BRUNSWICK
The Franklin Broncos had previously run their way to a 4-1 record and No. 4 ranking in the Virginia High School League IA Division thanks in part to a stable of superb running backs. On Friday evening, however, the two-time defending TriRivers District champion Brunswick Bulldogs corralled the home team on their way to an impressive 60-36 win at Armory Field.

Brunswick started the scoring behind its own star running back, Treven Easter. The senior, who rushed for more than 100 yards and five touchdowns against Windsor just two weeks ago, powered it in from five yards out to give the Bulldogs a 6-0 lead.

Franklin quickly responded, going 80 yards in 12 plays to take the lead. Halfback Javonte Baker’s 2-yard run tied the game at 6, and tailback Jack Syke’s two-point conversion gave the Broncos the advantage.

The lead didn’t last long, as Brunswick quarterback Darren Owens took a read option for 59 yards down the visiting sideline for a touchdown.

After a three-and-out, Owens found Easter sneaking out of the backfield on a screen play to set the Bulldogs up with a first-and-goal situation. Two plays later, the latter crossed the goal line to extend the lead to 22-8 at the end of the first quarter.

Trailing 30-8 in the second quarter, Franklin responded with a scoring drive in hopes that momentum would turn, as halfback Quayshaun Jefferson raced 69 yards for the touchdown.

Owens ended all hopes of a comeback on Brunswick’s next two possessions, though, when he tucked the ball and ran 65 and 71 yards for a pair of touchdown to put the Bulldogs up 42-16 at halftime. He finished with 361 yards rushing and 136 yards passing on the night.

Franklin will look to rebound on Friday night at Sussex Central. The Tigers enter the game with a 5-1 record after knocking off Park View, 14-12.