Independence Cruises, Butler Slowing »
The date with destiny is fast approaching as the early November classic comes closer with each week. In slightly less than two weeks, the game that everyone was anticipating will happen when the Independence Patriots and Butler Bulldogs meet to determine the city supremacy for the year. Of course, they will perhaps meet in the playoffs as well, so it probably doesn't mean much more than bragging rights - but when the season started, it seemed as if the game held all sorts of possibilities, with the Bulldogs having the chance to unseat the Patriots from their throne, and end the streak.
Naturally, now that the Patriots have lost that streak and started another, does The Game really mean anything? Unfortunately, with Butler having lost not only to West Charlotte but to East Mecklenburg as well, perhaps it won't be what most were predicting. How about the rest of the season? It seems like business as usual.
The Big I, for instance, is on cruise control. Last week saw them whip Providence, and this week they churn out a 76-27 victory over Weddington. Sure, 27 points is a lot - but they were up 48-6 at the half, and it sounds likely that they rested many players. The Warriors made it close at 48-21, but then the Patriots pulled away with three quick touchdowns to seal the deal - as if it was ever in doubt. Though the big streak was over, it's currently looking like state championship number eight will probably be within reach.
The Bulldogs, meanwhile, stumbled to a 19-16 victory over South Mecklenburg. As good as the Patriots are looking is about how bad the Bulldogs are playing. This isn't to slight their opponents in the least - but when Butler is supposed to have finally arrived, and be able to stomp all over everyone, and they're having trouble keeping up with just about everyone, it seems like perhaps they were paying a little too much attention to the big game come November.
Meanwhile, West Charlotte continues to rack up some impressive wins - they shut out Central Cabarrus 36-0. With a lone loss to Independence earlier this year, they are looking quite good - and they also have that impressive win over Butler to be proud of. Nicely done.
