I knew this game was going to be close, as Kyle said leading up to the game and after, Sentinel is a good football team. Sentinel and Flathead would come into this game with a game not necessarily a must win, but both teams did not want to drop their 2nd game in a row. Both teams are teams that could find themselves in a deep run come November.
Last week I ended my story with a Rocky Balboa movie quote "It's not about how hard you hit but how hard you can get hit and keep moving forward". The Braves would take a few early punches that could have knocked them out. An Ortt to Dewaltt 87 yard TD pass and another TD pass from Ortt to Syvrud from eight yards out. Down fourteen points the Braves were feeling some Deja Vu after last week being down as much as 21 in the 1st quarter. The Braves would settle into the game with the battering ram Blake Counts. The first two scoring drives would be set up though by Jaden MacNiel's arm and the hands of Anthony Jones. Jones would come up with 3 big catches on 3rd down to extend drives, Jaden and the offense made Sentinel respect the passing game as Coach Kyle Samson used the passing game at the right times to keep Sentinel guessing. I don't have the stats, but I know it was a good day at the office in the passing game for Flathead. Jaden MacNiel continues to improve as QB and he is fun to watch as much as call. Kyle is using Jones skill set in so many ways whether its out wide or in the back field. This team also doesn't quit. On a play several plays looked dead for the braves but guys found ways to get more yards because of their second effort.
Blake Counts had another big night, granted this is becoming the norm for the senior tailback. So maybe it is not a big night but just another night at the office as he made some big runs and setup Flathead in 2nd and short situations. Counts according to 406mtsports had 28 carries and 258 yards rushing to go with his three touchdowns. Blake's biggest run was 71 yards for a score. Counts has shown break away speed with several runs over 20 yards already and two touchdown runs over 65 yards. The great thing about the senior back is that he is quick to give credit to his offensive line and wide receivers for their blocking.
The Flathead Braves defense gave up too many points to DC Matt Upham's liking but that defensive line and at times blitzing linebackers made Ortt's night difficult. Ortt was getting pressured and having to move outside the pocket. He was hit several times and taken down for I believe 3 sacks, and a few pass deflections by braves defensive lineman. Junior defensive end Gannon Welder came up with a big sack that would force Sentinel to kick a field goal that would eventually get blocked by MacNiel. The Braves defense forced seven 3rd down stops. The Braves defense still searching for a turnover but I do not think it will be much longer.
The Braves special teams came up with big plays. Chance Sheldon Allen had the first field goal block that would setup the first opportunity for the Braves to take the lead 28-21 early in the fourth. He had a 95 yard KR for a touchdown a few weeks ago. Allen showing his play making ability. Jaden MacNiel would make the play that would seal victory for Flathead with his field goal block at the end of the game with twenty seconds left. The kid is a gamer, baller, playmaker, shotcaller and yes in that Skip Bayless voice. I also want to give a ton of credit to Tanner Russell who is making plays on Kick-off coverage not allowing returners to get past the 20 too often.
We saw the Braves respond from a 21 point deficit and fight their way back into the game. They had to fight their way back into this game down 14. They gained their bearings and started throwing hay makers of their own. They got hit and they kept moving forward. I always say a team needs adverse situations that will help them down the road. This is one of those times that pay off in the win column but will also pay off later in the season. The Braves now get ready for Crosstown against Glacier. Another big fight that will be at legends stadium.
(Photo Courtesy of Art Anderson)