Sports

Williamstown Stays Undefeated With A 41-32 Victory Over Marietta [Slideshow]

Posted on: Friday, September 12, 2014

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Though they are only separated by the Ohio River, Marietta and Williamstown’s offenses seemed miles apart as Williamstown (3-0) won the “Rumble on the River” by a score of 41-32 at the Don Drumm Stadium Friday night.

The Marietta Tigers (1-2) made a valiant effort to protect their home turf as they scored on their opening drive behind sophomore running back Aaron Elliot who ran it in from 18 yards for the first score of the game.

After exchanging two, three-and-outs, Williamstown (3-0) finally found momentum offensively. Facing a fourth and one, quarterback Dakota Watson’s keeper kept the drive alive for the ‘Jackets. Watson, who was a tailback for the past two seasons, put his running skills on display the very next play, getting to the end zone to tie the game at 7-7 with 44 seconds left in the first quarter.

Watson would be the backbone for the Jackets all game, serving as the team’s quarterback, linebacker, and main punt returner. He completed 6 of his 8 passes for 100 yards and one touchdown. On the ground, he rushed for over 100 yards for the third straight game, finishing with 196 yards and three touchdowns.

Marietta would keep the game within reach during the first half largely in part to their fast-paced offense. Three plays and 52 seconds were all the Tigers needed to retaliate and bring the score to 14-14, the final tie of the game.

Ending the half on an 11-yard touchdown pass from Watson to fellow senior Hunter Neely, the Jackets gained momentum going into the locker room. That momentum would continue into the third quarter with Watson connecting early with wide receiver Logan Lindsey for 45 yards to extend the lead to 14.

The young Marietta team’s mistakes would prove to be a crucial factor of the game even though they won the battle for total yardage 414-401 verses the Jackets.

Leading the effort for the Tigers was senior Garrett Davis who carried the ball 12 times for 96 yards. Quarterback John Henry was 4-12 throwing for 90 yards and added 13 yards rushing.

Marietta will be at home again next Friday when they host Gallia Academy (2-1). Williamstown will look to remain undefeated when they host Oak Glen (1-3) next Friday for their home-opener.