Albert Lea team makes statement over Crusaders
On Saturday, the Albert Lea Grizzlies made a commanding statement in their home opener at Grizzly Field, overwhelming the Sioux Empire Crusaders from Sioux Falls, South Dakota, with a 43-6 victory.
The Grizzlies’ offense came out firing, posting 25 points, while the defense showed its teeth by contributing 12 points of their own. Special teams joined the scoring effort when Antwon Jackson (Lake Mills) electrified the crowd by returning the second-half opening kickoff for a touchdown.
Although the Crusaders found the end zone on their opening drive, that would be the last time they crossed into scoring territory. The Grizzlies’ defense clamped down, refusing to allow another trip inside field goal range. Jakob Kilby, a former Albert Lea Tiger, shined in his first game back in town, recording two pick-sixes from the safety position and energizing the defensive unit.
On the offensive side, the Grizzlies found success behind a young but determined offensive line. Rookies Brandyn Jascha (Waseca), Evan Schroeder (Albert Lea), Brody Dauer (Albert Lea), and Graden Anderson (New Ulm) controlled the trenches, creating running lanes for Javarus Mucha-Owens (Albert Lea), Elijah Caradine (Austin), and Connor May (Albert Lea), who took advantage with consistent yardage and strong finishes.
Quarterback Jalen Gardner (Lake City) displayed poise and dual-threat ability, benefitting from solid protection and using his legs to extend plays and keep the Crusaders’ defense guessing.
The win brings Albert Lea to a 1–1 record on the season after falling to the reigning SPFL champions, the Mt. Lake Lakers, in the season opener.
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