The Mendenhall Tigers ground out a hard fought 18-10 win over Hazlehurst last Friday in field conditions that were less than optimal, which set the stage for a gritty game.
Freshman quarterback Ty Davis was confident in his first varsity start and his play improved as the game continued.
It was a low scoring game through the first half. The Tiger defense played phenomenal football the entire game, only allowing a single touchdown. Senior linebacker Princeton Miller set the tone defensively for the Tigers along with defensive tackle Josh Davis. The defensive front gave Hazlehurst issues all game.
On offense the Tigers understandably struggled at the start as Davis settled into the game, but this changed after two quarters. The Tigers trailed 8-0 at halftime. Hazlehurst possessed the ball to start the second half, and the defense immediately set the tone. Senior defensive end Kevonta Craft forced a fumble that was recovered by the Tigers for a turnover. Craft made a great tackle and was able to jostle the ball free.
The play ignited the crowd and gave the team some much needed momentum. The Tiger offense took over and put together a balanced drive as they marched down the field. Ty Davis found his rhythm and displayed his arm talent on a well-placed back shoulder fade that was caught by junior receiver Henry Funchess for a big gain. Davis connected with Funchess again on the Tigers’ first touchdown of the season. The Tigers cut into the lead and trailed by two after an unsuccessful two-point attempt.
Trailing 6-8 the Tiger defense continued to be stellar and dominated the line of scrimmage. Jaiwon Williams was able to bring constant pressure from the edge and recorded two tackles for a loss. Hazlehurst struggled to pass the ball due to constant pressure and great coverage by the Tiger secondary, which led to a fourth down. Vincent Dixon fielded the punt and was off to the races. Dixon’s return gave the offense excellent field position, needing only 37 yards to reach the endzone.
Davis led the offense back onto the field for their quickest drive of the game. A good run by running back Jakobe Davison gained positive yardage. Davis dropped back to pass on second down and surveyed the field. As the pocket collapsed around him Davis tucked the ball and took off. He broke one tackle and made another defender miss as he streaked for a 34-yard touchdown. The play brought the crowd to their feet. It was the first time during the game that Davis had an opportunity to show his athleticism. It was a welcome sight for Tiger fans. The Tigers took a 12-8 lead.
Both defenses tightened up after that play and the teams continued to swap possessions into the fourth quarter. The Tiger defense forced a punt by Hazlehurst that was mishandled and led to poor field position. The offense started the drive on their 1-yard line which eventually led to a safety. However, the Tigers were able to get the ball back after the return man from Hazlehurst muffed the kickoff.
Davis was able to connect with Cameron Smith and Henry Funchess on the next drive. Solid carries from Jay Page helped the Tigers move the ball into plus territory, but the drive stalled near the 20-yard line.
Hazlehurst was in position to score late in the game after they managed to complete a deep pass that moved them to the Tigers’ 30-yard line. Nevertheless, the Tigers were all over a bad snap by the center that was recovered by Cayden McNair for another takeaway.
Ty Davis closed the door on the Indians’ hope for a comeback during the final minutes of the game. Davis called his own number and beat everyone around the right side of the line for a 48-yard touchdown run to make the final score 18-10. Hazlehurst had an opportunity to take some shots down field that were well covered by the defense.
It was a gritty game and a good experience for the young Tigers on finding a way to win. After being down 8 points at the half the defense essentially shut out the Indians for three quarters. The offense settled down and were able to execute down the stretch for a big win.
Head Coach Chuckie Allen said, “Defensively we were flying to the ball, and I thought we were physical. Given the situation we put them in all night we only gave up 8 points. The kids handled their assignments well all night. Offensively we did decent up front, and we missed some opportunities. As a unit we have a lot of work to do, understanding what we are trying to do and some of the things we can be successful at.”
The Tigers are now preparing to host their county rival Magee Trojans this week as they get ready for the 100th Simpson County Super Bowl. The game will be played this Friday at the Tiger Den at 7 p.m.
