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2003 Hoppers Championships: Loudon vs. RicevilleLoudon 18 - Riceville 0Article by Jeff McQueen
Can you say four-peat? The Loudon Hopper Machine (11-0) is the #1 seed and will battle the Riceville Wildcats (9-2) for the league crown. The game was held at the old Polk County High School. Loudon defeated Riceville, 18-0, in week #5 of the regular season. The Hoppers won the toss and wanted the ball! The game started with the Hoppers earning two first downs before bogging down. The 'Cat "D" forced a Hopper punt. Our own Loudon Hoppers can play a little "Defense" of their own. After a three and out series by Rice, the Hopper offense was back in business. The first period came and went scoreless. To open the second quarter, the Hoppers started an 11 play drive that culminated in a six yard plunge by #36 Trey Townsend. After drawing first blood, the clock showed 5:29 left in the first half. A big hit by #2 Ryan McNabb caused the Wildcats to fumble on their next possession, #79 Jefferson McQueen alertly pounced on the loose ball. Loudon turned the turnover into points, as they promptly marched down the field. #39 Caleb Russell tossed a 12 yard halfback pass to #83 Taylor “The Brewster” Watson. A run by #39 Russell for eight yards and then #36 Townsend scores his second touchdown of the day on a four yard blast. At the half, the Hoppers coast into the locker room, by the score of 12 to nothing. In the third stanza, both teams jockeyed for field position, but neither team could break the ice. On to the fourth period. The Wildcats were on the march, but fumbled again. Guess who's on the loose ball... #79 Jefferson McQueen thwarting a Riceville scoring opportunity. First and 10, Loudon Hoppers. A six play drive almost exhausted the clock before #21 Zach Sellers scored from 24 yards out. #72 Tyler Walters attempted two extra point kicks, both were blocked. The offensive player of the game was #21 Zach Sellers, #36 Trey Townsend earned top defensive honors. The Hoppers had 175 yards rushing on 34 carries and (3) TD's; and one pass completion for 12 yards. Total offense was 187 yards. The Loudon Hoppers (12-0) have a dream season and post their fourth straight league Championship! and earning a 47-1 record in the process. Head Coach David Matlock addressed the team and a crowd of parents after the game; he thanked the Assistant Coaches, players, and parents for their effort, support, and their never-quit attitude.
Final score, 18-0, Loudon Hoppers (12-0).
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