DEER RIVER— It was another painful outing for the Timberwolves here last Friday as an effective Warriors passing attack left Ely on the short end of a 32-0 final score. It’s become a familiar story this season as the Wolves’ lack of offensive horsepower has left them heavily reliant on the defense.
Deer River’s passing attack proved too hot for Ely to handle, as quarterback Caiden Schjenken completed 11 of 18 passes for 123 yards and five touchdowns, all in the first half. Both teams mostly went through the paces in the second half as the game shifted to running time with the Warriors up 32-0.
There was little Ely offense of note. “To be honest, I think we got two first downs the whole game,” said Ely Head Coach Louis Gerzin.
The Wolves mostly handled the Warriors’ running attack, but the team’s offensive versatility, particularly Schjenken’s passing arm, was more impressive than Ely defenders had faced so far this season and it left the Wolves reeling.
Ely highlights all came on defense as sophomore Tobin Bird, from Babbitt, notched his first interception of the season. “Brady Eaton and Chase Anderson both played really well on defense,” said Gerzin.
The Wolves were on the road on Friday to take on undefeated Barnum. They finish up the regular season next Wednesday when they play host to Mille Lacs.