West Bloomfield Defense Can't Be Solved in Season-Opening Win

The score: West Bloomfield 42, Jackson 7

The star: The Lakers defense, led by sophomore lineman Eddy Wilson and senior defensive backs Chance Monarch and Norm Burns, forced four fumbles and one interception against an experienced Vikings offense. 

The turning point: The Lakers came out of halftime with the proverbial wind to their back after a 75-yard touchdown run on the first play from scrimmage by speedy sophomore Michael King to go up 28-7. A forced fumble on the ensuing Jackson drive by Wilson seemed to knock the wind from the Vikings for good.

The story: The Lakers bounced back after an opening kickoff touchdown run by Jackson senior Caleb Moss to not allow another point. Freshman quarterback Trishton Jackson played the role of "game manager" in passing for one touchdown and using speed and agility to make effective plays in short-yardage situations. Senior tailback Matthew Farrow "moved the chains" by frequently carrying the ball well.

The quote: "We made some mistakes that we have to clean up, but that's to be expected. You have 10 new starters on offense. We're going to continue to grow each week. It's a young football team and I tip my hat off to them for tonight." — West Bloomfield head coach Ron Bellamy.

What's next? The Lakers have revenge in mind as they , an Oakland Activities Red Division rival which beat West Bloomfield 34-7 last season .

Bottom line: The young Lakers team showed heart in coming back from the opening kickoff touchdown to build a 21-7 lead at halftime. It also showed focus in maintaining its grip on the Vikings' offense and building the lead in the second half. Can backs like Farrow and King continue to thrive as the competition gets better in division play? Will the defense prove as tight against faster, stronger backs? The answers will likely define the season for the team.