On the way to their state
championship last season, there was only one blemish on the Columbine record,
that coming at the hands of Lakewood in last year’s opener. Not wanting to make the same mistake, a
determined Columbine squad made short work of the Tigers in a 31-7 victory. Although missing four starters,
including running backs Orenzo Davis and Chad Korodaj, Columbine jumped out to a
17-0 first quarter lead and never looked back. Jeff Cicchinelli had a big night while
replacement running back Peter Worth scored two times. After a 24-0 first half, Columbine
called off the dogs midway through the third quarter against the overmatched
Tigers. Lakewood QB Lawrence
Montoya did his best and gained some yards on quarterback draw but that was not
nearly enough. During the first
three quarters, Lakewood rarely crossed the fifty and their only score came at
the very end of the game against the Rebel reserves.
Bottom Line:
Columbine showed their dominance
against an over matched foe. Even
with key players out, the run game rolled as RBs Jeff Cicchinelli and Peter
Worth took care of business. Columbine backup QB Danny Spond, who received
numerous snaps in the second half, looks to be a very impressive athlete. The athletic sophomore also plays backer
for the Columbine defense and will be a player to watch throughout the
season. For Lakewood, if the
offensive line does not improve and playmakers do not emerge, talented Montoya
could be in for a long season.
Game Ball:
With the offense down key
players, the Rebel D stepped up. Columbine DT Curtis Cunningham should have
played running back for Lakewood based on the amount of time he spent in the
Tiger backfield. Big Ben Tedford
used his 6-6 frame and reach to block a Lakewood punt. The defense will need to
continue the great play as next week the Rebels host a Palmer squad that boasts
two of 5As top playmakers in QB Reggie Jackson and RB Jon Burnley.