The Owen-Withee Blackhawks wasted little time in taking care of business Friday evening vs the Wausau Newman Cardinals. With a smothering defense and an offense of big plays, the Hawks rolled to a 52-0 win in the North Central–East conference opener for both teams.
The defense was led by Clay Mueller’s two pick sixes and Will Simenson’s 11 tackle performances. In addition to their big night, Crandon Dallman was a real force at the defensive end position along with Talon Mueller’s level of physicality he brought to the table. In the first half, the Hawks held the Cardinals to 22 rushing yards and 14 passing yards totally dominating the line of scrimmage and taking away the Cardinal’s ability to get to the edge.
Offensively, the Hawks had touchdown runs of 44, 50, 29, 36, and a one-yard quarterback sneak. The Mueller backfield of Talon with 104 yards on nine carries and Clay with 74 yards on three carries was too much speed and athleticism for the Cardinal defense. Isaiah Pyrchalla did a good job of managing and hiding the football as he carried out his fakes. Credit the tight-end play of Dallman and Tegan Treankler for giving us the edge and making big third level blocks.
It was great to see the underclassmen respond as well as they did in what for many was their first varsity action. Playing the entire second half, the younger players put up a goose egg defensively and with limited reps offensively showed they could move the ball.
The Blackhawks will take on the Gilman Pirates Friday night in a big conference showdown. Kick-off is at 7:00 in Owen-Withee. The Owen-Withee Booster Club will be hosting a tailgate benefit for the family of Adam Mssman before the game. Come out and support the Hawks and the Massman family of Alma Center.