a game for fans in the area to watch. The Patriots have only given up six points this year and have pitched a shutout. They scored 47 points in both of their wins against Draughn and East Burke. However, they will face a much bigger challenge with the visiting Burns Bulldogs. Burns put up 51 points last week in their blowout win over Hunter Huss. This will be a great measuring stick for both teams as the ready themselves for conference play in the upcoming weeks.
My pick: Burns 27 – Freedom 20
Highland Tech (0-1) @ First Assembly of Concord (0-1): Struggles continue for the Highland Tech Rams.
My pick: First Assembly 31 – Highland Tech 6
My pick: Forestview 35 – Kings Mountain 21
Shelby (1-1) @ South Point (2-0): The Red Raiders continued their dominance last week as they pounded Lincolnton 49-0. Shelby lost a tough one last week to 4A power A.C. Reynolds (whom South Point will face in a couple of weeks) 49-42. The Golden Lions offense has averaged 40 points a game so far this year. However, they will need to shore up their defense in order to have a chance at slowing down a red hot South Point team.
My pick: South Point 42 – Shelby 21
Ashbrook (0-2) @ Asheville (2-0): The Ashbrook Green Wave lost two tough games to open the season. The two games combined were only seven points. They are looking to have a breakout game against the Cougars. It will not be easy though and it might get a little worse before it gets better for the Green Wave. Note: the last time these two teams met was in 2002 in the 3AA Western Regional Championship Game. Ashbrook won that game 22-19 and went on to win the 3AA State Championship.
My pick: Asheville 28 – Ashbrook 14
Hunter Huss (0-2) @ Bessemer City (1-1): If there was a week for the Huskies to rebound, this would be it. Runningback Kerrion Moore returns after a one-game suspension and he and the Huskies are hoping to make a statement after being blown out by Burns 51-12 last week. The Yellow Jackets took down arch-rival Cherryville last week, but Huss will be a much bigger challenge.
My pick: Hunter Huss 42 – Bessemer City 12
Lincolnton (1-1) @ North Gaston (2-0): The Wildcats are looking for their first 3-0 start since 2007 when they reached the 3A State Title. A win tonight would match their win totals for the past five years. The Wildcats are averaging 42.5 points a game. Their defense heading into this game will be a big question mark after giving up 42 points in their narrow 43-42 win against East Rutherford last week. The Wolves are coming off a 49-0 blowout loss to South Point.
My pick: North Gaston 42 – Lincolnton 28
North Lincoln (0-2) @ East Lincoln (2-0): North Lincoln completes their tour of Lincoln County tonight as they face off with East Lincoln. The Knights are coming off two hard-fought losses against their other county rivals, Lincolnton (28-27) and West Lincoln (35-27). The Mustangs don’t look to be any easier as they appear to be picking up right where they left off last year. Do look for North Lincoln to put up a fight though.
My pick: East Lincoln 34 – North Lincoln 20
Cherryville (0-2) @ West Lincoln (2-0): It’s been tough sledding for the Ironmen early on. After being blown out by Bunker Hill 51-14, they fell to arch-rival, Bessemer City, by a score of 26-20. The Rebels had to fight hard to get their two wins. But they may not have to sweat as hard in this game as they did the previous two.
My pick: West Lincoln 41 – Cherryville 14
Burns (2-0) @ Freedom (2-0): This should be a game for fans in the area to watch. The Patriots have only given up six points this year and have pitched a shutout. They scored 47 points in both of their wins against Draughn and East Burke. However, they will face a much bigger challenge with the visiting Burns Bulldogs. Burns put up 51 points last week in their blowout win over Hunter Huss. This will be a great measuring stick for both teams as the ready themselves for conference play in the upcoming weeks.
My pick: Burns 27 – Freedom 20
Highland Tech (0-1) @ First Assembly of Concord (0-1): Struggles continue for the Highland Tech Rams.
My pick: First Assembly 31 – Highland Tech 6
Jaguars rebound, blow out Blue Eagles
Last week, the Jaguars had more than enough offensive firepower to compete. But they had a defense that surrendered too many big plays and too many points. This week, however, it would be the defense that set the tone first. The Jaguars offense was only able to muster up only three plays in the first quarter and the Blue Eagles looked primed to draw first blood.
The Blue Eagles were stopped on fourth down just inches from the goal line and Forestview would capitalize. The Jaguars were able to get away from their own end-zone thanks to a Logan Bradley pass to Moe Neal for a 13-yard connection. A few plays later, Bishop Ford ripped through the middle of Clover’s defense for a 78-yard touchdown run. Colton Rouse’s extra point gave Forestview a 7-0 lead.
The defense for Forestview came up even bigger on the ensuing drive as Marcus McCluney picked off Clover quarterback Scott Jackson and returned it 24 yards for a touchdown. The offense would get right back in gear. Bradley led the areal assalt that led to two more touchdowns before the half ended. He hit Mykelti Armstrong for a 28-yard touchdown pass and later on connected with Moe Neal for a 35-yard touchdown pass. The score at half-time was 27-0.
It got worse before it got better for the Blue Eagles. The Jaguars received the second half kick-off and did not waste any time. Neal capped off the opening drive with an eight-yard touchdown run. Rouse’s kick gave Forestview a 34-0 lead in the third quarter.
The Blue Eagles were able to avoid the shutout in the third quarter as Tanner Whitley got Clover on the board with a three-yard touchdown run. The two-point conversion run failed, though. That would be as good as it got for them.
Bradley would connect with Neal one more time before this one was over. This time it was from eight yards out. That made the final score 41-6. With the win, the Jaguars put last week’s disappointment behind them and they get their first victory in the Palmetto state. They were previously 0-8 when traveling south of the border. This is also two in a row they have taken from the Eagles.
“It’s historic because it’s a win.” Forestview head coach Chris Medlin said about his first ever win over the border “That’s what we needed was a win.”
When told about the defense setting the tone early after struggling last week, Medlin said “Defense played great with the goal line stand and the interception return for a touchdown. Everybody played well. If you win by 35, you know you had a great game. There are still things we can improve on.”
Medlin also mentioned that his next opponent, Kings Mountain, will be a tough one for his Jaguars. They won 40-23 tonight against East Gaston.
“I feel like we came out in the first quarter ready to play.” Clover’s first-year head coach Chad Smith said “If you eliminate the second quarter from that game, we played a good game. I’m not happy about that right now. We gotta get better.”
Smith also felt his team could have done a better job responding to adversity and mentioned things went downhill after the goal-line by Forestview stand early in the game.
Clover will be on the road for the first time this season as they travel to Spring Valley.
The Blue Eagles were stopped on fourth down just inches from the goal line and Forestview would capitalize. The Jaguars were able to get away from their own end-zone thanks to a Logan Bradley pass to Moe Neal for a 13-yard connection. A few plays later, Bishop Ford ripped through the middle of Clover’s defense for a 78-yard touchdown run. Colton Rouse’s extra point gave Forestview a 7-0 lead.
The defense for Forestview came up even bigger on the ensuing drive as Marcus McCluney picked off Clover quarterback Scott Jackson and returned it 24 yards for a touchdown. The offense would get right back in gear. Bradley led the areal assalt that led to two more touchdowns before the half ended. He hit Mykelti Armstrong for a 28-yard touchdown pass and later on connected with Moe Neal for a 35-yard touchdown pass. The score at half-time was 27-0.
It got worse before it got better for the Blue Eagles. The Jaguars received the second half kick-off and did not waste any time. Neal capped off the opening drive with an eight-yard touchdown run. Rouse’s kick gave Forestview a 34-0 lead in the third quarter.
The Blue Eagles were able to avoid the shutout in the third quarter as Tanner Whitley got Clover on the board with a three-yard touchdown run. The two-point conversion run failed, though. That would be as good as it got for them.
Bradley would connect with Neal one more time before this one was over. This time it was from eight yards out. That made the final score 41-6. With the win, the Jaguars put last week’s disappointment behind them and they get their first victory in the Palmetto state. They were previously 0-8 when traveling south of the border. This is also two in a row they have taken from the Eagles.
“It’s historic because it’s a win.” Forestview head coach Chris Medlin said about his first ever win over the border “That’s what we needed was a win.”
When told about the defense setting the tone early after struggling last week, Medlin said “Defense played great with the goal line stand and the interception return for a touchdown. Everybody played well. If you win by 35, you know you had a great game. There are still things we can improve on.”
Medlin also mentioned that his next opponent, Kings Mountain, will be a tough one for his Jaguars. They won 40-23 tonight against East Gaston.
“I feel like we came out in the first quarter ready to play.” Clover’s first-year head coach Chad Smith said “If you eliminate the second quarter from that game, we played a good game. I’m not happy about that right now. We gotta get better.”
Smith also felt his team could have done a better job responding to adversity and mentioned things went downhill after the goal-line by Forestview stand early in the game.
Clover will be on the road for the first time this season as they travel to Spring Valley.
Gaston, Lincoln and Cleveland County Week 2 Picks
Game of the Week: Crest (0-1) @ Ashbrook (0-1) – Both teams are looking to rebound from their opening losses. Crest dropped a tough one against South Point 35-16. Ashbrook came up short against a stout Burns squad 29-24. The Chargers have had the Green Wave’s number in the last four meetings, including last year’s two match-ups. Crest won the first game by a narrow margin 35-28. The Chargers later on met the Green Wave in the playoffs, but the score would be much different as Crest ran away with a 58-22 whipping of Ashbrook. The Green Wave hope for some payback tonight as they host the Chargers for their home opener.
My pick: Ashbrook 21 – Crest 17
South Point (1-0) @ Lincolnton (1-0) – The Red Raiders start another season off strong, taking down former conference rival, Crest. The Wolves, on the other hand, escaped a narrow victory against North Lincoln 28-27. The Red Raiders are going to be a much bigger challenge for host Lincolnton. Lincolnton has only beaten South Point three times since 1996 (one of those was by forfeit). Look for the Red Raiders to continue their dominance over the Wolves in this one.
My pick: South Point 35 – Lincolnton 14
Burns (1-0) @ Hunter Huss (0-1) – The Huskies and the Bulldogs will meet for the first time since the mid 1990’s. Both are expected to have big years this year. The Huskies, however, will have to do without the services of runningback Kerrion Moore. He is serving a one-game suspension in what was a controversial unsportsmanlike conduct call that led to his ejection from the Kings Mountain game. Burns was already going to be a tough game for the Huskies and having to do without their top weapon will make this an even bigger challenge.
My pick: Burns 35 - Hunter Huss 13
Forestview (0-1) @ Clover, SC (0-1) – Looks like another tough start for the Clover Blue Eagles. They dropped their season opener for the third straight year, losing 40-6 to South Florence. The Jaguars also dropped their season opener, a hard-fought 57-56 nail-biter to Nation Ford. The Jaguars will be looking for redemption. Also, they will be looking for their first ever win south of the border. With Clover going through more struggles, this might be the night to do it.
My pick: Forestview 35 – Clover 13
Kings Mountain (1-0) @ East Gaston (0-1) – The Mountaineers got their season started on the right foot last week with a 28-14 win over Hunter Huss (the game that had the controversial penalty in it). Now, the Mountaineers hope to keep the momentum going and to get their first 2-0 start since 2009. East Gaston is wanting to put last week’s 37-22 loss to East Lincoln behind them. The Warriors look to be improved from last year’s 2-8 squad that gave up 60+ points in three games.
My pick: Kings Mountain 35 – East Gaston 21
East Rutherford (0-1) @ North Gaston (1-0) – North Gaston won their first home opener since their 2007 state title runner-up season. A win against the East Rutherford Cavaliers would also make it the first time since that year that the Wildcats have won consecutive games. East Rutherford dropped their home opener to Erwin. Will the Wildcats be able to add to the Cavaliers’ miseries?
My pick: North Gaston 28 – East Rutherford 21
West Lincoln (1-0) @ North Lincoln (0-1) – Both teams started the regular season with hard fought battles. The Rebels won theirs against Draughn after rallying from a 21-7 deficit. The Knights, however, were not as fortunate. They too were down 21-7 and rallied to make it a ball game. They fell short 28-27 over going for a two-point conversion toward the end of the game. All that is in the past as these two teams square off. North Lincoln knocked off West Lincoln last year 36-12 in a conference match-up and the Rebels are hoping for some payback.
My pick: North Lincoln 27 – West Lincoln 20
Q Foundation (0-0) @ East Lincoln (1-0) – Don’t look for the Q Foundation to be much of a challenge for East Lincoln. The Mustangs found themselves in a struggle against East Gaston last week before pulling away in the second half for a 37-22 victory, but they should roll in this one.
My pick: East Lincoln 35 – Q Foundation 6
A.C. Reynolds (0-1) @ Shelby (1-0) – The Rockets come down the mountains to face the Golden Lions of Shelby. They are coming off a 28-0 drubbing by West Forsyth. Shelby visited Polk County last week and came away with a 38-21 victory. Look for this game to be a pretty close and competitive matchup.
My pick: Shelby 21 – A.C. Reynolds 17
Bessemer City (0-1) @ Cherryville (0-1) – These two conference rivals meet for their first of two games with each other this year. The last time they did this was in 2002. The Yellow Jackets swept the two games from the Ironmen that year. Both teams struggled mightily last week and were blown out in their season openers.
My pick: Cherryville 35 – Bessemer City 21
Central Academy (0-1) @ Highland Tech (0-0) – Central Academy dropped their season opener to North Stanly last week, 14-0. The Highland Tech Rams didn’t play. What can we expect from the Rams in their season opener?
My pick: Central Academy 35 – Highland Tech 6
My pick: Ashbrook 21 – Crest 17
South Point (1-0) @ Lincolnton (1-0) – The Red Raiders start another season off strong, taking down former conference rival, Crest. The Wolves, on the other hand, escaped a narrow victory against North Lincoln 28-27. The Red Raiders are going to be a much bigger challenge for host Lincolnton. Lincolnton has only beaten South Point three times since 1996 (one of those was by forfeit). Look for the Red Raiders to continue their dominance over the Wolves in this one.
My pick: South Point 35 – Lincolnton 14
Burns (1-0) @ Hunter Huss (0-1) – The Huskies and the Bulldogs will meet for the first time since the mid 1990’s. Both are expected to have big years this year. The Huskies, however, will have to do without the services of runningback Kerrion Moore. He is serving a one-game suspension in what was a controversial unsportsmanlike conduct call that led to his ejection from the Kings Mountain game. Burns was already going to be a tough game for the Huskies and having to do without their top weapon will make this an even bigger challenge.
My pick: Burns 35 - Hunter Huss 13
Forestview (0-1) @ Clover, SC (0-1) – Looks like another tough start for the Clover Blue Eagles. They dropped their season opener for the third straight year, losing 40-6 to South Florence. The Jaguars also dropped their season opener, a hard-fought 57-56 nail-biter to Nation Ford. The Jaguars will be looking for redemption. Also, they will be looking for their first ever win south of the border. With Clover going through more struggles, this might be the night to do it.
My pick: Forestview 35 – Clover 13
Kings Mountain (1-0) @ East Gaston (0-1) – The Mountaineers got their season started on the right foot last week with a 28-14 win over Hunter Huss (the game that had the controversial penalty in it). Now, the Mountaineers hope to keep the momentum going and to get their first 2-0 start since 2009. East Gaston is wanting to put last week’s 37-22 loss to East Lincoln behind them. The Warriors look to be improved from last year’s 2-8 squad that gave up 60+ points in three games.
My pick: Kings Mountain 35 – East Gaston 21
East Rutherford (0-1) @ North Gaston (1-0) – North Gaston won their first home opener since their 2007 state title runner-up season. A win against the East Rutherford Cavaliers would also make it the first time since that year that the Wildcats have won consecutive games. East Rutherford dropped their home opener to Erwin. Will the Wildcats be able to add to the Cavaliers’ miseries?
My pick: North Gaston 28 – East Rutherford 21
West Lincoln (1-0) @ North Lincoln (0-1) – Both teams started the regular season with hard fought battles. The Rebels won theirs against Draughn after rallying from a 21-7 deficit. The Knights, however, were not as fortunate. They too were down 21-7 and rallied to make it a ball game. They fell short 28-27 over going for a two-point conversion toward the end of the game. All that is in the past as these two teams square off. North Lincoln knocked off West Lincoln last year 36-12 in a conference match-up and the Rebels are hoping for some payback.
My pick: North Lincoln 27 – West Lincoln 20
Q Foundation (0-0) @ East Lincoln (1-0) – Don’t look for the Q Foundation to be much of a challenge for East Lincoln. The Mustangs found themselves in a struggle against East Gaston last week before pulling away in the second half for a 37-22 victory, but they should roll in this one.
My pick: East Lincoln 35 – Q Foundation 6
A.C. Reynolds (0-1) @ Shelby (1-0) – The Rockets come down the mountains to face the Golden Lions of Shelby. They are coming off a 28-0 drubbing by West Forsyth. Shelby visited Polk County last week and came away with a 38-21 victory. Look for this game to be a pretty close and competitive matchup.
My pick: Shelby 21 – A.C. Reynolds 17
Bessemer City (0-1) @ Cherryville (0-1) – These two conference rivals meet for their first of two games with each other this year. The last time they did this was in 2002. The Yellow Jackets swept the two games from the Ironmen that year. Both teams struggled mightily last week and were blown out in their season openers.
My pick: Cherryville 35 – Bessemer City 21
Central Academy (0-1) @ Highland Tech (0-0) – Central Academy dropped their season opener to North Stanly last week, 14-0. The Highland Tech Rams didn’t play. What can we expect from the Rams in their season opener?
My pick: Central Academy 35 – Highland Tech 6
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