Pioneer offense proves too much for Mercer to control
Mercer County quarterback Ashton Drakeford was comfortable in the pocket and looking downfield during Mercer County’s 61-40 loss to Simon Kenton on Friday, Aug. 30. (The Harrodsburg Herald/Samuel Warren)
Samuel Warren
Herald Staff
[email protected]
In similar fashion to their week one win over Dixie Heights, the Simon Kenton Pioneers (2-0) offense put on a show when they faced the Mercer County Titans (0-2) at the Falling Springs Center on Friday, Aug. 30.
The opening kickoff bounced off the chest of Jayden Sailor and eventually bounced into the opponents’ hands. Despite the Pioneers being gifted excellent field position, a big hit from Landon Yates on first and 10 and a sack from J.J. Goodman on the next play kept Simon Kenton out of the end zone.
On the ensuing drive, the Titans were set to move the chains on fourth and one but a false start forced a punting situation. The defensive line held strong in the ground game and Sam Horn split a double team and slung the ball-carrier down for a loss of one yard. One play later Goodman bolted around the edge and smacked the quarterback again, but not before he released a 45-yard heave down the middle of the field. Pioneer receiver Tysin Weaver climbed a ladder to catch the contested ball and move the chains. The play was the beginning of a long night for the Titans’ secondary. The Pioneers’ offense was moving at tremendous speed and with Weaver making plays in the flat, Simon Kenton was eventually able to pick up yards on the ground behind quarterback Brady Lee and the read-option. The defense got carried away anticipating the run and left Weaver uncovered for the Pioneers’ opening score. Ashton Drakeford responded in a big way on the ensuing kickoff. The junior received the kick on the ten yard line, followed some strong blocking and eventually cut across midfield to reach the endzone. With 5:15 remaining in the opening quarter, Mercer trailed 8-7.
