The Atlantic Trojans got the ground game going and rushed to a 21-0 home win over Perry on Friday night. The Trojan defense had another solid outing, preserving the shutout, and the offense finally gained some footing.

It was a tale of two different leaders each half for the Trojans. Dante Hedrington had a big first half and rumbled to two touchdowns, one from 15 yards out and the other a two yard plunge while flipping over a defender. Hedrington churned out 80 rushing yards in the first half and finished with 93. The second half featured sophomore fullback Gavin McLaren who helped march the Trojans down the field for their final score. That drive was capped off with a 15-yard touchdown pass from Zayden Parker to Colton Rasmussen. McLaren plowed his way to 70 yards in the second half to help grind out the win.

There were times when the game was a little sloppy with a combined six turnovers including three on downs. That combined with 12 penalties made for some missed opportunities for both squads. Atlantic was able to minimize the impact of their giveaways though with some solid defense to keep the Bluejays at bay.

Atlantic improved to 3-4 on the season overall and 2-1 in Class 3A District 6. Next up for the Trojans is a trip to Harlan next Friday night. Asa Lucas and Blake Burris will have that game for you next week on KJAN and KJANTV.

Perry dropped to 1-5 overall and 0-3 in the district. The Bluejays return home next week to face Knoxville.

Former Vice President Mike Pence, a 2024 Presidential candidate was on hand to conduct the coin toss before the game and joined us on the broadcast for a bit in the first half.

You can rewatch the game HERE