It didn’t take long for the Crusaders to take control Friday night.
Landon Martinez returned the opening kickoff 80 yards for a touchdown, giving Buhler a lead it would never relinquish. The Crusaders piled up 472 yards of offense on their way to 55 points.
Martinez powered the rushing attack with 197 yards and four touchdowns on 15 carries. Buhler spread the workload throughout the night, and multiple backs made the most of their opportunities. Nate Nugent added 49 yards on five carries, Braylon North contributed 53 yards, Jack Welch chipped in 35, and Hendrix Blackburn finished with 34.
Circle’s young defense struggled up front, and Buhler’s backs capitalized all night.
The starting Black Knight defense held the T-Birds scoreless. Circle scored late against Buhler’s reserves, who gained valuable Friday night experience.
Nugent was named player of the game for his contributions to the rushing attack.
Buhler heads out on the road again next week to face a Wellington squad that is riding. high after they defeated Mulvane.
