The Oakridge Eagles welcomed Big Rapids for a “Bird Bowl” in the playoffs. It was not a pleasant trip to the nest, with Oakridge dominating from the opening kickoff in a 40-15 victory.
In the first quarter, Oakridge scored twice. Matt Danicek found Corey Vanderputte on a 23-yard passing score to get the season started. Near the end of the frame, Danicek used his legs on a 1-yard touchdown plunge.
The second quarter saw more of the same, with Oakridge finding the end zone twice more. Corey Vanderputte scored both, on runs of 34 and 44 yards. The Eagles would get the running clock going after an additional two third quarter scores. First, Vanderputte stepped in front of a pass and raced to the end zone.
In the fourth quarter, Big Rapids scored twice, on passes from Wil Strickler. He found Grant Kidder and Justin Gorczewicz on 36 and 72 yard deep balls respectively.
Oakridge rushed for 328 yards in this game, with 199 the final count for Vanderputte. Brenden Raymond added 99 yards on thirteen carries. Next week, Oakridge will square off against Reed City.
