Quarterback Matthew Hamby steps back in the pocket.

By CARSON FANT
For Brentwood Home Page
The Brentwood Academy Eagles’ offense racked up 429 yards of offense and 17 first downs on their way to an easy 45-7 victory over regional foe Father Ryan.

The Eagles, 3-0 and ranked No. 1 in Division II Class AA, put up more than 40 points for the third time this season. The Eagles’ defense was strong as well, only allowing the Fighting Irish only 99 offensive yards and forcing two turnovers that led to 10 points.

Brentwood Academy ended a two-game losing streak to the Irish (1-2), avenging a 35-34 defeat last season.

The Eagles marched right down the field on the first possession of the game, gaining 67 yards in 10 plays. Senior quarterback Matthew Hamby capped off the drive with a four-yard touchdown pass to fellow senior Weldon Garlington. The reception was the third of the drive for Garlington and a sign of things to come.

After forcing a three-and-out, Brentwood Academy went 70 yards in 11 plays, scoring on a one-yard run by junior Radir Annoor with 1:32 left in the first quarter.

Both teams had trouble moving the ball until midway through the second quarter when the Eagles went 66 yards in six plays. Hamby scored on a 15-yard keeper with 6:13 left in the first half. Sophomore Ben Boatright’s extra point made the score 21-0.

Father Ryan showed some life on the ensuing possession, kicked off by sophomore Rafael Hopkins’ kick return to Brentwood Academy’s 46-yard line. The Irish moved methodically on the ground, scoring on a one-yard touchdown run by senior Prince Iworah with 24 seconds left before halftime.

The second half belonged to the Eagles as they outscored the Irish 24-0 in the final 24 minutes.

On the first possession of the second half, Eagle defensive back Derek King intercepted Tommy Derrick’s pass, giving the Brentwood Academy offense excellent field position. The Eagles ended up with a 38-yard field goal by senior Nathan Renfro to make the score 24-7 with 5:57 left in the third quarter.

Brentwood Academy scored touchdowns on their next three possessions to put the game out of reach. Senior running back Victor Caro scored on a seven-yard touchdown run and Annoor added a 15-yard touchdown run. Hamby also threw a 52-yard touchdown strike to Garlington.

Hamby finished the game 12-16 passing for 160 yards and two touchdowns. Garlington caught nine passes for 133 yards and two touchdowns. Annoor rushed 11 times for 74 yards and two touchdowns.

The Eagles host Olive Branch High School out of Mississippi next Friday night. Brentwood Academy’s next regional game is Sept.17 at Pope John Paul II.

Victor Caro runs over Father Ryan defenders on his way to the end zone.

All eyes are on the field goal attempt by Nathan Renfro.

Father Ryan fumble is recovered by Drew Martin.

The scoreboard tells the story.