JAYS TRAVEL TO PICK UP SEASON OPENING VICTORY

TOLEDO, OH- When Jackson Milton’s opening game against Chalker was canceled due to low numbers, it was important to Head Coach Nate Brode and Athletic Director, Dan Crish to find a game.  There’s something special being built in North Jackson, and to miss a game was not acceptable.

So, when Hilltop’s game was canceled against a school in Sandusky, the two staffs took a bad situation and created a fantastic opportunity for both teams.  They would move the game to the Glass Bowl at the University of Toledo.  A once in a lifetime opportunity for both schools.

So on a Saturday, Jackson-Milton traveled to the University of Toledo for an afternoon game vs the West-Unity Millcreek Hilltop Cadets. JM secured a victory over Hilltop by a score of 29-12 to start the season 1-0.

The leading passer for the team was junior quarterback Alex Schiavi who threw for 72 yards on 7 completions.  The Jays rushing attack was led by senior Ethan Evans who finished with 15 attempts for 111 yards and 2 touchdowns, followed by freshmen RB Keegan White who carried the ball 3 times for 59 yards including 1 touchdown. Evans also led the Jays in receiving yards (22) and receptions (2). Defensively the Jays played extremely well forcing the Cadets into 5 turnovers (3 forced fumbles and 2 interceptions).

Leading the Jays defensively were senior defensive lineman Chase DeDomenic (13 tackles, 1 sack, 4 tackles for loss) and Jake Gross (12 tackles 1 sack, 6 tackles for loss). Juniors Owen McDevitt and Ezekiel Brock each recorded an interception while Evans, Kaden Carlton and Tanner Butler all recorded a fumble recovery. Sophomore kicker Sam Conn hit a 29-yard field goal in addition to two extra points in the contest.

The Blue Jays travel to Newton Falls Friday, August 27 for a 7 pm start against the Tigers.

*Contributed by Nate Brode