The Powell Panthers Take Down The Anderson County Mavericks 35-21 To Open The Season
By Aiden Gallagher
Game Summary:
Despite being the first game of the season it was obvious that the clash between the Mavericks and Panthers would be pivotal. The players on both sides sure seemed like they understood the stakes. To begin the game the two sides traded touchdowns back and forth. Anderson County opened the scoring leading 7-0 early. Powell could not get any offense going early however, the defense would decide to get the scoring started for the Panthers. DE Cardell Thomas would take a fumble recovery to the house for a 13-yard touchdown tying the game 7-7 in the second quarter. Anderson County would march down the field and answer back with a 4-yard TD pass taking the lead 14-7. Powell QB Duece Rodgers would complete a 44yd pass to WR Dylan Stooksbury taking the ball down to Anderson County’s 25 yd line. Powell would go on to score a 4yd rushing TD tying the game 14-14 going into halftime. The Panthers’ defense would go on to have an electric second half only giving up 7 points late in the 4th. On the offensive side of the ball junior RB Connor Wheeler had a near-flawless 2nd half leading his team to a 35-21 victory over the reigning 4A state champion Mavericks.
Biggest Storylines:
Powell:
Sophomore QB Deuce Rodgers made his first start of his high school career and was very impressive showing off his mobility whether it be behind or in front of the line of scrimmage, however, if the Panthers want to be successful they must execute better when putting the ball in the air.
The Panther Defence showed their potential turning the Mavericks over a total of three times
Anderson County:
There were always going to be growing pains when having a new starting QB under center, you felt as if Senior QB Zae Hall forced the ball a couple of times throwing 2 interceptions during the game.
Senior RB Nick Moog had a healthy day but didn’t quite live up to his standards, and was left waiting for a massive run for 40+ yds that never arrived
The loss is no reason to panic, the first half proved that they could compete
Next Game:
Powell:
The Powell Panthers looking to build momentum after taking down the Mavericks will travel to Eddie Courtney Stadium to take on the Farragut Admirals on August 25th.
Anderson County:
The Anderson County Mavericks will look to bounce back and get in the win collum in their home opener at Maverick Stadium against the Hilltoppers of Science Hill on August 25th.