Unioto starts season with statement win over Jackson

Chillicothe — Unioto High School kicked off their football season with a commanding 35-21 victory over Jackson High School Thursday night, sending a clear message to skeptics and critics alike. Coach Matt Hoops was resolute, stating "If we're talking about programs, Unioto isn’t on the same planet as Jackson High School football." Despite being labeled as "doubted, overlooked, ignored," the Ironmen proved their worth with a dominant performance that hushed the doubters.

The Shermans' defense led the charge from the opening whistle, forcing a three-and-out and setting the tone for the game. Just ten plays into the game, Isaac Coy connected with Brayden Harsha for a four-yard touchdown, making it 7-0 and leaving 4:46 on the clock in the first quarter. Coach Hoops praised this opening play, stating "To get a three-and-out and then be able to manage the clock with a fast-slow, fast-slow tempo like we did, that was huge."

Unioto answered just moments later, forcing a fumble deep in Sherman territory, which was converted into a two-yard touchdown by Israel Schindler, tying the score at 10:31 in the second quarter. The Ironmen continued to dominate, with Jackson's fake punt attempt intercepted and returned for a touchdown by senior Yusef Wilson, putting Unioto back on top 14-7. Wilson's play changed the tide and fueled the team into the second half.

The Shermans maintained their intensity after the break, starting the third quarter with a 56-yard touchdown from Coy to Levi Beam, extending their lead to 28-7. Jackson responded with a 37-yard touchdown run from Tate Rosler, but Coy answered with a one-yard score, keeping the Ironmen's lead. The night's final touchdown was a nine-yard run from CJ Crabtree for Unioto, capping off a dominant performance.

Coach Hoops concluded, "We just try to keep things super simple. I loved the atmosphere here tonight, and I think that brought some extra excitement. I also think our kids knew how big this win would be for our program and for the players who got us to this point. I think that’s what motivated these guys." Unioto will face Athens on Aug. 28, coming off a successful 9-2 season last fall. The message this week will be, "How do you handle success?"