Centennial improved its football record to 2-1 Sept. 10 with a 42-21 homecoming win over Grand Island Central Catholic.
“It was fun. They earned it and deserved it,” Coach Evan Klanecky said.
The Broncos had a good week of practice coming into the game, the coach said. The keys were to control the tempo and dominate the field position, and the Broncos did both.
“The offense did a good job driving the football and controlling the clock,” Klanecky said, adding that the defense did a good job eliminating Central Catholic’s big-play ability.
Senior Mike Nisly had the best game of his career, Klanecky said, carrying 36 times for 249 yards and four touchdowns.
“He ran hard and had some nifty jump cuts,” the coach said.
His brother Maj completed four of 12 passes for 76 yards and added 54 yards rushing on 15 carries.
On defense, Klanecky, said the Broncos’ blitz package hurt the Crusaders, disrupting their offensive game plan. On the flip side, the Broncos ran just enough motion to throw off GICC’s blitzes.
Carson Fehlhafer and Connor Clouse led the defense with four solo tackles each. Klanecky said Jayden Hartshorn had a good game at linebacker, and Lane Zimmer at wide receiver and defensive back had his most complete game.
Cyrus Songster was the scout team player of the week and played a good JV game Tuesday, Klanecky said.
The Broncos are to head down Highway 34 Friday, Sept. 17, to play Malcolm in the Clippers’ homecoming game. Kickoff is set for 7:30 p.m.
“It’s always close,” Klanecky said. “It’s a respectful rivalry. We’ve played eight times in my 12 years and it’s always a good game.”
