Both teams are led by Sophomore Quarterbacks: Seth Carlisle (Tigers) and Carson Hackett (Owls).
The game provided the Sophomore quarterbacks going head to head, a dominating half from each team, and an exciting comeback led by the Owls QB Carson Hackett.
The Tigers’ initial drive would result in a returned touchdown, due to a holding penalty. The Owls defense forced the Tigers to attempt an unsuccessful field goal; however, they were not able to contain the Tigers offense for the remaining first half. A pass from Seth Carlisle to Tyler Carlisle would put the Tigers on the board in the first quarter.
Later in the Second quarter, Seth Carlisle would rush for his first touchdown of the season. His night would see 22 rushes for 188 yards, one touchdown pass, and one interception. The Owls were unable to generate any points in the first half, trailing 14-0.
In an attempt to rally the team during halftime, Owls coach Mike Dickerson told his players, ” There is a great team that no one has seen yet. Let’s go out and show them that team.”
Hackett (11) responded on the Owls first possession of the 3rd quarter with a 41 yard pass to King (6). King had 5 catches for 136 yards and 1 touchdown. The owls defense would also reemerge
in the second half starting with a key interception by Wickman (46). The second Owl touchdown would come with 3 mins. and 11 seconds remaining in the 3rd quarter as Hackett scored his first rushing
touchdown of the night. Once again, Hackett would score on a quarterback keeper in the 4th quarter with 11 minutes to go. Hackett ended the night 9-12 passing with 162 yards and a touchdown to King.
He rushed 10-36 and 2 touchdowns. Total team offensive yards were 275.
Due to the overwhelming comeback from the Owls in the second half, Macon County’s only highlight was one interception on defense. Their offense was plagued by penalties and would not again see the success they experienced in the first half.
With 30 seconds to go, Rutherford (28) stepped up with a huge stop on defense. He would lead the team with 12 tackles followed by Goolsby (24) with 9. Macon Co. offense would not make it past the Owls 24 yard line in their final possession. The Tigers completed the game with 360 yards.
Owls win 20-14. The Smith County Owls will face non-conference rival Gordonsville Tigers at Gordonsville on Friday, August 28th at 7pm.
