East Ridge downed East Hamilton, 21-13, Friday night in the Pioneers’ first Region 2-4A game of the season.
The win improves East Ridge’s record to 3-0 overall and 1-0 in region play. Next Friday the Pioneers host Brainerd in its home opener at the newly renovated Raymond James Stadium.
Alonzo Russell, filling in for injured starting quarterback Eric Bennett, led the Pioneers with 104 yards rushing on 16 attempts. He scored on a quarterback sneak in the first quarter.
Lorenzo Stewart rushed for 67 yards, including an 8-yard scoring run in the fourth.
Kashawn Cosey scored on a 27-yard run with under two minutes left to play in the game. Cosey finished the game with 72 yards rushing on 10 carries.
The Pioneers amassed 256 total yards to East Hamilton’s 285. However, East Hamilton was penalized 15 times for 105 yards.