Saline Shocks Rockford! QB Tommy Carr's Heroics Seal Victory!
Saline Edges Out Rockford in Thrilling Football Showdown!
In a highly anticipated matchup dubbed one of the MHSAA's best games of the week, Saline emerged victorious against a strong Rockford team with a final score of 37-28. The game, played on Thursday night in Rockford, was a back-and-forth battle that showcased the talent of both teams, both expected to contend deep into the D1 state playoffs in November.
Rockford started strong, scoring a touchdown after recovering a Saline fumble, taking an early 7-0 lead. However, Saline quickly responded with a five-yard touchdown run by Bryce Barbarino. Following a fumble recovery by the Saline defense, quarterback Tommy Carr connected with Austin Abbate for a 32-yard touchdown pass, putting Saline ahead 14-7.
Saline extended their lead when Allen Sadov recovered another fumble, setting up Barbarino for his second touchdown run, making the score 21-7. Rockford managed to score before halftime and then again on the opening drive of the third quarter, tying the game at 21.
The Rams then took the lead after blocking a Saline punt and returning it for a touchdown, putting them ahead 28-21. But Saline wasn't done. Carr, displaying remarkable composure under pressure, scrambled and delivered a seven-yard touchdown pass to Lucas Fidh, tying the game once again at 28.
A pivotal moment came when the Saline defense forced a punt, and the snap sailed into the endzone, resulting in a safety and giving Saline a 30-28 lead. Saline capitalized on the momentum, driving into Rockford territory. A clever flea-flicker play from James Rush back to Carr set up a long pass to Abbate, placing the ball at the one-yard line.
Carr then finished the drive with a two-yard touchdown run, extending Saline's lead to 37-28, which ultimately proved to be the final score. Carr completed 17 of 28 passes for 180 yards and two touchdowns, adding another score on the ground. Abbate had an impressive performance with 91 receiving yards on four catches, while Lincoln Keyes contributed three catches for 25 yards. Rush also had a standout game, rushing for 98 yards and making a significant impact on defense with an interception and a forced fumble.
Saline will now host Ann Arbor in their next game. The victory over Rockford marks a significant win for Saline as they look to build momentum for a deep playoff run.