By Zack Steele, For the Tribune
TRUSSVILLE – “It’s hard to beat a team twice in one season. I don’t care who it is.” Josh Floyd uttered these words regarding Hoover after Hewitt’s first round win. He knew a rematch was coming with the perennial powerhouse. It may be hard to beat someone twice in a season, but Hewitt Trussville made it look easy, and blew the doors off the Bucs 40-7.
Floyd looks to pass. Credit: Burkett
Hewitt used a stifling defense and downhill run game to squeeze the life out of the Buccaneers, who struggled all season to find an offensive identity. Friday night they found a fast aggressive Hewitt front 7 who dominated the line of scrimmage.
On the other side of the ball Hewitt’s offensive line manhandled a very good Hoover defensive front, paving the way for 310 rushing yards for the Huskies.
“We challenged our guys up front to be physical. And to be honest, I Think they were a little tired of hearing how much better Hoover was since the last time we played. I mean, we haven’t just be enough sitting on the couch for 8 weeks. Our guys feel like we’ve gotten better too.”
Hoover could manage a lone scoring drive in the second quarter. Hewitt seized the momentum early with a Peyton Floyd to Jacob Serena touchdown pass. Later in the first an errant snap from center went through the Hoover end zone for a safety, giving Hewitt a 9-0 lead.
Hewitt defeats Hoover. Credit: Ron Burkett
After the kickoff, Hewitt would manage a Tripp Ward field goal after a short drive.
Hewitt’s defense again held Hoover and after a Michael Igbinoghinee interception and return and Hewitt was in business again. Floyd would complete a drive that included a big 3rd down conversion to Dylan Cope. Hewitt led 19-0 after the Ward PAT.
Desperate for points Hoover managed an 85 yard drive, aided by a fake punt along the way, to cut the lead to 19-7 with around four minutes to go before halftime.
Hewitt would answer with a drive of their own, capped off by a signature Peyton Floyd scramble and score. Hewitt led 26-7 at halftime.
The second half saw the Huskies flex their muscle on the ground, grinding down the Hoover defense. Meanwhile the Hewitt defense had itself the most impressive night of the year.
“I can’t say enough about those guys on that side of the ball. The coaches had a great plan and our guys executed it perfectly.”said head coach Josh Floyd.
Peyton Floyd would show his arm talent in the second half, dropping an absolute dime to Jett Loving.
Jacqson Melton would add an exclamation point with an 18 yard touchdown late in the 3rd quarter. The Huskies led 40-7 at the end of three, and the celebration started.
Melton fights for yards. Credit: Ron Burkett
As the game concluded, the Hewitt players rushed to the student section to celebrate with their classmates.
Now the Huskies get to try one of Josh Floyd’s favorite pastimes. “ There’s nothing like practice on Thanksgiving. “ said Floyd.
Peyton Floyd would complete 14-18 passes on the night for 181 and 2 touchdowns. He would add 135 yards rushing. Jacqson Melton would add another 101 yards rushing on 15 carries.
Hewitt will travel to Alabaster Friday for a rematch with the 4-time d efending state champion Thompson Warriors. On the line is a spot in the state championship game.
