Lock Haven turnovers and failed conversions open door for Edinboro win

Edinboro felt a bit more spirited this past weekend as the faint sounds of bagpipes could be heard from all over town. Grunts resonating from gigantic men in the traditional Scottish garb, Haggis dishes and whiskey tastings were all part of the Highland Games. But it was also a perfect day for football, and a perfect day for the Fighting Scots to go 2-0 in the young season.

After a week one performance that didn’t allow a single touchdown, the Fighting Scots defense came through once again, allowing three points in 60 minutes of play in a 20-3 victory. Highlighting the defense this week were multiple players, including reigning PSAC Defensive Player of the Week Brandon Anderson.

The defense continues to be the heart for Edinboro early on in this 2017 campaign. Zuril Hendricks, who led the team with five interceptions last season, is one away from matching that number after he came up with another against Lock Haven (he had recorded three against Lake Erie College in week 1).

Strong play from the defensive line came from a flurry of players, including Ethan Upperco. The junior had a career night with nine total tackles, a sack and an interception of his own.

“When I see the ball snap I just want to find the ball and run to it and make a play; it’s really second nature,” Upperco said.

Jon Girvin made his usual contributions alongside Nick Pettigrew and Brenndan Green, but none were quite able to draw a reaction from the Sox Harrison crowd like junior Derek Dorr. On a screen, Dorr released from the line and trailed running back Corey Blakey until he made a cut and Dorr met him for a vicious collision, forcing a fumble.

Quarterback Jake Sisson felt his play could have been better, but truly admired the play of the defense over the past couple games. Sisson, who had an up and down night, was favored heavily in the offense, throwing 51 passes and completing 29 of them. Lapses on a couple occasions came when Sisson threw into tight coverage. He would end the game with two touchdowns and four interceptions.

“We didn’t expect Lock Haven to come out here and roll over for us, so we expect a hard fought battle and I think if we prepare like we do every week and execute on the field Saturday, we’re going to come out with another win,” Sisson stated in an interview with ETV’s Mike Schmidt.

Edinboro has won 15 times in a row against Lock Haven and in 33 of its last 34 meetings. The time of possession advantage once again went to the challenger, while the penalty advantage in total yards and total number went to Edinboro. Lock Haven tallied 16 penalties for 161 yards.

Mike Lantinen can be reached at sports.spectator@gmail.com.