Two weeks ago Chillicothe was looking at a possible repeat FAC championship and maybe hosting a playoff game. Back to back home losses (both 20-7) to Washington Court House and to Jackson eliminated those opportunities for the Cavaliers.
Friday night Jackson came into Herrnstein Field and controlled the line of scrimmage to take a 20-7 victory over Chillicothe and give the Ironman a share of the FAC championship with Hillsboro, along with a playoff birth.
For the second week in a row, the Cavs struggled with their rushing attack, running for only 61 yards. Chillicothe did not have any turnovers but a special team mistake set up Jackson’s first score.
The Cavaliers snapped a low bouncer to their punter and JJ Harris had to pick it up at the Chillicothe 5. Harris almost picked up a first down, but Jackson took over at the Cavalier 26
.Icenhower ran in a quarterback keeper from 6 yards out and the Ironman led 6-0 after one period.
Chillicothe went three and out on their first three possessions. Jackson appeared to be stopped on a second quarter drive but a double personal foul on a Cavalier player gave the Ironman a first down at the Chillicothe 11.
Spires went the final 11 and Jackson led 13-0 after a PAT kick.The Cavaliers tried a fake punt, came up with big QB sacks by Nick Erslan, but ended three quarters still down 13-0.
Jackson hit a 51 yard touchdown pass with 5 minutes remaining. The Cavs answered with Adrian Beverly hitting Harris on a swing pass and J’Quan outrunning the defense for a 46 yard Chillicothe score.
Chillicothe was outgained 303 to 136 on the evening. Coach Ron Hinton felt the defense gave a great effort but the offense could not get it going.
Chillicothe loses 17 seniors who are disappointed losing these final two games but finish (7-3) and leave a a long list of accomplishments.
Jackson finishes (7-3) and (4-1) co-champs of the FAC. It also looks like the Ironman are headed to the playoffs for the second year in a row.
Greg Bigam and Dana Cousins play-byplay call on News Radio WBEX can be found on our podcast link below...