Football Recap: Kirk Academy Finds Playoff Glory Versus Regents

With a playoff win on the line, Kirk Academy rose to the challenge on Friday. They breezed past the Regents Lions to the tune of 42-12. Considering the Raiders have won four matchups by more than 26 points this season, Friday's blowout was nothing new.

Kirk Academy got their victory on the backs of several key players, but it was Linton Carson out in front who rushed for 98 yards and three touchdowns on only nine carries, and also caught one TD. Carson has become a key player for the Raiders: the team is undefeated when he posts at least two rushing touchdowns, but 2-5 otherwise. Kirk Academy also got a significant boost from Gage Vance, who ran away from the competition to the tune of 167 yards.

They were just one part of a punishing run game: Kirk Academy was unstoppable on the ground and finished the game with 297 rushing yards. They easily outclassed their opponents in that department as Regents only rushed for 85.

Another reason for the win was Kirk Academy's imposing defense, which managed to get into the backfield for seven sacks. It was truly a group effort as Jett Lewis, Hayes Horan, and Hayden Baker picked up two apiece.

When it comes to explaining why Regents lost, don't look at Zane Hill. Despite the final result, he rushed for 84 yards and one score, and also threw for 159 yards and one touchdown.

Kirk Academy is on a roll lately: they've won three of their last four contests. That's provided a nice bump to their 6-5 record this season. The wins came thanks in part to their offensive performance across that stretch, as they averaged 34.0 points over those games. As for Regents, they are on a four-game losing streak that has dropped them down to 3-8.

Looking ahead, Kirk Academy will take on Oak Hill Academy at 7:00 p.m. on Friday. Regents does not have any more games scheduled as of now.