Unbeaten Coldwater Secures Thrilling Victory Against Versailles
In a captivating Midwest Athletic Conference showdown on Friday night, undefeated Coldwater delivered an impressive performance against Versailles, claiming a 21-14 victory with a stunning late touchdown. The game showcased the exceptional skills of Coldwater’s play-making receivers, and also highlighted the unexpected running prowess of junior quarterback Baylen Blockberger.
Versailles anticipated the challenge of containing Coldwater’s receivers, but they were taken aback by Blockberger’s running ability. With a wet football in his hands, Blockberger made a split-second decision to tuck it under his arm, lower his shoulder, and embark on a remarkable 5-yard run to secure a crucial touchdown in the fourth quarter. Coldwater’s coach, Chip Otten, expressed his surprise at Blockberger’s audacious move, stating, He freelanced it. That’s the hardest run I’ve ever seen him make.
Blockberger’s impact extended beyond his running triumph. In the second quarter, he threw a 9-yard touchdown pass to A.J. Harlamert, giving Coldwater a 7-0 lead. He followed it up with a 16-yard touchdown pass to Braylen Harlamert in the third quarter, extending Coldwater’s advantage to 14-0.
However, Versailles refused to back down. The Tigers launched a spirited comeback, tying the score within a span of five minutes. Tigers quarterback Michael Osborne orchestrated a 43-yard pass to Lane Bergman, setting up Joel Gehret’s touchdown on the next play from the Coldwater 1-yard line. Eager to seize the momentum, Versailles opted for a two-point conversion, allowing Osborne to score, and leveling the playing field.
The Tigers maintained their momentum by forcing Coldwater into a quick three-and-out, and Osborne once again proved his value. He connected with A.J. Griesdorn for an impressive 42-yard play, eventually resulting in Osborne’s 15-yard touchdown run on a fourth-and-2 play. Unfortunately for Versailles, Coldwater managed to block the extra point, keeping the score tied.
Versailles had a remarkable opportunity in the fourth quarter, positioning themselves favorably. However, a critical error occurred when the ball slipped free during an Osborne-to-Gehret handoff at the Coldwater 26-yard line, with just 4:28 left on the clock. This fumble proved costly for Versailles, adding to their early game misfortunes when they also fumbled on their opening drive at the Coldwater 8-yard line.
Reflecting on the mistakes made, Versailles coach Ryan Jones acknowledged their significance, stating, Those are big things obviously, but those aren’t the only mistakes that we made. If you want to win this type of game, you can’t lose the turnover battle. But I know our guys will bounce back.
In terms of individual performances, Osborne showcased his versatility by amassing 106 rushing yards on 15 carries, while Gehret contributed 58 rushing yards on 18 carries. Osborne also completed 8 of 16 passes for 145 yards. Blockberger, on the other hand, displayed his passing prowess by effectively distributing the ball and completing 14 of 25 passes for 163 yards. Coldwater received a significant boost from Jack Ebbing, who impressed with 97 rushing yards on 11 carries. Notably, Coldwater outgained Versailles with a total of 377 yards compared to Versailles’ 310 yards.
Coach Otten shared his perspective on the game, emphasizing the clash between Coldwater’s power run game and Versailles’ playmakers, noting, It turned out about like I thought.
As both teams reflect on this intense matchup, it stands as a testament to the determination and abilities displayed by Coldwater to secure their unbeaten status. Versailles, despite the loss, remains resilient and determined to bounce back stronger. This game serves as a reminder of the unpredictability and excitement offered by high school football, leaving spectators eagerly awaiting the next chapter in this compelling season.
