Hazen can’t get offense going early, falls to Franklin in playoffs | Football

By Adam McFadden • November 8, 2010 2:16 pm
Hazen quarterback Travis Johnson rolls to his right in the Highlanders' playoff game Nov. 6 against Franklin.
Hazen quarterback Travis Johnson rolls to his right in the Highlanders' playoff game Nov. 6 against Franklin.

Against pouring rain and Franklin’s defense, Hazen couldn’t get its running game going in a 28-13 playoff loss Saturday night.

The Highlanders (6-3) finish their season one game short of the 3A state tournament.

Hazen struggled early and fell behind 21-0 at the half and 28-0 through three quarters. However, a six-yard touchdown run from Cody Taylor early in the fourth quarter gave the team a glimmer of hope.

Trailing 28-7, Hazen’s defense pushed Franklin back 31 yards on the next two plays, setting up a tough fourth and 41. After a Franklin punt, Travis Johnson connected with Isaiah Talley for a 45-yard touchdown on the first play of the drive.

The play brought the score to 28-13 with over seven minutes left in the game.

The Highlanders’ defense almost kept the momentum on their side when it recovered what appeared to be a fumble on Franklin’s next drive. However, referees called the play a forward pass and Franklin was able to hold on to the ball and the win.