Let's get offensive, Jackson

I covered Friday's Jackson football game, and I was surprised by the trouble the Indians had moving the football against Hazelwood Central.

First off, Hazelwood Central is a talented football team. The Hawks had some big guys up front who did a nice job of stuffing the run. Any comments about Jackson's offense must be viewed in that light.

But the Indians couldn't move the ball. They didn't sustain any drives. They went three-and-out four times. Their longest drive play-wise was seven plays, and it ended with a fumble.

The offensive numbers don't look as bleak as they should because Adam Zweigart threw an 88-yard pass to Ethan Ruch on a trick play. The Indians averaged 3.4 yards per rush attempt, and if you take out the 88 yards from the trick play, Jackson gained 126 yards in the game.

Jackson's defense looked sharp in the first half. The Indians limited the Hawks to 137 yards on 25 plays. Hazelwood Central only earned six first downs. In fact, Jackson outgained Hazelwood Central in the first half 142-137. But things changed quickly in the second half. Hazelwood Central dominated in the second half, gaining 247 yards and recording nine first downs. The Hawks averaged 6.3 yards per carry in the second half.

It will be interesting to see how Jackson responds Friday when Farmington comes to town. The Black Knights are a talented team that will provide another stiff test for Jackson.