Independence routs Marshall County 49-14

Williamson County Football

By: David Wells

The Independence Eagles football team put together a great housewarming party for new head coach Scott Blade, routing Marshall County 49-14 in Blade’s first Independence home game.

Independence (2-0) once again relied heavily on the passing game and the throwing arm of quarterback Caleb Hollis, who was 15-for-25 for 247 yards, three touchdowns and one interception.

Receiver and Tennessee commitment Vic Wharton III had three receptions for 102 yards and two touchdown. He also returned a punt for a 60-yard touchdown and scored a 4-yard rushing touchdown.

Marshall County scored first on a 66-yard Austin Stacey pass to Chris Walker with 9:28 to go in the first quarter. Independence responded quickly when receiver Rashaan Gaulden caught an 11-yard pass from Hollis to tie it at 7-7.

Independence never looked back, scoring five more touchdowns before Marshall County responded 76-yard Kacy Pleas touchdown run to make it 42-14.

The Eagles will remain at home for their District 11-AAA opener against Summit High School, which fell to 1-1 after losing 27-7 to Page. This is Summit’s first year in the district. Kickoff for that game is at 7 p.m.