(Jefferson) Atlantic rolled past Greene County with a decisive 46-7 victory, keeping them undefeated in district play and setting up a crucial matchup against Harlan next Friday night.
The Trojans’ offensive line was dominant, helping the team amass an impressive 456 rushing yards. Ethan McNeal had a standout performance, recording his third 200-yard game of the season. The junior carried the ball 19 times for 256 yards and scored four touchdowns. Zander Killion contributed significantly with six carries for 101 yards, while Gavin McLaren added 84 rushing yards. One of the highlights of the night was lineman Donavon Hedrington’s 60-yard kickoff return after Greene County attempted an onside kick.
Atlantic Head Coach Joe Brummer says the team did a great job of executing the game plan.
The first quarter was scoreless, with both teams driving into the red zone but failing to capitalize on the opportunities. However, the second quarter brought a shift in momentum. The Trojans recovered a fumble by the Rams, and Ethan McNeal capped off the ensuing drive with a 12-yard touchdown run. Zander Killion then added another touchdown with a seven-yard run. Following Atlantic linebacker Jake Wailes’ interception, McNeal capped the drive with a five-yard burst to paydirt.
The third quarter began with the Rams recovering an onside kick; however, they lost possession due to a fumble. McNeal then broke free for a 71-yard touchdown run, extending the Trojans’ lead to 27-0 after a missed extra point. He added another touchdown with a 25-yard run, making the score 34-0 with 3:10 left in the third quarter.
The Rams responded early in the fourth quarter with a 22-yard touchdown pass from Zack Stalder to Lincoln Schwander. The Trojans quickly countered with Donovan Hedrington’s 60-yard kick return following Greene County’s onside kick. Killion capped off the Trojans’ scoring with a 14-yard touchdown run, bringing the final score to 46-7.
Jake Wailes was a standout on defense, recording one interception with a 24-yard return, along with ten tackles. On the season, Jake Wailes has 51 tackles, with 36 solos, two sacks, and six tackles for loss. Colin Rudy has 34 tackles, 26 solo stops, four sacks, and six tackles for loss. Carter Hadley, 32 tackles, 15 solos, and four tackles for loss. Brock Goodrich, 21.5 tackles, 13 solos, five sacks, and five tackles for loss. Grant Petty 22.5 tackles, and Shelton Mualia, 20.
The Trojans secured their fourth consecutive victory. They are now 3-0 in district games and 5-2 overall this season, marking their second consecutive season with a record above .500.
