Heading into Friday's game, the Northside Grizzlies looked to reverse their fortune and make a statement as they head into next week's bye. And they sure did that (even if it wasn't a completely positive statement) in a 28-27 thrilling overtime win against the Coweta Tigers.
Let's start with the positives.
When the Grizzlies offense is clicking, man do they click. Their opening drive of the second half was easily their most efficient and effective drive of the season, utilizing a downhill rushing game to soften the defense before capping it off with a stunning 20-yard throw from QB Dorian Bowers to Cam Massey. Bowers as well solidified his spot as starting quarterback with some great throws and heads-up scrambling. Northside's offense finished with 127 yards passing and 125 yards rushing, marking the first time Northside has rushed for over 100 yards this season. This sort of run-pass mix has been sorely missing in Northside's previous two losses and it was definitely a contributor to their narrow win.
The defense as well showed their ability to get crucial fourth down stops, which suffocated Coweta's offense who ended the night with only 127 yards of total offense. Northside's defense forced three turnovers, including a key interception from Max Chavez that stopped Coweta from capitalizing on a Bowers forced fumble. The defense also stepped up with the game sealing incompletion in overtime.
There's no denying that this was a gritty, potentially season saving win for Northside, but it exposed many issues in all facets of their game. Looking at our stats, this game should've been a one sided affair, but Northside's four turnovers and 100 yards worth of penalties helped keep Coweta in the game. No hate to Coweta, who made the most out of what Northside gave them, but when an offense puts together barely over 100 yards worth of offense, you wouldn't expect the score to be 28-27.
Heading into their bye, we remain hopeful that ironing the persisting turnover and penalty issue will help this Northside team perform at the level that they've flashed many times these first three weeks.
Northside will return home September 27th to begin conference play against the Rogers Mounties.
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