Lake Orion football's defense steps up to defeat Saline

The Dragons forced four turnovers in the second half to defeat the Hornets

The No. 5 Lake Orion Dragons (9-0) defeated the No. 6 Saline Hornets (8-1) with Lake Orion running back Billy Roberson II scoring three touchdowns to help the Dragons secure the final victory of the regular season over the Hornets on Friday.

Here are the key takeaways from the game:

In the air vs. on the ground

The game became a tale of two halves. The first half saw Saline executing with relative ease as quarterback CJ Carr surgically picked apart the Lake Orion secondary, securing a first-half 21-13 lead.

While Saline found its groove early and often, this was due to Carr’s ability to find an open window at any given opportunity, ending the half with a rushing touchdown after Carr placed Saline in perfect position with a near 50-yard pass.

However, while Saline was in firm control for the first half, Lake Orion’s methodical second-half offensive play proved the formula for success for the Dragons. Their power-run game was consistent and prodding.

Whether it was the play of their offensive line, who blew Saline off the line repeatedly, or the dynamic running back duo of Roberson II and Jackson Vasquez, who relentlessly attacked the Saline defense, the Lake Orion Dragons dominated Saline, out-scoring them 22-7 and snatching the victory away from the Hornets.

Second Half Adjustments

Perhaps the most significant key to Lake Orion’s victory was its second-half defensive adjustments. While Saline flew over the field for much of the first half, the Dragons made it their mission to secure Carr at all costs, and for much of the second half, they succeeded.

The Dragons' defense was fast, tough, and well-disciplined, limiting their errors and taking advantage of any opportunities that came their way from the constant pressure they placed on Saline. 

The highlight of their standout defensive performance came in the fourth quarter, as the Dragons forced four turnovers in a row, including two interceptions to end the game and walk away with their undefeated record intact.

Coach Said

Following their victory, Lake Orion head coach Chris Bell couldn’t hide his excitement about the team’s late defense performance.

“Our defense just keeps playing, and they play hard.” Bell said. “It’s an old-fashioned Lake Orion football team, and I couldn’t be prouder of them.”

Following the victory, Bell commended both teams for their performance on the nigh.“

Win or lose, both teams are going to be better because of tonight,” Bell said. “It was a great game, back and forth. They’re going to be a better team, and so are we come playoff time.”

Lake Orion finishes their perfect regular season, and will look to continue their winning ways as we head into the playoffs, set to begin October 27th. 

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