Indians fall to No. 6 East Mississippi, 48-24

Indians fall to No. 6 East Mississippi, 48-24
Lee Adams/LetsGoICC.com

FULTON, MS - Itawamba Community College took on its second top 10 team in as many weeks when they hit the road to face nationally ranked East Mississippi Community College Saturday. The Indians rallied in the second half but came up short, falling to the Lions, 45-24.

After a sluggish first half, the Indians (2-3, 1-2 MACJC North) trailed 24-0 at the half, despite having a red zone opportunity that came up a half yard short of the end zone. They began to find their rhythm in the second half and Zach Ellis (Tupelo) put the Indians on the board with a 38 yard field goal in the third quarter.

Kwadra Griggs (Greenwood), who passed for a season high 372 yards, connected with 10 different receivers leading to three fourth quarter touchdowns. Sophomore Grant Kimberlin (Olive Branch) led the Indians with six receptions for 82 yards, including a leaping catch over a defender for a big gain.

Dominic Walker (Orlando, FL), Stanley Higgins (Starkville) and Dorian Gaston (Ripley) were all key targets for Griggs as well as they all finished with 50 plus yards and a touchdown.

The teams were even in the second half with both scoring 24 points, but the sluggish first half proved to be too much for the Indians to overcome.

Artez Williams (Greenwood) and DC Olton (Winona) led the Indians with 9 tackles each and Kendarius Hibbler (Tunica) saved a touchdown with his third quarter interception in the end zone. The Indian defense forced three turnovers which is the Indians fourth consecutive game where they forced two or more turnovers.

The Indians look to bounce back as they return home Saturday to host Coahoma Community College for Homecoming and another MACJC North Division showdown. Kickoff is scheduled for 3:30 p.m. and homecoming festivities beginning at noon.

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