Nov. 2 – INDIAN LAKE
It’s not final, but the Buccs appear to be headed to the state playoffs. Unless some computer malfunctions or a miracle happens, the Buccs are in. This after a 41-0 shutout of Indian Lake and a 9-0-1 season.
The game was dominated by Covington from the outset. The Buccaneers rushed for a total of 169 yards, 120 in the first half, while Indian Lake managed only 20 yards on the ground.
The first score of the game was a 15-yard run by Jeff Cain. Shortly after, Rick Schmidt broke away for a 60-yard punt return and just like that, the Buccs were up 14-0.
With 4:00 left in the first period Covington struck again. Cain pounded in from 8 yards out for a 21-0 lead. A few minutes later Dave Tobias hooked up with Phil Reck for 53 yards and a 28-0 first quarter lead.
With the game well in hand, Covington coach Larrie Tisdale rotated players in the second quarter, but the results were the same. Rick Schmidt scored on his second punt return of the night, this time from 65 yards out to make the score 35-0 at the half.
The Buccs put one more score on the board on the first play of the second half. Kevin Finfrock took the kickoff and outran everyone 91 yards for the touchdown and a 41-0 Buccaneer win.
The Buccs finish the regular season at 9-0-1 and now wait to find out the results from the computer points system to determine their playoff fate. The Buccs have been here before, only to be turned away by the system. It’s something coach Tisdale isn’t taking for granted.
“In 1973 we were 10-0 and had a very strong team, but we didn’t go,” said Tisdale. “We finished behind Middletown Fenwick in the ratings. I’ve finished behind Middletown Fenwick on three different occasions. If we go to state it will be a bigger thrill than winning the conference. It’s a once in a lifetime shot.”
Scoring by Quarters:
Covington…….28…..7….6….0 – 41
Indian Lake……0…..0….0….0 – 0
Team Yardage:
Covington – 169 rushing, 54 passing
Indian Lake – 127 rushing, 27 passing
Scoring Summary:
COVINGTON – Jeff Cain, 15-yard run (Tobias kick)
COVINGTON – Rick Schmidt, 60-yard run (Tobias kick)
COVINGTON – Jeff Cain, 8-yard run (Tobias kick)
COVINGTON – Phil Reck, 54-yard pass from dave Tobias (Tobias kick)
COVINGTON – Rick Schmidt, 77-yard punt return (Jim Smith kick)
COVINGTON – Kevin Finfrock, 94-yard run (kick failed)