Photo by L.D. Scott _ Catholic players Christian Robinson, Evan Nowell and Luke Smith sport the new Catholic Red jerseys.
The Catholic Rams continued a win streak that date backs to 2014 with a 32-6 victory over Normal Park / CSAS.
Catholic completely dominated the line of scrimmage and were up 24-0 with two minutes remaining in the second quarter.
“Our interior linemen (Ben Bambrey, Maverick Tucker, Landon Cooling, Boston Eberly, Andy McGann) provided our backs wide open running lanes,” stated offensive coach Bucky Dearing.
Catholic took advantage of the situation in route to an impressive first half performance. Alex Osborne scored two rushing touchdowns, while Eric Lindsey added another score. A touchdown pass from QB C.J. Petrin to River Stump added another score. Two-point conversions by Charlie Menham, Evan Nowell and Stump closed out the offensive scoring.
Catholic’s defense was impressive. At one point Normal Park averaged minus 4 yards a play.
“We have a swarming defense and 11 great tacklers – – and having ‘coach’ Bennett Brinson on the field is great,” quipped defensive coach Billy Dearing. “This group has the opportunity to control every game – – talented, motivated and aggressive.”
Tucker Berry and Maverick Tucker led the Rams defense.
River Stump added a safety for Catholic when he tackled the Normal Park QB in the end-zone.
Catholic line coach Matt Madron could only smile when asked about the line play. “On both sides of the ball the boys are ready to play, should be a fun year,” he said.
Catholic is sure to be tested this week as the Rams travel to take on perennial powerhouse Boyd Buchanan.
Notes: Catholic participated in the ISC jamboree last weekend at Lookout Valley. Catholic managed two victories, but the buzz was all about the new Red Catholic Jerseys. Catholic is a cooperative football program comprised of two former “rivals” – – OLPH of East Ridge, and St. Jude of Hixson. The team colors are Blue, Red and Silver – – but this is the first red jersey for the combined program.
“St. Jude had some great teams in years past, and we thought it would be fun to re-introduce the red jersey” commented Coach Dearing.
By all accounts, the new jersey color has been well-received.
_ L.D. Scott
