Smoking For Jesus football forces Jonesboro to play 4 quarters
CAPTION: The Smoking For Jesus offense gets set and readies to run a play against Jonesboro. Photo by Stennis Shotts
The Smoking For Jesus Ministry Christian School showed its fight and determination during the 58-44 loss to Jonesboro Sept. 23.
“They were good, they were very disciplined,” Eagles head coach Charles Frazier, Sr. said. “We were down by four and driving before mental mistakes got us. It’s mental mistakes. We’re a young team and we’re still trying to gel this team together. We were right there with them. We were predicted to (get mercy-ruled).”
SFJ (1-4, Texas Association of Independent Athletic Organizations) committed four turnovers Jonesboro (4-1, District 14-1A of the University Interscholastic League) took advantage of, Frazier said.
Still, just when it looked like Joneboro was going to end things, SFJ found a way. Down 30-12, SFJ scored a late touchdown on the last play of the first half thanks to a run by sophomore Michael Richards to trim the deficit to 30-18.
“That really helped us get momentum going,” Frazier said. “We battled to 34-36 by the end of the third quarter. We threw two picks, we had two fumbles. It’s stuff you can’t have in a game. It just kills you.”
SFJ entered this contest with a loss to Bastrop Tribe 76-31 Sept. 15. Tribe head coach Brent Golemon is known for defensive game-planning.
“He’s definitely a very defensive-minded coach, and he sticks to his game plan very well,” Frazier said. “They run the same plays the whole game. They block so well and are so disciplined on their blocks. I was in awe. They’re very disciplined. Once they get under your shoulder pads, they’ll drive you.”
SFJ turns its attention to another UIL member — May (4-0, District 14-1A) — which visits at 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 30. The game will be played at Wallace Riddell Park, located on Texas 29 East at Rhomberg.
“May is ranked No. 3 in the state,” Frazier said. “These games are good. We’re playing hard teams. When we get to district, we’re ready to roll.”
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