Esky in control, drub Braves
08.10.11
ESCANABA - Control the line of scrimmage and you usually control the scoreboard.
The Escanaba Eskymos did both in impressive fashion Friday night, rolling up their third highest point total in history against the Gladstone Braves with a 54-14 conquest at Escanaba Athletic Field.
It is the most points in the rivalry since Esky produced 54 in 1948. Only the 133 points amassed in 1913 exceed Friday's output.
The Eskymos (5-2) drew within one victory of qualifying for the playoffs, a goal they can reach Friday when they host Minocqua, Wis. Lakeland (1-7).
"We played the way we practiced," said tackle Kevin Noel, who joined with his line mates to gouge big holes in Gladstone's defense. That helped Esky pile up 425 yards, with 266 on running plays.
Quarterback Austin Young ran for 152 yards on 12 first-half carries and fullback Jake Drage gashed the Braves for 117 yards on eight first-half carries.
"If you block for those guys, they will get it done," said Noel, indicating the Eskymos came to practice with a get-it-done attitude Monday, following a 49-20 loss at Menominee. "We needed to step it up big time. We got our assignments and everything was good."
Source: Escanaba Daily Press