Van Wert entered their match against Defiance on Friday without any home losses, but there's a first time for everything. The Van Wert Cougars were beaten by the Defiance Bulldogs 41-14. The Cougars' loss continues a trend for the team, making it three in a row.
When it comes to explaining why Van Wert lost, don't look at Briston Wise. Despite the final result, he rushed for 114 yards and a touchdown, and also threw for 123 yards on 13 of 28 attempts. Wise's rushing production has been exceptional recently as that marked his fourth straight game with at least 106 rushing yards dating back to last season. Camdyn Werts got in on the action too, converting a pick into a touchdown.
Defiance's win was the result of several impressive offensive performances. One of the most notable came from Anthony Wilder, who rushed for 142 yards and two touchdowns on only 11 carries. Jordyn Wright was another key player, gaining 130 total yards and three touchdowns.
Van Wert's defeat ended a four-game streak of wins at home dating back to last season and dropped them to 1-3. As for Defiance, the victory (which was their third in a row) raised their record to 3-2.
Both squads will have to hit the road in their upcoming games. Van Wert will venture away from home to challenge Wapakoneta at 7:00 p.m. on Friday. Wapakoneta is coming into the contest with three straight wins at home, so Van Wert will have to stop a team with plenty of momentum. As for Defiance, their road trip will continue as they head out to face Shawnee at 7:00 p.m. on Friday. Both are at an even 5-5 against one another since October of 2014, but likely not for long.
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