OAKWOOD – Johnson opened up the Stan Luttrell-era with a 32-20 win over Oglethorpe County Friday night at Billy Ellis Stadium.
Xzavior Ramsey scored on a rushing touchdown, a kickoff return for a touchdown and a two-point conversion reception to lead the Knights past the Patriots.
Freshman quarterback Jack Luttrell tacked on a rushing touchdown and Nolan Bullock scampered for a score. Bullock also snagged to interceptions at corner for the Knights.
The Knights jumped out to a 14-0 lead in the first half but were hampered by costly turnovers that allowed the Patriots to cut the lead to 21-20 by halftime.
In the second half, the Knights' defense held Oglethorpe scoreless.
“We did jump out quick,” Luttrell said. “But we had a couple of turnovers and allowed an explosive play for them to get back in the game. We came out in the second half and really dominated the line of scrimmage and our defense really played well.”
Johnson kicker Steven Flores booted a 24-yard field goal and was a perfect 3-for-3 on extra points.
“We came out in the second half and didn’t throw one pass,” Luttrell said. We needed to establish the line of scrimmage on offense and do what we do without trying to open it up too much. I thought Jack played well at quarterback and all of our running backs did a good job at being persistent. We didn’t give up anything in the second half defensively. We’re growing on that side of the ball, too.”
The Knights will travel to West Hall Friday in the annual rival Battle of Oakwood.
“I think it will be a win people will talk about for a long time if we can pull it off.,” Luttrell said. “They have a good team and their coaching staff has done a great job. We’re going to try to fly under the radar and go get it.”
