Green Falls to McKinley in Week 5 (Off The Leash | 9/17/22)
In a battle of the bulldogs, McKinley has ended their losing streak against Green.
After a strong showing against the Jackson Polar Bears last week, Green took on the McKinley Bulldogs. This was McKinley's first 0-4 start to a season since 2007, and they needed this win to get them back on track. Unfortunately, Green fell to them, 51-19. It was a rough Friday for Green, yes, but it’s safe to say this was an off-game for them. The loss puts Green at 3-2 on the season, but this shouldn’t be something to frown about. Green is 1-1 against conference opponents, and I’m confident that they can still have a winning record on the season and in the Federal League.
Here are some things to note about this game:
Green’s defense still gets stops, but it’s not enough.
Though Green’s defense collected 38 tackles, it still wasn’t enough to stop McKinley’s run-based offense. McKinley RB Nino Hill (#12) ran for 133 yards and 2 TDs in this game, and McKinley QB Keaton Rode (#1) scrambled for 80 yards and 1 TD. Green’s defense was on them the whole game, but they just couldn’t wrap around the McKinley offense. Though not a bad showing from the Green’s defense, it was clear that they still have trouble stopping the run. Hopefully, the Bulldogs' defense can step it up against Glen Oak next week.
Baglia still shows out regardless of the score.
Green WR Zach Baglia (#13) has proven to be a valuable target for QB Robby Klockner (#19). He showed last night that regardless of how the game is going, he still tries his best to get open and lead the comeback. He got 10 receptions for 98 yards and 2 TDs. Though Klockner divided the completions equally between the receivers, it was clear that Baglia was still his #1 target. Often, Klockner hit him on short routes in the red zone to score. Even if the Bulldogs didn’t come out on top this week, next week will be better. Especially if the defense can step it up.
Other notable notes:
Green QB Robby Klockner (#19) gave the ball to all his receivers tonight, scoring twice with WR Zach Baglia (#13) and once with WR Jarrett Taylor (#2).
Even though Green lost, they can try and keep their heads up next week when they play the Eagles of Glen Oak High School. And hopefully the Bulldogs can enjoy a fun time tonight as they have their homecoming dance.