The MSL Buckeye Division became much clearer last night as the Vikings of Teays Valley 7-2 (5-0) knocked off the 7-2 (4-1) Amanda Clearcreek 28-21. The first half was somewhat of a surprise considering both teams known for their defenses and good special teams gave up some big plays and scoring was not an issue for either team. Riely Weise opened the scoring in the first quarter with an 8 yard run, however the Aces stormed back to take the lead with back to back touchdowns by Jayse Miller who took the ensuing Viking kickoff 83 yards to the house and Payton Madison who finished the scoring in the opening quarter with a 24 yard scamper to give the Aces a 14-7 lead. The second quarter was much of the same as both teams were able to use good field position and put more points on the board. Teays Valley took advantage of a failed fake punt by the Aces and cashed in with touchdown as Weise caught a 23 yard touchdown from Tristan Mcdanel to tie the game up at 14-14. The teams traded touchdowns again and ended the first half in a 21-21 tie. The offense of fireworks would continue after halftime right? Wrong, both teams have great coaching and game planned a way to eliminate the big plays and stop the other team from scoring. It was tough for Amanda to move the ball in the second half as they only compiled 21 total yards of offense. Unfortunately for the Aces the one turnover they had was late in the 4th quarter and it led to a Viking winning touchdown. Teays Valley used ball control, great defense and won the turnover battle in the second half to beat a very good Amanda football team. With one more week remaining in this 2019 season, the Vikings have taken over and control their own destiny. The Mid State League Buckeye Division is still in fact a 3-team race, between Amanda, Teays Valley and Bloom Carrol. The possible scenarios are the following. With a Viking win over Bloom Carroll in week 10 Teays Valley will sit alone as MSL champs. If Teays Valley loses against the Bulldogs and Amanda knocks off Logan Elm there will be a three way tie for the top spot.
