Since 2013, Springfield High School Football has not lost three consecutive games in any format.
On Friday, October 18th, the Jackets kept that streak alive, defeating the Portland Panthers 27-12.
SHS went back to what was working for their offense before the team's two game skid, keeping the ball on the ground for all but two plays on the evening.
The lack of passing did not stop Quarterback Kevontez Hudson from being involved in the game plan: the Junior finished with 277 yards rushing and three touchdowns. Box spoke on his performance after the game: "I just know that we had a great practice all week, and came out and executed very well."
Although the scoreboard may not reflect it, the game was within striking distance throughout all four quarters for the Panthers: with Portland's opening drive resulting in 68 yards and 6 points from star Senior Caleb Mandrell, Portland looked to have the edge early on the Jackets' defense.
PHS' following drive would continue to find offensive rhythm, yet was halted via a crucial holding penalty. The drive would end on a potential fourth and four conversion negated by a false start, once again on the Panthers.
Springfield's defense would find its footing after the stalled Portland drive. After Hudson's second attempt in the air was tipped and picked on the goal line, the defense would produce a three-and-out, and give the Panthers a chance to punt in the shadow of their own goal post. Freshman Shymarion Woodard would play a pivotal role before the half as well, sacking Mandrell amidst a potential scoring drive just before halftime.
Hudson would find the end zone once again two plays into the third quarter, a sprint from their own 43 for six more. Mandrell and the Portland offense would not go away quietly, however, sneaking in for his second score on the ensuing possession.
The Jackets' defensive unit would continue to sting the Panthers, hosting a shut out for the remainder of the game. Hudson's final score came early in the fourth quarter from ten yards out, putting the game to rest.
Springfield's record improved to 5-3, as PHS fell below .500, now at 4-5 for the season. This game held high playoff implications, as the Jackets are now emerging as favorable candidates for a home-playoff game, and the Panthers now clinging to playoff berth hypotheticals more than ever.
Portland's postseason hopes will be put on the line Friday against Creek Wood High School (7-1). Springfield will look to build on its momentum as they play host to Greenbrier High School (2-6) for the Pitt-Carroll Memorial Trophy.
-Blaine Kellar is a broadcasting and journalism intern for Social Dweebs, who has covered Jacket football since 2018.
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