CONYERS — Rockdale County equaled its win total from last year at the Raiders’ expense Friday.
The Bulldogs — 1-9 last year — raced out to an 18-6 lead and held off Madison County in the fourth quarter, leaving the Raiders with plenty to ponder heading into week 2.
“I think it was a wake-up call for sure,” Raider coach Randell Owens said.
Madison County got touchdowns from Al Allen, a 23-yard score in the second quarter, and his backup, Kendrick Butler, who scored from four yards out in the third period.
But the Raiders couldn’t stop the Bulldogs’ Wing-T attack. The Bulldogs’ use of speed and misdirection on offense stymied Madison County as Rockdale knifed through the Raiders for 235 rushing yards.
Madison County will try to atone for the week one disappointment this Friday against Winder-Barrow, which was idle this week.
Limiting penalties and turnovers might be the first in order.
Mistakes loomed large for Madison County this past Friday as the Raiders turned the ball over three times and drew two very costly fourth-quarter flags.
Trailing 18-14 in the fourth quarter, Madison County’s defense forced a Rockdale County punt, but a roughing-the-punter penalty gave the Bulldogs a first down. Rockdale scored six plays later.
Later, a blocking in the back infraction negated a 77-yard touchdown pass from Jacob Owens to Stacy Mack, which would have made the game a one-possession contest with 4:27 left.
“It was just heart-breaking,” Owens said. “We just had so many key penalties and turnovers — especially turnovers.”
The Raiders threw sparingly Friday, opting to stick with their option attack instead to shorten the game and help keep their defense off the field.
Allen racked up 94 yards on 16 carries, while quarterback Jacob Owens rushed 10 times for 78 yards.
Madison County finished with 207 yards rushing.
Owens attempted just four passes, completing one for 13 yards. Owens also threw a fourth quarter interception, which sealed the win for Rockdale County.
Coach Owens credited the Bulldogs for playing effectively. Rockdale County had no turnovers.
“They went and did exactly what we said we were going to have to do win the game,” Owens said.
