Fenton claims Metro Suburban championship in big way
Fenton knew what was on the line in its regular season finale against Elmwood Park.
A Bison win would assure a spot in the playoffs and a share of the Metro Suburban Conference title.
Fenton wasted little time in accomplishing its goal; with senior quarterback Eric Justiniano going 65 yards on the first play of scrimmage for a touchdown and the Bison never looked back in an easy 49-0 MSC victory at a misty Elmwood Park.
Fenton (6-3, 5-1) assured itself of a spot in the playoffs and also a share of the MSC title.
"Week 9 for us was like Week 1 of the playoffs," said Fenton coach Mark Farrell of the Bison dominating victory. "We came in with the mindset that this was a playoff game and we were ready."
How ready?
The Bison scored on their first four possessions, gaining 215 yards in the opening quarter in taking a commanding 28-0 lead.
Justiniano scored on runs of 65, 60 and 42 yards in the first quarter and Tyrell McGee added a 22-yard touchdown run in a dominating first 12 minutes.
"That's what we wanted to do," added Justiniano, who rushed for 180 yards on 8 carries and added a 6-yard score in the second quarter and 2-yard score in the final quarter.
"We wanted to score right off the bat, get our lead and get on our way."
McGee rushed for 129 yards on 12 carries and Chris Butz added an 8-yard score in giving the Bison a commanding 42-0 halftime advantage.
Offensive lineman Mike Wojcik, Freddy Joyner, Ed Havlovic, Richie Rebmann and Mike Nolte cleared the way for a Bison attack that gained 300 of its 395 yards rushing in the first half leading to a running clock for the entire second half.
"That's something we talk about, dominating the line of scrimmage," Farrell said of his offensive line. "Then going out and executing."
Elmwood Park (1-8, 0-6) had no answer as the Tigers were held to minus-2 yards rushing in the first half against an attacking Bison defense.
Vince Esposito, Charles Fleishacker and Joe DiBenedetto combined for 2 sacks for the Bison defense.
Fenton will make its first postseason appearance since 2006, and the Bison look ready.
"Last year we were down and couldn't make it, the year before the same thing," Justiniano said. "This is the year we make it, and it feels good."