Offense stifled by Newberry as Crusaders fall to 0-3
Posted by The Skyliner on September 17th, 2008Cory Guinn
Staff Writer
The North Greenville University football team traveled to Newberry College on Sept. 11 in an attempt to stop a two-game losing streak. Costly turnovers in the first half and injuries to the defense allowed Newberry’s high powered offense to gain a large lead that the Crusaders were unable to overcome.
The Crusader offense was unable to create any productive yardage throughout the game against a quick, aggressive Newberry defense. Two fumbles and two interceptions by North Greenville provided Newberry with an advantage on offense, which they used to build a lead that lasted for the entire game.
Newberry led 21-3 at the half with North Greenville’s only points coming on a 26-yard field goal by Michael Sears, junior business administration, in the second quarter.
The second half proved to be a much tougher battle on defense due to first half injuries. Freshmen were forced into unexpected duty in the secondary and at linebacker. Defensive back Jereme Green, freshman print media, provided the only defensive highlight of the night with a first half interception. The defensive standout of the game was defensive lineman Johnell Bell, senior business administration, who finished with six total tackles, one sack and one forced fumble.
Overall, the Crusader offense was stalled by a Newberry defense set on stopping the run. North Greenville was only able to produce 52 total rushing yards led by running back Rashad Cummings, senior sport management/business administration, who finished with 12 carries for 27 yards. Quarterback Richard Harb, sophomore business administration, finished the game 15-32 for 162 yards for no touchdowns and two interceptions. Receiver Joseph Rowe, senior business administration, led the team with seven receptions for 85 yards. However, Harb and the passing game were unable to produce yardage due to the pressure of the Newberry defense. Harb was under constant pressure, which led to the Newberry defense compiling six sacks for the game.
Newberry (2-1) chose to use size over speed in the second half scoring twice on the ground in the third quarter. Domination on both sides of the ball by Newberry allowed them to come away with a 41-3 victory over North Greenville University (0-3).
The Crusaders look to end their three-game losing streak in their next game against Kentucky Wesleyan College on Sept. 20 at 7:00 p.m. at home in Younts Stadium.
Tags: Fall 2008, Vol. 108 Fall - Issue 2