By Dusty Donley
A 25 point first half deficit was too much for Ada to overcome as the visiting Arlington Red Devils marched into War Memorial Stadium and defeated the Bulldogs 37-6. The first loss of the Shawn Christopher era drops the Dogs to 1-1 on the season.
Arlington struck twice in the opening quarter. The first score came on a 5-yard Carter Essinger run. Moments later, quarterback Jacob Russell connected with Jaret Vermillion on a 57-yard catch and carry. Both extra point attempts were no good, leaving the Red Devils ahead 12-0 at the end of the first.
Arlington extended their lead in the second quarter. Early on, Russell would again use his arm, this time connecting with Ivan Berry for a 32-yard score. Ryan Metzger’s point after kick was no good. With under 30 seconds to play before the half, Russell would find Berry once again, this time on a 13-yard score. Metzger’s point after kick was good, giving the Red Devils a comfortable 25-0 first half lead.
The Bulldogs would add their only score of the contest early on in the third quarter as dual-threat Sophomore quarterback Brandon Hull would scramble in for a 19 yard touchdown. The two-point conversion attempt was no good, bringing the score to 25-6 with just over eight minutes to play in the third.
Ada would never get any closer as Arlington would add two more scores over the remainder of the game, leaving us with a 37-6 final.
The Red Devils had the advantage in total offense, outgaining the Bulldogs 340 yards to 194.
Bulldog quarterback Brandon Hull finished the game 9 of 19 for 110 yards, no touchdowns and an interception. He added 17 yards on the ground and a score.
Phillip Coulson led the receivers with 7 grabs for 99 yards.
The Bulldogs take the show on the road next Saturday night as they travel to face Lima Central Catholic. The Thunderbirds (2-0) are coming off a 20-10 victory over Delphos St. John’s. Game time is 7 pm.
