Putnam County War Eagles’ head coach Joel Harvin must be a pretty good repairman.
After the region-opening home loss to Laney Sept. 25, Harvin said his team would fix what needed to be fixed before facing Aquinas (3-2, 1-1) last Friday in the second region game of the season.
Obviously, he meant it, because Putnam dominated the Fighting Irish, getting right back to their winning ways with a 56-24 victory at home. The win moved the War Eagles to 4-1 overall, and 1-1 in region play.
Putnam came out noticeably more physical on both sides of the ball. The team played with a high level of energy through all four quarters. Even the coaching staff appeared more intense than in previous games.
“I am the most proud that I have ever been at Putnam,” Harvin said to his players and coaches after the game.
By making big stops when they needed to and creating multiple turnovers, Putnam’s defense provided the momentum needed for the offense to run on.
The War Eagles’ relentless ground attack totaled 499 yards and eight touchdowns on 63 total carries. Running back Kumari Thomas scored five times, while quarterback Caleb Reeves scored three times, twice with runs of more than 40 yards.
“We still have a lot of things to fix that are caused from just being young and inexperienced, but our guys show up to work every day and get better,” Harvin said. “Our great work in the weight room is paying off and helps contribute to us being able to be physical.”
Putnam will look to carry its momentum into Jefferson County on Friday night when facing the Warriors (2-3, 1-1). This will be the first region matchup on the road for Putnam this season. Kickoff is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. at Warrior Stadium.