The seventh-seeded Jackson Ironmen (11-0) defeated second-seeded Athens (10-1) 27-7 to give the Bulldogs their first loss of the season in the Region 12 quarterfinal tonight.
Jackson’s defense dominated the entire game except for a late touchdown drive by Athens. Backup quarterback Michael Germano ran 32 yards for the score with about four minutes remaining, but it was too little, too late for the Bulldogs.
The first half was largely a defensive struggle until Jackson quarterback Austin Osborne broke the game open with a 93-yard touchdown run. He had 112 yards rushing on only seven carries. He had the only score in the first half.
Jackson completely dominated the second half, controlling the clock with a ground game that wore down Athens’ defense. The Bulldogs’ defense just could not seem to get off the field as the Ironmen only attempted one pass in the second half. Jackson running back Drew Irvin ran for 163 yards and three touchdowns in the half, as well.
Athens' defense had no answer for the tandem of Irvin and Osborne as the duo combined for over 300 yards and four touchdowns on the ground.
Big plays were what killed Athens. Irvin had a 71-yard touchdown run in the second half to go with Osborne’s 93-yard first half scamper.
The Bulldogs’ usually strong ground game was toothless tonight as well. They failed to get DeVon Sharp going as the offensive line struggled to create holes all night long. They did not do a very good job of protecting Germano, either, who took multiple sacks and was hurried all night.
Some credit must go to the Jackson defense, which was bigger and more physical up front. Sharp finished with only 33 yards on 13 carries and lined up at receiver for much of the night, adding 29 yards on three receptions.
Athens also lost the turnover battle 3-1, and was simply outplayed by Jackson in every phase of the game, including special teams, where the Bulldogs struggled with their punting.
One bright spot for Athens was the play of Chris Russell, who had a sack and multiple tackles for loss on defense and frequently appeared in Jackson’s backfield. He also threw a huge block on a punt return that cleanly lifted a Jackson player off his feet, knocking off his helmet in the process.
Jackson will go on the road next week to play fourth-seeded Jonathan Alder in the regional semifinals while Athens’ season has come to an end.
