The Funding Zone
 
SAFR: Safer Through Science
 

Defense Shines for Both Sides in Frazier 7-6 Win over Chartiers-Houston @NickHaus75

Tagged under: District 7, News

| October 10, 2020

By Nick Haushalter

Friday night’s matchup featured a marquee exhibition as the Frazier Commodores stole a win, beating Chartiers-Houston 7-6 on the road. It was a defensive showcase of the highest quality. Both teams found themselves in their opponent’s backfield often. This combined with a total of 6 turnovers contributed to such a dramatically low score, a somewhat surprising result considering the premier offensive athletes which decorate each team.  

A trend emerged early of both teams’ defense shining in their own way. The Buccaneers were able to limit the pure athleticism of Kenny Fine, who was limited to only a couple explosive plays and a single 2 yard rushing touchdown. Their defensive line and linebackers adopted a “bend, don’t break” mentality, often giving up plays of several yards but always keeping the play in front of them. Frazier’s sideline was visibly frustrated at many points in the game as their offense was frustrated over and over by the speed and awareness of the Buccaneers. 

Chartiers-Houston’s efforts were most dramatically improved by their incredible ability to create turnovers, including a forced fumble (by Jimmy Sadler) and then an interception (by Jordan Irson) on two consecutive drives. The most significant turnover of the game came when Frazier lost the ball within two yards of the Buccaneers endzone, which was recovered by the defense and therefore prevented another rare touchdown.

The winning Commodores also had a fabulous showing of their defensive players. Jimmy Sadler’s impact was limited to a single punt return touchdown, a remarkable feat against somebody of Sadler’s caliber (although one 70 yard TD was called back for holding). 

They forced a similar number of punts, but most importantly came up on the right side of the game’s biggest play: Frazier’s Shawn Fordyce intercepted the ball as Chartiers-Houston was driving with 1:30 left, stopping the Buccaneer’s late attempt to take the lead and effectively sealing the game after a couple successful running plays. 

The Buccaneers suffered a tough loss at home. They must be pleased with their defense, which could now be considered among the elites of the conference. But all those turnovers never turned into points. These missed chances are surely what will haunt the coaches today as they analyze the game. 

After grinding out a tough win on the road, Frazier now rises to third place in the Century/Interstate. With a win against Washington on Oct. 23, the Commodores could be a somewhat surprising addition to this year’s playoff race. Their stellar defense will continue to make waves. But it is now even more clear after tonight that Kenny Fine needs some help on the offense if they are going to make a true run.

Follow PA Football News on Twitter @PaFootballNews

 
 
QwikCut
 
GoRout
 
Rainbow Lettering
 
x