By By ADAM FISHER / Niles Daily Star
Buchanan knew Berrien Springs had an explosive offense and a strong defense, but the Bucks weren't prepared for what the Shamrocks did to them Friday.
Berrien Springs (8-0) scored early and scored often, putting up 41 first half points, in a 48-14 blow out of Buchanan (7-1). The Shamrocks remain undefeated and in the driver's seat of the Lakeland Conference.
It was Buchanan's first loss of the season. The Bucks still have a shot at tying for the conference crown if Berrien Springs loses at Coloma next week.
The loss also ended the Bucks' streak of 11 straight regular-season victories dating back to last season.
On the Shamrocks' second play from scrimmage, running back Ryan Williamson burst through a gaping hole in the line and ran for a 66-yard touchdown.
On Berriens' fifth play, quarterback Shelby Wood hit tight end Jason Leitz for a score on a 47-yard bomb.
Williamson ripped through Buchanan's defense all night. On his third run, he went 36-yards for the score. All told, he rushed 19 times for 208 yards and two score. He also caught three passes for 53 yards and returned a punt 53 yards for a touchdown.
The Shamrocks compiled 506 total yards on offense, while limiting Buchanan to 282. The Bucks' 14 points was the most Berrien Springs has given up all year.
Buchanan scored its first touchdown after falling behind 14-0 in the first quarter. Denny Williams scored on a 14-yard run.
The Shamrocks then scored 27 straight points before the Bucks scored again in the third quarter, a 63-yard pass from Gordon Bryant to Jared Rusher.