St. Joseph Central Catholic struggled to sustain drives and generate stops.
It was an impossible combination for the Crimson Streaks to overcome in a 53-14 setback to visiting St. Mary Central Catholic in a matchup of unbeaten teams, to determine the Northern 8 Conference champion.
"We knew they were very good; they didn't do anything we haven't seen," SJCC coach Josh Wehring said. "They don't do anything fancy — they run a couple things very well. Our weakness is tackling, and protecting the quarterback.
"There are two things you can do with adversity, feel sorry for yourselves or rally."
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SMCC finished first in the conference last season. It's possible that the teams will meet again in the postseason this year. The Crimson Streaks are certainly hoping so.
"Sure they would," Wehring said. "I would; when you get beat by (39) points, obviously they'd like a rematch. That's no guarantee. One practice at a time."
SJCC scored first against the Panthers, as Andrew Spieldenner caught a touchdown pass from Zach Ohms. Spieldenner had a reception for 30 yards and Liam Thiessen caught a pass.
SMCC scored the next 39 points, before Thiessen caught a touchdown pass in the fourth quarter. He broke a couple long kickoff returns that didn't lead to scores.
"He's probably the best player I've coached," Wehring said of Thiessen. "He does it on special teams, offense and defense. He's quiet; he's a leader."
The Crimson Streaks were without Anderson Gill, who was defensive player of the year in the N8C last season. He drew a targeting penalty in Week 9.
"It was significant," Wehring said. "It's not like we have a plug and play. It wasn't easy — we're not going to make excuses."
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This article originally appeared on Fremont News-Messenger: SJCC has tough time with visiting SMCC