October 21, 2021
Chat with Coach Bonis #6: Shaw Review, Carencro Preview
by Brother Neal Golden, S.C. (CJ ’57)
In a game eerily similar to the one the week before against Rummel, the Crusaders imposed their will on the Shaw Eagles from the get-go, leading 23-0 after just eight minutes of play on their way to a rousing 47-15 homecoming victory. As happened with Rummel, the Eagles scored all their points in the last quarter against Crusader reserves.
For a change, junior Torey Lambert didn’t lead the bruising Martin ground game. That honor went to senior Jordan Thomas, who led with 75 yards on eight carries including a touchdown. Torey gained 43 yards with two scores while sophomore Jordan West had 39 and freshman Ryan Darrah, 29.
The Crusader defense again sparkled, holding Shaw to just 141 yards of total offense.
Coach Mark Bonis: “I’m happy about how our men went out there and handled business. We played Brother Martin football. We started fast although I wasn’t happy with our last two drives of the first half. But I am happy that our team came out in the second half and beat them in all three phases.”
“We think the world of Jordan Thomas as a running back. He was able to showcase his abilities. Also we were able to get Jordan West quality reps at running back as we build depth and give those guys confidence. We also rotated some younger receivers in. We rested (QB) Garrett Mmahat a bit longer as well. We’re trying to get him to go through a whole week of practice where he can go through all the throws. We’ve gotten to play our younger guys three weeks in a row.”
The Crusaders now face what Bonis calls “by far our toughest challenge yet physically and mentally.” The Carencro Bears are the defending state champions in class 4A. “They have three losses to three very good opponents.” Acadiana beat them 9-7, Lafayette won 31-28 in overtime, and Ruston kicked a last-second field goal to win 38-35.
“They are starting to play very well. They beat Teurlings Catholic 60-30 two weeks ago. They run the option offense very well. They’re big and physical, and we’re going on the road in a hostile environment. ”
“We will have to be efficient and physically and mentally tough in all three phases in order for us to find success in this game. We have to come together to find success. But I’m really excited about it. Looking at our guys this week in practice, they’re excited and up to the challenge.”
“This is a great test for us at this point in the season. That’s what you want. We have three more weeks to feel good going into the playoffs. What better way than on the road against the reigning state champions. We need another great day of practice Thursday.”
What is arguably the best matchup in the state this week will be shown on Cox Sports Television Friday night at 7:00 p.m.
