While Tomcat Football isn't content, the 3-1 start to this year's season is proof that the tides are turning. All thanks to the commitment of the players, staff, and community to trusting one another, pursuing it with passion, and staying disciplined to the process.
In our most recent game against Como-Pickton, things didn't start as smoothly as we'd hoped. The Eagles forced us into a three-and-out and then were able score on their opening drive. However, the Tomcats weren't about to let this setback define the game.
To break through these early pains, Bobby Rogers showed connected with Collin Cherry for a 7-yard touchdown pass, putting us on the scoreboard. The first quarter was slow after that and ended with the Eagles slightly ahead, 6-7.
In the second quarter, Bobby Rogers was able to display his versatility in the air and on the ground. After connecting with multiple receivers to march down the field, Bobby rushed 2 yards for the Tomcats second touchdown of the game. In their second series of the quarter, the Tomcats went on a 13 play drive filled with explosive plays, but plagued by penalties. However, they stuck together, handled their business and ended the drive with another Bobby Rogers rushing touchdown.
The third quarter continued to be a showcase of Bobby Rogers' skills. He passed to Braylin Barrett for a 9-yard touchdown and then took matters into his own hands, running through tacklers for a 4-yard touchdown. The highlight of the quarter came when Bobby Rogers unleashed a 30-yard pass to Braylin Barrett, who outjumped the defender to secure the Tomcats last touchdown of the game.
While our offense was undoubtedly on fire throughout the game, our defense lead the charge. Behind our incredible effort of 10 combined tackles for loss, we forced Como-Pickton into more three-and-outs than they were able to achieve first downs. After scoring right out of the half, the Tomcats had their mind set on getting the ball back, and Bobby Rogers made sure of that by taking the ball straight from the Eagles running back. It wasn't until the fourth quarter that Como-Pickton was able to near the end-zone again. They would finish that drive by scoring their second and final touchdown of the game.
Bobby Rogers had a truly outstanding performance, both as a quarterback and on defense at linebacker. He completed 17 out of 25 passes for 206 yards and 3 touchdowns. Bobby's rushing game was equally impressive, with 95 yards and 3 more touchdowns on 12 carries. In total, he contributed to 6 touchdowns in the game. On the defensive side, Bobby managed 10 tackles, 1 tackle for loss, and a crucial forced fumble that he was able to recover.
Braylin Barrett was another standout player with 66 yards receiving on 4 catches, including 2 touchdowns. He even took on the quarterback role late in the game, going 2-2 passing and making an 18-yard rush. Garrett Kelly contributed 5 catches for 88 yards, Brody Pearson had 4 catches for 66 yards, and McKay Young made his presence known on defense with 8 tackles, including 2 tackles for loss.
With this impressive victory, this team is not only on the path to redemption but also setting the bar high for the rest of the season. Next week, the Tomcats will play Leonard at home with the opening kickoff at 7:30.