Aaron Ursin ‘20
The Holy Cross Tigers looked to bounce back from a three-game losing streak against the St. Augustine Purple Knights on Saturday afternoon. The Tigers came out flat in the first quarter, allowing the opening kickoff to be returned for a touchdown. The Tigers fell behind 14-0, before junior running back, Amiri Franklin scored the Tiger’s only touchdown of the first half. The Purple Knights dominated the first half, scoring 4 first half touchdowns against a sluggish Tiger defense and taking a lead. Although the Tigers were down big in the first half, they had no sense of giving up. You could feel the intensity blaring from the Tiger emotion when the second half started. Amiri Franklin made up for a fumble that he lost in the first half by running back a kick on the opening play of the second half for a touchdown. The Tigers cut the lead to 27-14, and did not look back. The third quarter for the Tigers may have been the best quarter they have played all season. The Tigers showcased a brand new dimension of their offense in the second half, utilizing three of the best athletes in the backfield. This offense is known as the “Wildcat offense.” Junior, Jalen Johnson showcased his talents, leading the wildcat formation at the quarterback position. Senior running back Celven Hulbert may have had his best performance of the season, as well as Jaden Handy making a big contribution as well. Junior quarterback, John Wooton was also able to have a big game, tossing three touchdown passes. The defense also played a lights out second half, only allowing one touchdown , and forcing two turnovers. Senior Linebacker, Tyler Grubbs had a monster game, recording a plethora of tackles and also an interception. This exciting game went down to the wire, ending in overtime with sophomore kicker, Eli Lafrance scoring the winning kick, and catapulting the Tigers to victory. Senior cornerback, Paul Johnson described this game as “the best game we have played all season.” The Tigers look to build on this success as they enter the playoffs. Senior running back, Celven Hulbert also chimed in, and said, “I loved the energy and passion that we played with.” They will face the St. Paul Wolves on Friday for 7pm at Yulman Stadium in the first round of playoffs. GO TIGERS !