Ohio: Avon Wins Division II Championship over Anderson, 20-13 (PHOTO GALLERY)

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Sykotyk | December 6, 2024

The Avon Eagles soared to victory over the Anderson Raptors in a back-and-forth game marked by explosive offensive plays and costly turnovers. Both teams showcased impressive offensive capabilities, but Avon’s ability to capitalize on key moments proved decisive. The Eagle’s offense consistently marched down the field, producing several impressive drives. Their first drive, an 88-yard march culminating in a 71-yard touchdown run by Nolan Good, set the tone early. While a subsequent drive stalled at the Anderson 30-yard line, resulting in a turnover on downs, Avon’s potent offense responded with another long drive (57 yards), ending with a 44-yard touchdown pass from Good to Matt Maxey. Unfortunately, a fumble through the end zone on their fourth drive squashed a potential scoring opportunity. Their last drive of the first half ended in a blocked field goal attempt as time expired. Avon continued moving the ball in the second half, as they capped the scoring with a 63-yard drive finished by a 10-yard touchdown run from Quiante Smith. A late drive ended with an interception at the Anderson 3-yard line.

Anderson, too, demonstrated flashes of brilliance. Their offensive highlight came on a 70-yard drive punctuated by a 12-yard touchdown pass from Justice Burnam to Aidan McClanahan. Burnam added a 6-yard rushing touchdown later in the game, showcasing his dual-threat capabilities. However, Anderson’s drives were plagued by penalties and crucial turnovers, including a fumble and two interceptions. A significant penalty – a five-man backfield infraction on a trick play – hampered their first drive. A long pass down to the 5 yard line was called back due to too many men in the backfield. Their final two drives also ended in turnovers on downs, sealing Avon’s victory. Anderson had a chance to tie the game on a final pass into the end zone. The ball hit the receivers hands but was knocked away by the Avon defense to fall safely a few yards out of bounds.

The game showcased a high-octane offensive battle, with both teams exhibiting impressive yardage but ultimately, Avon’s ability to limit turnovers and capitalize on scoring opportunities secured their hard-fought win. The costly turnovers by Anderson, coupled with Avon’s consistent offensive pressure, ultimately proved the deciding factor in this thrilling contest.

Avon’s Good starred, rushing for 190 yards and a touchdown on 19 carries, and passing for 143 yards and a touchdown (8-of-15). Teammate Quiante Smith added a rushing touchdown and 43 rushing yards, while Tyler Kaufman gained 52 rushing yards. Matt Maxey led Avon’s receiving with 83 yards and a touchdown on 3 receptions. Anderson’s Burnam also excelled, rushing for 148 yards and a touchdown on 32 carries, and passing for 150 yards and a touchdown (19-of-33). For the Raptors, Durrell Turner rushed for 69 yards on 10 carries. Aidan McClanahan (50 receiving yards, 1 TD on 5 receptions) and Trace Jallick (52 receiving yards on 6 receptions) contributed to Anderson’s receiving game.

Article courtesy Yappi.com

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