Coshocton Breezes Past New Lexington 35-8
By: Alex Porter, Darayus Sethna
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COSHOCTON, Ohio (WOUB) – Coshocton headed to Jim Rockwell Stadium this past Friday for a key matchup against the New Lexington Panthers. Heading into the game, New Lexington had come in dropping their last three games, while Coshocton had a two-week break, winning their last game 35-7 against Morgan.
The Panthers were on the wrong side of things at the very start of the game. In the opening moments, Coshocton recovered a fumble after a miscommunication between New Lex’s Hunter Kellogg and Hunter Rose. In the blink of an eye, Coshocton had taken at 7-0 lead. The following minutes of the game consisted of early penalties, resulting in slow and sloppy play for both squads.
But it only got worse for New Lexington, as Cadin Whiteus ran for 73 yards to help Coshocton double their advantage. Panthers fans who were absolutely pumped at the opening kick were left in absolute shock after the first quarter.
That shock would then turn into despair, when Coshocton converted on an early second quarter touchdown. The score was now 21-0 in favor of the visitors. Everything was “playing right into their hands” when Korbyn Haley made a crucial interception that drained any sense of hope for New Lexington firmly out of Jim Rockwell Stadium. As the first half came to a close, Defensive Back Trey Cox broke up an offensive drive by New Lexington with another key interception.
Coshocton remained hungry for more, and Quarterback Kobe Rust capped off a perfect half with a fourth touchdown score. Coshocton would head into the intermission with a commanding 28-0 lead.
The second half of play was much less of a runaway. After a scoreless third quarter, the Panthers finally were able to get on the board, scoring 8 points. However, there would be no sign of a comeback, as Coshocton was still firmly in the driver’s seat, ready to ride home with a big-time win. And that win was secured. Coshocton took the bus back home and would take a 35-8 victory with them.
This was a game that was won in total yardage. New Lexington’s passing and rushing combined for only 183 yards, while Coshocton nearly doubled them, with 361. But it doesn’t stop there. Although their offense was absolutely breathtaking for the entirety of the first half, Coshocton’s defense was just as impressive.
They forced the Panthers to play the running game, limiting New Lexington’s offense in a variety of ways. And when the Panthers tried to muster up some sort of ariel attack, it was safely dealt with by Coshocton’s smothering defense.
Coshocton (2-3) have a matchup against Crooksville at home next Friday, while New Lexington (2-4) will be on the road to face Meadowbrook