The Martin Clippers took a tough loss last week against Northpointe Christian. This week, they took on another team Grand Rapids area team in Tri-Unity Christian. It was a great response for the Clippers, as they cruised to a 67-0 victory.
JR Hildebrand rushed 9 times for 243 yards and 4 touchdowns. He was also 5 for 7 for 96 yards and two touchdown throws. Both touchdown throws were to Senior TE Sam Jager. Senior Karter Ribble added a 34-yard touchdown run and Junior Taegan Harris added a touchdown running it in from 5 yards out. As a team, Martin rushed for 384 yards on just 25 carries for an average of 15 yards per carry. On defense, Jackson Robinson led the way with 7 tackles including 2 TFLs. Bryce Robinson chipped in with 4 including two sacks. Senior Tanner Bird played well from his defensive line position racking up 3 TFLs. Sam Jager had 2 interceptions, while Juniors Taegan Harris and Mikey Branch each added an interception of their own.
Martin also saw some excellence on special teams in this win. As time expired in the 2nd quarter, Senior Karter Ribble kicked in a 42-yard field goal which is a new school record. Freshman Haylen Buell also returned a punt 62 yards for a touchdown.
Coach Brad Blauvelt of Martin afterwards provided this quote: “I was happy with the way we bounced back after last week’s loss. We blocked to the whistle tonight and played a physical brand of football. Everyone did their job tonight and they did it well. We have to continue to improve each week in practice. We are looking forward to this week’s matchup with Fennville.”
As Coach Blauvelt alluded to, Martin will take their 6-1 record into battle with 3-4 Fennville. Tri-Unity Christian, now 3-4, will look to bounce back against Wyoming Lee.
