Lions stifle Roscoe, set sights on district title
The Albany Lions closed out their home schedule in dominant fashion Friday night, shutting out Roscoe 34-0 for their fourth straight district shutout. The victory moves Albany to 7-2 on the season and keeps the Lions perfect in district play heading into this week’s championship matchup at Hamlin.
Albany scored in every phase of the game. After a tight opening quarter, Breylon Billington powered into the end zone for the game’s first touchdown. The Lions added a key special teams play late in the half on a long punt return — a momentum shifter that stretched the lead to 14-0 before the break.
Roscoe committed to loading the box defensively, but the adjustment only opened the passing game. Quarterback Clay Chapman delivered one of his best passing performances of the season, completing 14 of 24 passes for 208 yards and three touchdowns.
“They were determined to keep us from running the football, which allowed us to be able to throw it for over 200 yards,” head coach Denney Faith said.
Senior receiver Huffman Heatly took full advantage on his Senior Night, finishing with eight catches for 109 yards and all three receiving touchdowns, including a 31-yard strike down the sideline to put the Lions firmly in control. Jaxson Street and Calhan Fairchild combined for five additional receptions, keeping the chains moving throughout the night.
While Albany tallied 378 total yards of offense, the Lions’ defense once again set the tone. Roscoe managed just 112 yards passing and 120 rushing, and Albany forced two interceptions along with several key third-down stops.
“That’s four district shutouts in a row, and pretty unprecedented,” Faith said of the scoreless streak. “I think we’re really gelling and peaking at the right time.”
The Lions played far more disciplined than the week prior at Cross Plains, where penalties stalled several drives.
“Our emotions got the best of us then, but this week we were way more controlled and playing the way we usually do,” Faith said.
Friday also marked the final time Albany’s seniors suited up at home. Faith said the significance of the moment wasn’t lost on his team.
“I am really thankful for the seniors,” he said. “Just glad it was a meaningful game and that we played well for those guys.”
With the win, the Lions now turn their attention to Hamlin, who enters with the same unbeaten district record. The winner will be crowned district champion and carry the top playoff seed.
“You’ve got to go there and play them at their place, and that makes it extra hard,” Faith said. “But defense travels well, so I feel good about that.”
Kickoff for the district championship is set for 7:00 p.m. Friday in Hamlin.
