Why not? The Midway Green Waves proved they are more than capable of going up against a 3A school as they introduced SOR football to the boys up north. The Waves rolled past Claiborne County, 27-14….and those in attendance would agree the game wasn’t even that close.
Initially, SORSN.com wasn’t going to make the trip to Claiborne County. A 2-hour drive to see the Midway Green Waves endure punishment from a 3A school didn’t sound like much fun. But of course, as Friday drew near, I was excited that football season had finally arrived and decided to make the trip. I’m so glad I did.
It took less than 2 minutes to realize that Midway was the better team. Claiborne County received the opening kickoff and nearly took it the distance before being tackled across mid-field. Midway’s defense took the field and did nothing short than manhandle the Claiborne County offense. Midway forced a 3 and out and quickly marched down the field behind the speed of QB Eric Stansbury, WR Will “P-Diddy” Poe, and SOR celebrity Harley Davidson.
In less than 4 minutes of the opening quarter Midway’s defense stopped the Bulldogs, allowing Midway’s offense to drive down the field, and put up 7 points on the scoreboard much to the delight of the SOR fence walkers who made the journey. Yes, 7 points. Midway has someone to kick PAT’s; Mark Childers hit 3 out of 4 on the night.
With nearly 8 minutes still remaining in the 2nd quarter, Midway had a comfortable 20-0 lead.
The 2nd half got a little sloppy for the Waves, as it appeared the players had taken their foot off of the throttle. Midway would put 7 more on the scoreboard only 2 minutes into the 2nd half; however, it would be their final TD of the night. Claiborne’s first TD came at the start of the 4th quarter after Midway fumbled an option pitch inside Claiborne’s own 5-yard line. They would score again in the final seconds to end the game, 27-14 SOR.
The Good: The defensive line played the best that I have seen in recent years. They were in the backfield at the snap of the ball and the speed of the end and linebackers kept Claiborne running east and west. QB Eric Stansbury was great running the ball and looked good throwing as well. I only saw one pass that was under thrown which did lead to an interception. Eric has a strong arm and is able to roll left and throw on the run with accuracy.
The Bad: Big Willy, William Poe is the fastest man in Roane County