For the second time in this three-game season, the Bulldogs were involved in an overtime game. They were victorious against Wilcox by six points the first game of the season, but they were on the opposite end in Friday’s region match-up against McIntosh Co., losing 7-6.
Penalties, execution, defense and mistakes plagued both offenses with neither finding much success in the red zone. The only scoring of the game came in overtime with both offenses easily scoring from 15 yards out on three plays by the Bulldogs and in two plays by the Bucs. “This was the first game that I can recall being a part of that went to the end of regulation, tied 0-0,” commented head coach Chris Kearson. “We knew they were good on defense and could present some problems for us on both sides of the ball. Our week of preparation was up and down and that usually translates into an up and down performance on the field.”
Both teams had promising drives that ended in fumbles. The Buccaneers turned the ball over inside the Bulldogs 18 in the first quarter. The Bulldog repaid McIntosh in the fourth quarter, fumbling inside the red zone on the 13-yard line after a long drive. The ECI defense turned away McIntosh on fourth down late in the game at the 18 to keep the score 0-0 at the end of regulation. The Bulldogs got the ball first in overtime. After a first down no gain play, Brian Steele picked up 10 for a first and goal at the five. Steele’s number was called again as he found the endzone to put the Bulldogs up 6-0. The Bulldogs’ extra point try was blocked for the second time this season to keep the score 6-0. McIntosh scored their first touchdown of the game on a busted play from 14 yards out. The EP was good, and the Bulldogs took the region loss 7-6. Leading rusher for the game was Tyler Foreman with 64 yards on 17 carries. Every region game is important, especially in an 8-team region. You could see teams with just two region losses sitting at home when the playoffs start.
The Bulldogs have a short time to lick their wounds. Friday they will travel to Millen for the annual neighborhood bash against Jenkins Co. who are flying high after defeating Portal 48-19.
