Keith’s first big test comes against defending state champion

By George L. Jones

The Selma Times-Journal

ORRVILLE – Antonio McCall had a landmark game last Friday, throwing four touchdowns against R.C. Hatch in a 47-6 win for Keith.

It was just one example of an offensive performance that was the Bears’ best since they beat the Bobcats in the opener last year.

Now that Keith’s talent is coming of age, there may be more reason for celebration in Orrville.

“That’s a milestone for (McCall),” Bears coach Harry Crum said. “He’s thrown three in a game before. Donovan Lewis caught two of those touchdowns. He’s trying to grow up a little bit. He’s tried to become a true receiver and tried to get to open spots.”

Clyde Moise added to the offensive show with a 100-yard running game.

The defense also held its own. Crum praised D’wan and Ricky Lewis, Michael Young and Broderick Jackson for their aggressiveness.

“Michael Young has at least one near-knockout hit every game,” Crum said.

This week, it will be a battle to keep the momentum from the big win from coming to a grinding halt.

The Bears play host to defending state champion Leroy, a team that beat them 60-20 last season.

If small victories count for anything, there is one thing Keith can lean on. The Bears were the only team besides 1A state champ Sweet Water to score that many points on Leroy.

“Leroy is the state champion,” Crum said. “They can play. Position by position, we have to do our assignments one play at a time. They have some decent athletes, but we do, too.”

The Bears also have one more thing working in their favor. Bringing the game back home should help in some way.

But even that is something they can’t take for granted.

“I know they’re going to bring a lot of people in here,” Crum said. “They’re going to try to make this a home game for them. Home field may be the only true advantage for us. People have been supportive, and we want to continue that.”

The game may come down to how many breaks Keith can catch.

A lot of things have to go right for the Bears, and conversely, a lot of things have to go sour for Leroy.

“If everyone plays their game, we’ll be fine,” Crum said. “If we play our best, and Leroy slips, we have a chance.”