The first real day of summer brought out the best in the Superior Stampede football team Saturday, June 20 in Arden Hill, Minn.
Playing its first four games in 50 degree weather was a challenge. While Saturday's temperatures were in the 80s with a nice 10-mile an hour breeze, the game turned out to be a breeze also for the Stampede, who defeated the Minnesota Phoenix 50-20.
Superior forced the Phoenix to go three-and-out on their first series, blocked the Phoenix punt and the offense took over at the Phoenix 10.
The Stampede defense created several early turnovers and forced the Phoenix to punt six times, allowing the Stampede offense the fortune of great field position the entire game. The great field position led to early scoring opportunities, as the Stampede scored on their first five possessions enroute to a 35-0 lead two minutes before the half.
The Stampede needed the early dominance, as their defense, with just three points allowed in 11 quarters previously, fell back to earth. In the last five quarters the defense has allowed 39 points.
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Despite the points purge, the defense has still produced turnovers and pressure. Nick Farrell again had a stellar games, leading the team in tackles with seven, and had two interceptions. Tim Manns added six tackles and forced a fumble, Travis Larson contributed with two sacks and Nick Treumer added an interception.
Superior's offense didn't have the yards one might expect with a big score, but the short field is to blame for that. The offense accounted for all 50 points
The Stampede still piled on 336 yards of offense, 165 on the ground and 171 through the air.
Of the four different running backs, Kevin Guillory led the ground game with 79 yards and two touchdowns. Joe Dupree and Matt Grammer also scored on the ground. The passing game has rejuvenated with the return of LaShawn Bullock. He had his second straight big game, with five catches for 62 yards and a touchdown. Sean Gallagher had two catches for 35 yards and a score.
Quarterback Dave White was equally efficient through the air or on the ground. He made plays avoiding pressure and scrambling for some first downs, rushing for 22 yards. He was 13-18 passing for 171 yards, three touchdowns and one interception.
The Stampede (3-3) are on the road again this week, at Ishpeming, Mich., to take on the Upper Peninsula Artic Blast (1-5). Game time is set for 6 p.m. (CST). The game may be heard live on ESPN radio WEBC 560.
