Defense bests: Gorman defenders key in win over Clark

If you believe the old adage “defense wins champion-
ships,” defending Bishop Gorman showed Friday it is well on its way to another title run.

The Gaels held host Clark to 91 total yards of offense while earning its third shutout of the season in a 55-0 romp over the Chargers.

Gorman junior Taylor Spencer scored four touchdowns - three on offense and one on defense - to lead the scoring onslaught. But Taylor said he was less impressed with the Gaels offensive output than he was the their defense.

“I think we got the best defense in the state,” said Spencer. “Our line is explosive, our (linebackers) get in there if the line doesn’t get it. The safeties had good coverage and the corners, they lock their men down. That’s all I could say.”

The No.2-ranked Gaels (6-1, 3-0 Southwest) forced four turnovers in the game. Spencer got in on the action and scored on the last takeaway in the fourth quarter.

After Gael defensive back Travis Najbicz intercepted a pass and then fumbled, Spencer scooped up the loose ball and sprinted 38 yards to the end zone.

On offense, the Gaels found the end zone early and often.

Quarterback Joe Huber threw for 285 yards and four touchdowns on 13-of-19 passing to lead the way. Spencer hauled in three of those TD passes — for 44, 18 and 2 yards — to help Gorman forge a 28-0 lead at halftime.

“I liked this game because we passed a lot, a little more than usual,” Spencer said. “We got pass protection. That’s what we needed.”

Spencer said the offensive squad made good progress after the issues the Gaels have been trying to correct this season.

“We lined up, for the most part, right. We didn’t have to call as many time outs as usual,” said Spencer. “We went out and did what we had to do.”

Clark (1-5, 1-2), which was without leading rusher Aaron Arlt, was limited to 68 rushing yards. Andre Clay led the Chargers with a game-high 45 rushing yards on 17 carries.