Stubborn Defense Comes to Sandburg's, Um, Defense

Sometimes the best defense is a good offense.

Such wasn't the case for in Friday night's season opener, as the Eagles defense bailed out a struggling offense in a 17-10 victory over district rival .

Despite managing only 122 total yards (90 rushing), two completed passes and six first downs, Sandburg scored 14 points off two turnovers and used a late goal-line stand to hold off the pesky Thunderbolts.

Andrew had 166 total yards and nine first downs, but its only touchdown was set up by a blocked punt in the second half. It also had a key fumble on a fourth-and-goal play from the Sandburg 1.

Sandburg coach Dave Wierzal realizes his offense needs to improve, but he acknowledged Andrew’s persistence and his defense rising to the challenge.

“I think Andrew played a great game. They made some adjustments and played some defenses we hadn't prepared for," Wierzal said. "Defensively, we made some great plays in the first half. They adjusted in the second and we had to adjust.

"In this kind of game, penalties, fumbles and turnovers at the wrong time can decide the ballgame,” he said.

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