The Trenton Bulldogs, over the course of three scrimmages consisting of 24 plays, scored seven touchdowns to their opponents one, taking a pair of victories and a draw at Stan Kee Field at Carrollton High School on Friday night.
THS opened play against the host Carrollton Trojans, completely dominating their MRVC opponent with a run-stuffing defense that allowed zero first downs, while the offense racked up three scores, on a one yard plunge by Sam Gibson, a six yard connection from Coleman Griffin to Brayden Hughs, followed by a 40 yard touchdown scamper from Ian Elbert.
The toughest scrimmage of the night for the Bulldogs came against a familiar foe, as Grand River Conference rival South Harrison gave up only one touchdown to Trenton, that coming on a 11 yard run by junior Gabe Novak. Trenton’s defense was strong against the Bethany side, but a quirky play in which South Harrison’s Hunter Ackley stayed upright after the Trenton defense believed a tackle was made ended with the ball at the Trenton 1. Ackley would go on to cross the goal line on a 1 yard plunge for a South Harrison score.
Moving into the third scrimmage, the Bulldogs finished their night with a flourish, working some back-ups in against Lexington and overwhelming the Minutemen, scoring four touchdowns to Lexington’s none. Coleman Griffin hit Tucker Otto for a long scoring pass, Brayden Hughs added his second touchdown of the night, while Sam Gibson scored on a 40 yard touchdown run and Griffin hit Mason Rongey with a 40 yard touchdown pass on back-to-back plays.
Sports Director Tom Johnson caught up with THS head coach in Kevin Hixson as the night’s action came to its conclusion:
The Bulldogs proved to be very effective in making big plays defensively, with Gabe Novak grabbing interceptions against South Harrison and Carrollton. Trenton looked noticeably stronger and quicker, while laying a number of ringing hits with its defensive scheme throughout the season warm-up.
Trenton will open the season on Friday, August 27th, traveling to Brookfield to take on the rival Bulldogs at Burlington Field. The home opener for THS will be Friday, September 2nd against the Lathrop Mules.
