On September 4, the Cass Lake-Bena/Bug-O-Nay-Ge-Shig football team celebrated a significant milestone as they triumphed over Red Lake with a commanding score of 50-0. This victory not only marked a successful start to their season but also symbolized the resilience of senior captain Dylan Jones, who made his return to the field after a devastating knee injury.
Midway through the third quarter, Jones, who played a pivotal role in the game, took a moment on the sidelines to reflect on his journey. With the Panthers comfortably ahead by six touchdowns, he observed as his teammates continued to dominate the field. Despite a 30-minute lightning delay, Jones maintained an upbeat demeanor, embodying the spirit of perseverance that has characterized his comeback.
Jones’s journey back to football is remarkable. Fourteen months prior, he suffered a severe knee injury while playing basketball, which resulted in a tibial tuberosity avulsion fracture. This injury sidelined him for months and forced him to miss a significant portion of his junior football season. "It was bad. My knee got shredded," Jones recalled after the game. "It took me out a couple of months before my junior season. It was tough, but I ain’t ever going to quit."
The previous season was particularly challenging for the Panthers, who were plagued by injuries and ultimately had to forfeit three games, concluding the season with a 1-6 record. Head coach Mike Hanson Jr. expressed the difficulties faced by the team, noting, "We had 14 kids who wanted to play really badly, and we had to tell them no. It just really sucks." However, the return of Jones and the overall health of the team this season has brought renewed hope.
For Jones, the game against Red Lake was more than just a chance to play; it was an opportunity to lead and inspire. "It means a lot to be back out here," he said, fighting back tears. "You want to leave your mark. You have to learn, and you have to give what you learn to the younger guys beyond you." His determination to turn the narrative around for the Panthers was evident in their performance, as they held Red Lake scoreless, marking the team's first shutout since 2017.
The Panthers jumped to a 16-0 lead at halftime and exploded for 34 points in the third quarter, showcasing their offensive prowess. Jones’s presence on both the offensive and defensive lines was felt immediately, contributing to the team’s success. "Man, it feels amazing. I can’t lie to you," Jones said, reflecting on the scoreboard that read 50-0. "It shows you get out what you put in. We just want to make everybody proud."
In addition to Jones, seniors Adrian and Scotty Brown were instrumental in the victory, combining for all seven touchdowns. Adrian ran for four touchdowns and caught another, while Scotty added a touchdown run and a defensive score. Coach Hanson praised their contributions, stating, "You have to respect our offensive line. They won us this game today. Offensively, we haven’t been able to move the ball like that in a while."
The win against Red Lake is significant for both teams, as it highlights the ongoing rivalry and the struggles they face in maintaining competitive football programs. Red Lake has not won a game since 1999, extending their losing streak to 151 games. Both teams, traditionally known for their basketball success, are working hard to build their football rosters.
Looking ahead, Coach Hanson believes that this season could be a turning point for Cass Lake-Bena. With players like Jones leading the charge, the team is not just aiming for a single victory but is focused on achieving multiple wins for the first time since 2018. "It’s all credit to the boys," he said. "They’re not just looking for one win. They wanted to get the first one. Now let’s work to get two."
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