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SSHS Cheer and Fans who traveled to Junction battling tough weather Photo courtesy of San Saba All Sports Booster Club
It was an old fashion ground and pound football game last Friday in Junction as the Armadillos (2-0) prevailed over the Junction Eagles (0-2) 18-6. The fans who made the 100-mile journey were fortunate enough to see two things unfold: the Dillos open the season 2-0 for the first time since 2020 and lots and lots of rain! Lighting delays and pouring rain didn’t stop the Dillos from coming home victorious, but the weather conditions did seem to impact the pace of the game for both teams throughout the evening. However, San Saba was able to come home with the victory.
Offensive Stats -
San Saba took to the ground once again this week, the offense produced 254 yards of rushing on 45 attempts (5.6 avg) and scored all three touchdowns from the ground. With soaking wet conditions, the passing game was limited as the Dillos attempted only nine passes throughout the night. Leading the way on offense was RB Ethan Gonzales - 17 carries, 109 yards rushing (6.4 avg) and one rushing TD. RB Tyler Johnson ran the ball 17 times for 84 yards (4.9 avg) and two rushing TD’s, Johnson also had two receptions for eight yards. QB Lance Taylor rushed for 51 yards on eight attempts (6.3 avg) and completed two passes for eight yards. Zurrie Herrera and Haiden VanBibber added to the rushing attack with three carries combined for 10 yards.
Defensive Stats -
The Armadillo defense once again dominated the day by only allowing one score and causing two turnovers; over the last eight quarters, San Saba has only allowed 20 points scored total. Leading the way on defense was LB Zurie Herrera; Herrera had 12 tackles and one sack (24 tackles on the season) followed by DL Jesus Bettencourt – nine tackles, one sack and one fumble recovery. DE Dylan Ware recorded eight tackles, one for loss (24 total tackles on the season) followed by Christian Ramirez with five tackles. CB Levi Glover, LB Winton Lackey and Lane Miller all contributed four tackles each, and safety Lance Taylor picked up the team’s first interception on the year.
Game Recap 1st Quarter 7:29 – The Dillos opening drive ends with RB Ethan Gonzales punching the ball in from the one-yard line. Twopoint conversion is no good; 6-0 San Saba.
6:10 – Junction’s lone score of the evening comes on their opening drive as they score a rushing TD from 23 yards out. PAT is no good; 6-6.
2nd Quarter
11:56 – The Dillos drive the ball down the field to the 10-yard line, from their RB Tyler Johnson finds the ends zone. Two-point conversion is no good; 12-6 San Saba.
4th Quarter
1:18 – Timely 3rd down conversions, a fake punt and a costly pass interference by the Eagles set up the Dillos on the one-yard line. Tyler Johnson barrels into the end zone for the final score. PAT is no good; 18-6 San Saba.
:08 – Safety Lance Taylor secures the win with an interception on the goal line.
Final Score -
San Saba 18 Junction 6