Regular season winds down as Broncos defeat Mary Walker, 33-16

The Lind-Ritzville/Sprague Broncos went on the road to earn a much needed win against Mary Walker on Oct. 13. The trip to Springdale resulted in a 33-16 victory for the Broncos, and helped them to gain momentum and confidence as they prepare for the final two regular season games.

On the road in Springdale, Head Coach Greg Whitmore said the team has always struggled early on in the games. After the long trip and a passionate Springdale crowd, the experience can be overwhelming at times.

Whitmore said the Broncos had a few mishaps early in the game, taking time to settle in and adjust to their opponent’s offense attack. It took LRS the majority of the first half to find their momentum, and three early turnovers kept them having to pursue Mary Walker.

The Chargers scored with just under two minutes remaining in the first quarter, and the eight-point advantage energized the Mary Walker team. Whitmore said the Chargers used the momentum to move the ball down field and keep the Broncos on the defensive attack.

Early in the second quarter, the Broncos scored their first points of the game and began to increase the intensity. Bryce Kelly connected with Bryce Esser on an 18-yard pass play to put the first points on the board.

Mary Walker responded only minutes later, and moved into a 16-6 advantage over the Broncos. Whitmore said LRS knew they needed to restrict the Chargers’ running game and continue to be aggressive on offense.

In the final minutes of the half, Austin Thompson had an excellent punt return for the Broncos and moved them into ideal field position. The Broncos took advantage of Thompson’s performance and were able to convert it to points with only five seconds remaining before halftime.

Mason Brausen carried the ball in for the Broncos, and Kelly connected with Camden Smith to tack on two additional points. The Broncos entered into halftime trailing Mary Walker 14-16.

The touchdown gave LRS energy and enthusiasm moving into the second half. The Broncos have not been a second-half team in terms of scoring this season, but they remained focused on earning their second win of the year.

For the first time this season, the Broncos scored on the opening drive of the second half. Whitmore said the early third quarter touchdown was the momentum boost the team needed to stay focused and determined to win in the final quarters of the game.

Brausen carried the ball into the end zone on a 28-yard fun. The point after kick was no good, and the Broncos earned their first lead of the game: 20-16.

Whitmore said after a less than perfect first half, it was nice to see the Broncos excited and dedicated to improving their performance in the second half. On both sides of the ball, the LRS team increased their intensity levels and provided problems for Mary Walker to advance down field and score.

The Broncos earned their second touchdown of the second half early in the third quarter. Kelly completed an eight-yard pass to Smith, and Shontz Yaeger hit the point after kick.

Whitmore said the Mary Walker defense provided the Broncos with opportunities to throw the ball, as they loaded the box and did not cover the wide receivers. LRS took advantage of their defensive formation and converted it into points, giving the team a chance to find ways to success on the gridiron.

Late in the third quarter, Kelly and Smith teamed up again for a 42-yard pass play touchdown. The point after kick was no good, and the Broncos rounded out the score at 33-16.

In the fourth quarter, Whitmore said the Broncos struggled with penalties and moving the ball down field. The defense was able to contain Mary Walker, and the Broncos earned their second victory of the season.

Prior to the game, Whitmore said the key to success would be limiting rushing yards for the Chargers. Mary Walker still racked up 256 rushing yards, and Whitmore said the defense needs to improve and not led competitors jump out to an early lead.

While Mary Walker’s record does not show it, Whitmore said they are a competitive team with improved discipline. Currently working under the guidance of a new coach, he expects the Chargers to continue to improve every season and be a tough competitor in the future.

The Broncos ended the night with 415 total offensive yards, with 276 yards coming from pass completions. Kelly ended the night with three touchdown passes, 260 passing yards and going 14-19 in pass completions.

Thompson posted his best receiving game of the season, bringing in eight catches for a total of 143 yards. Smith followed him with 91 yards on four catches.

Brausen led the Broncos in rushing yards with 80, followed by Thompson with 44 yards.

The Broncos return home on Friday, Oct. 20, to host Kettle Falls in a senior night match up. This will serve as the final game for seven Bronco seniors, and Whitmore said the team is committed to executing plays and doing all they can to send the seniors out on a positive note.

In order to secure a chance to compete in the Crossover game, Whitmore said the Broncos have to win the final two games of the season against Kettle Falls and Reardan. The team needs to start with a win on Friday night and use the momentum to carry them into the final game of the regular season.

Whitmore said the Broncos’ keys to success will be not turning the ball over and adjusting to the predicted weather conditions. With high winds expected, the Broncos will need to focus on their running game.

The Broncos will honor the senior athletes and their parents prior to the start of the 7 p.m. game on Friday.