Daily Archives: November 11, 2011

For the third year in a row, Manhattan fell short of its opportunity to play for a spot in the state title game. And the reasons for it are similar to the ones from last season’s 41-20 loss to Dodge City.

MHS never got its running game going, and credit needs to be given to the Derby defense. The Panthers contained the Indians to 68 yards on 34 carries, including just 15 yards on 12 carries for Ty Suggs.

In addition, the Tribe defense wasn’t able to contain the weapons Derby possessed. Part of that can be blamed on how much time the defense spent on the field.

All this said, Manhattan had another great season. 10-1 is nothing to ever hang your head over.

For the last time this season, here are the grades:

MHS Offense: C-

Dakota Harwood threw for 229 yards, but only because the running game never opened. MHS punted the ball six times and rarely sustained a drive.

MHS Defense: D+

Forcing 3 turnovers didn’t help. The Indians still gave up 514 yards and struggled to get the big 3rd-down stops it needed to.