62

Some of the folks attending the Columbus vs. Franklin playoff game never figured out the significance of the final score of 62 until a day later. Others were aware and cheered loudly.

In case you haven’t heard, late in the 4th quarter (when Columbus scored their last touchdown) rather than run or kick for the extra point, the Cards took a knee.

This was to have the final score remain at 62 for Columbus. It was a time of emotion and tribute to Aleks Mendoza, #62, the well loved player who lost his life earlier in the season.

The Columbus vs. Franklin play-off game was one to remember, and frankly, I’ve had it on my mind for the better part of the week. There had been great anticipation prior to Friday night’s game in Cedar Park.

Most everyone knew the history of the Franklin Lions, not at all favorable. The name Franklin had loomed in the Dave Campbell weekly review of winners in 3A Division 1. Columbus has a former Franklin coach heading up our defensive squad.

Coach Robinson had quite a bit of historical data from his time with the Lions. Kenneth Robinson had spent some memorable years with Franklin’s defense.

Now, just in case you were not in Cedar Park on Dec 6, let me try to explain the glorious feeling one had. Columbus’ first play was a tremendous run; a touchdown, scored by the truly dynamic Grayson Rigdon.

What more drama could one experience than a touchdown in the first 17 seconds of the game? Of course, this set the tone of the game. The Columbus stands burst with cheers and here we went on a never to forget football game.

The Cards were explosive and convincing for four quarters. As our score mounted, the spectators hardly had time for a quick breath.

In the third quarter, there was an immediate response by the Lions to reduce a three touchdown lead to a one touchdown lead. Columbus then bounced back with two touchdowns to maintain a 3-touchdown lead. The defense stepped up to protect that lead. The offense presented a powerful attack. The final score of 62 – 42 sends the Cardinals to play Edna this Thursday, Dec 12, 7:00 p.m. at Rice University Stadium in Houston.

GO BIG RED!