MT. IRON— The Rangers scored early and at-will here last Friday as Mt. Iron-Buhl handed the struggling Timberwolves a shellacking of epic proportions, 83-0.
The outcome was never in doubt as the undefeated Rangers, now 5-0, had been dominating opponents all season. “They’re a really good football team over there,” said Ely Head Coach Louie Gerzin.
The Wolves came into the contest at 0-3, although they had showed offensive spark in their previous match with Cook County, so there was at least hope that they could put a few points on the board.
Yet Ely walked onto the field hampered by injuries, leaving five key starters on the sidelines, including two running backs, their quarterback, center, and safety.
The Rangers took full advantage as they literally scored at will, with help from a short field time and again, taking a 61-0 lead into the break.
“Offensively, we just couldn’t move,” said Gerzin. “It was just three and out each time, so even if we had a good punt, they were starting at midfield.”
With the game quickly out of reach, and with many of his starters sidelined, Gerzin did give some unlikely players opportunities they hadn’t had before. Two of Ely’s linemen, senior Logan Meskill and junior Braydin Mosher, each had two carries from the backfield, good for four and six yards respectively. Other offensive highlights were hard to come by.
On defense, sophomore Brady Eaton stepped up with five tackles.
While the game’s outcome was expected, the final score was disappointing said Gerzin. “Anytime you lose that way is frustrating. But I thought we had a good Monday practice, so I think everyone is ready to move on.”
Indeed, Gerzin said his team was now focused on this Friday’s home game against North Central. “They’re a good football team,” he said. “They’re not going to fool around. They’ll come right at you with their running game. We’re just going to have to match their strength and intensity.”