The Sabercats were the underdogs last night against a strong Legacy team, led by quarterback Matt Lynch (UCLA commit). Despite a tough last second loss, Fossil Ridge football should has nothing to hang their head about after an impressive fight.
In this game, they played for something much larger than themselves or the team; they played to honor military heroes. This summer the team endured military-like training to earn the privilege to be assigned a fallen solider. They got to know the soldier’s story and family to further their ability to honor them on a personal level.
“Last night was less about winning and losing and more about honoring the men and women that have given the ultimate sacrifice for our country,” senior standout Dillon Ostoff said. “We feel lucky that we were able to honor them.”
Wearing special military themed jerseys, the team played a hard fought game. They came out strong in the fist quarter, leading 10-0 following an impressive touchdown catch by Calvin Marley thrown from Griffin Roberts.
Photo credit: tylerpaige photography, Calvin Marley
Fossil Ridge’s defense, ranked in the top 3 defenses in 5A, put a stop to Lynch and his offensive in the fist half. Legacy couldn’t seem to get much going, but the second half unfolded differently. Lynch led two touchdown drives that were about 80-yards each.
An injury to Griffin Roberts at the end of the third quater left it up to running back Brandon Spraberry to keep the ‘Cats in the game. In the 4th quarter, Spraberry, coming off of a collar bone injury, ran for two crucial touchdowns to tie it up at 24-24.
“Being able to come back, especially on Military Night, was the best feeling in the world. We showed last night that we can hang with any team in the state,” Spraberry said. “If we carry the momentum displayed last night, this team will do big things.”
Fossil Ridge (4-3, 3-2 Front Range League) will continue to play for their fallen heroes as the rest of their season continues. They will be on road next week looking for a win against Fairview.
