3A Team of the Week: Industrial Cobras
Industrial had a tumultuous start to the season. The Cobras started o-5 and also reassigned their coach after that fifth loss.
However, this group hasn’t quit. On Friday, they picked up their second-straight win under interim head coach Allen Fellers. It was a good 28-21 win over a Rice Consolidated team that was 6-1 on the year coming into the contest.
“I’m incredibly proud of our players for their resilience and focus through such adversity,” Fellers said. “Starting the season 0-5, especially against three state-ranked opponents, was a tough challenge. Instead of letting it discourage them, they embraced and used it as a learning experience.”
Cobra running back Sam Kurtz scored on a one-yard touchdown to make it 28-7 Industrial in the fourth. And although the Raiders added two late touchdowns, Industrial recovered an all-important onside kick late to seal the victory.
After a win like that, Fellers believes his squad still has what it takes to make some noise down the stretch this season.
“Winning against a solid Rice Consolidated team that was 6-1 is a testament to [our players’] hard work and steadfast commitment,” Fellers said. “This victory also reflects how our daunting pre-season schedule has battle-tested them, building their mental toughness and unity as a team.”
Senior dual threat quarterback Nicholas Kuchler had a big night with 92 yards and a touchdown passing along with an impressive 133 yards and another score on the ground. That score came on a 58-yard scamper in the first quarter.
Tight end Brady Coop led the Cobra pass-catchers. He caught three passes for 37 yards and a touchdown.
Defensively, Kurtz had an interception to go along with his 81 yards rushing. Jaden Amaro was Industrial’s primary force in the trenches with two tackles for loss and a sack.
The Cobras will aim to take their growing confidence with them on the road this week as they head to Boling at 7:00 on Friday.
Previous 3A Teams of the Week
Week One: Idalou
Week Two: Life Oak Cliff
Week Three: Jourdanton
Week Four: Hitchcock
Week Five: Universal City Randolph
Week Six: De Kalb
Week Seven: Palmer
