BULLDAWGS CLAIM XTREME SOUTH DIVISION

BULLDAWGS DEFENSE SHUTS DOWN THE PYTHONS

Decatur, Ala. -The Middle Tennessee Bulldawgs (8-0) won their second-straight divisional crown after defeating the River City Pythons (5-3) 24-0 this past Saturday. The game was sealed by defensive back Randall “BayBay” Smith’s two late interceptions of Python quarterback Carl Davis. 

“Our first goal was to finish the season undefeated,” said Smith. “We accomplished that and now it is on to the playoffs. I still have a bad taste in my mouth from losing in the championship game last year. Honestly, we haven’t done anything yet. The playoffs are what we play for.”

The Pythons have struggled to score this season against the stingy Bulldawgs defense, only managing six points out of two games. Davis was just 4 of 11 for 60 yards and threw six interceptions Ramon Stevens was the Pythons’ leading rusher he only managed 40 yards on the ground. 

The Bulldawgs forced eight turnovers which is a franchise record. The Pythons’ defense held their own in the first half as well, holding the Bulldawg offense scoreless.  both teams went into halftime tied 0-0.  the second half of the game was played in downpour due to widespread flooding from Hurricane Barry. 

Because of the lack of footing, Middle Tennessee relied on their steady offensive line, running game and defense to get going, using a run by committee approach which had them end up with over 300 yards rushing and three rushing touchdowns. Five different backs got touches. Rahiim Muhammad led all rushers with nine rushes for 95 yards and a touchdown. This was his first action since suffering a knee injury in February.  Rookie Tae Bradley had 15 for 65 yards Keon Bohannon had 10 rushes for 55 yards, fellow rookie added Casey Perkins four rushes 45 yards and one touchdown and Tyree White finished with six rushes 40 yards and a touchdown.

“The weather definitely was a factor,” said Bulldawg owner Ricky Prochaska. “Our players overcame the elements and we finished undefeated and are crowned Xtreme South Division champs. I am extremely proud of the entire organization. But we still have unfinished business.”

Besides the six interceptions, the Bulldawg defense also forced two fumble recoveries by Romeo Gilbert and Twan Armstrong. The loss prevented Pythons from winning the Impact South Division crown. They still made the playoffs but need to travel to take on their rivals the Huntsville Rockets, who they split with this season. The Bulldawgs will take on the pesky Tri-City Outlaws in Nashville. Both games will be played this Saturday. 

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The GDFL Communications Office contributed to this article.