RUMBLE

MAKE EM SAY ONE! EHS 28 Baylor 21 Ensworth Wins Their First State Title

2010-12-03T01:00:00.007-06:00

Photo: Ensworth.com

The gold football is coming to Ensworth! Ensworth defeated Baylor 28-21 in a thrilling last-second come from behind victory to finally reach the summit of high school football after falling short in the playoffs in their first three attempts.

A scoreless first quarter filled with turnovers and miscues showed that both sides had some state championship jitters to overcome. In the second quarter, Baylor broke through with a 34 yard touchdown pass as Jacob Huesman masterfully evaded the rush and fired a strike on the run that hit Matthew Oelleri in stride down the sideline.

Ensworth answered back on their very next possession. After driving to the 35, Drew Parker threw up a jump ball to Cory Batey, who showed his athleticism and pulled it down to level the score with 7:45 remaining in the first half.

Baylor looked to go into halftime with the lead, advancing the ball all the way to the Ensworth 4 yard line. However, following 2 penalties on the subsequent series and a delay of game that nullified a 19 yard field goal that split the uprights, Andy Priddy’s 25 yard attempt went begging as it sailed wide left. The halftime score was 7-7.

Baylor got the ball back to start the second half, and this time they were able to hit paydirt. A 12 play 69 yard drive that culminated in a 2 yard Huesman sneak for a TD took 5:12 off the clock got the lead back for Baylor, taxing Ensworth’s defense in the process.

That fatigue showed the next time Baylor got the ball. Following a Drew Parker interception, Baylor got the ball in EHS territory at the 34, and they wasted no time running over, around, and through the Ensworth defense that had just been on the field for over 14 minutes of game time in a row. Huesman broke a 17 yarder that gave Baylor a commanding lead of 21-7 with 4:41 remaining in the 3^rd quarter.

The next Ensworth drive would prove to be the turning point in the game. After one of many touchbacks from Baylor’s kickoff specialist, they got the ball at the 20. After a 12 yard gain on the first play, Corn Elder got the call, and he answered it to the tune of a 68 yard electrifying touchdown run. 21-14 was the score with 3:51 remaining in the 3^rd quarter.

Despite a quick turnaround, the Ensworth defense appeared to get its second wind, shutting down Baylor’s previously dominant running attack and keeping them off the board entering the 4^th quarter.

Ensworth got the ball toward the end of the 3^rd and took it 70 yards on 14 plays, the last one being a Drew Parker QB sneak from a yard out to tie the game, taking 5:42 off the clock in the process.

Baylor’s chance to respond was stifled, but they got the ball back with 4 minutes to go in the game. They picked up a first down, getting to their own 35, but Quinn Hamilton led the charge to stop them right there, picking up 2 sacks of Jacob Huesman that forced Baylor to punt the ball back to the Drew Parker-led Tiger offense with 1:21 left in the game.

Photo: HighSchoolSports.net

The fate of Ensworth’s final drive rested on Drew Parker’s right arm and his legs on one occasion. His scramble got Ensworth into Baylor territory at the 47. Several pass plays later, including a 20-yard strike to a wide-open Wirth Campbell down the middle, got the Tigers to the Baylor 11. Parker spiked the ball, setting up 2^nd and 10 with 16 seconds left. As on the first touchdown pass, the play call again relied on the athletic talent of Parker’s strong-side receiver, and David Dingess did not disappoint, going up high to avoid what could have been a game-saving interception for Baylor and ripping the ball and the state championship dreams away from Baylor. The touchdown came with 8 seconds left on the clock, finishing Ensworth’s second straight comeback victory and bringing the state championship trophy back to Nashville.

-Alex Boehm

Ensworth and Baylor To Face Off in Cookeville

2010-12-01T03:17:00.003-06:00

Where: Tennessee Tech -Tucker Stadium

When: 7PM

Media: PBS (Comcast channel 8), EnsworthLive.com, 560 AM

Records: EHS 9-2 (6-1) Baylor 10-1 (6-1)

After losing their best player, an 0-2 start and a QB change, Ensworth has managed to find themselves in the DII-AA State Championship game with the Baylor Red Raiders. Baylor has only lost once this season and that loss was to the Tigers in Chattanooga.

Out of the 6 Mr. Football finalist in DII-AA, 3 of them are playing in this game; Corn Elder, Keenan Crenshaw and the winner, Jacob Huesman.

How these teams got here...

Since losing to MBA, Ensworth has averaged 31.4 points per game on offense. Senior QB Drew Parker came and took over at QB after the loss to MBA and has broken about every school passing record in the process. Sophomore RB Corn Elder has been nothing short on sensational; Corn has rushed for 1,768 yards and 23 TDs. On the line Seniors Keenan Crenshaw, Taylor Grant and Chance Williams have stepped up big after Antonio Richardson withdrew from school.

Baylor is led by their Senior QB Jacob Huesman. The Mr. Football winner has passed for 1,078 yards and 7 TDS and rushed for 1,750 yards and 25 TDS. Huesman's primary target is Matthew Oellerich with 29 rec. In the backfield is Freshman RB George Porter, who has rushed for 952 yards and 9 TDS. Baylor's defense is led by Senior LB David Helton, who has racked up 115.5 tackles in all 11 games. Baylor's defense only gives up an average of a mere 19 points a game.

Last time these two teams met Corn Elder took control of the game. Elder scored 4 TDs (2 rushing, 1 receiving and a 80 yard punt return). David Dingess and Cory Batey both had good nights receiving while Drew Parker threw for 239 yards and 2 TDs on only 18 attempts.

Jacob Huesman did it all for Baylor, scoring all 4 of the Red Raider's TDs, one was a 61 yarder. The defense could not stop Elder and got beat deep by Drew Parker on many occasions.

For Ensworth to win this game they have to get Corn Elder the ball my all means necessary. Once the Tigers establish a run game they should be able to air it out. Last time Baylor's secondary gave Ensworth's WRs too much room to work. On defense, Ensworth has to contain Jacob Huesman which is a lot easier said than done, he committed to UTC where his dad coaches and believe me, there are a lot more schools than UTC that this kid can play for.

Baylor has to keep Elder in check and so far, no team has been able to do so since Ensworth played BA in September. They also cannot allow Ensworth to beat them deep through the air like they did last time, getting pressure on Drew Parker is key to stopping the Tiger's passing attack.

Prediction: I don't really have one, I can see this going either way but I like Ensworth's chances.

State Bound! EHS 20 BA 19

2010-11-20T14:59:00.001-06:00

Photos: Deena Graham

Backed up after a holding penalty, the Tigers were forced with 3rd and 37 from their own 8 yard line with 1:30 left in the game. Now press pause, what are the odds that an offense that has failed to convert in the red zone on two separate occasions can go 92 yards in 1:30? What are the odds of going deep on one of the states best DBs and making the play 40 yards down field? What are the odds that your TE comes up with 28 yard catch that has only had 1 catch all year? What are the odds that you score on one play after failing to get a TD on two earlier red zone attempts? Not good, but it happened.

BA took an early 16-0 lead in the 2nd quarter. Nathan Renfro hit a 35 FG. Ensworth punted.

Victor Caro scored on a 33 yard TD run, Ben Boatright missed the PAT. Ensworth punted.

Matt Hamby and company drove 84 yards downfield on a drive that was capped off by a 3 yard TD run by Hamby.

Ensworth answered with a 22 yard FG by Clayton McGlasson. BA was picked off by Rodney Edmiston.

Ensworth answered with a 26 yard FG by McGlasson. It was 16-6 BA at the half.

Ensworth had never been in this position in the past two seasons in the playoffs. They took leads into halftime in previous years against BA and MBA, they lost both of those games.

Ensworth's opening drive of the 2nd half went 80 yards and capped off with a 38 yard run by Elder. The score put Ensworth with in 3. Corn finished with 204 rushing yards and 1 TD.

BA answered later with a 42 yard FG by Renfro with 10:37 left.

After a punt by BA Ensworth found itself at their own 14 with 3:32 left. After a few plays Ensworth found itself at midfield, but after a sack and a holding penalty, all of the sudden it was 3rd and 37 from the 8 with 1:30. That was just the beginning of "The Drive".

On 3rd and 37 from the 8 Drew Parker found David Dingess for a 40 yard completion. Dingess made the catch over the BA player o the side lined and still managed to hold onto the ball and stay inbounds. With time ticking down Parkers next pass want to the TE Conor McDermott that put Ensworth in scoring position 28 yards later at the 13 yard line. Dingess caught a game high 6 balls for 127 yards. Parker passed for 189 yards and 1 TD. Parker was 13-23 on completions.

After settling for 2 FG previously from inside the 20 in took only one try and one amazing catch by Cory Batey on the sideline to put Ensworth ahead for good 20-19.

Ensworth will take on Baylor Thursday December 2nd in Cookeville for the TSSAA State Championship. Too bad Taylor isn't hype enough for it. ;)

TIGERS WIN 20-19!!!!

2010-11-19T23:19:00.005-06:00

RD 3: EHS VS BA

2010-11-19T14:41:00.004-06:00

Where: Ensworth

When: 7PM

Media: EnsworthLive.com, 560 AM

Records: EHS 8-2 (6-1) BA 9-2 (5-2)

Key Players

EHS: RB Corn Elder, DT Keenen Crenshaw, QB Drew Parker, LB /RB Nantambu Fentress

BA: QB Matt Hamby, RB Radir Anoor, DB Derek King, WR Weldon Garlington

The last time these two teams met, it was nothing short of a dog fight. BA shutdown Ensworth's star running back Corn Elder, holding him to 66 yards rushing. Ensworth won the turn over battle, intercepting BA QB Matt Hamby 4 times. The film has been watched, adjustments have been made, the question is, who can execute better this time around?

Prediction EHS 28 BA 21

Tigers Roll Big Red 35-14

2010-11-12T23:05:00.007-06:00

AP: Tennessean

Since September 3rd Ensworth could not wait to get another shot at MBA. After Ensworth learned that the Big Red defeated Father Ryan they knew what had to be done, and they executed.

Ensworth set the pace early after receiving the opening kickoff. The Tigers marched down to the 11 yard line where Nantambu Fentress would take it in for the Tiger's first lead of the game.

The defense forced MBA to go 3 and out and it did not take long for the offense to get back into the end zone with a 3 play 66 yard drive. Corn Elder took off for a 56 yard run; however, this was not Elder's longest run of the night.

Ensworth recovered their own kickoff in MBA territory but it was picked off by Austin Blackwell on a flea-flicker pass by Drew Parker. MBA was picked off on the very next possession by LB Austin Prevost but the Tigers later turned the ball over on downs.

MBA answered before the half with a 22 yard TD pass from Aaron Simonis to Austin Blackwell. Ensworth would attempt a FG right before halftime but McGlasson's kick was partially blocked and wide. Ensworth would take a 14-7 lead into halftime.

On their first possesion of the 3rd quarter, MBA tied it up with a 12 play 67 yard drive that ended in a 6 yard TD by RB Tyler Franks. MBA ran the ball like it was going out of style, MBA ran for 116 yards on 38 attempts.

But yet again, Ensworth had an answer, Corn Elder. On the very next play Corn Elder ran 63 yards for the go ahead score. Ensworth would not look back, Aaron Simonis threw another interception, this time Rodney Edmiston came down with it.

That set up a 53 yard run by Elder on a delay handoff from Parker. Ensworth would take a 28-14 lead into the 4th quarter.

Aaron Simonis later came out of the game and was replaced by Dylan Hall. Hall was picked off by Quinn Hamilton and the Tigers put the game away with a 5 play 28 yard drive capped off with a 4 yard TD by The Cornelius Elder set up by a 27 yard pass to David Dingess. Elder finished the night with 304 rushing yards on 25 carries with 4 TDs. WR Cory Batey had a strong night as well, catching 6 passes for 85 yards.

Ensworth will play Brentwood Academy for the second time this season on Friday. Last time these two teams met in October, Ensworth prevailed 21-14. The game will be played at Ensworth.

Part II

2010-11-12T14:20:00.003-06:00

When: 7PM

Where: Ensworth

Media: EnsworthLive.com (no video or WNSR, just me and Coach Shultz!)

Records: EHS 7-2 (6-1) MBA 8-2 (5-2)

For the second time this year two cross town rivals will go at it again. Ensworth will play host to MBA again, this time a trip to Cookeville is on the line.

After getting off to an 0-2 start Ensworth went on a 7 game hot streak. In that time the Tigers knocked off undefeated favorites Smynra, Brentwood Academy and Baylor. MBA is Ensworth's last loss. In their last meeting Ensworth out gained the Big Red in total yards and almost every statistical category, except turnovers and points.

Tyler Franks was key for MBA when both these teams met in September, scoring all 3 of MBA's TDs. Corn Elder was the work horse for Ensworth, rushing for a game high 134 yards with 1 TD.

MBA beat Father Ryan 7-3 in the first round, Ensworth is coming off a bye.

Prediction EHS 35 MBA 14

Ensworth Takes Care Of Business EHS 36 BGA 14

2010-10-31T22:03:00.005-05:00

Again it was a beautiful, chilly night in Franklin. Ensworth looked to extend their winning streak to 7 straight games and come away with the number one seed in the DII AA playoffs. While BGA hoped to better their seed and come away with a win on Senior Day; no such luck for the Wildcats.

In the first 1:13 of the game their were 4 turnovers. BGA fumbled the opening kickoff, Drew Parker threw an interception, Corn Elder picked off CJ Beathard, and Drew Parker fumbled. After that sequence, BGA ended up with ball at the EHS 35 yard line and drove to the goal line where RB Blake Thomson scored the first Wildcat TD.

Now, there has been a trend that has begun to develop after long scoring drives by the Tiger's opponents. After Quinn Hamilton brought the ensuing kickoff to the 19, Corn Elder went 81 yards for the score.

BGA's Keenan Bass answered with a 20 yard TD of his own. Bass would later leave the game with an injury in the 4th quarter.

The trend continued, Quinn Hamilton took the ensuing kickoff 87 yards for a TD, tying the game at 14-14.

To start the 2nd quarter the Tigers went 90 yards in 1:22. Corn Elder scored his 2nd TD of the night on a 22 yard run, Clayton McGlasson's PAT was no good. But McGlasson would add a 35 yard FG before halftime. Ensworth would lead 23-14 at the half.

The second half was all about Corn Elder and the Ensworth defense. Corn busted out for TD runs of 30 and 63 yards in the third quarter. He would finnish the night with 240 yards on only 11 carries with 4 TDs.

The Tiger defense blanked the Wildcats in the second half. Junior Keshonn Carter put a big hit on CJ Beathard and since then Beathard could not seem to get in a rhythm.

After 13 plays in the red zone BGA came away empty in the 4th quarter.

Ensworth will play the winner of MBA vs Father Ryan November 12th as the number one seed at home.

VOTE 4 CORN!!

2010-10-25T20:06:00.003-05:00

Vote for Corn to be the Alexander Automotive Touchdown Player of the Week! Watch Channel 4 on Thursday at 6:30 to see who wins.

http://www.wsmv.com/hsfootball/index.html

Party Crashers- EHS 41 Baylor 29

2010-10-24T21:13:00.003-05:00

For the third straight time this season, the top ranked team in the state has fallen into the jaws of the red hot Tigers. This time the Red Raiders were the victims of another upset on their own field on Senior Night. I apologize for the late recap, had a test the next morning.

Baylor took an early 3-0 lead to open up the game. Andy Priddy hit a 34 yard field goal that would give the Red Raiders their only lead of the night.

Next possession, Ensworth drove the ball down to the Baylor 30 yard-line after having been closer but they were backed up by a series of penalties. That didn't keep Corn out of the end zone, he took a screen pass in for his first of 4 TDs for the night.

Baylor would respond with a 70 yard drive led by Chattanooga commit, QB Jacob Huesman. He would cap the drive with a 10 yard TD run. He would run for 84 yards and pass for 146. In addition, he scored all of Baylor's 4 TDs but Huesman seemed to be all of Baylor's offense.

Tigers answered spontaneously. The speedy sophomore (I'm running out of names at this point) Corn Elder flew by the secondary for a 80 yard TD run on the first play of the drive. Corn came out of the game for a while but returned in the second half. The Tigers would go into the half with a 14-10 lead.

Without Corn for a few plays Nantambu Fentress decided to take full advantage of his 4 carries. He took his first carry 80 yards to the house. Extending the lead to 21-10.

Huesman scored his 2nd TD on a 2 yard run and Ensworth answered again, this time through the air. Drew Parker hit David Dingess for a 51 yard TD. Dingess had 4 rec for 77 yards, Cory Batey led EHS with 5 rec for 96 yards.

Huesman scored again from 2 yards out, Baylor got the ball back but was forced to punt to Corn Elder. Guess what happened? 70 yard return, EHS up 35-23.

In the 4th quarter Huesman did his best elder impression and ran 61 yards for his final TD. Elder did his best Huesman impression with a 63 yard run 7 minutes later. Ensworth finnished the game with 575 yards of total offense, 336 came on the ground.

Ensworth will finnish the regular season at BGA next Friday.

Tigers Hold On EHS 30 FRHS 22

2010-10-15T19:02:00.005-05:00

Every year this game comes around it looks like it will be a comfortable win one way or another but when the Tigers play the Irish you can through the records out the window.

The Tigers got off to a quick star after receiving the opening kickoff, Corn Elder and Nantambu Fentress led the way on the opening drive. Fentress capped the drive off with a 16 yard TD run.

Father Ryan began their opening drive from the EHS 41 but lost the ball at the EHS 48, Corn Elder came up with the big recovery and the Tigers quickly struck again; Drew Parker hit David Dingess for a 50 yard TD.

The Tigers defense came back strong and forced the Irish to punt from their own 47 but was muffed at the EHS 11 and the Irish recovered. Father Ryan took advantage with a 2 yard TD run by Prince Iworah.

The offense responded with a 51 yard drive capped off by a 4 yard TD by Corn Elder. Clayton McGlasson's PAT was no good and put the Tigers up 20-7.

Right before halftime EHS forced an Irish punt with 45 seconds remaining, in that time the Tigers drove all the way to the Father Ryan 25 where Clayton McGlasson would hit a career long 42 yard FG as time expired, putting Ensworth up 23-7 at halftime.

However, the second half was not go quite as planned for Ensworth. The third quarter was pretty much a stalemate but the Tigers began the fourth quarter with a 30 yard TD run by Elder, putting Ensworth up 30-7.

But the Irish did not abandon ship, Ensworth put in their second team offense and defense and Father Ryan took full advantage. QB Christian Nicho found WR Raphael Hopkins for a 24 yard TD cutting the Ensworth lead to 30-14. Ensworth got the ball back but did not convert a 4th and 6. The Irish took over and drove 61 yards downfield to tie it up, this time Nicho took it in himself from 1 yard out and converted the 2 point conversion.

That's when things got interesting, the Irish recovered the on-sides kick only down by 8. Then the super soph came to the rescue, Corn Elder picked off Christian Nicho's pass in the end zone and the Tigers ran out the clock to finally preserve the victory.

Next week Ensworth travels to Chattanooga to take on the undefeated Baylor Red Raiders, that game will also be streaming on EnsworthLive.com.

Tigers Say, "Good Knight" EHS 35 JPII 6

2010-10-08T23:06:00.005-05:00

Friday was another great night for football at Ensworth High School; everyone wearing pink to raise breast cancer awareness, all the students getting ready for homecoming house competitions and some familiar faces came to visit for the school's third homecoming weekend. Like most schools, Ensworth scheduled the division's whipping boy for homecoming and won convincingly.

There were two story lines that were evident in this game, the first was Ensworth's defense. The Tiger defense held JPII to a game total of 99 yards on offense. The defense forced 7 punts and gave up only 6 first downs. As Ensworth's lead increased more underclassmen and 2nd team players entered the line up. Sophomores Anthony Batey and Cody Pack both made a big impact on defense with tackles for loss. But on Offense it was sophomore QB Andrew Bowers who made the big jump on to the varsity, Andrew did not complete a pass but had a few good runs outside the pocket.

The second storyline is once again, Corn Elder. Corn rushed for 146 yards on only 11 carries. He had 3 TDs one on a 73 yard run. Drew Parker also had a solid game at QB, Parker passed for a career high 289 yards on 9/16 attempts. Cory Batey led all receivers with 81 yards receiving on 4 catches. Rico Watson had 49 yards receiving on 2 catches, one went for 36 yards and a TD.

JPII scored on the last play of the game with a 16 yard TD pass from Tanner Hale as time expired.

Ensworth will travel to Father Ryan to take on the Fighting Irish next Friday.

UPSET HUNTERS! EHS 21 BA 14

2010-09-30T23:35:00.004-05:00

For the second consecutive week Ensworth shocked middle Tennessee football with another stunning upset over one of the states best. The charge was lead by the sophomore sensation Corn Elder, with 70 yards rushing, 2 TDs and 2 INTs. Corn sealed the victory with an interception with 13 seconds left and run out the clock with a 60 yard return.

The Tigers got off to a quick start after receiving the opening kick off, Drew Parker led the way 70 yard down field capped off by a 9 yard TD catch by Wirth Campbell.

After a muffed by recovered by the Eagles, Corn Elder picked of QB a Matt Hamby pass and returned it to the 3 yard line. Elder would finnish the sequence with a 3 yard TD Run.

BA responded at the end of the first half Radir Anoor rushed for a 3 yard TD followed by another short rushing TD by QB Matt Hamby. It was tied at halftime 14-14 and it remained that way until the 4th quarter when Corn Elder got his second TD of the game after a pick by Rico Watson. BA drove the ball to all the way to the 13 with 13 seconds left and that's where Corn sealed the deal.

Ensworth will take on the JPII Knights next week for homecoming.

Tigers Bite No.61 Bulldogs 30-14

2010-09-25T22:35:00.005-05:00

On Friday the states best in 2010 met one of the states best in 2009. The Tigers had to claw their way back after finding themselves with a 2 score deficit with only 4 minutes remaining a year ago on a rainy night. This year the player excelled one of the greatest comebacks in school history is now playing on Saturdays along with many other seniors on last years squad nationally ranked squad. No Darkwa, no overtime, no problem.

The Tigers took the opening kickoff and wasted no time getting in the red zone. Wirth Campbell caught a pass out of the backfield from Drew Parker and turned upfield for a 65 yard gain. The Tigers were stopped at the 3 yard line on 3rd down, Clayton McGlasson hit a 20 yard field goal to put the Tigers up 3-0. Then on the kickoff McGlasson hit a pooch kick high into the air, Ensworth's Cory Batey would settle under it and catch the live ball with no exception by the Smyrna special teams. Ensworth moved the ball well into Bulldog territory before Corn Elder capped the drive off with a 2 yard TD run.

McGlasson hit another pooch kick and this time the Bulldogs were well aware of it, but couldn't catch it. Ensworth recovered deep in Bulldog territory. Ensworth RB Nantambu Fentress busted through the line for a couplenice runs but was stripped of the ball before he could get in the end zone on a controversial play. The Bulldogs recovered for a touchback; however, that did not prevent Ensworth from scoring.

The Tiger's defense was strong all night. DB/WR Cory Batey lead the team in tackles with 6, DL Taylor Grant recorded 5 of his own. Top prospect Antonio Richardson led the way for the Tiger's run game all night and recorded 2 tackles on defense along with Senior prospect Keenan Crenshaw.

The Bulldogs failed to cleanly exchange the hand off on a reverse play and the ball was quickly scooped up by Corn Elder who took it 73 yards for 6. Clayton McGlasson's PAT was blocked. The score was 16-0 Ensworth going into halftime.

Despite the Bulldogs horrendous start they did not lay on their backs for long. Smyrna RB Jeremiah Bryson, who committed to Dave Wannstedt's Pittsburgh Panthers led the way to for Smyna's first TD of the night. Bryson scored on a 1 yard run making it a 16-7 game.

On Smyna's next offensive possession the Bulldogs opened up the passing game with QB Steve Wilson and WR EJ Majors who led the Bulldogs in receiveing with 5 rec for 46 yds. Wilson finished the night with 107 yards passing. The drive was capped off by another Bryson 1 yard run. Bryson led the Bulldogs with 87 rushing yards on 14 carries and 2 TDs. The Bulldogs had cut the Tiger lead to 2.

Corn Elder responded on the ensuing drive with a 56 yard TD run after having two long TD runs called back on holding penalties. The sophomore finished the game with 198 yards rushing on 22 carries and 2 rushing TDs with a defensive TD.

The Bulldogs looked to try to sustain one last drive but it was suddenly terminated with a interception by junior DB Rodney Edmiston. Ensworth went on one last drive that put the game away lead by Elder and Fentress that was capped off by a 1 yard QB sneak by Drew Parker. Fentress finished the game with 75 yards rushing on 12 carries. The Tigers would go on to win 30-14.

Ensworth will take on another Rivals Top 100 team, Brentwood Academy on the road on Thursday night.

Ward Goes HAM

2010-09-21T14:32:00.004-05:00

Jimmy Ward was straight murking yesterday on the course. Beast. The kid flat out gets it done. Jimmy's success is mainly due to the fact that he is related to Cole Parrish and he really likes Cole in a not gay kind of way. Just kidding, but seriously J-WARD goes hard in the paint. Jimmy took one for the team yesterday in regionals, he said, "The tigers are a team of one." He said he woke up in the morning and his back hurt from carrying the team. The End.

-Nathan Watkins

Ensworth Runs Past McCallie 35-14

2010-09-17T23:25:00.006-05:00

Starting 0- 2 is not easy after going undefeated in the regular season two years in a row. Nor is it losing to your crosstown rival and going into your second bye week. Ensworth knew this was a must win game and played like it.

The Tigers got off to a fast start, shutting down McCallie on their first possession and coming out strong offensively. The Tigers made the switch at QB this week swapping a senior for a senior. Drew Parker and company drove the ball to the MHS 46 where he would connect with Cory Batey on a 46 yard pass.

McCallie responded with a TD pass of their own on the very next drive as QB Trent Lusk connected with Syracuse commit Keenan Hale on a 28 yard pass. The Tigers responded with another drive but it was cut short do to a red zone mistake. McCallie recovered a fumble from Cory Batey but the Ensworth defense stood strong and the Tornado was forced to punt. JR Taylor Graham went back to receive a punt for the first time in his Varsity career. Graham caught the ball at the McCallie 40 and 60 yards later he was in the end zone.

McCallie's offense didn't slow down after being forced to punt. They sustained a drive of their own capped off by a 15 yard TD run by Daniel McClure. But yet again Ensworth had an answer, Nantambu Fentress and company marched all the way to the goal line. Drew Parker snuck into the end zone with a 1 yard run of his own before the half. The score going into halftime was 21-14 Ensworth.

The Tigers would begin to pull away after RB Corn Elder scored on a 50 yard run putting Ensworth up by 3 TDs after that it seemed like there was no more wind in the storm. The Tiger's defense was stellar in the 2nd half, Wirth Campbell and Shamari White helped lead the way by shutting down the always threatening McCallie option. But Nantambu Fentress was the real story of this game. He was the game's leader in rushing with 85 yards on 13 attempts. Fentress finished off the Tornadoe with a 4 yard TD off his own in the final minutes. The Tigers went on to win 35-14.

The Tigers will face one of 6A's best, Smyrna at home next Friday.

Week 4: McCallie

2010-09-17T13:57:00.005-05:00

When: 7PM

Where: Ensworth High School

Media: 560 AM, Ensworth Live

Records: EHS 0-2 McCallie 2-1

Key Players:

EHS: QB Drew Parker, RB Corn Elder, OL/DL Antonio Richardson

McCallie: WR Kennan Hale, QB Trent Lusk

Prediction

Both teams are coming off tough losses but Ensworth has more to prove after getting off to an 0-2 start. Wirth Campbell will be moved to TE for this game, Drew Parker will get the start.

EHS 28 McCallie 14

Big Loss For Tigers MBA 21 EHS 14

2010-09-04T14:18:00.004-05:00

Calling the atmosphere at Friday's game "electric" or "intense" would not do it justice. Tiger Stadium was an absolute mad house with an over capacity crowd all jacked up on mountain dew (or something a little harder) all painted orange or white. Ensworth came into this game trying to take momentum into their upcoming schedule featuring some of the best teams in the state. MBA was looking to start off 3-0, their first back to back wins against EHS and bragging rights. MBA achieved the trifecta.

Both team's first possessions ended in punts but MBA was the first to tally with a 5 yard touchdown run from senior RB Tyler Franks. Franks would score all of MBA's 3 TDs and lead the team in rushing with 81 yards.

Before the half Ensworth found themselves on a drive that reached the 10 yard line; unfortunately the play that got them there gave MBA possession as senior RB Quinn Hamilton fumbled but Ensworth still had a shot at scoring before halftime. The Ensworth defense forced an MBA from inside their own end zone. EHS got posession at the 50 yard line and marched all the way to the 15. When forced with a 4th and 3, coach Bowers sent on the field goal team. Clayton McGlasson's kick went wide and MBA took a 7-0 lead into the 2nd half.

Ensworth began the 2nd half with the ball at their own 20 but went backwards. QB Drew Parker lost the ball on a bad snap exchange, giving MBA great field possession. Tyler Franks would later get his 2nd Touchdown giving MBA a 14-0 lead.

Quinn Hamilton then redeemed himself from an earlier turnover by forcing one of his own. Hamilton stripped the ball from Franks and took it 60 yards to the house for Ensworth's first points of the game, cutting MBA's lead to 7. It was the first touchdown given up by the Big Red this season.

The momentum was back with Ensworth until Franks struck again with a 5 yard touch down run giving MBA a 14 point cushion. Until the Tigers struck back with the super sophomore Corn Elder with a 20 yard TD run; Corn rushed for 134 yards, the most in the game.

The Tigers forced a punt and got the ball at their own 17 yard line. QB Wirth Campell then completed a 50 yard bomb to WR Cory Batey, giving EHS 1st and 10 from the 20 yard line. The Tigers made it too the 9 yard line but got called for a procedure penalty after the coaches had asked the officials for a timeout. 1st and goal the turned into 4th and 11 to tie. On 4th down Drew Parker was forced out of the pocket and made a desperation throw that was bobbled by a MBA DB but found its way to the ground. MBA had beaten Ensworth for the 2nd time since November.

Ensworth will have another bye week before taking on McCallie at home.

Week 2: MBA

2010-09-03T14:04:00.003-05:00

When: 7PM

Where: Ensworth

Media: 104.5 FM, 560 AM, Ensworth Live

Records: EHS 0-1 MBA 2-0

Last Opponent: EHS-@OAK L 20-7 MBA-Maplewood W 24-0

Key Players:

EHS: QB Wirth Campbell, OL Antonio Richardson, DT Keenen Crenshaw, RB Corn Elder

MBA: QB Aaron Simonis, DB/WR Joe Riegle, RB Tyler Franks , DE Connor Caldwell

Prediction

MBA has all the momentum coming into tonight. EHS lost their first regular season game since 2007 against a very tough Oakland team. So far MBA hasn't played the most impressive schedule but have taken care of business shutting out both Pearl Cohn and Maplewood. This game will be won through the air, who can ever can establish the better passing game will come away with this one. If that's the case it will be MBA.

MBA 21 EHS 14

Are Blackouts Racist?

2010-09-03T01:28:00.002-05:00

No.

Orleans Scores 3 TDs In First Career Game At Tulane

2010-09-02T22:41:00.003-05:00

Well that didn't take long. I wonder what all those SEC schools are thinking when they saw Thursday night's box score.

Ex- Tiger Orleans Darkwa, who holds school and state records in career rushing yards and touchdowns did not seem to miss a beat when taking his game to the next level. Darkwa carried the rock 19 times for 75 yards and 3, yes, T-H-R-E-E touchdowns against Southeastern Louisiana.

Darkwa's first ever TD came with 6:25 left in the 1st quarter on a 3 yard run, putting the green wave up 7-0. It was Tulane's first TD of the season.

The freshman then added 6 more with 2:49 gone in the 2nd quarter on an 8 yard run to regain the lead over the Lions 14-7.

Then in the 4th quarter Orleans put the nail in the coffin with another score from 6 yards out. Tulane went on to win 27-21. Orleans also returned 2 kickoffs for 27 yards. The Green Wave's next game will be at home against Ole Miss.

Patriots Prevail 20-7

2010-08-21T16:25:00.004-05:00

You couldn't ask for a more electric atmosphere on a Friday night in middle Tennessee. Bleachers filled, fans tailgating since noon and radio stations lining the walkways, it was certainly the game of the week. Unfortunately for Ensworth, the power went out in the first quarter.

The tigers got off to a lackluster start, beginning the opening drive from inside their own 20, the tigers were backed up by a bad snap over QB Wirth Campbell's head. After the ensuing punt, Oakland RB Tee Mayberry led the Patriots to their first TD, putting the Patriots up 6-0 (PAT missed).

After another failed drive by the tigers Oakland then drove the ball down to the EHS 4 yard line, Tee Mayberry capped of the drive with another TD on a toss sweep. Oakland, before the half added another score to make it 20-0 at halftime.

Oakland began the 3rd quarter with the ball but the drive was short lived after DT Keenen Crenshaw came up with a big fumble recovery. Ensworth, with newly found confidence went on the drive on the game that was capped of by a 4 yard touchdown by sophomore RB Corn Elder.

The Ensworth defense then forced Oakland to punt on the ensuing drive. On 3rd down Ensworth ran what could of been the play of the game. Wirth Campbell completed a pass to Rico Watson who the found an uncovered Corn Elder deep down field, with only green in front of him, Elder could not keep his balance at the Oakland 30. Ensworth failed to convert on 4th down later that drive, keeping the final score at 20-7.

Ensworth will have a bye next week but will take on arch rival MBA the following week at home. MBA is 1-0 with their first win coming Friday against Pearl Cohn, 17-0.

Week 0 Preview

2010-08-20T12:48:00.005-05:00

When: 7:30 PM

Where: Oakland High School, Murfreesboro, TN

Both teams are 0-0

Media: 560 AM/ensworthlive.com

Key Players

OAK:

RB Tee Mayberry

DB Darius McAdoo

EHS:

QB Wirth Campbell

OL/DL Antonio Richardson

Last Game: EHS 22- OAK 20 OT Recap

Prediction: Last season's game was a absolute slug fest. Both teams lose size but Oakland has the depth. This year Ensworth may be lucky to get to overtime this time around with the injuries sustained in the off season to key players.

OAK 28 EHS 14

Limping Out Of Columbia

2010-08-02T18:01:00.003-05:00

Last Friday Ensworth traveled to Columbia to scrimmage the Columbia Central Lions. It was a hot Tennessee afternoon at Columbia Central's practice field with the heat index well into triple digits.

The Tigers got off to a rough start as it seemed as though the OL was confused on the first couple of series as the CCHS DL had no trouble getting in the backfield to take down Quinn Hamilton.

The Tigers responded with several great defensive series of their own and set the tone offensively. Wirth Campbell and Drew Parker both seemed to be on their game. Both moved the pocket well and were able to find receivers wide open in the flat. Cory Batey had a couple of great catches followed by some ankle breaking moves. Nantambu Fentress showed a great burst of speed and took on a CCHS DB twice his size and got the best of him, driving forward and extra 3 yards on a massive hit. Rico Watson and Justin Lloyd also impressed at WR, catching numerous balls at the line of scrimmage for substantial games.

Wirth Campbell later connected on a long touchdown pass to David Dingess. Campbell later threw an interception in the back of the end zone. CCHS answered with a touchdown of their own, from that point on the remainder of the game would be scoreless.

Despite the solid performance the Tigers came away with more injuries than touchdowns. Conor McDermott suffered a dislocated shoulder and Myles Pasley also had to come out of the game. While the scrimmage was coming to the end, Sophomore Rajiv Patel took a shot to the head and had to be taken to the hospital by the ambulance on hand. Rajiv suffered a concussion but is now feeling better. Antonio Richardson did not play due to a shoulder injury sustained in practice.

I'm Back!!!!!

2010-08-01T21:07:00.016-05:00

Sup, I've decided to write more now that I have finally accepted that super prodigy Miles Karro is no longer with the Ensworth football team. He's gone now and all I can do is sit and think of what could of been. I have spent many sleepless nights thinking of "The Play", for those of you trolls out there that don't know what the play is maybe it wouldn't hurt to give the ole macbook a rest and walk outside and talk to some people other than the family that you secretly loathe deep down and socialize with some people that live more than 100 feet away from your computer or if you're a female lurker, the oven.

The whole thing began when the Tigers inserted the Junior DT after taking an insurmountable lead against the woeful JPII Knights late in the fourth quarter. The play began to look like you're average end of the game, get the scrubs in, this one's over, type of play until the ball was snapped. A hole opened up in the middle, the running back thought he saw daylight, and was going to take off like a Junior in the back of a pickup truck. Then Miles closed the gap with his lighting speed, thunderous power and precise footwork, thus launching the back airborne, no shorter that 10 feet up into the atmosphere. Everyone was in awe. Karro called the kid's parents the following Saturday demanding they pay air fare and they did. Karro then began to receive the interest of college coaches from all over the county. Former USC coach Pete Carrol called Miles later that week offering him a full ride scholarship to USC. Urban Meyer claimed he saw shades of Carlos Dunlap in the 17 year old. Lane Kiffin, then the coach of Tennessee said that he was also interested but wanted Karro nowhere near his wife because if he were to take liking to Layla there would be no way he could get her back; he may too be launched 10 feet into the atmosphere.

It all seemed to be going great for Miles Karro, diet drinks lost their after taste, the flowers in his green house began to smell fresher and his girlfriend became slightly more visible to the naked eye. That was until local delinquent Will Ferrelli took exception to Miles when caught trying to hack his laptop in the 2nd floor commons. The two began to exchange "pleasantries" and a violent altercation ensued. Ferrelli was found two months later at the bottom of the Ensworth pond near the front entrance. Karro, realizing his true calling, then signed an endorsement with Russell Athletics to pursue a MMA career. Naturally, he quit football so he would not risk an unlikely injury that could damage his promising career as a professional MMA fighter.

Anyway...

I'll be blogging and maybe even vlogging as the season goes on. Expect a recap of the Columbia scrimmage soon. Peace.

Check Out Our Ustream Show!

2010-03-09T21:09:00.003-06:00

I will be doing a weekly show on Sunday nights for those that have questions about anything sports related. I will be going live at 9:30, this episode will be more a like a experiment. If you have a question feel free to ask via the chat box or twitter.

http://www.ustream.tv/channel/hdcastle

Orleans To Be On 560AM

2010-02-15T18:59:00.003-06:00

Tune in Tonight at 8:20 on sports extra. Listen Live: http://www.wnsr.com/index.php?id=2.

Tigers Stomp Hillwood 79-46

2009-12-17T22:29:00.003-06:00

The Ensworth Tigers went on the road for the second time in three days on Thursday, but they were more successful this time around. In a game dominated by the Tigers' defense, Ensworth took home a 79-46 victory.

The story of this game was turnovers: Hillwood had 32 of them over the course of the game, including 28 in the first three quarters alone. Ensworth ended up with 15 steals in the game, and they capitalized with 32 points off those turnovers. Hillwood also only mustered 44 field goal attempts, converting on 13 of them, which is a 29.5% clip.

In addition to playing tight defense, the Tigers were able to dominate the low post. Daniel McFadden led the Tigers with 18 points, which was the game high. He combined with Keshonn Carter and Conor McDermott for a total of 36 points in the low post. Jacob Carter, in addition to McDermott, was the only other player in double figures for the Tigers, as all 14 players on the roster mostly split the playing time as coach Ricky Bowers subbed in 5 players at a time throughout the game. Corn Elder continued his solid play at the point guard position as a freshman, finishing the game with 5 assists.

Marques Walker led the Hilltoppers with 13 points. Max Ugboaja led Hillwood with 8 rebounds, but got into foul trouble early and only finished with 3 points, fouling out toward the beginning of the 4th quarter.

The Tigers take on Signal Mountain Saturday at home. The girls will start at 5:00 with the boys following at approximately 6:30.

Tigers Score Triple Digits EHS 102 USN 52

2009-12-14T15:18:00.003-06:00

On Friday night everybody got a good look at this year's basketball team. Not only did all 14 players on the roster get into the game, they all scored. Leading the way was senior guard Daley Hill, who posted a team high 12 points. All 12 of Hill's points came from 3. Behind Hill was Freshman Corn Elder with 11. There were 4 others with 9.

USN's Meiko Lyles scored a game high 28 points in defeat.

For more stats click here

Tigers To Play On Big Stage

2009-12-11T09:58:00.004-06:00

On Saturday after the Predators take on the Red Wings the Tigers will take on Blackman High

School. It will be a 10PM start time but could be later depending on what time the previous game ends.

Blackman is tied with Ensworth for 3rd place in the GNASH Blue standings with a 1-6-2 record. The Tigers will be coming in at 2-7.

DII's Top Prospects Meet in Championship Game

2009-12-01T21:32:00.009-06:00

On Monday MUS four star quarterback Barry Brunetti won the Tennessee Mr. Football award in the "backs" category. When asked about what the award meant to him, he stated, "I think of it more as a team award than an individual award. It's a blessing to have a team like that." While this may be a response of a lot of players with a modest attitude like Brunetti's, he's not just trying to give his team thanks, he's just being honest.

While Barry has thrown for 21 touchdowns this season, rushed for 13 more, and gone turnover free throughout the regular season, he has had a lot of help on the offensive side of the ball from three star running back Keith McBride and two star athlete Stephond Allmond. Combined, they account for 1,407 yards rushing and 21 rushing touchdowns. Brunetti remains committed to WVU but told TNVarsity that Memphis and Mississippi State are still very interested, though he is still committed to the Mountaineers. McBride has received offers from Army, Navy and Princeton. Allmond has an offer from Army as well but is also interested in Memphis, Michigan State and Middle Tennessee.

While MUS may look like the favorite to win this year championship game on paper, MBA has been equally as impressive in the playoffs.

The Big Red knocked off Battle Ground Academy, a nationally ranked Ensworth team, and rival Brentwood Academy in overtime.
When sophomore linebacker and 2nd leading tackler James Kay was asked about momentum from the Ensworth game carrying over into other games he said, "A lot of momentum carried over from the game; many people told us to forget about the game so we could focus on BA, but Coach McGugin kept telling us to not forget and remember how good it felt. I think the game gave us a major boost of confidence also." Kay has yet to receive any interest from any DI schools but plans to camp this summer to get some exposure.

MBA is lead by seniors Fitz Lassing, Brad Bars and William Tanner.

Lassing is MBA's "do it all" guy. He plays linebacker, leading the team in in tackles with 84, running back, leading the team in rushing yards with 1291 and 15 touchdowns, and he is also the punter. In MBA's 42-41 overtime victory against Brentwood Academy, Lassing was responsible for 5 touchdowns, 2 passing and 3 rushing. So far, Lassing only has 2 offers from Furman and Wofford, but that may change as Vanderbilt is believed to be showing interest in the two star prospect.

Two star LB/DE prospect Brad Bars leads the Big Red with 6 sacks and 2 fumble recoveries. Bars so far has only been offered by Army but has impressed those who attended some of his camps last year. He too may be offered by the Commodores since Vanderbilt is trying to fill a need for a linebacker for their 2010 signing class.

William Tanner is MBA's number one receiver. So far, he has 442 receiving yards and 5 touchdowns. When asked about his offer from Murray State he said, "I am pretty interested in Murray State. I like the coaches up there, and they seem really cool; I just want to get up there for a visit and see what the student life is like and the social setting, but so far I am really interested in them; I just need to get up there for a visit."

When asked about this year's matchup compared to last year's, Tanner told TNVarsity, "This year is different because we are peaking at the right time. Everyone is playing well right now. We struggled a lot earlier this year, and that has helped make us more disciplined and a lot more mature. So overall, I feel like this team is more mature than the team last year, because we realize good things will happen as will bad things throughout the game."

Barry Brunetti was asked the same question about MBA, he said, "They're pretty much the same, they have a good defensive line and are very disciplined."

Important Note

In the MUS vs Father Ryan game Brunetti did sustain multiple injuries; he tore both of his groin muscles and strained his thigh. He told TNVarsity, "I was about 60% during the Father Ryan game but I am 80% now." Brunetti is expected to play on Thursday.

This year's game will be in Cookeville and will be played at Tennessee Tech at 7PM on Thursday Dec. 3.

Prediction

This is a hard one. MBA has caught fire in the playoffs, but it seems that MUS has been red hot for two years. It's really hard to bet against either team but, despite Brunetti's injury, MUS seems like the logical choice based on this year's results and last year's 35-7 stomping by the Owls over the Big Red.

Predicted Final: MUS 24 MBA 17

Big Red Upset: MBA 27 EHS 24

2009-11-15T20:46:00.006-06:00

This post will not be like any other game recap I have ever written. It is almost too painful to look back on this game. I will not give any drive summaries or stats of any sort... just my subjective opinion.

If you read my previous post previewing this game you can read my prediction. In that prediction it lists all the things that the two teams had to do in order to keep their season alive. MBA did those things, Ensworth didn't. It's that simple.

Mistakes were made, by players and coaches alike but I'm still proud to be a part of this team. I would like to thank the coaches, specifically Jason Hiett who gave me the opportunity to be with the team. Without his dedication to the technical side of football I would have little to do for the team and could not be a part of the past two undefeated regular seasons. I also thank the rest of the coaches for treating me like they would treat each other, whether it was on the coaches office or at school. It was a very special feeling.

Secondly, I would like to thank the team. I was not treated like the stereotypical "water boy" or the kid that's always at our practices. They treated me like they treated each other (except when it came to mouthpieces). Everybody knew my name, even most of the freshmen that I have never met before, and even the ones who still don't actually know who I am. I feel blessed to have players to cover like Orleans and Antonio, and I feel the same about those who don't get the same kind of recognition. I would not trade this team for any other in the country.

Lastly, I would like to thank everybody associated with RUMBLE, broadcasting and stat gathering. I would like to thank Cindy Rose, Alex Boehm, Nathan Caplan, Alex Dean, Mark Zager, William Joy, Thomas Doochin and the EHS Broadcast Club for all their hard work. Whether it was calling the games, gathering and submitting stats, editing, or putting together a good webcast, I really appreciate the effort given to help promote and expose this team.

Hockey season has already begun and girls and boys basketball is just around the corner. RUMBLE has not ended; it will be very active in the following weeks. I will not be able to be everywhere at once so, please, if you are interested in contributing please email me and we will work something out.

Once again, thanks to all for the memorable season.

EHS VS MBA Preview: DII-AA Playoffs RD2

2009-11-12T22:53:00.005-06:00

70 days ago it seemed like Ensworth had come away with MBA's most coveted game as the Tigers blew out the Big Red by the score of 50-21. But now it's time for part 2. However, the storyline has changed since these teams last met. The MBA lineup was shuffled around after numerous injuries were inflicted upon the Big Red. The most meaningful injury was to QB Luke Colbert after he took a hard hit on a goal line play against Ensworth. Colbert broke the C5 vertebra in his neck and was lost for the season. Coach Dan McGugin then pulled the plug on backup QB Van East after constantly struggling even against lesser opponents. After MBA lost to lowly BGA on their own homecoming, McGugin thought it was time for a change at QB and put sophomore Aaron Simonis in at QB. So far Simonis has led MBA over JPII and BGA convincingly.

In the last matchup the player of the game was Ensworth Mr. Football candidate senior RB Orleans Darkwa. Darkwa rushed for 341 yards and 5 TD's against the Big Red. It was apparent that the MBA D-Line was being pushed off the ball from the snap, and it would allow Darkwa to find gaping holes in the Big Red defense.

MBA has made defensive adjustments and will likely stack the box to hold Darkwa in check; however, the only team to successfully do so was Oakland in week 1 when Darkwa was held to 101 yards on the ground in a game that went to overtime. But keep in mind that Darkwa has sat for the last two weeks after sustaining a neck injury and turf toe, though he's been cleared to play and is feeling close to 100%.

If Darkwa is to come out of the game due to injury look for junior Rodney Anderson to take over the ground game for the Tigers. Anderson is the fastest player on the team and started in week 10 against BGA and rushed for 147 yards and 2 TD's.

Prediction

There is no doubt that Ensworth is the more athletic and skilled team. The last meeting between these two teams exposed that in the 1st quarter. However, this is a rivalry game and MBA has potential to really come out and score some points, and their defense has been solid most of the year. But as stated earlier, Ensworth is the better team hands down.

In order for MBA to win they have to cause turnovers and capitalize on all of their red zone opportunities. They really have to be mistake free and find ways to at least contain the Ensworth ground game.

As for Ensworth, the Tigers will have to do what they have been doing all year, and that's run until the scoreboard clock reads all zeroes. They will also have to limit their procedure penalties as they average 74 yards a game in penalties (leads DII).

Predicted Final: EHS 42 MBA 21.

Kuhn Scores 5 as Tigers Roll: EHS 9 Hume Fogg Beech 5

2009-11-12T08:32:00.008-06:00

CENTENNIAL SPORTSPLEX- Last night was a night to remember for the Ensworth hockey team as they set a school record for most goals in a game (9), and Senior captain Andrew Kuhn scored 5, yes, 5 goals which is a team record for most goals in a game by a single player. It was also the first hat-trick in team history. Kuhn also had 2 assists.

The most notable play of the game occurred in a 7 goal 2nd period at 5:03 when sophomore Matt Peacock split 2 defenseman, dangled the puck through an opposing player's legs and deked goaltender Max Rollins and scored on the back hand shot.

Also tallying on the scoreboard was Senior Hunt Baker (1 G 2A) and Junior Lee Srebnick (1 G 1A). Baker now leads the GNASH in assists with 9.

Highlights:

Ice Tigers to take on Beech-Hume Fogg Wednesday

2009-11-10T22:21:00.005-06:00

On Wednesday night the Tigers (1-4) will face Beech-Hume Fogg (0-3) at 6:40 PM at Centennial Sportsplex.

Last year the Tigers knocked off HB for the programs first win. Leading the way for HB is Beech forward #7 Wilson Reece who leads the team in goals with 3 and points with 5.

The game can be seen live at ensworthlive.com, and guess who's commentating! :D

After the game the Ensworth Live current events and politics show will be broadcast at 8 PM.

6 in 6 Part 6: Jack Allyn

2009-11-09T12:19:00.007-06:00

Jack Allyn has been in goal for all three years of his high school hockey career. Jack has had to face more shots than almost any other goalie in the Nashville high school hockey system. Last week Jack recorded his second career goaltender win against Ravenwood/Brentwood.

Q: Jack, who is your favorite NHL player past or present and why?

A: Patrick Roy is probably my favorite NHL player. No particular reason, I just always remember watching him play in the Stanley Cup when I was younger and thinking that he was cool.

Q: I understand you wear Tomas Vokoun's old goalie pads, how did get your hands on them?

A: Yeah, they are actually his backup pads he used during the Olympics a couple years back for the Czech Republic. I got them during an auction held at the Sommet like two years ago, they cost a lot, haha.

Q: At what age did you start playing hockey?

A: I started playing hockey when I was 6 really, actually with my brother shooting pucks at me in the basement of our old house against my will. But it stuck, and I started playing ice hockey like a year later.

Q: What is the hardest part about goaltending?

A: The hardest thing about being a goalie is trying to read what a shooter is going to do, like deke, shoot high, shoot low, or pass.

Q; Most teams are at least two deep at the goaltender position but you're Ensworth's only goalie on the roster. Is there anyone that you think that can or will step in for you maybe later this season since you're involved with the fall play?

A: I've no idea really who would even want to do it, but William Decker has tried before. I'd probably want Miles Karro to play though.

Tigers To Face The Big Red

2009-11-07T19:48:00.004-06:00

On Friday night the MBA Big Red came out with revenge on their mind as they avenged their homecoming loss against BGA earlier this year 45-10.

Changes have been made since Ensworth last played MBA at Tommy Owen Stadium in September, most notably at quarterback. Luke Colbert is now out for the season after sustaining a neck injury earlier this season against Ensworth. Sophomore Aaron Simonis took over the QB position after coach Dan McGugin made a change from the original back up Van East.

The game will take place at Tiger Stadium at 7PM Friday night, remember to buy tickets in advance since it is a playoff game.

6 in 6 Part 5: Neal Rice

2009-11-06T10:54:00.003-06:00

Freshman Neal Rice will be a key part of Ensworth's ability to win games this season. He is already a top scorer and will continue to improve as the season moves along. This is nothing new for the Tigers as last year freshman Matt Peacock led the team in goals. Ensworth's season relies vastly on newcomers and underclassmen like Neal.

Q: Neal, who is your favorite NHL player past or present?

A: My favorite NHL player is probably Maxim Afinogenov of the Buffalo Sabres, because he is an all around good player. He can hit, he can shoot, he can pass, and he sees the ice really well, meaning he's a really good playmaker.

Q: At what age did you start playing hockey?

A: I started playing hockey when I was 6. After my first Predators game, I knew I wanted to play this sport.

Q: What differences did you first notice when you played your first high school game?

A: The game moves a lot faster, and the players hit a lot harder.

Q: Which game are you most excited about playing this year?

A: The game at the Sommet Center against Blackman High School.

Q: As a Freshman, you already have 2 points in 4 games, what are your goals specifically for this season?

A: My main goal is to keep trying hard, finish every shift tired, get more goals, and hopefully get more wins for the Tigers.

6 in 6 Part 4: Matt Peacock

2009-11-05T08:43:00.004-06:00

Sophomore forward Matt Peacock made a huge splash last year in the Tigers' offensive attack. As a freshman Matt led the team in goals with 9 and was second on the team in points with 10.

Q: Who is your favorite NHL player past or present?

A: My favorite NHL player is probably Alexander Ovechkin. He's a really fun person to watch and led the league in goals last year. He's not the best team player, but he has the ability to score. He's really fast and plays physical. It's always interesting to watch him play because you're pretty much guaranteed to see a highlight reel goal.

Q: As a freshman last season your 9 goals was a team best. Why was the transition into high school hockey so seamless for you?

A: The transition to high school hockey was not that easy for me at first. I have played travel hockey for pretty much my whole life, but high school hockey feels completely different. I didn't score for the first half of the year last year because it took some time for me to get used to a new team and a new league.

Q: You were suspended for the first game of this season because of a carry over from last year; why exactly why does it seem that suspensions are so easy to come by in hockey?

A: I feel like suspensions are easy to come by because its a fast and physical game. Sometimes the refs see things differently than they really happened due to the speed of the game. Since there is so much contact involved, there are a lot more chances for questionable calls.

Q: Have teams keyed in on you in particular defensively since you were last season's leading scorer?

A: I don't feel like teams have really keyed in on me more than anyone else on my line. We are a fast line and all 3 of us (Andrew, Hunt, and I) have the potential to score. Hockey is a team sport and if you key in on one person, the rest of the team will take advantage of that.

Q: What are some areas that the offense can improve upon as the season goes along?

A: A major problem with our offense this year is that we only have 2 lines. Professional teams use 4 lines minimum in a game to keep their energy up. I feel like by the time we really get something started offensively we are already gassed. We are also getting much better at moving the puck as a team. This year we don't look as much like a bunch of individuals as we do a team.

6 in 6 Part 3: Lee Srebnick

2009-11-04T13:49:00.005-06:00

This season will be Lee Srebnick's first as an Ensworth Tiger after playing two seasons at MBA prior to transferring; however, hockey is nothing new to the junior defenseman. Prior to enrolling at MBA, Lee attended the Ensworth middle school from 6th to 8th grade. Even though it's only his first year at Ensworth, Lee is expected to be the Tigers' top defensive scorer and one of the best all around players on the team as he recorded 15 points last season in 19 games. So far he has 2 G and 1A in 4 games.

Q: Lee, who is your favorite NHL player past or present?

A: Martin Erat. He’s a local Preds player and has been here for a while. He always seems to be in the middle of the action and getting the puck where it needs to be. He’s not the biggest guy on the team, but he brings a lot to the ice and never backs down. His leadership is displayed through his actions every time he goes on the ice.

Q: Coming from MBA, what would be some big differences you noticed when you first joined this team?

A: Coming into this season, I notice that our team has a lot of potential. Everyone on the team this year has a new level of dedication and sees that we have a real chance of being respectable. Our leadership behind Andrew Kuhn and Hunt Baker should give us an even better chance to excel. This should be an exciting year for us as a team and as a school, and we hope to see some more support out there.

Q: What would be one area that this year's defense can improve upon?

A: Our defense can improve in many areas this year. We have been practicing hard and trying to work as a unit with our forwards. Mainly focusing on getting the puck up the ice to our scorers. Yet, on the defensive end we really are starting to improve with communication. Communication is the key to our success this year as we strive to cut down on the amount of open shots the other team is getting from in front of our own net. It’s a work in progress but we are definitely improving after every game.

Q: I heard you had an Alexander Ovechkin like goal against MBA... take us through that play.

A: I started with the puck around center ice and saw an opening to take it up. One of my former teammates tripped me up and I just made a desperation play towards the goal. I got lucky that it trickled in between the goalie's legs, nothing too special or crazy; can’t say I would be able to do it again. Just need to put points on the board as a team, a goal's a goal.

Q: What will it take to finish over .500 this season?

A: Finishing .500 is just a minimum milestone we have set for ourselves this year. As we progress as a team in practice and in games we need to be able to skate start to finish with the same intensity and at the highest level we can, instead of playing down to lesser teams' levels. If we continue to work hard and stay close knit as a team this should be an achievable goal. But as we take each game one at a time we need to be able to learn from our mistakes and mature. With young talent on the team as we go into the season, things should only look better. I'm looking forward to see how close we can get to the Henry Hines Cup. The one thing that we need is support from our classmates. We’ve had good crowds this year and it seems to give the team an edge, so we look forward to seeing more and more people at the rink.

6 in 6 Part 2: Andrew Kuhn

2009-11-03T21:27:00.006-06:00

After transferring to Ensworth from USN for his sophomore year, senior forward Andrew Kuhn has been an offensive fixture on this hockey team for all three years of its existence. So far this season in 4 games he has recorded 2 G and 1 A.

Q: Andrew, you grew up in Michigan, a state where hockey is very popular. If I'm correct your Dad worked with the University of Michigan's training staff and is now one of the Predators' team doctors. What is it like coming from a hockey background? How has that made you a better player?

A: Hockey is really popular up there; it's almost a religion. Growing up in Michigan, going to the rink, and watching so many games and practices with my dad helped me understand and become more passionate about the game. I think that my background has driven me to work harder and understand the game better.

Q: Who is your favorite NHL player current or past?

A: Gordie Howe, who played for the Detroit Red Wings in the late 40's. He was a tough, sturdy forward who could put pucks in the back of the net and set up plays. A Gordie Howe hat-trick is one assist, one goal, and one fight. He respects the game and is Mr. Hockey.

Q: How well do you think this team can play this season?

A: Our team has a ton of potential. We'll be pulling out a lot more wins. I think we may surprise some people this year.

Q: How have newcomers Junior Lee Srebnick and Freshman Neal Rice impacted this team?

A: They both have made an impact already, this early in the season. Lee is a two way defenseman who can score goals and play a great defensive game. Neal has that natural "hockey sense"-- he knows position, can move the puck quickly, and bury it.

Q: What are somethings you feel the team has to improve on this season?

A: Breaking out of our defensive end and neutral zone play, dump and chase.

Q: You are the captain of the team, what kind of responsibilities does a captain of a hockey team have?

A: We're there to assist the coaches. If any of the players need anything we're there for them too. A captain will lead the cardio before the game, get the team mentally prepared, take leadership on the bench during the game, and if there's a weird call, we get to stand outside of the ref's circle so they can tell us what the call is. We also get to lead the cheer.

TSSAA Division II-AA Brackets Released

2009-10-31T08:59:00.002-05:00

The TSSAA announced its playoff brackets over the radio this morning. In years past, the bracket has been finalized by midnight of the last Friday of the regular season, but because of the new playoff system that the TSSAA is employing this year, things are a bit different. Amid all of the strange playoff shenanigans, all Ensworth fans need to know is that they have a first round bye and will face the winner of BGA at MBA. That second round game will be at Ensworth. The full brackets can be found here.

6 in 6 Part 1: Hunt Baker

2009-10-30T12:52:00.010-05:00

Hunt Baker is a Senior assistant captain who has played hockey for Ensworth ever since the inception of the team in 2007.

Q: Who is your favorite NHL player of all time?

A: Jordan Staal because he is about the same size as me. He's a big guy and has good physciality, and he's a work horse. He had 7 short handed goals his rookie year. He's not really a superstar, he's not fancy, and he plays a simple game, but he is still effective for his team.

Q: What is the biggest change you see in this year's team compared to Ensworth teams of the past?

A: I would say we're all skating now by virtue of experience, and everybody has a lot of hockey sense. Lee Srebnick is also a big addition to the team.

Q: How does the team replace a player like Evan Chaberski?

Well, you really can't. It's kind of like a double-edged sword. He brought a lot of offensive fire power and intensity but now we have a lot more guys stepping up.

Q: What are your goals for this season?

A:We would like to get several wins, and we would like to improve as a team. We would like to win some games and have some people respect us as an athletic team. Also, we want to have more people outside the hockey team to be more interested and have more people show up at the games.

PERFECTION! EHS 35 BGA 9

2009-10-30T12:43:00.010-05:00

AP: www.ensworth.com

Although the Ensworth Tigers were missing their leader in the backfield, another stepped up Friday night as junior Rodney Anderson took over and rushed for 147 yards and 1 TD on senior night at Tiger Stadium to put the exclamation point at the end of Ensworth's second consecutive undefeated regular season.

Both of BGA's first two drives ended in interceptions by Myers Beaird and Rico Watson (3rd INT in 3 career games).

After CJ Beathard's first interception at the BGA 23, Anderson ran the ball 3 times before Cody Tollison scored on a 9 yard TD run of his own. After the 2nd INT at the BGA 28, the Tigers ran 3 plays to the BGA 10 before Myers Beaird would take it to the end zone to put the Tigers up 14-0.

BGA responded with a 64 yard drive of their own; however, they only came away with three points on a 31 yard FG by Ben Butler.

After 3 and outs from both teams, Ensworth got the ball on their own 40 yard line. After two big gainers by Anderson, the Tigers found themselves at the BGA 22. During a 3rd down play that looked like it was going to be a disaster for Ensworth with the defense breathing down Tollison's neck, the senior QB bought just enough time to find Jacob Carter all alone in the end zone to put the Tigers up 21-3 and the score remained the same during halftime. If you have been keeping track, the first three TD's were scored by Seniors.

The next score would come in the 3rd quarter when Anderson burned the Wildcat defense with a 45 yard TD run.

In the fourth quarter Tollison would strike again, this time on 3rd and 21, and would find senior Corey Sacks for the 40 yard score. Tollison would finish the game 7-13 with 83 yards and 2 TD's.

The Tigers will have a bye week next week. They will play the winner of MBA VS BGA the following week.

Passing

Ensworth:
Cody Tollison 7-13 83 yards 2 tds
Wirth Campbell 2-5 20 yards 1 int
BGA:
C.J. Beathard 11-22 58 yards 2 ints

Rushing
Ensworth:
Rodney Anderson 11 carries 147 yards 1 td, 13.4 yards/carry
Cornelius Elder 3 carries 34 yards, 11.3 yards/carry
Myers Beaird 5 carries 30 yards 1 td, 6 yards/carry
Cody Tollison 4 carries 8 yards 1 td, 2 yards/carry
BGA:
Keenan Bass 7 carries 46 yards 1 td, 6.6 yards/carry
Josh Copeland 7 carries 37 yards, 5.3 yards/carry
Michael Moore 12 carries 34 yards, 2.8 yards/carry
C.J. Beathard 6 carries -26 yards, -4.3 yards/carry

Receiving
Ensworth:
Jacob Carter 4 catches 40 yards 1 td
Corey Sacks 2 catches 47 yards 1 td
Daniel McFadden 1 catch 16 yards
David Dingess 1 catch 4 yards
Rodney Anderson 1 catch -4 yards
BGA:
Jordan Smith 4 catches 45 yards
Josh Smith 2 catches 12 yards
Michael Moore 2 catches 7 yards
Owen Meadows 1 catch 4 yards
Michael Smith 1 catch 4 yards
Josh Copeland 1 catch -14 yards

Team
Ensworth:
219 yards rushing
103 yards passing
322 yards total offense
21:17 time of possession
BGA:
91 yards rushing
58 yards passing
149 yards total offense
26:43 time of possession

Ensworth VS BGA Preview

2009-10-29T11:00:00.003-05:00

Once again the Ensworth Tigers (8-0) have another chance for the second straight year to finish the regular season undefeated. However, they will have to do it without their offensive workhorse.

The Tigers will have to face the Wildcats of Battle Ground Academy (5-4) to finish with a 9-0 mark. Without Orleans Darkwa it could end up being a tougher test for the No. 64 team in the country than some may think. The Wildcats feature leading rusher #30 Michael Moore with over 1,400 rushing on the season along with leading receiver #2 Kenny Bass.

How To Win

The Tigers have to establish the passing game with Cody Tollison under center to replace the lost yardage that comes with the injury of your best offensive threat. Players like Rodney Anderson, Quinn Hamilton and Corn Elder have to step up in the backfield in order to stay undefeated.

The Wildcats will have to control TOP with their running game if they hope to stay in it. On defense they will have to defend the pass and not give up big plays; without Orleans, this team has yet to prove that they can consistently start and finish drives.

Prediction

The Tigers in my mind are definitely the better team. They will find ways to run the hall behind Antonio Richarson and Keenan Crenshaw. So far Cody Tollison and Jacob Carter have been able to step up in the passing game. Tigers finish the regular season with perfection. EHS 28 BGA 14.

Coming Soon: Ensworth Live

2009-10-27T23:15:00.012-05:00

Ensworth Live will be a series of web shows broadcast by the EHS Broadcast Club. The first episode premieres this Wednesday at 8 PM at www.ensworthlive.com.

The first episode is actually a political talk show. The political talk show will include Aubrey Moore, Nathan Caplan, Sam Devane and Edward Gore.

The sports show will premiere on Monday at 8 PM featuring myself, Aaron Crowe, William Joy and Nick Smith.

Keep up with Ensworth Live on Facebook and follow on Twitter.

Tigers Remain Unbeaten: Ensworth 29 Baylor 15

2009-10-24T00:49:00.004-05:00

AP: www.ensworth.com

In an Ensworth offense that is ruled by the run, the pass took command for the first time this season.

The Tigers took an early lead when Senior RB Orleans Darkwa found a new gear and took the ball 79 yards to the end zone during the Tigers' second offensive play from scrimmage. From then on, Coach Bowers decided to open the playbook a bit with the pass. After 4 completions by Ensworth QB Cody Tollison, the Tigers found themselves 7 yards away from the Red Raider end zone. However, the Baylor defense stood strong on 3rd down, and the Tigers settled for 3 with Clayton McGlasson's 24 yard field goal.

Baylor then went on an 8:26 drive to the Ensworth 8 yard line before Junior LB Nantambu Fentress returned the favor. Fentress intercepted Jacob Huesman's pass in the end zone. Unable to put together a last minute drive with 1:24 left in the half, the Tigers took a 10-0 lead to halftime.

To the start the 2nd half the Tigers went to the air. On the second play of the half, Tollison hooked up with Senior WR Jacob Carter, who had been out for the past several weeks nursing a leg injury, on a 38 yard pass. The very next play Darkwa extended the lead by 6 on a 20 yard run.

Baylor's next drive ended with another interception; this time sophomore CB Rico Watson came up with the pick. The interception is his second in his last two games.

Unfortunately, on the Tigers' next offensive drive, Orleans Darkwa went down with a neck injury and did not return. Early indications are not serious, but he will get his neck X-rayed to take necessary precautions. Darkwa walked off the field under his own power. Darkwa finished with 133 yards on 11 carries and 2 TD's.

Baylor's next drive ended up being worth 8 points after driving the ball 51 yards. The touchdown and the two point conversion were both scored by Huesman out of the Emory and Henry formation.

The Tigers then added two more TD's with a 4 yard run by Tollison set up by his 18 yard pass to Jacob Carter and a 9 yard TD run by freshman RB Cornelius "Corn" Elder. Elder's TD is his first of what looks to be many at EHS.

Baylor scored once more on Huesman's 5 yard pass to RB Nelson Pinkstaff.

The Tigers finished with a season high 132 passing yards.

The Tigers will take on BGA next Friday. The Wildcats are coming off a 23-20 win over JPII.

More stats courtesy of Alex Boehm:

Passing:
Ensworth:
Cody Tollison 8-12 128 yds
Wirth Campbell 1-2 4 yds
Baylor:
Jacob Huesman 20-36 214 yds, 1 td, 2 ints

Rushing:
Ensworth:
Orleans Darkwa 11 carries 133 yds, 2 tds, 12.1 yds/carry
Cornelius Elder 2 carries 27 yds, 1 td, 13.5 yds/carry
Cody Tollison 7 carries 2 yds, 1 td, 0.3 yds/carry
Rodney Anderson 6 carries 0 yds
Baylor:
Sam Williams 11 carries 23 yds, 2.1 yds/carry
Jacob Huesman 13 carries 16 yds, 1.2 yds/carry
Nelson Pinkstaff 4 carries 7 yds, 1.8 yds/carry

Receiving:
Ensworth:
Jacob Carter 4 catches 85 yds
Sam Cooper 1 catch 27 yds
Corey Sacks 1 catch 9 yds
Myers Beaird 1 catch 5 yds
David Dingess 1 catch 4 yds
Rodney Anderson 1 catch 2 yds
Baylor:
Deosha McColley 7 catches 69 yds
Charbo Clark 5 catches 62 yds
Sam Williams 3 catches 42 yds
Michael Trundle 2 catches 15 yds
Josh Ernest 1 catch 17 yds
Nelson Pinkstaff 1 catch 5 yds
David Helton 1 catch 4 yds

Team:
Baylor:
46 yds rushing
214 yds passing
260 yds total offense
26:41 TOP
Ensworth:
162 yds rushing
132 yds passing
294 yds total offense
21:19 TOP

Ensworth VS Baylor Preview

2009-10-22T12:50:00.008-05:00

AP www.ensworth.com

Last Friday the Ensworth Tigers were again pushed to their limit against a quality opponent in Father Ryan, but will the same fate lie ahead when the Tigers face Baylor? The Baylor Red Raiders will come into Nashville with an impressive 6-2 record including wins against arch rival McCallie and most recently a 51-7 win over JPII. Their only two losses came against MBA and Brentwood Academy.

Players To Watch

#14 QB Jacob Huesman- Great dual threat QB. He has passed for 1067 yards and rushed for 685 through 8 games.

#22 RB Nelson Pinkstaff- Leading Rusher at RB

#13 LB David Helton- Leading Tackler

#19 DB Channing Gordan- Leads the team with 3 INT's

Prediction

Baylor has played pretty good defense up to this point only giving up 15.5 points a game. The question is, can they stop Darkwa? The only team to come close was Oakland. I say that Ensworth will not commit as many errors as they have in their last few games against good teams, but they will not run away. EHS 35 Baylor 21

Tigers Hold On: EHS 35 FRHS 27

2009-10-16T22:46:00.007-05:00

AP: www.ensworth.com

In Ensworth's first 2 seasons in Division II Father Ryan had always showed up to play, and this year was no different.

In the early going, it did not look like the game would be a mirror image of the close games in the past. Ensworth Senior Orleans Darkwa led the Tigers on a lengthy 85 yard drive and capped it off on a 13 yard TD run.

The Tigers forced a three and out on the ensuing Irish drive. Darkwa again drove the Tigers down the field and scored on a 2 yard TD run. Clayton McGlasson's PAT was blocked.

The Irish drive once more was halted on 4th down which forced another punt. Darkwa 'n' company again drove the ball all the way to the Irish 5 yard line. From that point, Darkwa would score his 3rd TD of the half. Cody Tollison's 2 yard pass to Malcom Grigsby was good for the 2 point conversion.

The Tigers were looking at a possible 28-0 lead before the half but Tollison's 70 yard pass to Daniel McFadden was called back due to an ineligible receiver downfield. The Tigers then had to punt from their goal line, but the snap went over McFadden's head and out the back of the end zone for a safety.

The Irish drove the ball after the free kick to the EHS 35 yard line. Irish kicker Nick Pollard set up for a 52 yard field goal and knocked it through the uprights. The score at halftime was 21-5 in favor of EHS.

The Irish drove the ball down the field 60 yards to set up a 9 yard TD run from QB Trey McPhail. The Irish's attempt at the two point conversion was good. They were down only 21-13 in the 3rd quarter. But the madness had just begun.

The Tigers responded with a TD drive of their of their own with a 1 yard TD run by Darkwa which was set up by a 43 yard dash by Darkwa. The score put the Tigers up 28-13.

On the ensuing kickoff WR Joe Francescon took the kick 90 yards to the house, but on the very next kick Darkwa took one 95 yards to paydirt. Darkwa finished the night with 364 rushing yards and 469 all purpose yards with 5 TD's. The 15 point advantage to the Tigers still stood at 35-20.

The Irish offense drove the ball down the field once again. RB Nick Bateman scored from 8 yards out to put the Irish within 8 points of a tie with the score at 35-27.

The Irish then went for the on-side kick and succeeded. The Irish received the ball at the 50 yard line but only went backwards from there and were forced to punt. However, Rodney Anderson muffed the return and the Irish got the ball back at the EHS 25. But, once more, the Irish could not convert. On 4th and 11 Sophomore DB Rico Watson intercepted McPhail's pass at the EHS 22.

Once more the Irish had an opportunity after forcing an Ensworth 3 and out. On 4th and 16 McPhail's pass to Alex Shoulders was less than one yard too short of the 1st down marker. From then on EHS ran out the clock and took the 35-27 victory.

The Tigers will take on Baylor next Friday at Ensworth. Baylor crushed JPII by the score of 51-7 on Friday night.

Here are some more stats from Friday's game...

Passing:
Tollison 1-4 3 yards 1 int
McPhail 12-21 122 yds 1 int 4 sacks

Rushing:
Darkwa 40 carries 364 yards 9.1 avg 4 tds (469 all-purpose yards and 5 total tds)
Bateman 17 carries 45 yards 2.6 avg 1 td

Receiving:
Alex Shoulders 5 rec 53 yards
Jackson Coursey 3 rec 22 yards

Returns:
Joe Francescon (kickoffs) 5 ret 165 yards (90 long) 1 td
Orleans Darkwa (kickoffs) 2 ret 105 yards (95 long) 1 td

Team:

Father Ryan:
11 first downs
37 rush yards
122 passing yards
159 total offense
3.1 yds/play
23:02 TOP

Ensworth:
18 first downs
384 rush yards
3 passing yards
387 total offense
7.7 yards/play
24:58 TOP

Ensworth vs. Father Ryan Preview

2009-10-15T23:50:00.005-05:00

While the Father Ryan Irish haven't had the best talent on the field during the last couple of seasons, they have sure made a lot of games interesting. In 2007, the Irish defeated the favored Tigers in their own backyard. In that game Ensworth turned the ball over on 5 separate occasions. In last season's game, Ensworth star RB Orleans Darkwa was unavailable for the entire 2nd half and the Irish took a 1 point lead in the 4th quarter before former Tiger Tavarres Jefferson returned the ensuing kickoff almost all the way back before Ensworth took the lead back. Father Ryan could not answer as LB Myers Beaird returned an interception for a TD.

The Irish are lead by QB Trey McPhail, RB Nick Bateman and WR Joe Francescon. However, their top DI prospect is the kicker Nick Pollard, who can hit easily from 50+ yards. The Irish are definitely an offensive minded team but are coming off a heart breaking 7-3 loss against long time rival MBA. They are 5-2 on the season with their other loss coming against Overton High School.

The Tigers are definitely the favorites in this game, but Ryan has given them trouble in the past. Ensworth should be able to use their running game to keep them in control, but Darkwa has been limited in games so far this season. The Irish are definitely going to give it their best like they have in the past, so who knows? But also, I'm not one to compare scores but Father Ryan only held off JPII by a 7 point margin (the same team the Tigers beat last Friday 42-17). Discounting any injuries or any other irregularities Ensworth should roll in this one. EHS 49 FRHS 14.

The game is at 7PM at EHS. Live webcast can be found at ensworthlive.com.

Karro's Recruitment Tracker: October Edition

2009-10-12T20:16:00.005-05:00

The Junior DL standout sent shock waves through the college football recruiting world when THE Miles Karro recorded one tackle against JPII, a career first. The last time someone named Miles Karro made a tackle against a high school team with a Knight as their mascot was in 1969 when Sacramento School for the Blind Donkeys gave the I.P. Freely High Knights a 70-0 blow out loss. Miles Karro went on to play college football at intramural powerhouse Bob's Tire College in Wasilla, Alaska .

After achieving the amazing feat offers from all over the country started to pile up in the Karro household's mailbox. Most notably Penn State University and University of Florida have extended offers to the upcoming superstar on his 17th birthday. After Georgia's blow out loss to Tennessee this past weekend UGA head coach Mark Richt gave a verbal offer to Karro Monday morning in desperation since they obviously need improvement along their defensive line. When asked about the verbal offer Richt responded,"What! I didn't do that! Get off my lawn!" I guess he didn't want this to come out quite yet but you guys are first know.

Miles told RUMBLE after the offers came in, "I'm still waiting on that Tennessee offer, I wait to meet Layla...I mean...Lane Kiffin."

Handler Noland Moorer said, "I just want the best for this kid. He his a perfect example of a leader on and off the field."

Tigers Trample Knights 42-17

2009-10-10T00:18:00.005-05:00

As many anticipated, the Tigers rolled in this one, and the charge was led by #10.

The Tigers got out to a fast start. On their first possession, when the Tigers were backed up on 3rd and 16 from their own 14 yard line, when the Knights thought they had the Tigers pinned, Orleans Darkwa broke an 86 yarder for the score. The touchdown put Ensworth up 6-0 after Clayton McGlasson missed the PAT. That run also put Orleans in the top ten all time for most career rushing yards in the state of Tennessee; we’ll have more on that later.

JPII then responded with a 28 yard Michael Colello TD pass to Tyler Tinker right before the end of the 1st quarter. Unfortunately, that would be the only score for the Knights until the 2nd half.

Darkwa then went on to lead another drive that took 9 plays to go 80 yards capped off by a 13 yard TD run by Darkwa. He then converted on the 2 point play to put the Tigers up by 7.

The Tigers would score once more after facing a 3rd and 9. Rodney Anderson would take the ball from the JPII 44 to the house to put the Tigers up 21-7.

Darkwa would lead yet another drive with a 31 yard run down to the Knights' 4 yard line. Darkwa would take it in himself 2 plays later from only 1 yard out to put the Tigers ahead 28-7 at the half. Darkwa finished the game with 256 yards rushing and 3 TD's.

Cody Tollison and Malcom Grigsby both added 15 yard runs on the Tigers first two possessions of the second half.

Game Notes

THE Miles Karro recorded his first career tackle in the 4th quarter. There are rumors that Penn State and University of Florida have already sent in written offers to the junior DL standout.

The Tigers finished with 417 Rushing yards but only 17 yards passing.

The Tiger defense held JPII to only 38 rushing yards on 30 attempts and picked off two passes.

On Friday the Tigers will take on the Father Ryan Fighting Irish at Ensworth. The Irish are coming off a heartbreaking 7-3 loss against longtime rival MBA.

RUMBLE Gallery: EHS Hosts Special Olympics

2009-10-08T02:16:00.002-05:00

Gallery

Tavarres Jefferson Scores First TD as a Blue Raider!

2009-10-06T22:29:00.007-05:00

Former Tiger great and MTSU Blue Raider freshman Tavarres Jefferson showed up Tuesday night against Troy with 7 REC, 79 Yards, and 1 TD. Not bad for a freshman, but unfortunately, the rest of the team didn't come to the party as MTSU dropped this one to Troy 31-7.

Tigers Escape from Eagles 15-9

2009-10-03T14:53:00.006-05:00

Friday night was Ensworth's homecoming and they did not dissappoint the visiting Tiger alums as they beat Brentwood Academy for the first time in school history.

The game began with an Ensworth 3 and out, and after a long BA punt return the Eagles had great field position. Cody Nelson hooked up with Lucas Brooks for a 13 yard touchdown reception and took the lead 6-0 after a failed PAT by Nathan Renfroe.

The Tigers then drove down the field to take the lead after Orleans Darkwa took one in from 11 yards out.

The Eagles responded right before halftime with a 24 yard field goal by Renfroe. The score at the half was 9-7 with the Eagles leading.

Once more, the Tigers found a way to win in the second half. Orleans Darkwa led the Tigers on an 85 yard drive capped off by a 10 yard touchdown of his own. Cody Tollison converted the 2 point play with a 2 yard run. Orleans finished the game with 308 rushing yards and 2 TD's.

After Ensworth turned the ball over on downs at the Brentwood 20, the Eagles took over, and Brentwood quarterback Cody Nelson completed three consecutive passes to move the ball to the Ensworth 40. On Nelson's 4th pass he was intercepted for the second time by Corey Sacks at the 2, who took it out to the 30 yard line.

The Tigers will take on JPII next week in Hendersonville. JPII is coming off a 20-13 loss against Father Ryan.

11 in 38,748,237 Part 11: Teddy Reeve

2009-10-01T21:40:00.005-05:00

Finally we have reached the final interview of the 11 in 11 series. We end with Senior center Teddy Reeve. Teddy is as consistent as they come. He has started at center for the past two seasons for an offense that averages over 30 points a game. If the Tigers need their team to be anything right now, they need to be consistent to say the least against Brentwood Academy this Friday.

Q: Teddy, how big of a role does the offensive line play in this year's rushing attack?

A: The offensive line plays a huge role in the rushing attack this year. Coach Caudill has put in a game plan that allows for us to be successful and use our strengths to the fullest. We just make the holes, and with a high-caliber back like Orleans, we are able to capitalize. We have only scratched the surface of what this offensive line is capable of.

Q: What are some areas do you feel that the offensive line can improve on?

A: Communication: when we are all on the same page we are unstoppable; when we are all over the place we tend to make mistakes and not get the job done. If we can be on the same page we can go far this year.

Q: Are you looking to walk on and play college football next year?

A: If I have to I will walk on, but at the moment I'm not looking to go that route. I have been in contact with many D1-AA and Ivy League schools, and I plan on playing for one of them this time next year.

Q: How big is this year's BA game?

A: This game is the biggest game this year for us, and the biggest BA game thus far. They have kept us from the title game two years running, and this time it's the regular season, but we are treating it like the playoffs. To be the first Ensworth team to beat BA would be huge and would give us confidence that we can build on as the season rolls along.

Q: What does the offensive line have to do against BA to have a shot at beating them for the first time on homecoming?

A: We just have to work as a unit, if we are together, BA will have their hands full tomorrow night.

11 in 11 Part 10: Daniel McFadden

2009-09-30T21:02:00.003-05:00

Senior TE/DE and punter Daniel McFadden is one of the reasons that Ensworth was able to pull one out against Smyrna Friday night as he pulled in a 9 yard touchdown pass from Cody Tollison in overtime. The previous week Daniel missed the McCallie game due to injury but obviously seems to be feeling better. Keeping players like Daniel healthy is a must for the Tigers to have a shot at winning it all.

Q: Daniel, you had a big touchdown catch against Smyrna in overtime. How did you get that wide open?

A: Well, we had run the same play previously, but handed the ball off to Orleans. Then we ran the same type of play, but it was play action. Coach Bowers told the tight ends to really sell our block out on that play, and as I faked my block and went into the endzone, there was no one around.

Q: You play both defensive end and tight end; is it an advantage for you to play both so that you get a better understanding of what you're going up against?

A: Yes it does. Because I play both positions, I know how the offense or defense is thinking when I'm on the opposite side of the ball. It gives me a big advantage.

Q: Have you received much interest from colleges?

A: Yes I have from various schools, but the ones most interested are Brown University, Vanderbilt, Tennessee Tech, and Kentucky.

Q: What will Ensworth have to do to get their first win over Brentwood Academy?

A: Being healthy is the main thing. Other than that, we will have to come out and do what we are taught to do every snap: take no plays off, play as hard and as low as we can and as we know we can. And just play Ensworth Football.

Now on twitter!

2009-09-30T20:28:00.003-05:00

Smyrna Highlights

2009-09-29T08:16:00.000-05:00

Rivals

Tigers Get Away With Murder EHS 36 Smyrna 34 OT

2009-09-26T12:03:00.005-05:00

After the thriller that had just taken place between two exhausted teams, I sat down on the team bus with junior lineman Miles Karro, and he said, "Brad, can you interview me about the game?????" Sure, Miles, but first let me tell you what I know.

After trailing by 14 points in the fourth quarter Orleans Darkwa who had been out of the game for the entire 3rd quarter after rushing for 196 yards and 2 TD's in the first half scored on a 27 yard option play but failed to convert the 2 point conversion.

After Smyrna missed a 30 yard field goal attempt the Tigers put together a 70 yard drive to tie the game with 18 seconds left with a 10 yard run by Cody Tollison. Orleans then ran over the Bulldog's offensive line for the 2 point play.

In overtime Cody Tollison connected on a 9 yard pass to Daniel McFadden and once more the Tigers converted the 2 point play with another run by Darkwa.

Orleans finished the game with 300 yards on 31 carries and 3 TD's.

However, the Bulldogs answered on their first play in overtime when Steve Wilson connected with Dakota Brown on a 10 yard pass play. But the Bulldogs needed 2, and Wilson's pass fell short of the intended target giving the Tigers the 36-34 OT win.

Prior to all that madness, Smyrna wide receiver Andrew Jenkins scored twice from 60 and 75 yards out on from passes by Steve Wilson to give the Bulldogs the 14 point edge.

Also note than Ensworth turned the ball over 4 times on 3 fumbles and 1 INT giving Smyrna great field position all 4 times.

The Tigers will take on Brentwood Academy next week for homecoming, make sure you're going to be there for that one!

Ensworth @ Smyrna Preview

2009-09-24T23:14:00.005-05:00

The Tigers (3-0) will travel to Smyrna to take on the Bulldogs (2-2) Friday night.

This game is a battle between one of the State's top defenses and one of the top offenses. If you are unfamiliar with Bulldog football, they play a very physical game, much like Oakland. Smyrna so far is holding their opponents under 20 points a game and they are coming off a 20-0 win over Siegel.

If you want in game updates, follow me on twitter @ bradhardcastle (linked in the side bar).

11 in 11 Part 9: Malcom Grigsby

2009-09-23T17:48:00.006-05:00

Malcom Grigsby has started at linebacker and fullback so far this season. Grigsby is one of the hardest hitters on defense and a reliable rusher on offense. He sat out hurt for the McCallie game, but it looks like he will back on the team in the near future. Malcom's presence will be very important for the Tigers if they want to go farther in the playoffs this season.

Q: Malcom, you were out for the McCallie game, when do you think you'll be back?

A: I think I should be back this Friday against Smyrna. If not, I will definitely be back for Brentwood Academy.

Q:Like many guys on this team, you are a two-way player. Do you like playing on both sides of the ball or do you strongly prefer one?

A:I prefer to play defense but playing offense has become more fun, so going both sides has been a good opportunity.

Q:What do you think the defense can improve on this season?

A:Making more big plays and really shutting teams down from scoring. If we can do that, we will be a dominant defense.

Q:At linebacker you play alongside Myers Beaird and Nantambu Fentress. How big a part of the defense are they?

A:They are a very big part of the defense. They are both versatile and hard working and they make my job a lot easier to know they will make big plays.
Q:At full back do you like fighting for the "tough yards"?

A:Of course. Its always fun to fight inside against those big lineman and linebackers for that extra yardage.

Q:What will Ensworth have to do to beat Smyrna?

A:Be solid on defense and keep our assignments and make running and passing lanes for Cody and Orleans to have a good game.

Tigers Beat Tornadoes 28-13

2009-09-19T00:28:00.015-05:00

With two undefeateds going head to head, one would think that a close game would be expected, but the buzz coming into this game did not reflect that. However, this game was not decided until the 4th quarter.

From the appearance of the Tigers’ first drive, it would appear that they would have this one in hand by halftime. The drive was kept alive on 3rd down when Cody Tollison found Corey Sacks on a desperation pass that just happened to find its target 34 yards downfield. Orleans Darkwa, who finished the game with 254 rushing yards and 2 touchdowns, took one in from 4 yards out to put the Tigers ahead 7-0. On the Tornadoes’ first drive, they went 3 and out. It looked like all was going well for the Tigers until Orleans Darkwa suffered a shoulder injury and had to come out for 2 series in the 1st quarter.

After the Tigers’ second touchdown, which came from Rodney Anderson when he scored from 10 yards out towards the end of the 1st quarter, the Tornadoes gained wind. Trent Lusk and T.J. Kemp marched the ball down the field and scored on a 15 yard screen pass to John Burkus to cut the Tigers’ lead in half in the second quarter.

Late in the 2nd quarter, the Tigers forced a McCallie punt after a 3 and out from their own 12 yard line, giving Ensworth good field position at the McCallie 44. The Tigers drove the ball all the way to the 8 yard line to set up a 25-yard field goal from Clayton McGlasson. The Tigers didn’t end up capitalizing on the drive, however, since the field goal was pushed wide right. The Tigers only led 14-7 at the half.

Fortunately for the Tigers, the scoring picked up in the 3rd quarter when Nantambu Fentress gave them a short field following an outstanding diving interception. Ensworth drove the ball 36 yards to set up a 4 yard touchdown pass from Cody Tollison to Corey Sacks. Before his touchdown, Sacks had dropped 2 would-be touchdown grabs, but he redeemed himself when he put the Tigers up 21-7 in the 3rd quarter.

McCallie answered back at the beginning of the 4th quarter on their next drive when they got the ball at the Ensworth 39 yard line after Darkwa’s fumble. Trent Lusk hooked up with Keenan Hale for a 10 yard score wide open across the middle. Hudson Brock missed the extra point attempt wide right, which kept the score at 21-13.

Orleans Darkwa led the next Ensworth drive, which culminated in a 27 yard touchdown run on 4th down, widening the gap to 28-13.

With 4:54 left to go, the Tornadoes drove the ball down to the Ensworth 16 yard line before turning the ball over on downs, which ultimately sealed the victory for the Tigers. The final score was 28-13.

Orleans Darkwa broke the school record for career touchdowns with his second of the night, which put him at 49 for his career, 1 ahead of Tavarres Jefferson. The Tigers will take on the Smyrna Bulldogs at Smyrna next Friday.

Ensworth @ McCallie Preview

2009-09-18T11:10:00.004-05:00

Sorry guys; I've been sick all week with make-up work to do. We will finish the 11 in 11 series next week.

Last year this was a close one, but this time the Tigers want this one to be over before halftime.

Last year when the Tigers traveled to McCallie the game went to two overtimes and the score did not become final until the tying extra point was missed by the Tornadoes.

McCallie (4-0) has yet to play a top tier opponent but is there any better opportunity to show the state what they're really made of by beating Ensworth (2-0)?

Ensworth had an open week this past week since Tuscola (NC) canceled their game with the Tigers due to economic reasons. The Tigers have been preparing for this game for about two weeks now.

The keys to this game will be for Ensworth to run and for McCallie to stop it.

Orleans Darkwa may be the best running back in the state after coming off a 341 yard and 5 TD game against MBA.

McCallie isn't so bad themselves, putting up an average of 237.5 yards a game. However, dual threat quarterback Keenon Rush, who gave Ensworth fits last year, is out for the remainder of the season with a torn ACL. Stepping up will be senior T.J. Kemp, who will be attending UNC on a lacrosse scholarship. Kemp is averaging 83.2 yards a game on the ground.

Quaterbacking for McCallie will be Trent Lusk, who is averaging less than 100 yards passing but has thrown two touchdowns.

My Take

Ensworth takes it on the ground and will run over the Big Blue 54-21.

11 in 11 Part 8: Myers Beaird

2009-09-11T14:21:00.004-05:00

Senior linebacker Myers Beaird will be one of the key players on defense this season. He led the team in tackles last year and he seems to be on pace for that to happen again this season. He had a game-sealing pick 6 against Father Ryan last year to put the Tigers up for good. Can he make he make those same plays this year to help give Ensworth a shot at the state title?

Myers, what are some goals you and the defense have set for this year?

Our goals as a defense are to be the most physical and dominating defense in the state.

Have you received interest from any colleges yet?

I've gotten letters and been in contact with some Ivy League schools and some smaller schools up North.

Have you considered playing safety in college because of your size?

I can see that being a possibility, but I am up for playing whatever they want me to. I need to make it to the next level before I worry about what position I will play.

Do you like being a two-way player?

I love being a two-way player. It's great to be on the field the whole game and help the offense and defense get the job done. You just have to make sure you're well conditioned.

Would you consider our linebacking core as the hardest hitting in the state?

Our defense as a whole and especially our linebackers take pride in punishing the opposing team. Coach Ski and our other defensive coaches have done a great job instilling that mindset in us.

Which of our remaining games do you think will be the toughest to come out on top?

It's impossible to say. Division II is the toughest division of football in the state because every team has talent and great coaches; any of the teams we play can beat us if we don't do our job. We also play Smyrna who is a powerhouse in Division I 6A. We are just taking the season one game at a time. Right now it's McCallie.

No Way!

2009-09-09T22:02:00.009-05:00

For the first time ever the Ensworth football team is ranked in the top 25 in the program's third year of DII-AA by Maxpreps.com. But, are we that good? No. The Freeman rankings are pretty much the BCS rankings of high school football; it's all numbers. In a separate poll, Maxpreps Xcellent 25, which is like the AP poll of high school football because it adds the human element of the ranking process, Ensworth is nowhere to be found in the Xcellent 25, and that does not surprise me one bit.

As a football team I say we are one of the elite in the state, but in the country? If you look at the Xcellent 25 ranked number 1, St. Thomas Aquinas High School, they have 18 D1 prospects on their team. That would be like having everyone with say Orleans Darkwa's or Sam Cooper's potential all the way down the depth chart until it reaches Miles Karro... just kidding Miles! In all seriousness you're probably at about 35th, but that's OK. There will be seniors leaving next year, that's how football works. Anyhow, they're good.

Ranked 2nd is Byrnes High School in Duncan, SC. If that name sounds familiar you probably saw them play MBA in the Clinic Bowl at Vanderbilt Stadium before the inception of EHS. If you think we whipped MBA, you have to go back and watch this one. MBA was down nearly 50 points in the 3rd quarter.

Ranked 16th is Don Bosco Prep. The New Jersey prep school is pretty much the Oak Hill Academy of football. Enough said.

Personally I don't think Ensworth stands a chance against any of these schools.

Also, another school that is nowhere to be found in the X25 is Memphis University School (MUS). Again, if you think ending MBA's 15 game home winning streak was impressive, MUS just beat South Panola (MS) at home; it was South Panola's first home loss since 2001. In the Freeman rankings MUS is ranked as the 9th best team in the country.

It will be interesting to see if MUS and EHS can meet up in Cookeville for the game of the year. Many are already saying on the Coacht.com message boards to go ahead and cancel the rest of the season so that the teams are still healthy for the title game. We'll see what happens in December.

Link to rankings

11 in 11 Part 7: Antonio Richardson

2009-09-08T19:24:00.005-05:00

Antonio Richardson stands at approximately 6-6 300lbs, yet he seems to have an even larger impact on this Tiger team. Last year Antonio transferred from Mt. Pleasant, TN to become a Tiger; however, he still had eligibility issues and was unavailable for the entire 2008 season. So far, Antonio has been a force. He helped neutralize University of Kentucky commit DL Tim McAdoo to lead Ensworth over Oakland 22-20 in overtime. This week he opened up massive lanes (well... more like highways) for Orleans Darkwa to run through as he picked up 341 rushing yards and scored 5 touchdowns against the Big Red. He is looked upon as the state's number one prospect for the class of 2011. Can Antonio lead the way for the Tigers to their first ever Division II football state title?

Antonio, congratulations on the MBA win. What does that mean to you and the rest of the team?

The win means a lot to us as a team because of the fact that they are our rival, and they do not respect us. I believe that we made a statement to them. The win means a lot to me even though I did not have my best game, because MBA made some very crazy statements about me, so the fact that we beat them felt good.

How hard was it to sit out all of last year with eligibility issues? Were there any positives to taking a year off?

Last year it was hard for me to sit out. I love the game of football, and I want to take it as far as I can, so it was very hard watching my teammates play. On the positive side, it made me a better teammate. I had to be the hype man for the team last year and some what of a water boy, but I enjoyed helping my teammates get better in practice and helping any way that I could. It also gave me time to get stronger, faster, and be devoted to my academics, which are always first.

If you had the choice to go college on a football scholarship anywhere you wanted, where would you go and why?

Right now I have like 20 plus colleges who have sent me letters letting me know that they are giving me looks. I have some that I like, but right now I prefer not to say which ones I like. But I really like the SEC. That is where I want to play, mostly because almost everybody in the SEC is giving me looks, and there are like 4 that I really like.

Which do you like playing more, offense or defense? Which would you rather play in college?

I love playing defense way more than offense. I would rather play defense in college.

As a defensive lineman, are you more comfortable stuffing the run or getting in the backfield?

I am comfortable stuffing the run and getting in the backfield. I can do either one. It's just a thing of being in good condition. Playing both sides of the ball with not much rest can be tiring at times.

On offense, are you a better run or pass blocker?

On offense, I'm good at both, but I don't think I'm as good on offense as I am on defense. It might just be the fact that I love defense more.

What game are you most looking forward to during the remainder of this season?

Now that we have gotten past Oakland and MBA, the game I believe I am looking forward to is Brentwood Academy. It will be a physical game.

Around The Web 9/7/09

2009-09-07T21:25:00.002-05:00

No Doubt Who's #1

Ensworth Ends MBA's Home Win Streak

My Summary on Rivals

Tigers Maul Big Red 50-21

2009-09-05T12:09:00.007-05:00

It was about time this game did not live up to the hype; it was Ensworth's from the first series.

On MBA's opening drive they were forced to punt on 4th down, and from that point, it just got worse for the Big Red.

The Tigers drove the ball down the field with ease. Orleans Darkwa scored from 10 yards out and Jacob Carter ran in the 2 pt conversion because of a bad snap on the PAT attempt.

MBA was stopped once more and Darkwa took one to the house from 54 yards out. This became the theme for the night. Orleans finished the game with 5 touchdowns and 341 rushing yards on 29 carries.

Before the half the Tigers took advantage of Quinn Hamilton's first interception of the year. With just over 40 seconds left, Cody Tollison found a wide open Daniel McFadden who ran it all the way to the MBA 4 yard line. With just seconds remaining, Tollison threw a jump ball in the end zone, and Carter came down with a remarkable catch even though pass interference was called on MBA. Ensworth missed the 2 point conversion. The score at halftime was 28-7.

Colbert's Season

MBA lost a lot more than just a rivalry game Friday night: they lost their quarterback, Luke Colbert.

Colbert scored MBA's only touchdown of the first half, but he took a hit to the head when he was crossing the goal line.

MBA and Ensworth students both ask to keep Luke and his family in your prayers.

Colbert was replaced by backup quarterback Van East. MBA might try senior wide receiver Holden Mobley at quarterback next week against Independence.

2nd Half

Ensworth scored on their opening drive after a 13 yard touchdown run by Orleans. Soon after, MBA running back Tyler Franks scored from 66 yards out.
Rodney Anderson responded with a touchdown run off of an option pitch from Cody Tollison.

From then on, the Tigers put in the 2nd team and the celebration began in the EHS student section.

The Tigers have an off week since the Tuscola game was canceled, but they will face McCallie on the road the following week.

11 in 11 Part 6: Jacob Carter

2009-09-04T13:17:00.005-05:00

Senior wide receiver and defensive back Jacob Carter is one of the most vital members of this year's team. Jacob is also a kick and punt returner as well as a kicker and a punter. Last week against Oakland, Jacob had a 25 yard punt return that ultimately set up the game tying touchdown. Can he do it again against MBA?

Jacob, you had a game changing punt return against Oakland that gave us great field position. How did you manage to get past most of their cover unit?

My blockers; that's about all I can say. I didn't really have to do much to find a hole. Everyone blocked great.

You had a nice interception in that game as well, do you like being a two-way player?

Thanks, yeah I enjoy it a lot. It's fun to be on the field the whole game. I think being a two-way player helps me understand the game better and to become more "football smart".

Before the Oakland game you received an honor; can you explain exactly what you received and what it means to you?

Yes, I was nominated for a $5,000 scholarship from the Captain D's Thursday Night Lights for Ensworth High School. At the end of the season they pick a nominated player from the Thursday night games, and he receives the scholarship. It means a lot to me to be nominated for Ensworth, but there are plenty of players on the team that could have received this honor instead of me.

Kicking was a weakness for this team last year, what have we been doing to improve the kicking game?

Drew Parker (holder) and I have been coming out to practice early just getting some reps so we can become more consistent with our kicking game. There is always room for improvement.

Are you excited to have a quarterback like Cody Tollison throwing your way?

Yeah, it's very exciting to have him back there at quarterback. He's got some big shoes to fill, but I know he will be able fill them, if not make them bigger. And I know he has a lot of faith in the receiving corps to come up with the ball when he puts it in the air.

How close do you think the MBA game is going to be? Do you think you can have success against their secondary and special teams?

Well I hope it isn't close at all. MBA is a great team every year and they are going to play their best game against us because of all the hype. So it will be a competitive and fun game to play. I think we have a good chance at success against their secondary because they will have to respect our run game. I'm not sure if we can do much about Fletcher and their kicking game, but hopefully we will be able to return some punts against them. We'll see what happens.

Have you received interest from any colleges?

Yeah, a little, nothing that big though.

What does this team have to do to get to state?

We have to come out every week and play our game. If we do that, we'll be all right.

Around The Web 9/5/09

2009-09-04T10:43:00.002-05:00

MBA Streak Will be Tested

11 in 11 Part 5: Corey Sacks

2009-09-03T13:22:00.005-05:00

Senior Corey Sacks has played cornerback all four years that he has been an Ensworth Tiger, and now he is going to play wide receiver on the other side of the ball as well. Corey is very fast and has a knack for the ball when it's in the air. He is also back as a returner on kickoffs as well. Last year Corey had to sit out the first few games with a knee injury, but now he's all better and ready to go. The play of Corey Sacks will be very crucial for the Tigers since their schedule is one of the toughest in the state. On that schedule is MBA, one of the state's best passing offenses. Will Corey help slow down MBA's passing attack?

Corey, you have played cornerback every year so far at EHS. With Michael Dunn and Richard Bowers gone, you are going to be one of the main guys at wide receiver this year; do you like the position?

I like wide receiver because it gives me the opportunity to score. It's always exciting when you have a good quarterback throwing to you.

I understand you have been to some camps over the summer, have you received interest from any school yet?

I've been to TCU, Tennessee, and Louisville. I've had some interest from MTSU.

How good do you think our receiving corps and our secondary is this year compared to last year's?

We have a very good receiving corps this year with Jacob and me catching the passes from Cody. He has good enough faith in us to where if he throws it, he knows one of us is going to come up with the ball. Our secondary this year is very fast, and we will make a lot of plays this year. We are all upperclassmen and leaders on the field.

What was going through your mind when you scored the touchdown against Oakland to send the game to overtime?

When I caught the screen pass from Cody I was determined to score a touchdown; my adrenaline was pumping so it made me run a little faster. It was late in the 4th quarter and it was time to make a play. The whole team executed perfectly, and I had great blocking.

What will EHS have to do to beat MBA? What will be the deciding factor?

To win against MBA this Friday, it will come to which team is better conditioned and more physical in the 4th quarter.

Do you feel that this team can go farther than last year's?

This team has a great chance of winning the state championship, but so does every other team we play. We have to play every game like its our last if we have any shot of making to the championship.
________________________________________

Ensworth VS. MBA Preview

2009-09-03T09:58:00.008-05:00

It's almost here, the game that everybody has been waiting for since last year's game ended with the score 41-28 EHS. Last year's game was a seesaw battle for momentum after the Tigers got off to a 21-0 start that later dissolved into a 28-27 deficit. Then after, MBA had every bit of momentum, Tavarres Jefferson took it all away with two remarkable touchdown runs that put the Tigers up for good.

Last year's win was the first victory over MBA in Ensworth's second year of competition in Division 2-AA.

Build Up

Last year's matchup was probably one of the most hyped high school football games in Nashville in years. I remember sitting in class days before the game looking out the window and watching the TV truck setting up and bleachers being moved to the end zones. As Friday came closer the talk got louder. One hour before the game all the students from both schools gathered and participated in pre-game rituals that got a bit out of hand: afterwards two MBA students were brought in front of their honor council. During the game the students did not get out of hand since the two sections were roped off to keep the students separated and out of trouble.

DOUBLE O-D

Last year running back Orleans Darkwa had touchdowns from 99 and 80 yards out. The game was probably Darkwa's best ever as an Ensworth Tiger. He will be probably the biggest factor for both teams Friday night.

How to Win

1. Run

2. Run

3. And Run some more! Seriously, though, the running game is crucial to both teams. The ability to get the offensive push from the offensive line will be key in this game. I think Ensworth has the edge on this one with Darkwa getting the touches behind a great offensive line but MBA's senior running back Fitz Lassing ran over Maplewood last week with 145 yards and 2 touchdowns.

4. Momentum- I don't think I need to tell Ensworth or MBA students, fans, or players that this is an emotional game. Neither team can hang their head because both teams are talented enough and so well coached you will get run over physically and on the scoreboard if you are caught out of place or not giving 100%. Just ask Maplewood or Oakland.

5. 4th quarter- This is most likely going to be a full 48 minute game. The team that runs and hits with the same intensity in the 1st quarter as they do in the 4th quarter will have a huge advantage.

Key Players-Ensworth

Both of these teams are loaded with talent. Most people know to keep an eye on Orleans Darkwa, who rushed for almost 2,000 yards last year, but everyone now is watching junior two-way lineman 6'6" 330lb Antonio Richardson. Richardson can take over a game on his own by getting in the backfield every play, and he is considered the best prospect in Tennessee for the class of 2011. Also keep an eye on Clemson commit Sam Cooper, who can be a terror at defensive end but can also catch passes at tight end.

MBA

Luke Colbert has put together two good games so far this year. The game relies much on Colbert's ability to step outside the pocket and find an open William Tanner or Holden Mobely. Fitz Lassing on the offensive end put up big numbers last week against Maplewood as mentioned earlier, but also keep an eye on linebacker prospect Brad Bars who put up great numbers up against Pearl-Cohn.

My Take

This game is going to come down to physicality and overall strength, which should favor Ensworth over MBA. However, I would have said that about the MBA vs Maplewood game last week, and that speaks to MBA's great coaching staff. I think this one will be decided in the 4th quarter, and with Ensworth's downhill crash and bang style of play on both sides of the ball, I have to give it to them. 42-30 EHS.
Read at TNVarsity.com

11 in 11 Part 4: Rodney Anderson

2009-09-02T10:17:00.004-05:00

Rodney Anderson is an up and coming prospect in Tennessee. Rodney got a lot of first team reps late in his freshman year as a defensive back, even in the final playoff game against Brentwood Academy. Unfortunately, last season, Rodney missed most of the season with a torn ACL. Now he's back. Against Oakland he had 5 tackles playing safety, but a lot more than tackling lies ahead for Rodney. He can play almost any position with his strength and speed. He can return punts and kicks, and he can line up as a wide receiver or as a tailback on offense. On defense he can play anywhere from corner or safety to linebacker. We will see if Rodney was the missing piece to last year's team.

Rodney, we didn't see you on offense much in the game vs. Oakland... why is that? Do you have to be more careful since you tore your ACL last season, and has it affected your playing ability this season?

I didn't play much offense in the game against Oakland because Coach Bowers and Ms. Megan were trying to be safe, and they didn't think I was ready to be hit in the legs, and yes I do have to be more careful since my injury last season, but I'm comfortable now to where I don't feel the soreness. It has affected my game just a bit. It only affected my cutting and stopping.

Do you prefer playing offense or defense? Do you see yourself as a two-way player?

I prefer to play offense but right now I don't have a choice; I do play as a two-way player, and I'm fine with it.

Next year we will lose Orleans Darkwa and Malcom Grigsby due to graduation, do you think you will be the primary tailback next season?

Losing Orleans and Malcom, I do think that I will become the primary back, but not the only back. There are plenty more tailbacks like Quinn Hamilton and Marcus McAlpin that could also play in this position.

Who will be handling most of the kickoff and punt returns this year?

The people handling the kickoffs and punt returns will be Jacob Carter, Quinn Hamilton, Corey Sacks and Orleans, but I will get back there as punt returner sometimes.

In practice you have been seeing some time at wide receiver; is that a position you like playing?

I do kind of play wide receiver; I mean its not something that I like to play, but this year I see more of the field with it in the game right now.

Have you received interest from any colleges yet?

No, I have not had any colleges that are interested in me except for camps and questionnaires.

Do you think this team has a shot at state?

Yes, I think we do have a good chance at state this year.

11 in 11 Part 3: Sam Cooper

2009-09-01T14:16:00.006-05:00

Sam Cooper is one of the most highly regarded players at the tight end and defensive end positions in Tennessee. He is a 6’5" 230lb target for quarterback Cody Tollison and a terror for opponents. Sam committed to Clemson University in late July of this year. Will Sam’s big play result in big results for the Tigers this season?

Sam, congratulations on committing to Clemson this summer, why did you choose Clemson?

Thank you. I am extremely excited to be a Clemson Tiger. I chose Clemson because the coaching staff is phenomenal. They are people that I want to work for, and I feel like it is a perfect fit. Also, they are graduating a lot of tight ends this year and the next, and on the depth chart it is a dream of an opportunity for a TE in this signing class. The facilities are brand new and second to none; the place is very impressive.

How many more balls do you think will be thrown your way this season with a true passing quarterback like Cody Tollison?

It's tough to tell right now. We have an incredible backfield to work with. It all comes down to what the team needs in order to win football games.

How much have you improved on the defensive end?

We as a defensive line/end unit are always working. Coach Hiett is constantly drilling fundamentals; we can and always need to be better. We are putting the effort and determination forth to become a great D line unit.

What position do you think you will play as a Clemson Tiger?

I am recruited as a tight end.

Would you consider yourself as a receiving or blocking tight end?

In our previous run based offense I was mostly a blocking tight end, but I am working to be whatever the team needs me to be.

What do you think of the new knee/leg braces you and the other linemen are wearing this year?

It's a comfort knowing that your knees are protected, especially as a tall player. As a tight end I can tell it is harder to move in them, but after a few weeks we were all used to them.

Do you think EHS has a shot at the state title this year?

Absolutely. We are definitely a team to watch for. Our team as a unit has the chance to be great, and each day we are putting forth the effort to reach that goal.

11 in 11 Part 2: Cody Tollison

2009-08-31T15:00:00.005-05:00

Cody Tollison is the starting quarterback this year for the Tigers after missing all of last season recovering from a torn ACL. Cody’s first touchdown pass of the season came against Oakland in the 4th quarter when he hooked up with Corey Sacks on a 20 yard throw to send the game to overtime. Cody is also the Tigers' Ace pitcher and center fielder for the EHS baseball team. Last year Cody recorded 14 strikeouts in one game against Father Ryan. Will Cody Tollison be able to make a big impact in two different sports this year for the Tigers?

Cody, how hard was it to sit out the all of last year when Ensworth went undefeated in the regular season?

It was hard at first but then I realized it was a good opportunity for me and Coach Scott to prepare for next year by learning to read defenses in the booth.

How hard was it to be named the starter and yet lose the job to injury?

It took me a few days to realize what happened but I knew all I could do was cheer for T and the team.

Besides attending summer workouts and two-a-days what have you done to prepare yourself in the off-season?

Watching some video from last year's games.

Did you play any baseball this summer? Have any colleges shown interest in you?

Yeah, I played for the Franklin Outlaws. So far I've talked to MTSU and a few other smaller schools.

Last year's offense relied heavily on the option; are you comfortable running it like we did last year?

The option had my number the last three years but lately it's what we have been working on the most.

How hard is it to follow Tavarres Jefferson after the year he had at quarterback last season?

It's some big shoes to fill, but with the team we have it just makes it easier to step up.

How do you feel about this year’s offensive line and receiving corps?

Its good to know we have an O-line that is tough and conditioned enough to play both ways. I always know when I throw the ball that Corey Sacks or Jacob Carter will come down with the ball.

Do you think Ensworth has a shot at the state title this year?

We have a shot, but so does everyone else. We are going to take this season week by week.
________________________________________

11 in 11 Part 1: Orleans Darkwa

2009-08-29T00:26:00.008-05:00

Orleans Darkwa is one of the state's best running backs and it showed during last week's game against Oakland. He put up an impressive 101 yard performance against one of the state's toughest defenses. Last year he racked up 1,947 rushing yards with over 20 all-purpose touchdowns. Can he do it again?

What expectations do you have for the season?

I would say my expectations for this year are just to get better as a player overall, and to win the state championship. We have gotten close the past two years, but now I think it's time to finally get to where we have been wanting to the past two years.

How tough was Oakland’s defense?

Oh my, Oakland's defense was the toughest defense I have faced since I have been at Ensworth. They definitely have that aggressive mentality in which they don't want you to get a yard on any play. That is hard to find in defenses, but they have it. I am sure that they will have a successful season this year.

Did you ever think we were out of the Oakland game in the second half?

I thought we didn't come out with that fire like we did in the beginning of the game, but I never thought we were completely out of it. I knew Coach Bowers was going to call the right plays. It was just on us to show the effort and heart to execute out there and we did.

What are some areas that you can improve on this season?

I want to improve on my elusiveness as well as my footwork. I believe it will come as the season progresses.

Ensworth is ranked 1st in the Midstate football poll, do you actually think EHS is that good?

Yes, I believe we are that good. We have, in my opinion, the best coaching staff in the state and great players on this team. As long as we execute, play hard, and do what the coaches ask of us, I believe we will be able to maintain that ranking.

The MBA game is coming up next week; looking back on last year, how tired were you after those 99 and 80 yard runs? How many touches do you expect in this year’s game?

Oh I have to be honest, I was pretty tired, but those were exciting plays, and credit goes to the line on those, but as far as carries, I have no idea how many carries I will get. Coach Bowers can do anything in this game, so we will just find out next Friday.

Big Red Rally

2009-08-28T22:54:00.008-05:00

One of the most exciting games in a yeaaarrrrrr.... OK, perhaps one week, took place Friday night as the Big Red made an 11 point comeback in the final 5 minutes of the 4th quarter.

Maplewood led the entire game until 4:38 was left in the 3rd quarter. The Panthers backup running back LaDarious Venlier had plenty of room to run behind the state's most coveted offensive lineman prospect James Stone. Venlier scored the game's first touchdown on Maplewood's opening drive from 37 yards out. The Big Red responded with an impressive drive of their own, capped off with a 17 yard touchdown pass from Luke Colbert to Fitz Lassing.

During MBA's first drive of the second quarter, Maplewood defensive lineman Jontez Vaughn recovered Fitz Lassing's fumble at the MBA 18 yard line setting up a 7 yard touchdown run for Denzel Jones. After Lassing's 66 yard punt, MBA responded once more with a 44 yard drive led by Luke Colbert and Fitz Lassing to tie the game with Tyler Franks' 2 yard touchdown run. At halftime the game was tied at 14-14.

At the 4:38 mark in the 3rd quarter the Big Red took their first lead of the night after Andrew Fletcher's 21 yard field goal, but this time the Panthers responded with a scoring drive of their own when LaDarious Vanlier scored his second touchdown of the night from 58 yards out. And guess what? MBA did not respond; the Panthers stopped Tyler Franks on 4th down at the MBA 46. The Panthers drove the ball down field once more to take an 11 point lead at the end of the 3rd quarter.

This is where it gets exciting. With just over 5 minutes left, the Big Red still trailing by 11, all of the sudden the Red begins to Roll. MBA wide receiver William Tanner, Fitz Lassing and Luke Colbert rediscovered their offense and cut the Panther's lead to 5 after Lassing scored on a 10 yard screen pass with 3:33 left to play but failed on the 2 point attempt. MBA had to recover the onside kick to even have a chance, and I bet you can guess what happened...they did, Tanner recovered! Once again Colbert, Tanner and Lassing drove downfield to take a 31-28 lead over Maplewood with only 2:18 left to play. Maplewood did not roll over, getting it into MBA territory before the Panthers were stopped on 4th and 12. From then on MBA lined up in the victory formation, and the students stormed the field.

The Big Red move to 2-0 on the season and Maplewood falls to 1-1. The Big Red takes on the State's #1 ranked team Ensworth at Tommy Owen Stadium, but this week's contest may be hard to top.

11 in 11

2009-08-27T22:42:00.003-05:00

Since we are off this week I will be a writing a new column called 11 in 11. With the Tigers starting off the season strong with a impressive win over one of Tennessee's top teams, I will attempt to interview 11 of the top players on this year's team in 11 days and ask them questions about the big win over Oakland and their goals for this 2009 season. First up should be Senior running back Orleans Darkwa.

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Now on Rivals

2009-08-26T07:47:00.005-05:00

On Monday I was contacted by Bryan Moss, publisher at Rivals.com affiliate TN Varsity. He asked me to write a column for the site that would cover the Tigers, on a regular basis. I will publish some of my articles here and link them on the blog, and I'll keep you guys updated on when the new articles will come out.

Around The Web 8/25/2009

2009-08-25T20:54:00.002-05:00

Tigers Ranked #1 in Midstate Football Poll

Ensworth Volleyball Among The State's Best

Reuther Recovering Quickly

2009-08-25T20:22:00.010-05:00

pic: tennessean.com
Tiger's two-way senior lineman Miller Reuther was helped off the field Saturday night against Oakland and did not return; he couldn't walk without the support of crutches after the game. Reuther did indeed injure his ACL but luckily it was just a sprain. Miller's mobility is still limited and has not seen the field since Friday night but he can get around without crutches or a knee brace. Coaches expect him to be able to participate in this coming Monday's practice before the MBA game.

Too Shallow

Many of the coaches think that this team has more potential then last year's, but what this season really comes down to is the ability to stay healthy for an entire season. Last year the Tigers had 5 key players out with ACL injuries but still managed to go undefeated during the regular season. The defensive and offensive lines are the number one area for concern after losing players like Tyler Johnson, David Davis, Watson Sweat and all state lineman Will Netterville to graduation. The Tigers may have one of the toughest schedules in the state; perhaps one of the toughest since the birth of the TSSAA, so it could be a little too tall of an order for the running backs to be rushing behind the second team offensive line or for the second team defensive line to rely on the secondary. Depth and the ability to make it to the end of the season scott-free will be the key factors for the Tigers' run towards Cookeville.

2009-08-24T19:02:00.002-05:00

Ensworth JV VS. Franklin Ends in Shutout 0-0

2009-08-24T19:02:00.001-05:00

In today's JV game against the Franklin Rebels the offense was nowhere to be found. The Tigers had two touchdowns called back on two hook'n'ladder passes that were both ruled to be indeed forward passes. Another missed opportunity came when junior wide receiver David Dingess failed to catch what would have been the game winning touchdown from Drew Parker. Overall both defenses played well but if those foward passes were legal we would have a different result.

Around The Web 8/23/2009

2009-08-23T19:25:00.000-05:00

Game Of The Week

Ensworth, Oakland headed to OT

Ensworth Beats Oakland With Defense

Tigers Edge Patriots in Overtime 22-20

2009-08-23T13:56:00.006-05:00

The Tigers came away with one of the most hyped and exciting games in school history. The game was Rivals.com's high school game of the week. The pregame atmosphere was great for a Saturday night; it was almost like the MBA game last year. The tailgaters were out, the TV trucks were stationed behind the end zone bleachers, there were reporters on the side lines, TV cameras were every where in the stands, and parents and teachers were there early to save seats before the rest of the capacity crowd filled up the stands.

The game started off as a defensive struggle. Daniel McFadden recovered a fumble on the Patriots opening drive, giving the Tigers great field position; however, they left empty handed after a series of false start calls against Ensworth, forcing 4th and goal from outside the 20. On 4th down Jacob carter missed the long field goal attempt and from then on the game was scoreless until about halfway through the second quarter when the Tigers put an impressive drive together led by Orleans Darkwa who capped it off with a 2 yard touchdown run, but Jacob Carter missed a crucial extra point putting the Tigers up 6-0 at the half.

In the second half the Patriots came out strong after recovering Quinn Hamilton's second fumble on the opening kick-off. Tee Mayberry took the ball into the endzone from 1 yard out to give Oakland a 7-6 lead. After the Tigers did virtually nothing on their next series Oakland got the ball back and junior OL/DL Antonio Richardson came hobbling out of the game to get looked at by a trainer. During Richardson's absence Oakland drove down the field and scored on Mayberry's second touchdown of the game from 18 yards out to take a 14-6 lead.

The Tigers came back in the 4th quarter with the help of a 25 yard punt return to the Oakland 20 from senior Jacob Carter. Then senior quarterback Cody Tollison hooked up with Corey Sacks for his first touchdown ever as starting quarterback for the Tigers. The Tigers needed the 2 point conversion to tie at 14-14, and they converted with the help of Darkwa's 2 yard run.

The Tigers went on offense to start overtime, and they were rewarded with a 5 yard encroachment call against the Patriots. Soon after, Orleans Darkwa had his second touchdown of the game from 2 yards out. The Tigers went for the 2 point conversion once again, this time it was junior running back Marcus McAlpin taking it off an option pitch from Tollison.

Oakland's first play was a 9 yard run from Mayberry, and then the very next play, he took it in for the score from 1 yard out. However, they had to go for the two points. The Patriots fans were in shock when they saw the pass from Christian Adams to tie the game and send the match into a second overtime fall incomplete.

The players went crazy and the coaches went wild as the Ensworth students swarmed the field after the amazing comeback victory.

More pictures courtesy of Ensworth and The Tennessean

More Stats from Max Preps