By Dusty Donley
The high-octane Ada offense returned to form last Saturday afternoon as the Bulldogs traveled to Lima Stadium and pummeled former league rival LCC, 35-13.
BOX SCORE AND MORE PHOTOS AT BOTTOM OF STORY -
Bulldog receiver Chase Sumner had a career day, snagging 14 receptions for 174 yards and 2 scores, helping to keep the Thunderbirds winless for the year. The Bulldog victory moves them to 2-1 on the season, ranking sixth in the division 7, region 28 computer polls.
Neither team found the end zone in the first quarter, but Conley and the Bulldog offense opened the floodgates in the second, scoring three times. The barrage began with just over 10 minutes to play when Conley hit senior Mason Klingler over the middle for a 38 yard score. Aaron Everhart's extra point gave the Bulldogs a 7-0 lead.
On the ensuing Thunderbird drive, Ethan Swaney intercepted LCC quarterback Brendan Stolley and returned it to the Bulldog 21. Conley took advantage on the next play, as the junior gunslinger hit Chase Sumner with a pretty 21 yard touchdown toss. Everhart's extra point pushed the Ada lead to 14-0.
After turnovers from both teams, Stolley and the LCC offense were finally able to get on the board when the freshman quarterback hit Javon Robinson on a short screen pass. The speedy back made a move and turned on the jets, racing 89 yards to the house. Steve Taflinger's point after attempt was good, narrowing the Ada lead to 14-7 with just under 7 minutes to play in the first half.
The Bulldogs would respond with an 8 play, 70 yard drive that resulted in a 16 yard, Seth Conley quarterback keeper. Everhart's third successful extra point of the quarter gave the Bulldogs a 21-7 halftime lead.
Ada started the second half the way they ended the first, lighting up the scoreboard with two more touchdowns in the third quarter. A Jackson Conrad interception set up the first Bulldog score, a rumbling 5 yard run from Mason Klingler. Everhart's PAT was good, ballooning the Ada lead to 28-7.
After solid defense gave them the ball right back, the Bulldog offense would once again march down the field with ease, scoring on a 12 yard Conley to Sumner touchdown strike. Everhart's final extra point kick was good, giving the Bulldogs a comfortable 35-7 lead.
The Thunderbirds would add a late score in the fourth, giving us a 35-13 final.
Ada amassed 357 yards of total offense to LCC's 186. The Bulldogs had a definite advantage in the passing game, throwing for 315 yards to LCC's 152. The Bulldog defense added 3 interceptions on the day.
Bulldog quarterback Seth Conley was 26 of 36 for 316 yards passing and 3 scores. He also added 34 yards rushing and a touchdown.
Chase Sumner led the receivers with 14 grabs for 174 yards and 2 scores. Mason Klingler added 3 catches for 72 yards and a score and Owen Conley pulled down 6 balls for 52 yards.
The Bulldogs take on league rival Spencerville (2-1) this Friday night at War Memorial Stadium. The Bearcats are coming off a 49-0 drubbing of Holgate. Their only loss was a 34-7 opening week thrashing at the hands of Patrick Henry. Game time is 7:00.
All photos below by Sue Mattson
