Defense, running game power Judson over Clemens in battle of unbeatens

SAN ANTONIO – The Judson Rockets used their power running game and solid defense to beat the Clemens Buffaloes 31-14 on Friday night in a battle of unbeaten teams at Lehnhoff Stadium.

The Rockets came away with the win without the services of their star quarterback Julon Williams, who did not play due to an injury. 

"It's the next-man-up mentality," said Judson head coach Sean McAuliffe. "We got a lot of kids that believe and play hard for each other." 

McAuliffe also credited his coaching staff for getting the team ready to play without Williams.

Sincere McCormick started at quarterback for the Rockets and rushed for 139 yards while bruising running back Jay Miller added two rushing touchdowns. Michael Wright and Rashad Wisdom scored Judson's other two touchdowns.

Defensively, the Rockets held Clemens to just over 200 yards of total offense and contained running back Marshawn Brown after he rushed for a 47-yard touchdown on the Buffaloes first series.

Clemens did not score again until the fourth quarter on a double reverse by standout wide receiver Tommy Bush.

Senior defensive back Tyriq Adair had two interceptions for Judson, including one off a tipped pass in the end zone when Clemens was down 14-7 in the third quarter.

"We're just having fun and playing our game, with Julon or without, hopefully keep winning," Adair said.

Judson improves to 8-0 on the season and 5-0 in District 27-6A while Clemens falls to 7-1 (4-1).

Clemens will look to bounce back at New Braunfels next Friday.

Judson hosts Smithson Valley in yet another game between two of the area's top teams.

The Rockets, ranked second in the state, appear to be ready to take on any challenge. 

"The sky is the limit for these guys as long as they stay hungry, stay humble and keep playing hard for each other," McAuliffe said.