By Scott Brown

McLean Secures Two Seed With Win Over Wildcats

Posted: October 21, 2023
Article, Featured

While Trigg County showed some improvement coming off a bye week, some of the same defensive issues remained in a 44-14 loss at McLean County Friday.

The Wildcats finish the district slate at 0-5 – their first winless trip through the district since 2015.

McLean County, which came into the game averaging 228 rushing yards a game, ran for 370 yards on 26 carries and had two backs over 100 yards. It was part of a 411-yard night for the Cougars, who improved to 4-1 in the district and locked up the number two seed.

Trigg County struck first, driving 73 yards on eight plays on the game’s first drive. Davaree Gude scored on a 30-yard run around the left side for a 6-0 Wildcat lead.

McLean countered with four touchdowns on its first four drives of the half to grab a 30-6 and eliminate any drama from the rest of the contest. Two of their touchdowns came on third down plays.

Four different backs scored touchdowns – Brodie Cline from 14 yards, Elijah Hawkins from five yards, Ayden Rice from three yards, and Kamden Walters from 14 yards out.

After Trigg’s opening score, the Wildcats’ next five drives went interception, punt, interception, interception, and interception as they trailed 30-6 at halftime.

Already playing without three starters due to injury, Any chance at a comeback was derailed by more Wildcat injuries. Gude ran for 92 yards on seven carries but didn’t play in the second half. Jhaden Vaughn caught three passes for 16 yards and also did not return in the second half. Two others were knocked out of action and didn’t return.

Trigg County was able to move the football, driving into McLean territory six times but only scored twice.

Trigg finished with 206 yards on the ground, but quarterback King Williams didn’t attempt a pass after throwing four first half interceptions.

Joshaun Bridges rushed for a season-high 93 yards on 20 carries for the Wildcats.

McLean County got 151 yards from Aden Bolden and 116 yards on just four carries from Elijah Baldwin.

Friday’s meeting was the first game between the schools in five years. Trigg County still leads the all-time series with McLean County 4-3.

Trigg County (2-7) Trigg County will close out its season Friday at Caldwell County in the 139 Bowl.