Lion Defense Bends But Doesn't Break, LIVINGSTON, September 24, 2011 - The Livingston Lions faced what many said would be their biggest test this year on Friday, September 23, 2011 when they squared off with Port Neches-Groves in Lion Stadium. The Lion defense stepped up when they had to and took care of business in a game that was close until the fourth quarter when the Indians lost control and the bottom fell out. The Indians ran the ball and passed as their offense showed good balance. But the Lion defense forced several turnovers including fumbles and 2 interceptions by defensive back Bryant McClendon. Defensive End Kade Burman plagued the PN-G backfield throughout the evening while the middle of the line was clogged up. While the defense did bend and give up a few passes, when push came to shove they stepped up and stiffened up.
On the offensive side of the ball the Lion ground attack ultimately lead to PN-G's undoing. The usual cast of Chevoski Collins, Antonio White, and lately Kyle Neal put on a great show, but this night belonged to Devante "The Bull" Mays. Mays' clutch runs was the dagger in the heart of the Indians. The Bull had touchdown runs of 65, 35, 25, and 5 yards. At halftime the game was tied at 14. In the second half, the Lions scored two touchdowns went up 27 to 14 (we missed the extra point) and things started feeling comfortable. Then the Indians scored a touchdown, then got an onside kick and scored another touchdown and briefly took the lead 28 to 27. Everytime it looked like PN-G might make a game of it, The Bull would step in and squash their hopes. Containing the Lion running attack is an arduous, daunting task for any defense. When you factor in quarterback Chevoski Collins' ability to take a busted play and turn it into a huge gain it almost makes you feel sorry for our opponents (almost).
Lions Pull Way Ahead in the Stretch... In the 4th quarter, the defense forced clutch turnovers and the offense was able to capitalize. By time the dust cleared the Lions passed this test that so many were talking about and passed with flying colors. Lions 42, Indians 28.
I feel guilty writing this column as there are many names on this Lion team that I haven't even mentioned who make this team great. The 2011 Livingston Lions look like the real deal. Next game is September 30 at Beaumont Central. Another test for the Lions. The Jaguars always play smash mouth football and have no intentions of being hospitable to their guests when the Lions roll into town. The Lions need your support. Make it a fun outing for your family and come support the Lions. It's cheap and the Lions do it up big time! - Willie Openshaw, Editor
Devante Mays personally dashed any hopes the PN-G Indians had of winning the game.
Brodrick Harrell breaks up an Indian pass.
A Perilous Troublemaker: Defensive end Kade Burman leaps to block a pass.
Burman is a menacing nuisance.
The Lion D forced turnovers when they were needed most.
Quarterback Chevoski Collins (14) surveys the defense.
Quarterback Chevoski Collins is escorted by Blayne Elster.
Cole Galloway (67) and Blayne Elster pave the way for a Lion ball carrier.
The Lion D recovers another forced fumble.
Devante Mays cruises to the endzone on a 65 yard touchdown run.
The referees were a tad oversensitive and were making Head Coach Randy Rowe see red.
Running Back Kyle Neal rips off a 30 yard gain.
Running back Antonio White runs for yardage.
Mays carries the ball for the Lions.
Bryant McClendon returns an interception 55 yards. This play killed any slim hopes the Indians had of making a comeback.
Devante Mays had a very productive evening.
On a side note: I always look forward to playing PN-G. The spirit that the entire organiziation brings from the fans to the players, band, mascot and the entire show is just fun to watch. I have nothing but respect for the PN-G Indians. Their fans and players are an absolute class act, their spirit is contagious, and they have a heck of good football program. - Editor
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