The Union Win Streak Ends at 6

Unfortunate news for Panthers fans as their six game win streak has come to an end. The Panthers were shut down on both sides of the ball this last Friday night as the Athens Academy Spartans took this one 38-7. This was a big win for the Spartans as they now find themselves second in the region standings. Union was outgained by just 95 yards despite the big 31-point loss. Two huge Pick-6’s really put this game away late.

Team Notes

After dominating over the course of the season, QB Caiden Tanner was stifled in this one. He was just 16/30 for 160 yards and threw two interceptions. He did record a TD on the ground but finished the game with -7 yards. Connor Schuknecht led the team with 50 yards on the ground on 11 carries. WR Jensen Goble led the WR room with 68 yards on six catches while Griff Young and Ethan McBride both finished with 35 yards on four catches. Union’s offense had one of their worst performances of the season as they finished with just 225 yards of total offense. The defense failed as well as the 38 points allowed were the second most, they have allowed in a game all season.

Athens Academy showed up big and now sit ahead of Union in the region standings. Senior Sam Bush had himself a night throwing for 79 yards and a TD while leading the ground attack finishing with 104 yards on just nine carries and another TD. Tre Hawkins had a good night as well as he finished with 76 yards on 14 carries and another TD. Preston Darden led the team in receiving yards with 62 yards on two catches and a touchdown.

Look Ahead

Union’s offense will need to show up next week as they will host Fellowship Christian 6-3 (4-0). The Paladins are undefeated in region play, but a win for the Panthers could create an interesting three-way tie if Athens win as well. The Spartans will travel to East Jackson to take on a tough Eagles defense to end the regular season.