Comets stomp West Clermont 26-0 in first round of state playoffs
Jacob Brase | Staff Writer
For the second time in program history, the football team will head to the Ohio High School Athletic Association (OHSAA) state sweet 16 after an impressive 26-0 shutout of West Clermont.
It’s no secret the Comet defense has been a force to be reckoned with. For the third time in a row, the Comets held their opponents scoreless, leaving them with an impressive tally of five shutouts on the season.
The Mason defense stepped up when it was important, leaving the West Clermont wolves 2-12 on third down conversions, and 1-4 on fourth down conversions. Senior Jake Bracher led the Comet defense with eight tackles, and one tackle for loss on the night.
Head coach Brian Castner was thrilled to see the defense perform the way they did, and said their shutout was indicative of a special season for the defense.
“We told them all week that they needed to do their job, and that’s what they did,” Castner said. “You can tell a lot about your defense based on how disciplined they are, and we were extremely disciplined tonight.”
Once again, the Comets’ rushing attack put up big numbers. Senior running back Matt Sora rushed for 154 yards, averaging 5.7 yards per carry. Dual-threat quarterback Will Adams also contributed to the rushing attack, gaining 33 yards on the night, and punching in a Comet touchdown on the ground in the first quarter.
Adams, who was hesitant to practice throughout the week due to a concussion, showed he didn’t miss a beat. Coach Castner said his contributions are invaluable to their team.
“Will did a great job, and I’m extremely happy with his performance,” Castner said. “He’s a captain, he’s our leader and he put the team on his back when he needed to; he’s going to keep getting better.”
The stage is set for a great game next week, as the Comets will face Greater Miami Conference (GMC) champion Colerain, and look to earn a spot as one of the final eight teams remaining.
Coach Castner said his approach will remain the same as the Comets prepare for next Friday’s playoff game.
“All the units will continue to rally around each other and work hard,” Castner said. “On Monday, we’ll hit the weight room and continue to develop throughout the week, we’ll be ready come Friday.”
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Photos by Staff Photographer Tanner Pearson.