Mark Wahlberg Chevrolet Stadium- In a much-anticipated playoff rematch from last season, the Avon Eagles (3-0) showcased their determination, avenging last year's heartbreaking 27-21 loss in a tight, back-and-forth battle against the Glenville Tarblooders (2-1). The game was a rollercoaster of emotions on both sidelines, ultimately ending any hope of winning for Glenville with an onside kick by Owen Warrick by the Eagles Friday night in Avon. Junior quarterback Nolan Good was the night's hero, leading the Eagles' offense with finesse and precision. Good's dual-threat ability proved a potent weapon as he threw three crucial touchdowns during the game, totaling over 300 yards. His poise under pressure and ability to read Glenville's lack of defense outside the hashes were evident, and he displayed the kind of leadership that separates great quarterbacks from the rest after a poor week of practice.
"I had a rough week of practice. I wasn't seeing things well as I usually would," Good said postgame. " Glenville is a good team, and I wouldn't let myself down after one bad pass. I realized the only one stopping me is me, and my teammates trust me."
Good was picked off in the end zone by Ohio State commit Bryce West on the first drive.
One of Good's touchdown passes was on the Eagle's first offensive drive when he found a beautifully executed connection with running back Jakorion Caffey for 11 yards, who showcased his versatility as both a rusher and a receiver on the day, totaling 150 yards, including five receptions for 96 yards. Caffey's ability to make plays in the passing game added a dynamic element to the Eagles' offense that proved crucial in this closely contested matchup. He also showed what will come when he starts his collegiate career at the University of Cincinnati next year. While the Eagles' offense sparkled, their defense truly stole the show. Facing off against the high-powered Tarblooders offense, led by senior running back D'Shawntae Jones and senior tight end Demarion Witten, the Eagles' defense stepped up in a big way. They shut down Jones and the Glenville offense remarkably efficiently, not allowing them to gain the desperately needed momentum. Jones had seven carries for 24 yards on the day.
Glenville took their first and only lead of the game early in the fourth quarter when senior quarterback Ruel Tomlinson Jr. connected with Witten on a 32-yard pass for one of his two passing touchdowns. Tomlinson didn't have the sharpest day, starting 1-6 passing and throwing two crucial interceptions. He finished 9-21 for 163 yards, but also ran for 106 yards on seven carries.
The Avon Eagles' defensive line, linebackers, and secondary played pivotal roles in containing Jones, Witten, and wide receiver Quency Rogers, disrupting the Tarblooders' passing game. Their relentless pursuit of the ball, excellent coverage in the secondary, and timely tackles were the key factors that kept Glenville's offense at bay. As the clock ticked down in the final minutes, Warrick kicked a 35-yard field goal giving the Eagles the late 17-16 before coming back and successfully completing the onside kick. It was clear that the Eagles had learned from their past playoff disappointment. Their resilience and never-give-up attitude prevailed, and they secured a hard-fought victory. Senior offensive tackle Luke Hamilton said a little pregame chirping from Jones motivated himself and his team.
"This win was very personal to us. I'm cool with a lot of guys on that team. Bryce and Demarion are my boys. I've known them for a long time. As I was walking out D'Shawntae said Go Bucks so it got me going," Hamilton said postgame.
Ultimately, the Avon Eagles avenged last year's playoff loss in a manner that showcased their team growth and unwavering commitment to excellence.
The Tarblooders' 17-game win streak that they've held since 2021 is now snapped and will have their first home game next week against the John Adams Rebels (0-3). The Eagles are on the road with nearby Elyria Pioneers (0-3)
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