Devils improve against Panthers
Thursday, September 13, 2007 9:40 AM EDT

By Toby Burrell

Swain defense gang tacklers include Cory Greene (4), Ryan McMahan (9), and Nathan McHan (42). (SCHS/Lauren Maennle)

Friday night the Maroon Devils traveled to Franklin to face an old foe. Franklin entered the game looking to extend their winning run through the Smoky Mountain Conference. For the young Maroon Devils they entered the game looking for something to bolster their confidence.

While the Panthers walked away with a 24-6 the Devils may have very well got the confidence boost the needed heading into conference play. Swain broke its four-game scoreless streak with a third quarter touchdown.

After struggling against a larger Panther front, offensive coordinator Jeff Marr made some subtle changes at halftime. The changes paid huge dividends as the Devils offense operated with precision and a rhythm about them. Swain rolled to over 100 yards on the ground in the second half, and had eight first downs, after having only two in the first half.

Then with just over one minute left in the third quarter Steven Archer broke free for a 35-yard touchdown run. The touchdown really should have been the second of the night for the Devils. Earlier in the quarter Franklin picked off a pass in its own endzone, after Swain had driven to the Panther four yard line. The pass was intended for Aaron Smiley who was held and unable to get to the pass. With no call the Panthers interception stood and kept the Devils out of the endzone.

Despite spotting Franklin 17 first half points, the Devils played the Panthers dead even in the second half. Very encouraging signs, indeed, for Swain.

Chase Sneed and Ryan McMahan had big nights for the Devils on defensive end. Sneed finished with a game high 13 tackles while McMahan had 12. Archer finished the night with 67 yards rushing, all 67 coming in the second half. Cory Hipp added 51 yards rushing in his first game back from a neck injury.

This week, the Devils return home as they host North Buncombe. Game time is set for 7:30 at Swain County Memorial Stadium.

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