The Wayne Blue Devils, ranked #10 in Class C1, challenged Boone Central every way they could Friday at the Boone Central athletic complex.
The Cardinals had all the answers, however, and aced another test with a 35-13 victory.
With the win, #3 Boone Central (7-0) remained unbeaten and atop the C1-5 District, setting up a C1 feature matchup this week against undefeated #5 Scotus in Albion.
Boone twice opened 14-point leads in the first half (14-0, 21-7), and both times Wayne fought back within a touchdown. It was the Cardinals who made the final push, dominating and outscoring Wayne (4-3) in the fourth quarter.
Boone Central struck first, as Alex Christo and Jackson Roberts electrified the home crowd with an 80-yard touchdown strike in the first period. The Cardinals also had the exclamation points, with Braden Benes running for two fourth-quarter touchdowns.
“We felt getting a good start was key, as Wayne has a good team and a good defense,” stated Boone Coach Mark Hudson. “The long pass play on the scramble was big early, as well as the blocked punt.
“Besides two plays, the defense played very well again. I’m proud of the growth and maturity of these guys – they handled a very big game in a workmanlike manner, not getting too high or too low. That’s a sign of maturity and confidence.”
Hudson and Boone now prepare for Friday’s ‘Battle of Unbeatens’ – #3 Boone Central vs. #5 Scotus.
“One more big one before the playoffs – Scotus is a big non-district test,” Hudson acknowledged. “They have a very good tight end who is going to Kansas State next year and their quarterback will be back after an injury.
“They are not a big team, but have some good-sized kids and have nice quickness and athleticism. They will stunt, blitz and move a lot on defense to try and confuse us up front.
“Once again, this ought to be a really good game! It will also decide a lot when it comes to playoff seeding.”
Complete details in Print & Online editions of Albion News/Boone County Tribune
