The Collinwood High School Trojans football season came to an end on Friday with a crushing loss to the McKenzie Rebels by the score of 43-0. While most of the schools in our area are getting ready for basketball season, the Trojans were continuing their 50th football season in the 2nd round of playoffs. Unfortunately, the men in green ran into one of the top teams in the state.
Collinwood received the ball first to open the game and moved for a couple of first downs. Fletcher Thompson hooked up with Nick Sanderson on a 26-yard pass inside Rebel territory. A long halfback pass from Blake Whitten to Sanderson looked to set up the Trojans inside the red zone, but the play was called back by a holding penalty. Another penalty and some negative plays forced Collinwood to punt, and things went downhill from there. As the Rebels were driving, Sanderson made a tackle and was injured and left the game. The entire stadium was concerned as he was taken to a medical facility as a precaution, but it was later learned that he would be okay.
The Rebels poured it on after that as they built a 29-0 halftime lead, and most of the 2nd half featured a running clock with the mercy rule in effect. The Rebels are a good defensive team to begin with, but with Sanderson out of the game, Collinwood had no success in the passing game and McKenzie was able to stop the Trojans’ powerful running game and completely shut them down. The Trojans were only able to amass 57 yards of offense on the night while McKenzie piled up 333. Giving the Rebels all the credit in the world, this team will be hard to beat on any night. But, the Trojans were not at their best on this night.
Collinwood finishes the season 7-4, the most wins in a season since they went 9-3 in 2012. Trojans head coach Boyce Dixon, although disappointed with the outcome, was pleased with the success that they had this season. “I’m happy with the way the guys worked hard all year and never stopped trying to get better,” said Dixon. “Winning in the playoffs and winning more than we have in over a decade is a lot to build on. I’m looking forward to where we can go in the future.”
The Trojans will say goodbye to 12 Seniors who gave their all for the green and white. With many experienced players returning and a fine coaching staff, there should still be many exciting and competitive games in the future. Thanks to all of the support that these young men received all season long and thanks to each player and coach for making the 50th season of Collinwood Trojans Football one to remember.—Submitted
Photos Courtesy of Shannon West
