By SCOTT NOVAK
Dowagiac Daily News

Brandon Douglas scored a pair of touchdowns and the Dowagiac defense turned aside previously undefeated Vicksburg time after time to notch a 27-3 Wolverine Conference victory Friday night at Chris Taylor-Alumni Field.

A 13-point third quarter allowed the Chieftains (2-1) to take control of the physical contest.

Dowagiac led just 7-3 at halftime, but a pair of short runs by Douglas and Troy Butcher turned the close game into a 20-3 Chieftain advantage.

Douglas, who opened the scoring in the second quarter with a 35-yard run, scored from 2-yards out to extend the Chieftains’ lead to 14-3.

After a Vicksburg turnover, Butcher capped a two-play, 12-yard drive with a 6-yard run around the left end.

Despite the Bulldogs blocking the extra point, Dowagiac had a 17-point lead and was in control heading to the final quarter.

Mike Bennett came off the bench to complete the scoring as he shot through the Vicksburg defense on his way to a 43-yard score.
The Chieftains finished the night with 315 yards in total offense compared to just 171 for the Bulldogs, who continually shot themselves in the foot with turnovers and penalties.

Vicksburg finished the night with two fumbles, an interception and 63 yards in penalties.

Dowagiac also had trouble holding onto the football, but was able to overcome the five miscues to pull out the victory.

Douglas finished the night with 140 yards on 11 carries. He also had a reception for 26 yards.

Bennett added 58 yards on just four totes.

Quarterbacks Austin Adams, who left the game in the third quarter with an ankle injury, and Mike Pranschke were a combined 2-of-11 for 40 yards and three interceptions.

Bennett and Ryne Lindsey led the team in tackles with 12 and 10 respectively. Kyle Wright and Butcher each had eight stops.

Cody Nowak and Anthony Nelson both recovered a fumble.

Vicksburg 0 3 0 0 – 3
Dowagiac 0 7 13 7 – 27
D – Brandon Douglas 35 run (Cody Carnell kick)
V – Andrew Muzljakovich 33 field goal
D – Douglas 2 run (Carnell kick)
D – Troy Butcher 6 run (kick blocked)
D – Mike Bennett 43 run (Carnell kick)