The way the Columbus East football team was putting up points on the scoreboard in the first half in Friday night’s season opener against Bloomington North, one would think the scoreboard might blow a fuse.
The Olympians scored on their first six possessions in the first half to go ahead 41-0 at halftime and coasted to a 62-7 victory. This was East’s 44th straight regular-season victory.
“We came out and executed well both offensively and defensively,” East coach Bob Gaddis said. “Our kids did a good job of not breaking on defense and offensively.”
The defense did its job in forcing three fumbles and five punts on eight of the Cougars’ first nine possessions.
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“We played well, overall,” East defensive back Wade Forman said. “Gaddis told us about getting out there and setting the tone for the rest of the game. We all bond together with our strengths and weaknesses.”
The first score of the game came from a Josh Major pass to Cam Wilson. On the next possession, Jamon Hogan ran it in from eight yards out for a 13-0 lead.
Major had 105 yards rushing in the first half, thanks in large part to a 68-yard touchdown run. He had a rushing touchdown and passing touchdown in the first half, as well.
Wilson finished with 93 receiving yards. One of his catches was a circus grab over two defenders that went for 38 yards.
Major had plenty of time to execute the plays.
“It always has to rely of the offensive no matter who is back behind us,” East center Harry Crider. “We came together really well for this game.”
Gaddis agreed.
“We are fortunate that we have a great offensive line,” he said. “They are good, tough kids.”
Hogan rushed for 156 yards, all of which came in the first half and added a couple of touchdowns.
The Olympians also were effective on special teams. Wilson ran the opening kickoff of the second half back 98 yards for a touchdown.
“I liked what I saw tonight,” Gaddis said. “We had a couple miscues but I was happy that we won the turnover, battle.”
