By Scott Nickerson
Elmore Autauga News
The Stanhope Elmore Mustangs forced five turnovers in a 20-0 victory over Smiths Station, spoiling the Panthers’ homecoming game. It was the first shutout for the Mustangs in more than three years, since the opening game of the 2021 season against Selma.
After a Colby Beyer punt that was downed on the Smiths Station 1-yard line, the Panthers were able to move the ball a few plays before linebacker Jesse Chriestenson intercepted a pass. He returned it for a touchdown but it was called back due to a penalty. The Mustangs were still able to get points. Quarterback Zac Holcombe completed a 25-yard screen pass to running back Arthur McQueen, who scored a rushing touchdown on the next play from one yard out. The extra point put the Mustangs up 7-0 with eight seconds left in the opening quarter.
In the 2nd quarter, McQueen had back-to-back 21-yard rushes, before Holcombe passed to Demarrian Barnes for a 23-yard touchdown pass. The extra point was blocked, but the Mustangs led 13-0. The Panthers attempted to score before the half, but the Mustangs forced their second turnover of the game.
The Panthers drove deep into SEHS territory with the opening drive of the 3rd quarter, but the Mustangs’ defense recovered a fumble. Stanhope Elmore used their strong rushing attack to steadily move the ball down the field. McQueen finished the drive with a 3-yard touchdown rush. Beyer’s extra point put the Mustangs ahead 20-0.
The Mustangs forced two more turnovers in the 4th quarter, sealing any Smiths Station chance to score.
For the game, McQueen rushed for 185 yards and scored two touchdowns. Halfway through the season, the senior running back has 1008 yards and 11 touchdowns. A potential 2,000-yard season is a very real possibility.
Holcombe, the Mustangs quarterback, looked the most comfortable he has all season. He completed 6-8 passes for 73 yards and 1 touchdown and 1 interception.
With the win, the Mustangs improve to 3-2 at the midway point of the 2024 season. But the second half of the season will determine the success of the season, with four straight region games. Over the next two weeks, the Mustangs will host Russell County and then Pike Road. Both teams are 3-0 in region play.
The Mustangs still have a chance to win the region and host a playoff game if they win out.
