SCHERTZ, Texas- The Cibolo Steele Knights reasserted themselves into the San Antonio playoff conversation, besting the New Braunfel Unicorns 26-3.
After losing four straight games — the worst losing streak since 2009 — the Knights came into battle with their armor shining and their swords sharp, hoping to avoid a losing season; their only other blemish was a single losing mark in 2006, putting up an overall 126-18 in the last decade since.
Cibolo Steele running back Brendan Brady runs for a touchdown during the first half of their game against New Braunfels on Friday (Photo: Flo Landsteiner/TexasHSFootball.com)
The first half wasn’t so fantastic for the winning magic that was to come: The Knights were unable to move the football only leading 6-0 in the first half after a lackadaisical effort and a botched two point conversion. Senior running back Brendan Brady accounted for 105 yards and a score, while quarterback Onyx Smith sputtered through the air, completing 3-of-8 throws for 41 yards and an interception.
During halftime, first year coach David Saenz opted to return Smith to his comfortable position at wide receiver and put in freshman Wyatt Begeal as the shot caller. The move transformed the team, injecting some much needed energy into both sides of the field.
The Knight began the second half with confidence, embarking on a five-play, 67 yard jaunt that concluded with a five yard score by De’quavion Thomas. The Unicorns responded with their only score of the night, launching a field goal within 30 yards.
Cibolo Steele receiver/safety Caden Sterns celebrates a touchdown during Friday’s game against New Braunfels. (Photo: Flo Landsteiner/TexasHSFootball.com)
On the second consecutive drive, Begeal shot a 63 yard rocket to Caden Sterns; both drives were time efficient, only shaving two minutes and forty seconds off the clock.
The rest of the night belonged to Brady. In Steele’s final scoring drive, the Knights went down the field on four plays, all Brady runs for 22 yards and a one yard touchdown. The stud rusher finished with a whopping 22 carries for 202 yards and a duo of scores — a heavy contribution to the Knights’ 384 total yards of offense.
Freshman Begeal showed his abilities within the Steele system, throwing a perfect 4-of-4 for 88 yards and a score.
The Knights tweeted this promise to their fans prior to the matchup:
We are hungry, reaffirmed, and ready to hit stride down the backstretch of this campaign. Swords are drawn and the Knights are primed. #D3 pic.twitter.com/U559tYoBef
— Steele Football (@Football_Steele) October 13, 2017
The backstretch of the schedule certainly favors Steele. Their next three opponents have a combined record of 4-13 and only undefeated Clemens poses the toughest challenge to close the regular season.
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