By Dusty Donley
Four costly turnovers spelled disaster for Ada as the football Bulldogs traveled to Paulding last Friday night and were defeated by the Panthers, 35-0. Ada’s fourth conference loss in a row drops them to 1-4 in the N.W.C. and 2-6 overall.
Paulding built a 21-0 first half lead behind an opportunistic defense that finished the game with two interceptions and two fumble recoveries in the shutout.
Both teams were evenly matched in total offense, as the Panthers slightly outgained the Bulldogs, 295 yards to 204. Along with the turnovers, penalties were also costly for Ada as the Bulldogs were flagged nine times for 95 yards, compared to Paulding’s three for 35.
Ada junior quarterback Phillip Coulson finished the game 8 of 17 for 83 yards, 2 interceptions and no touchdowns. The junior signal caller led the Bulldogs in rushing as he ran for 79 yards on 19 carries.
The Bulldogs go on the road this Friday night to take on conference rival Bluffton. The Pirates (2-6, 1-4 N.W.C.) are coming off a 47-0 loss to Spencerville. Behind 450 yards and five touchdowns from quarterback Seth Conley, the Bulldogs cruised to a 42-17 victory over Bluffton last season. Game time is 7 pm.
