The Fossil Ridge football team’s season ended, losing in the first round of the playoffs to the twelve seeded Cherokee Trail Cougars.

Fossil started the game slow, as Cherokee Trail scored two touchdowns to take a 14-0 lead in the first quarter.

The Sabercats mounted an offensive attack late in the first half, but were unable to convert inside the red zone. Fossil turned the ball over, and the Cougars scored one more time before half, taking a 20-0 lead.

Fossil scored twice during the third quarter, but Cherokee Trail answered them both times, keeping a comfortable 34-15 lead. 

The Cougars scored another touchdown widening their lead to 26. Fossil scored twice during the fourth quarter, but didn’t have enough time to complete the comeback, falling 41-29.

Despite the loss, the Sabercats will be taking many positives from this season.

Fossil finished the year 5-6, making the playoffs for the first time in five years, and winning their first ever league championship.

The Sabercats are saying goodbye to several key senior contributors, notably running back Dustin Mock, defensive end Nathan Hallmark, and safety Jacob Schenider. 

The majority of Fossil’s starters will be returning for their final year, including quarterback Tyler Kubat, running back Michael Doyle, receivers Domenic Leone, Mac Busteed, and Trek Keyworth, cornerback Ryan Pollyea, and linebackers Jake Decklever and Ryan Black.

Fossil will start next year looking to repeat as league champions, and win their first playoff game at the 5A level.