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Russell High School secured a dramatic overtime victory against Greenup County on Friday, winning 28-22 in the Backyard Brawl rivalry matchup. The game remained deadlocked at 22-22 through regulation before the Red Devils prevailed in the extra period at Henry R. Evans Stadium.
After winning the overtime coin flip and electing to play defense first, Russell executed a predetermined strategy using the Wildcat formation. Junior Kaiden Benge, nicknamed “Benny,” delivered the game-winning touchdown on third down with a 12-yard run to the left side of the end zone. Coach TJ Maynard had planned to repeatedly direct-snap to his versatile junior if the defense made the necessary stop, and the strategy paid off. Benge finished with 61 rushing yards on 14 carries, added a 10-yard receiving touchdown, and contributed two two-point conversions throughout the contest.
The matchup was highlighted by an aerial display in the first half, with the opening five touchdowns all coming through passes. Russell quarterback Hunter Williams completed 8 of 10 attempts for 132 yards, connecting with receivers Shawn Deskins, Griffin Fisher, and Benge. Greenup County’s offense, led by quarterback Jasper Davis, struggled with turnovers and penalties despite outgaining Russell on the ground, 185-86 yards. The Musketeers’ running back Ashur Wireman led all rushers with 101 yards but couldn’t punch the ball into the end zone during the critical overtime possession.
Russell improved to 2-0 with the victory, though the Red Devils sustained injuries to starters Ian Lother and Ivan McDaniels during the game.
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Originally reported by Sports.yahoo →
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