2008 Woodie Awards
Last hurrah
Joe Arleth
Issue date: 11/15/07 Section: sports
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The Bloomsburg Huskies wrapped up their successful yet frustrating season on Saturday with a dramatic victory over the Playoff-bound IUP Crimson Hawks.
This season was an enigma for the Huskies. The team and fans have to be proud of the way the squad overcame early season obstacles to achieve a 7-3 record. Yet at the same time, especially after watching their gutsy performance Saturday, you can't help but wonder what this team may have been capable of with a few more breaks.
While the Huskies' season may have come to an early end for some, the players and coaching staff made sure that the team's seniors went out on their own terms; as winners.
The stage was set for a memorable day, as the Huskies were set to host a strong IUP team, battling for playoff position. Add in the extra drama of Jamar Brittingham's record chasing quest and the emotion of several Bloomsburg seniors saying goodbye, this game had all the makings of a classic.
The hype did not disappoint.
The Huskies and Brittingham wasted no time getting things rolling. On the opening drive, Bloomsburg marched 59 yards down the field for three points. Brittingham served notice to Wesley Cates to enjoy his last few hours, because the record was teetering on the edge after a 49 yard first drive performance left the Husky running back just 30 yards away from history.
The good feelings didn't last very long, however, as the Crimson Hawks answered right back with a 44 yard strike from Andrew Krewatch to Mychal Skinner. Krewatch finished the game with 271 yard and three touchdowns.
Both teams then traded possession of the ball. This was the calm before the storm because things really got crazy on the Huskies' next possession.
Down 7-3, Bloomsburg responded with one of the more memorable plays in recent memory. As the frisky Crimson Hawk fans mounted a loud "IUP" chant, Josh Heck busted a run to the outside for around 12 yards. While being drug to the ground, and IUP player was able to knock the ball loose from Heck. No one seemed to notice at first that the ball was bouncing several yards down field as a small pile rumbled around the spot of the tackle.
Luckily for the Huskies, Brahin Bilal was able to spot the ball wobbling away and was able to scoop it up and scamper down the sideline for a 64-yard touchdown return. The Huskies had stolen the lead and the momentum in less than 15 seconds, as the goofy, quick-strike, one-play 86-yard drive brought the fans in Redman stadium to frenzy.