The Herald-Tribune
-- — As four Milan Indian football players hoisted the traveling Victory Bell to their shoulders, they were surrounded by a cast of jubilant teammates with helmets held high in the air.
The Milan Indians celebrated a 26-0 victory over the visiting Batesville Bulldogs.
There have been better football games between the two teams. This one proved to be a bit lopsided.
“We were worried coming in ... we were flat in practice on Thursday and knew Milan had a good team coming back,” BHS coach Eric Heppner commented. “They played with a lot of confidence.
“I would say they out -prepared us, played and play ed with much more emotion. Also, they are more experienced. All were keys to the game,” he added.
The Bulldogs could not find a rhythm on offense and defensively did just enough to keep the game close for a half.
Milan’s only touchdown in the first half was a 30 yard interception return for a touchdown by senior Scott Pennington. Pennington added the extra point to make the score 7-0.
The score remained a seven point difference until the Indians scored again early in the fourth quarter.
Pennington capped a 10-play drive with a one yard run the 10:28 mark. The extra point attempt was blocked, which left the Batesville deficit at 13 points.
The Indians held the Bulldogs on the next set of downs and took over on their own 40 yard line.
Faced with a fourth down inside Batesville territory, the Indians executed a fake punt, which was more than enough for a first down. Five plays later, Sam Thompson got the call and scored from 12 yards out.
The offensive struggles continued in their next possession.
Quarterback Connor Schuck was intercepted for a third time and Milan took over on the 40 yard line with 2:42 to play in the game.
Seemingly content to run out the clock, quarterback Gavin Detraz called his own number and the Bulldogs were unable to bring him down. Thirty-five yards later he scored Milan ‘s fourth touchdown.
The Indians finished with 258 yards rushing on 45 carries. Pennington led the way with 67 yards on 14 carries. Thompson finished with 12 carries and 57 yards, while Jason Hawkins was close behind with 52 yards.
The Bulldogs were held to 52 yards rushing on 25 carries and only 23 yards passing.
The Indians improved to 2-0 with the win, while the Bulldogs fall to 1-1.
