T-bird football closes out home schedule with win
Matt Wilhalme
A fired up Thunderbird football team greeted the Scottsdale Artichokes for an offensive showcase that lead to a win for MCC during the final home game of the season.The Thunderbirds defeated the Artichokes by a score of 52-35.
“We were able to run today, which opened up the field for our offense and spread the defense out to keep them on their heels all afternoon,” said Jimmy Bevel, starting quarterback for the Thunderbirds.
On a crucial third down for the Artichokes, with the Thunderbird defense closing down on the Scottsdale quarterback, Bryce Williams intercepted a pass and returned it for a touchdown to take initial control of the scoreboard.
“I hadn’t had a pick all year, I kept telling everyone I would take it all the way when I finally got one,” Williams said, “So when I got it and looked up and saw I had a long way to go I just ran and ran.”
Running back Ronald Young had a good day on the field with three rushing touchdowns.
Young ran for a total of 112 yards in the Thunderbird defeat of the Artichokes.
“The O-line had a big day and made it happen. I just do what I do and ran hard,” said Young after his final game wearing red for MCC at home.
The offensive line for the Thunderbirds was able to hold off the Scottsdale defense so that while in the pocket Bevel was free to make good decisions that led to first downs.
Daniel Thomas, a Thunderbird defensive lineman, helped keep the Scottsdale offense from scoring in the first quarter with a field goal block, forcing a turnover.
The crowded stands erupted with cheers after every big play on both sides of the ball for MCC.
The emotion carried onto the field, where after securing an insurmountable lead of 42-21 following a rushing touchdown by Ronald Young, the Thunderbirds received a penalty for unsportsmanlike conduct for celebrating in the end zone.
The Thunderbirds finish the season in Ephraim, Utah against Snow College.
