Box Score Firestorm start conference play with a huge win
The Firestorm traveled to Plainview, TX to take on the Pioneers of Wayland Baptist for their first ever CSFL conference game. It was a cool and wet afternoon when the team took the field, but that did not stop the Firestorm from putting on an offensive display.
The Firestorm started by punishing the Pioneers with a strong running attack, led by senior running back PJ Sparks. ACU's first drive was stalled inside the red zone, but the defense forced a quick three and out. ACU came back on offense and 3 plays later Gerrit Groenewold found Rodrick Griffin on a 25 yard pass to put the Firestorm up 7-0. The Pioneers would come right back and even up the score to start the 2nd quarter. Both teams would put up points just before lightning forced a delay 16 seconds before the end of the first half tied 21-21.
After an hour both teams returned to the field to complete the final 16 seconds and then immediately start the second half.
The Pioneers would take their first lead of the game in the 3rd quarter on a 19 yard field goal, but that would be the only lead for them in the game. The Firestorm came right back, this time Gerrit Groenewold would hook up with Malcolm Bailey for the 22 yard strike to gain the lead. The Firestorm would not look back, a late field goal by Derek Brush and a 1 yard score by Nicholas Paogofie would seal the win.
Head Coach Donnie Yantis had this to say about the game, "Today's win was a total team effort. Our first conference win in ACU history. I'm very proud of the character our men displayed today!"
Defensively the Firestorm were led by Justin Barnes and Martin Henderson with 10 solo tackles in the secondary, sacks were recorded by both Dajuan Perryman and Charlie Murphy. Offensively the Firestorm were led by PJ Sparks with 205 yards of rushing, Gerrit Groenewold was 18 of 31 for 242 yards and 4 touchdowns passing, Donovan Smith hauled in 9 receptions for 150 yards and one score.
