Bulldog Football Gets Late Defensive Stop To Thwart Dakota Valley

Madison Football opened up their season on Friday night, traveling to North Sioux City to take on Dakota Valley. A lite accident with one of the buses on the way down pushed back the start of the contest, but it appeared that did not deter Madison. The Bulldogs scored on their first offensive possession, a touchdown pass from Nate Ricke to Mickale Dohrer. The point after was missed, putting the lead at 6-0. Dakota Valley answered with a Field Goal drive and the score was 6-3 after the first quarter.

Madison would pick up a safety on defense late in the second quarter, only to give up an 85 yard touchdown run, giving the host Panthers a 10-8 lead at the break. Ricke would score on a pair of rushing touchdowns in the third quarter, pushing the Madison lead to 22-10 heading into the final 12 minutes. Halfway through the fourth, the Panthers once again got a long touchdown run to pull within six points after the 2-point attempt was no good. The Bulldogs looked to run out the clock but ended up giving the ball back to Dakota Valley with under two minutes.

Dakota Valley would pick up a first down but ultimately, the run heavy team, were stymied by the Bulldog defense – giving Madison the thrilling 22-16 victory. Ricke finished 16/24 for 221 yards, 1 touchdown and 4 interceptions – he also led the team in rushing with 88 yards. Overall, Madison was able to overcome 7 total turnovers thanks to a fairly stout defensive game.

Now 1-0 on the season, the Bulldogs will be at home this Friday evening, welcoming in the defending State Champions in Canton. Kickoff from Trojan Field is scheduled for 7pm.