Matt Vines

COUSHATTA – The shift to stud athlete Lathyn Lewis getting more snaps under center continued Friday at Lakeside, but it was the Warriors run game that ruled the day.

Lakeside rushed for 388 yards and took firm control late in the first half of a 48-18 win in Sibley.

Leading by one score, Lakeside quarterback Levi Bogdan completed his only pass of the night, a 15-yarder to Brandon Jacobs for a touchdown, to put the Warriors ahead 28-12 right before the half.

A punishing rushing attack led by freshman Malik Thorn (235 yards and five touchdowns) paved the way for Lakeside’s sixth win in its last seven games.

The Warriors (6-3, 2-1) moved up into home playoff territory at No. 16 in the Division III Non-Select power rankings.

Red River’s (1-8, 0-4) are almost extinguished as the Bulldogs sit at No. 33 as they try to climb their way into the top 28 for a spot.

The Bulldogs could have a chance if they find a way to upset Class 3A Loyola (6-3), who is receiving votes in the LSWA statewide poll before poleaxing North Webster by the score of 47-0 on Friday.

Back to Red River’s offense.

Lewis, Red River’s best athlete, has taken more direct snaps and even become a passer in an attempt to get more touches.

He led the Bulldogs first drive by running every play of that possession, which resulted in Red River’s first score that pulled the Bulldogs to within 7-6 in the first quarter.

Lakeside scored the next two touchdowns to lead 21-6, but Red River stayed within striking distance as their second touchdown cut Lakeside’s edge to 21-12.

But the Warriors cashed in late in the second quarter, the first of four straight touchdowns and a 48-12 lead to salt the game away.

Red River quarterback Ashton Johnson also appeared under center as he continued his role from the beginning of the season.

Johnson assumed the starting position for an injured Landon Wilson just before the regular season began. Wilson has since returned in a receiver/running back role a few weeks ago.

But it’s been the defense, particularly the inability to stop the run, which has been arguably the biggest issue.

Red River has allowed at least 40 points in seven of its eight losses this season, which includes a four-game losing streak in a run-heavy district.

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