CHAMBERSBURG -- The Chambersburg Cardinals scored 30 points in the final two quarters and Michael Bibbs recorded four sacks in a 37-17 victory Saturday over the South Buffalo Celtics at Trojan Stadium.
"We came out sluggish, and we had to figure some things out," Cardinals coach Chad Fauson said, according to the team's website. "They played us pretty much straight up defensively; they didn't load up the box that much, so that's what we attacked."
Although quarterback Bill Ashburn's statistics weren't as impressive as they have been the past few games, he was 13 of 26 for 181 yards passing, he found receivers in the end zone five times. He hit Ottis Lewis and Andre McDonald each twice and Jerell Jones once.
The Cardinals, who have been struggling to find their momentum all season, knew that this was a must-win game. With as many playoff implications this game held, it was also important for the team's mindset to go toe to toe with such a highly competitive team. "I definitely think that this week rather than last week has given us that confidence to really hit our stride," wide receiver Lewis said. "We faced the No. 2 team nationally, and we beat them by three touchdowns. We're just letting everybody know that we're still the Chambersburg Cardinals; we're still the defending champs."
In addition to an impressive offense, the front four on defense were a force to be reckoned with Saturday night. The defense combined for six sacks, totaling 65 yards. Four of those sacks came from inside linebacker Mike Bibbs which was great timing with Minnesota Vikings Assistant Head Coach Mike Singletary scouting from the stands.
"Mike Bibbs was incredible," Fauson said. "I haven't seen him play like that in two years. I don't know what got into him, but I hope he drinks the same Kool-Aid before every game."
With only three games remaining in the regular season, the Cardinals major focus now is being prepared for the playoffs. "We just have to keep playing like this," Fauson said. "We've had two games back-to-back with good performances. Tonight, it's more gratifying because we played a good football team. This team has not lost in two years, and to come out with a 20-point win, it's a pretty good feeling. If we keep rolling, we'll be in good shape."
Information used in this story was provided by the Chambersburg Cardinals. Video used in this story is courtesy of www.ProArtsMedia.com.
