Buhler’s winning formula over the previous three games largely consisted of handing the ball to Landon Martinez and letting him score. On Friday night, however, the Crusaders took a more balanced approach, beating Augusta 29-0 for their fourth consecutive victory.
In a matchup of 4-2 league foes caught in a logjam near the top of the Class 4A West standings, Buhler delivered a total team effort.
Quarterback Asher Zachary was highly efficient, completing seven of nine passes for 145 yards and two touchdowns. Garrett Gleason caught both touchdown passes and nearly added a third score at the end of the first half.
Fullback Asher McConnaughy opened the scoring with a 29-yard touchdown run and finished with four carries for 40 yards. Martinez, the junior tailback, carried 28 times for 196 yards and a touchdown.
Augusta’s defense, particularly its speed on the outside, made Buhler work for its production throughout the night.
Defensively, Buhler’s improving unit delivered a shutout and forced four turnovers. Jackson and Jordan Rumbaugh each recovered a fumble, while player of the game Graycen Brinar intercepted two passes.
Brinar, pressed into service after an early-season injury to McCade Zachary, has been a strong presence in run support. Against the Orioles, the ball-hawking defensive back showcased his coverage skills as well.
Buhler enters the playoffs at 6-2 as the No. 3 seed in Class 4A West and will host Circle next week. A Crusader victory would set up a second home playoff game and a potential rematch with Great Bend, which defeated Buhler 33-22 in Week 4.
