Lions roar past Cross Plains, 59–8

Albany shook off an early defensive mistake and scored 33 points in the second quarter Friday to beat Cross Plains 59–8, setting up this week’s district matchup at Stamford.

The Lions trailed 8–7 after one quarter but took a 40–8 lead into halftime. Albany held the Buffaloes scoreless over the final three quarters while piling up 497 yards of offense.

“We really controlled the line of scrimmage,” coach Denney Faith said. “We did a lot of good things in our passing game as well.”

Jakobi Roberson rushed for 142 yards and four touchdowns on 16 carries, while Aiden Vickers caught three passes for 139 yards and three touchdowns. Clay Chapman completed seven of 14 passes for 189 yards and four touchdowns, with one interception.

Faith said improved pass protection and an effective running game helped the Lions take control. Albany finished with 308 rushing yards, with Lyle Wheeler adding 65 yards and a touchdown on 13 carries. Chapman and Sam Tidwell each rushed for 47 yards.

The Lions recorded 25 first downs, converted eight of 11 third-down attempts and did not punt.

Faith also credited the previous week’s open date with helping players recover from minor bumps and bruises before returning to action.

Defensively, Albany limited Cross Plains to four first downs and 151 total yards, including just 10 through the air. The Buffaloes completed one of 11 passes and lost two fumbles.

Faith said the early touchdown came from a lapse in discipline against Cross Plains’ option offense. After that play, the Lions settled into their assignments.

“We settled down,  and did a good job with our option responsibility,” Faith said, “taking care of the dive, the quarterback, and the pitch.”

Chapman’s recognition of defensive looks helped Albany on offense. Faith praised the quarterback for staying within himself and checking down when necessary, including plays involving Roberson. He said checks between Chapman and Vickers also helped produce some of the receiver’s big gains.

Vickers’ longest reception covered 64 yards. Wesley Gleitz caught a 21-yard touchdown pass, Blake Britting had two receptions for 13 yards and Roberson added a 16-yard catch.

Albany added 12 points in the third quarter and seven in the fourth to complete the victory.

The Lions now travel to Stamford for a 7 p.m. kickoff Friday. The Bulldogs are 4–2 overall and have won both district games, beating Miles 69–7 and Hamlin 56–0.

Stamford has won three straight, beginning with a 27–7 victory over Cisco, and has outscored those opponents 152–14.

“They’ve got athletes,” Faith said. “All their skill positions are very aggressive.”

Faith said Albany will need to maintain good defensive positioning against Stamford’s offense.