Despite the cold chill throughout the stadium, the Crimsons were able to rally to a 41-0 victory over the Butler Bears.
The defining factor for Manual was the aggressive defensive line, which made eight sacks over the course of the evening. Kenneth Jones (10, #25) and Derek Dorsey (12, #92) walked away with two sacks apiece.
Bryce Cosby (11, #7) had an interception late in the third quarter that was returned for a 60 yard touchdown run, the last score of the night.
There was also a new face for Manual on the defensive side of the ball, as Tim Comstock (12, #3) returned to his sophomore position as safety for several defensive series.
“We are playing [Comstock] on defense tonight to show off his other talents,” Head Coach Oliver Lucas said.
Comstock had a few nice runs including a 62 yard touchdown run off a quarterback keeper. He also completed seven of his 12 passes, two of which were touchdown passes.
Andre Teague (11, #6) and Troy Henderson (10, #29) did a superior job with plowing downfield and picking up a few yards here and there to advance the Crimson offense.
By the end of the first half, the Crimson defense had destroyed all hope for the Bears, and led 27-0. The second half was dominated by the Crimson offense.
During the third quarter, Will Britt (11, #17) replaced Comstock as quarterback and threw a couple of incomplete passes, but had three smooth hand-offs to Henderson for short gains.
Manual demonstrated good team communication skills and significant overall growth in the game, both of which helped lead them to victory.
“To come out here with my team, especially the defense and just get it done, after all the hard work we put in over the summer, it feels good to get a win as a team,” Cosby said.
Manual kicks off next Friday at 7:30 p.m. against St. Xavier at Manual Stadium.
