[Jarons]

Ashland's defense showed up to play last night. They held Raceland to just 51 yards of offense going into the 4th quarter. DeMartino and company were able to shut down the bubble screen and short passing game of Raceland. As soon as a ball was caught, they were stopped before gaining anymore yardage.

Ashland's first score of the game was set up on a nice 40+ yard run by Josh Alber and punched in with a Sam Hunter QB sneak.

The second score was setup by the defensive special teams with a Nik Kosakowski punt block and recovery at the Ram 12. DeMartino converted on the next play for a 16-0 lead.

The Rams then opening the 2nd half by snapping a punt over the kicker's head resulting in a safety.

The Rams next possession ended on a Chris Pritchard interception which was returned to the Ram 6 setting up Hunter to Cory Withrow in the back of the endzone for a 24-0 lead.

The last scoring possession was highlighted by three plays resulting in a touchdown. Alber for 19 off the option. Hunter for 18 after a play fake to Alber. Alber caps the drive with an 8 yard run up the gut into the endzone.

Overall notes:

1. Raceland is still a solid team that is just inexperienced at this point. They will be dangerous come late in the season.

2. Ashland has to develop a kicking game. The only kicker on the roster is freshman Alex Hamlin. He was 1 of 1 last night on extra points, but knocked it in off the uprights. Ashland can't go for 2 all season or it will hurt them sooner or later.

3. The Ashland offense has to eliminate drive killing penalties. More than half of their points tonight were the direct result of the defense and special teams play.

Thanks. Nice analysis.