Quarterback Zach Throne put on a historic show Friday night and because of it, the Lions remain unbeaten.
Throne ran for a school record 242 yards, with four touchdowns. He added more than 220 yards passing, with two more scores and his nearly 500-yard night of football led Red Lion to a 54-21 win against South Western.
Lions coach Jesse Shay said that Throne, who started on defense in 2016, has been even more impressive, especially when you consider how few snaps he had at the position prior to this season.
"The kid is a stud," said Shay. "I think he only had 15 plays of offense last year because if he gets hurt I can't afford to lose him on defense."
But Throne's success is no accident.
"When that kid comes into the weight room, or the film session room, or in a room with coach (Taylor) Green, nobody pays attention to details like he does," Shay said.
Throne, who broke Simmie Strasbaugh's school record for rushing yards, exemplifies how the players in Shay's system handle responsibilities on the field.
"We are going to live and die by what our players decide. We are going to put them in the best possible situation, and we trust them to make the right decisions," said Shay.
Against the Mustangs, Red Lion had to overcome a disappointing first half, in which they allowed speedy South Western running back Delonte Shaw too much space.
After leading by only 28-21, the Lions defense did not allow a point in the second half.
"Not only is Shaw incredibly fast, but when you don't see that (Wing-T) offense, except one time a year, it is so hard to prepare for it," Shay said.
"AT halftime. the defense made the adjustments they needed to make. It was 26-0 in second half. This is the type of team and type of offense we can be. We are an explosive offense and we can score points."
