Braves Outrun Eagles at The Z

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Avila kept things close over the first two quarters, but solid defense in the second half and an excellent run game throughout paved the way for Ottawa (5-4, 3-0 Bissell) to defeat the Eagles (2-7, 1-2 Bissell) 42-14 on a rainy Saturday afternoon at The Z.

Conditions were wet, cold and dreary all day Saturday, but that did little to dampen the success of the Braves, who outscored the Eagles 21-0 after halftime and rushed for more than 400 yards collectively to ultimately cruise to their first win over Avila in program history. But that came after kept things more than close early: Ottawa never trailed, but Avila rallied twice to stay within 7-6 after one quarter and 21-14 after two before Ottawa opened things up after halftime.

Especially in the second half, the run game was the biggest difference in the final scoreline. Ottawa has three very seasoned running backs, and they all factored into the final outcome: Malaki Peko rushed for 123 yards, Derrick Curtis had a score, and Wynton Ruth did it all, totaling 268 rushing yards and four touchdowns to lead the way. Ottawa attempted only ten passes in the game.

Jahkese Watkins rushed for 81 yards and a touchdown, his second straight game with a score, to lead the Eagles. Eli Williams linked up with Jordan Cummings for a 46-yard touchdown after the defense set up a short field to get Avila on the board in the first quarter. Dennis Johnson led the defense once again with 12 total tackles and a forced fumble; Anthony Withrow was right behind with ten stops.

Up next is the 2023 Avila Football home finale next Saturday, November 4, which will include the Senior Day ceremony prior to the game. Kickoff for Avila against Sterling is scheduled for 1 PM; as always, you can watch all the action on the Avila Sports Network with Joe Van Amburg on the call from Kansas City.