“It was a good win for all of us and the community. We were all really proud of it,” Madison junior defensive tackle Max Evans said. “We celebrated, we’re happy, but we’re hungry for more.”
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Evans was part of a Mohawk defense that surrendered 30 total yards. The Braves’ running game produced minus-40 yards.
“Defensively, we’re really turning the corner and getting guys on the same page and running around,” Madison coach Steve Poff said. “We’re athletic across the board on defense. I think that’s the key for us taking the next step as a really good football team.”
The Mohawks’ Wing-T offense was in typically bruising form, led by Cameron Svarda (11 carries, 177 yards, three TDs), Tyler Baumgartner (10 carries, 61 yards, TD) and Evan Crim (11 carries, 45 yards, two TDs).
Reid Davis and Mason Whiteman both played quarterback, though Davis was the primary guy. He was 1 of 7 through the air for 31 yards.
“I’m still week by week with that,” Poff said when asked if Davis is the No. 1 quarterback. “I like the competition. I think it shows what people’s character really is when it’s not easy every day.”
Madison faces another Butler County rival Friday when it travels to Monroe, a 38-13 loser to Edgewood last week.
The Mohawks have been 7-3 the last two seasons. They’ve moved down to Division V this year, yet are still seeking their first playoff berth.
“I think we’ve got a great team going on,” Evans said. “We’ve got a great junior class, our senior class leads well. We’re really strong, we’re really fast, not worried about anything.
“Getting to the playoffs … man, it’s extremely important. We’re doubted a lot, like immediately. It’s almost like nobody wants to see Madison get to the playoffs. Nobody wants to see us excel and do great. But we’re fighting through adversity every day, and I’d say this is our shot.”
The defensive front in Madison’s 4-4 alignment is particularly strong. It’s also more than four guys.
Evans is joined by Cole Pelgen (6-2, 245), who has moved from linebacker to end, and Tanner Limon (6-0, 210), who’s moved from end to nose guard.
Steven Ward (6-2, 240), Stephen Watts (6-3, 240) and Cameron Baker (5-10, 215) are rotating at an end position, and Levi McMonigle (a 6-6, 190-pound transfer from Valley View) is contributing on the line as well.
“We’ve been able to really keep their legs fresh and get a good push,” Poff said. “They’re all very explosive.”
Evans (6-1, 250) totaled 13 sacks in 2016, despite playing through some pain after suffering a shoulder injury. He had surgery in January and said he feels stronger than ever.
Asked to describe himself as a player, Evans said, “I’ve got a good get-off off the ball. I think my first move and my explosion are my best attributes.”
“He’s already one of the best defensive linemen in the area,” Poff said. “He’s details away from being really special, and he’s concentrating on those right now.”
Evans’ individual goals for this season?
“I’d like to set the bar a little bit higher, but I’m playing for the team,” he said. “Whatever’s best for the team. It’s not about me.”
Friday’s game
What: Madison (1-0) at Monroe (0-1), 7 p.m.
Where: Monroe Fighting Hornet Stadium, 220 Yankee Road, Monroe
Last year: Madison won 21-12
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