There is something special about the Manhattan Indians in the second quarter.
One week after blitzing Shawnee Heights for 20 points in the second frame, turning a 7-0 lead into a 27-0 blowout by halftime, the Indians did the same to Seaman Friday night in MHS’ home opener.
Led by junior quarterback Ian Trapp, MHS cruised to a 42-0 halftime lead before winning 49-21.
“I think we settle in offensively and defensively,” MHS coach Joe Schartz said. “We’ve had great success making adjustments in the second quarter.”
The Indians (2-0, 2-0 Centennial League) led 7-0 after the first period, then essentially ended the game in the blink of an eye. Aided by two Vikings turnovers, MHS scored 35 points in the next 12 minutes.
It started with a 24-yard sprint up the middle by fullback Jon Chen with 9:26 left in the half. Two minutes later, Trapp scored from 44 yards out. He added a five-yard score just 90 seconds later.
The Vikings’ next two plays on offense resulted in an interception and a fumble. The Indians were well-equipped to take advantage, scoring two more times, the last of which on a one-yard run with two seconds left.
The Indians’ starters were done for the night after one drive in the third quarter, leading 49-0.
“They’re playing like Manhattan Indians,” Schartz said. “Often, we’re going to be out-sized. But that hasn’t stopped us in years past and won’t stop us this year. These kids have a lot of heart and are stepping up to the challenge.”
Trapp completed seven of nine passes for 148 yards and two scores, while accumulating 117 yards and three touchdowns on the ground.
Schartz said the Ellsworth transfer has done a nice job grasping the MHS offense.
“He’s done a real nice job and you can see him getting more comfortable,” Schartz said. “He’s a tall quarterback and can see the things he needs to see.”
The Tribe defense was just as impressive. After registering a shutout last week, MHS’ starters did not allow a point to the Vikings, either. Seaman scored three touchdowns in the second half, but all were against the Indians’ backups.
“It’s nice when the defense is playing lights-out like ours is,” Schartz said. “They’re stepping up. If the offense stubs its toe, you feel confident the defense is going to go out there and do its job.”
MHS faces Hayden next week in the first of two straight road games.
