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The Trojans unleashed a rushing attack Thursday night at Salem that accounted for 351 yards on 40 carries. It didn’t take the Trojans long to get on the board as Cortez Hubbard would score one of his two touchdowns on the night. Caanan Collins, who was a perfect 6 for 6 on the night, added the PAT and the Trojans led 7-0. The Trojan Defense would hold the Wildcats on their possession and the offense appeared to be cruising for their second score when a tipped pass was intercepted by the Wildcats. The Defense showed their improvement from the first week as they refused to allow the Wildcats to cash in on the turnover by stopping the home team on a 4th down attempt near midfield. It was 14-0 Trojans after Cortez Hubbard scored one the Trojans six rushing touchdowns and Collins added the PAT.
It appeared that Salem was trying to follow the script of Magee’s opening opponent as they attempted a fake punt on their next possession. The men wearing the Red & Gray were ready and stuffed the attempt giving the offense the ball on the Wildcat 40 yard line. Jadarius Payne would make the Wildcats pay when he scored from 35 yards out. After the PAT it was 21-0 Trojans. Payne would shine on this night rushing for 218 yards on 22 carries.
The Wildcats put together an impressive drive on their next possession but the Trojans held on 4th and goal from the 8. The Trojans would take over and move the ball quickly as Quarterback Tyrique McAfee connected with DJ Grandberry on 2 straight passes down to the 30 yard line of Wildcats. Payne would finish the drive on a beautiful option play and the Trojans would lead 28-0 at the end of the first half.
Salem would take the opening drive of the second half and score to cut the Trojans lead to 28-7. The Trojans and Wildcats would both stall on their next offensive possessions. Magee would regain the momentum on the back of carries by Payne who would score from 43 yards out and it was 35-7. The Trojan Offense wasn’t through on the night when Dee Newsome exploded for a 62 yard touchdown run. After the PAT, it was 42-7 Trojans. Salem would add two late touchdowns to cut the score to 42-19 but this night would belong to the Trojans.
O-line starters, Kornelius Rodgers, Monquavious Craft, Trevor Maddox, Colby Cockrell and Michael Allan, deserve credit for helping the running backs rush for 8.8 yards per carry. The lines don’t get the spotlight very often unless it is a negative play such as holding or offsides. Fans, take time to watch what goes on in the trenches and you will gain a respect for the job they have every Friday night. It takes every part to make a team successful.
The Trojans travel this Friday night to face perennial 3A contender Hazlehurst in a non-conference bout that will begin at 7:00. The Indians defeated Forest 33-21 this past Friday to run their record to 2-0.
Trojan Fans, let’s paint the Indians’ stadium red Friday night as we show our support to the young men that wear the Red & Gray and are working hard to represent their school and city. Coach Coats, his staff and players would appreciate your encouragement and support.