Three Mitchell backs combine for 325 yards rushing in a 40-8 win.
By BOB PUTNAM
Published October 2, 2004
NEW PORT RICHEY - Relying on the running of Spencer Brown, J.J. Campbell and D.J. Crosby, Mitchell's offense moved only one way against Ridgewood: forward.
The three rushed for a combined 325 yards as the Mustangs pounded out a 40-8 victory.
With a 3-1 record, Mitchell has already equaled last year's win total and is off to its best start.
"We felt like we could have success running tonight," Mitchell coach Scott Schmitz said. "We were a little quicker on the outside with J.J. and D.J. and thought we could get around the end on sweeps. Then Brown could pound it up the middle."
The strategy was effective early as the Mustangs set the tone on their opening possession, marching 33 yards on three plays, all runs. Brown capped the drive with an 8-yard burst for a score.
The running game proved so effective that quarterback Chris Watts, who was effective throwing the ball last week against Hudson, did not attempt a pass in the first half.
Brown scored on another 8-yard run in the second quarter and Campbell added two more touchdowns on runs of 9 and 26 yards as Mitchell built a 26-0 halftime lead.
After a 40-minute delay due to lightning, the second half began with more of the same. Crosby scored on a 9-yard run in the third quarter. Brown scored his third touchdown of the night on a 3-yard run in the fourth quarter to round out the scoring.
Ahead 40-0, Schmitz emptied his bench. The reserves allowed the Rams lone score as David Williams went 45 yards for a touchdown and ran in the two-point conversion.
"We wanted the goose egg, but overall we're pleased with the result," Schmitz said. "We did a good job, ran the sweep well, blocked well and the defense had their third good effort in a row."
