Hawks use defensive scores to cruise past Rams

WASILLA — The extra film study is paying off for the Houston Hawks defense.

Longtime Houston defensive coordinator Jared Barrett is putting more emphasis on his players watching game film, and last Friday, Barrett watched his defense put together an unforgettable, and just about unheard of, performance. The Hawks recorded five defensive touchdowns during a 53-6 win over Monroe Catholic Sept. 1 at Houston High School.

“I’ve never seen anything like it,” Barrett said by cellphone Sunday evening.

Houston returned four interceptions and a fumble recovery for scores en route to improve to 3-1 overall and 1-0 in the Aurora Conference. Isaac Goodman and Robert Ritter had a pair of defensive touchdowns each, and Owen Mulhaney also had a defensive score. Barrett said the film study has made his players more aware on the field.

“Our kids are in good position, they’re making plays,” Barrett said.

During film study, Barrett said, the Houston coaches have the players yell out where the play is going.

“The kids are learning, having fun,” Barrett said.

Barrett said in years past, he’s been more aggressive calling blitzes. This year, he’s letting the his players read the play. In the win over Monroe, that translated to 30 points courtesy of the defense.

Most of the defensive scores were from 50 yards or more, and one went the length of the field.

Goodman picked off a pass in the end zone and ran about 106 yards for a touchdown, Barrett said. Goodman picked off another pass and went about 70 yards for the score. Ritter returned an interception and a fumble recovery for scores. Mulhaney returned an interception about 65 yards for a touchdown.

It marked Ritter’s second straight game with a pair of touchdowns. Ritter rushed for two scores against Seward.

The Houston defense also held Monroe to -51 yards rushing.

The Houston offense also added three scores. Quarterback Terry Hershman threw for 111 yards passing and a touchdown. Noah Plumb rushed for 105 yards and a score. Will Croghan added 61 yards and a touchdown.

Houston continues Aurora Conference play on the road, traveling north to face Eielson Saturday at 1 p.m.

Contact Mat-Su Valley Frontiersman sports editor Jeremiah Bartz at sports@frontiersman.com.