The Rams defeated the Bears 23-14 on Friday night at Manual Stadium for their last regular season home game. Although it was senior night, many freshman players were given their opportunity to shine last night. 

First Half:

It was a defensive dominated first quarter as Jarmaine Hopson (#73, 12) recovered a fumble for Butler. Fortunately, Manuals’ defense was able to hold the Butler offense to a field goal which they ended up missing. 

Shortly after, Manual forces a Butler fumble which is recovered by Miles Rhodes (#13, 12) and returned for a defensive touchdown. At this point, the Rams led 7-0.

Near the beginning of the second quarter, Manual caused yet another turnover as Jeremiah Blakey (#11, 12) intercepted a pass around the 30 yard line and ran it back 70 yards to the 10. Then the freshman quarterback Tyree Stoner (#7, 9) ran it in for a 5 yard touchdown, increasing Manual’s lead to 13-0. 

Butler responded with their first TD of the game.

Manual scored another touchdown near the end of the 2nd quarter by Aiden Blakey (#8, 10) increasing the score to 20-7 Rams. 

Halftime:

Seniors from the manual marching band were honored tonight as they were introduced and walked onto the field. They were given flowers and introduced to the crowd. Then the band, dressed in black and orange with blue cloth draped to their side, performed a number that can only be described as magical. 

Second Half:

Manual came out of half with the ball but unfortunately got quickly intercepted by Butler. Luckily, the Rams were able to hold them. 

The Crimsons were able to get some more points on the board with just under three minutes left in the third quarter as Cole Seraphine (#91, 9) completed a field goal for Manual, bringing the score to 23-7.

Butler answered with a passing touchdown and a successful extra point in the fourth quarter, decreasing the scoring gap by only 9 points, as Manual led 23-14. 

As a last attempt to gain another possession, Butler kicked an onside kick near the end of the fourth quarter. However, the Rams were able to recover the ball and get a few first downs until they were finally able to assume victory formation and run down the clock. 

Manual ended up winning 23-14.