BELLVILLE — The Clear Fork Colts have made a significant mark this season by winning all three of their nonconference games, a feat they haven't accomplished since 2018. This impressive start to the season positions them well as they prepare to face tougher competition ahead.
Head coach Aaron Brokaw emphasized the importance of focusing on each game individually, stating, "Our goal is always just 1-0 on the week. What we did last week and what we’re doing next week doesn’t matter. We’ve got to show up ready to play every Friday." This mindset has clearly resonated with the team, as they demonstrated resilience and determination in their latest matchup against rival Lexington.
The Colts showcased their strength in both their running game and defense, ultimately securing a 17-7 victory over the Minutemen on Friday, September 4, at the Colt Corral. Notably, the Clear Fork defense was formidable, allowing no offensive touchdowns throughout the game. Lexington managed to reach the Clear Fork 22-yard line in the second half but was thwarted by a turnover on downs, highlighting the Colts' defensive prowess.
Running back Trey Sellers was a key contributor, reaching the 100-yard mark, while quarterback Marcus Hoeflich added 82 rushing yards and a touchdown to the mix. Nash Evans also made a significant impact, connecting with Hoeflich on a 37-yard pass that ignited the Colts' offensive momentum. Evans proved to be a versatile player, finishing the game with three carries for six yards, three receptions for 55 yards and a touchdown, along with making crucial contributions on defense and special teams.
Reflecting on his performance, Evans remarked, "It’s definitely tiring. I’d probably say offense is my favorite. I’ve been moving around a little more at wide receiver." Coach Brokaw recognized Evans' unique skill set, noting, "Nash is just one of those guys that you can do a lot of different things with him. You’ve just got to be careful you don’t overwhelm him." Evans’ ability to perform in various roles makes him an invaluable asset to the team.
On the other side of the field, Lexington introduced sophomore Jayden Perkins as their new starting quarterback. Perkins completed 8 of 14 passes for 58 yards and added 63 rushing yards, showing flashes of potential despite the team's struggles. Lexington coach Jacob Owens explained the decision to switch quarterbacks, stating, "We wanted to see if we could get our offense moving a little bit, moving some guys around. It was nothing that anybody else did wrong; we were just trying to get a spark and see what we could get."
Lexington's only score of the game came from Cam Glennon, who returned an 85-yard kickoff for a touchdown with just over three minutes left in the fourth quarter. Glennon also contributed 24 receiving yards and 20 rushing yards, proving to be a bright spot for the Minutemen. Owens praised Glennon’s abilities, saying, "Three weeks in a row Cam Glennon has scored a touchdown now. He’s a game changer. Anytime he gets the ball in his hands, he can make a big play."
Looking ahead, Clear Fork aims to maintain their momentum as they prepare to face Ontario, their first Mid-Ohio Athletic Conference (MOAC) opponent, next week. Ontario is also undefeated, setting the stage for an exciting matchup. Evans anticipated a tough game, stating, "Ontario next week. It’s going to be a bloodbath. They’re better this year for sure, but so are we." Meanwhile, Lexington will begin its Ohio Cardinal Conference play at home against Dover, with Owens encouraging his team to keep fighting and learning from their nonconference experiences.
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