Western Courier

Issue date: 4/21/08 Section: Sports

Media Credit: Adam Sacasa Senior running back Herb Donaldson breaks through a tackle during Saturday's scrimmage on his way to 72 yards on 12 carries.

The annual Leatherneck football scrimmage saw the defense fall to the offense 27-24, despite keeping them out of the end zone the entire contest.

The new scoring system put points on the board for first downs on offense and three-and-out series on defense, which allowed the offense to edge out the victory. Taylor Rowan nailed the game-winning 42-yard field goal with less than a minute left to give the offense the lead for good.

Prior to the game, coach Don Patterson said the depth at offensive line was a concern. Although the offense did not reach the end zone, they racked up 168 yards on the ground.

"Well, it looked like they competed pretty hard," Patterson said. "We were able to grind out some first downs and you tend to play to win the game, so I think a lot of first downs helped us. They know we have to be better in the red zone and try to get in the end zone."

Senior running back Herb Donaldson tallied 72 yards on 12 carries. Donaldson and junior running back Dre Gibbs shared the load, with Gibbs picking up 60 yards on 16 carries for the second team offense.

"(Gibbs) really ran hard today and got a lot of yards," Patterson said. "He protected the ball and showed that he's a good football player. He really complements (Donaldson) well. They have a similar style, so that was good."

The offense seemed to move the ball well all game on the ground but could not muster much success in the air. Sophomore quarterback Matt Barr played with the first team offense and completed 8-of-15 passes for 71 yards while senior Zack Wells converted 5-of-10 pass attempts for 41 yards. Both signal callers threw an interception in the game as well.

"Tough to call it. They both threw a pick, but they executed the game plan pretty well," Patterson said. "We didn't ask them to do a whole lot. I would say that Barr has the edge, but I do feel that Zack Wells is a very capable back-up quarterback."

Although the defense gave up significant yardage on the ground, overall it had a good day. The defense forced three turnovers (two INTs, one FF) and never allowed the offense to score.

Senior linebacker Jason Williams led the effort with 10 tackles and one tackle for loss. Junior linebacker Brandon Kreczmer was impressive as well with nine tackles and a sack for the defense.

"I thought the defense did good. I think we know we gave up too many yards on the ground," Patterson said. "We forced three turnovers and didn't allow the offense to score, so I was pleased with that."

The scrimmage concludes the spring season and showcased the majority of the roster for the fall.

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