by Hudson, Ohio – The Hudson Explorers opened up postseason play with a 31-0 shutout win over visiting Solon Friday night.
Early in the first, the Explorers drove down inside the five yard line looking to strike first. However, Solon came up with a goal-line stand and took over on downs.
The Explorer defense got the ball back after forcing a three and out and a punt. This time, after getting inside the five-yard line, they were able to capitalize. Senior DJ Ashe kicked a 23-yard field goal to put the Explorers up 3-0 with 2:13 left in the first quarter.
The second quarter belonged to the defenses as Jack Jenkins got an interception for Hudson, and Solon recovered a fumble on defense, and Anthony Onyiorah picked off a pass.
Late in the first half, Hudson faced a fourth-and-short on the Solon 44. Coach Jeff Gough decided to roll the dice and go for it. The gamble paid off as junior tailback Ian Ludewig (Utah lacrosse commit) rushed for a 44-yard touchdown to increase the Explorer lead to 10-0 with 1:48 left in the second quarter.
Solon got a great return to set up shop deep in Hudson territory. However, the drive came up empty due to a missed field goal.
Senior linebacker Blake Toth picked off a pass and returned it 70 yards to the house with 5:01 left in the third. This increased the Hudson lead to 17-0.
And the Explorers would add to that lead, 24-0, thanks to a one-yard touchdown run from Ian Ludewig. He had 28 carries for 191 yards and the pair of scores.
After another defensive stop led to a punt, senior quarterback Jagger Pallay rushed for a 64 yard touchdown. This increased the lead to 31-0 with 8:55 left and triggered the running clock.
Hudson (11-0) advances to the next round, and will host Walsh Jesuit next Friday night.
Solon ends their season at 6-5.
Extended highlights below:
