Photo by Maurer
As Johnnie fans lay waste to their summer of 2009, visions of boating, lake time, cabin frolicking and barbecues laden with bratwurst, meat market specials and corn on the cob give way to dreams of an approaching season of stalwart efforts by the heavily talented defensive unit.
Trailing its way into the psyche of SJU fans is a renewed hope of offensive reliability and excitement productive enough to keep pace with their brother defenders credited with winning so many games in past seasons.
If the slow start of the defense, multiple defensive injuries and a suddenly interesting offensive attack are accurate indicators, then 2009 has begun in wildly unlikely fashion.
With SJU trailing 17 – 0 well into the 2nd quarter it appeared as though Johnnie defenders would not be counted on Saturday to hold down the UW-RF Falcons and their dream to win their home opener at soon to be renovated Ramer Field.
Luckily on this day however sharp shooting QB Joe Boyle and senior wide receiver Ben Vanderheyden, who worked throughout the summer perfecting their passing game, decided to reincarnate a simpler time when Johnnie offenses were considered gluttonous with productivity.
Firing passes with authority and exclusively from under center QB Boyle reached WR Vanderheyeden with scoring passes of 24 and 46 yards to pull the Johnnies within 3 points at the half. Had senior Russell Gliadon converted on an attempted 30 yard field early on, the game would have been tied.
The choice to forgo establishing a starting quarterback in ’08 was a critical error which bore compounded indenture and controversy throughout. The same decision awaits offensive coordinator Jimmy Gagliardi only this time it involves his roster heavy in talented running backs.
With an All-American Chris Moore ‘00 like flash around right end in the 4th quarter, Johnnie senior Kellen Blaser surprised everyone on the field and in the bleachers with his unlikely scoring sprint. Returning starter Jakob Reding provides durability despite a 3rd quarter fumble which completely brought the game to a standstill. Toss in frosh Steve Johnson for speed and you have your early season backfield.
No dreamin’ required.