The final score was 49-28 with Oak Grove the victors, but that does not tell the story.
Late-playoff football in Kentwood is quintessential small-town ball. Not a parking spot free within three blocks of the stadium. Fans coming straight from second-shift at Kentwood Springs water, line the fence that sits a mere two feet from the playing field. Colorful advice was given from grandfathers, fathers, and uncles, each wearing their Championship rings. The Kangaroos have nine state championships and over 45 playoff appearances, with many seeing deep runs. The people and the place know adversity and know how to get the job done.
The mighty Oak Grove Tigers made their way down from West Carroll parish. West Carroll is farmland and farm people, “cornbread fed”, as we say. They are just born strong. Take one look at OG quarterback, Jackson Bradley, and you’ll know what I mean. Oak Grove has been victorious in the Superdome seven times and 50 playoff appearances. They know how to win. Last night at Kentwood stadium, the Tigers started strong, behind the legs of QB #7 Jackson Bradley, as he rushed for two touchdowns in the first half of the first quarter, with RB #12 Jay Freeman also adding one. It looked to be the beginnings of a rout, but the magic of Kentwood stadium and its fans, spurred the Roos to make their comeback.
RB #9 Jamarion Burton had a 15-yd rush to put Kentwood on the board. Then the Kentwood defense would strike, as #50 Christopher Gordon Jr. had a big hit for a fumble and recovery. WR #7 Tylann Brumfield took advantage and scored on the end-around.
On the ensuing possession, Kentwood’s two-way star, #9 Jamarion Burton, recovers another OG fumble, giving the Roos the ball back with minutes left to go in the half. WR #8 Germarcus Wilson goes up high in the corner of the endzone for a spectacular grab to end the half and put Kentwood within a score.
The Kangaroos would begin the second half with a bang, as WR #4 Eric Earl Jr. lights up the Oak Grove secondary with a 20-yd strike from a bubble screen.
It was all Oak Grove for the rest of the night. Jay Freeman would score five on the night and QB Jackson Bradley would rush for three TDs. Only one pass was attempted, likely due to the weather.
The final score cannot convey the elation in the hearts of the Oak Grove players and fans, nor the anguish in the eyes of the Kentwood players and fanbase. I know all fans can agree, this will not be the last meeting underneath the famed blue tank.
You must be logged in to post a comment.