XENIA – The Springboro Panthers started fast and took a 28-7 lead to halftime but allowed a 3rd quarter kick-off to be returned for a TD and turned the ball over late which led to another Xenia score.  It allowed Xenia to attempt a late on-side kick which didn’t go the necessary 10 yards and Springboro took a knee to seal the win on the road.  A 2nd half 21 yard Ty Smith FG proved to be important to keep the 2 score margin for the Panthers.

Springboro senior quarterback Josh Little had an impressive performance going 12 of 19 for 390 yards, 4 TDs and no interceptions.  His top target was sophomore wide receiver Jack Schaaf who hauled in 6 receptions for 196 yards and 2 TDs.  Little also distributed the ball well to his other weapons including Jake Johnson on a 50 yard TD reception in the 1st quarter and an 18 yard TD strike to sophomore tight end Jordan Rigg.  Springboro runningback Jalen Campbell led all rushers on the night picking up 137 yards on 18 carries. 

The Springboro defense limited the Buccs to 85 yards on the ground as they faced an aireal assault by Xenia quarterback Zach Newsock.  Newsock threw it 40 times, completing 21 of them for 279 yards, 3 TDs and an interception.  Sophomore linebacker Joe Kylin had the interception for the Panthers in the endzone preventing another Newsock TD pass.

The Springboro victory puts the Panthers in 2nd place in the GWOC South and gives them an opportunity to compete for a share of the GWOC South title against arch rival Lebanon in the traditional Week 10 showdown.  The Panthers defeated the Warriors 49-42 in triple overtime last season at Lebanon.  The Warriors will certainly enter CareFlight Field looking to avenge last year’s loss.  The division leading Fairborn Skyhawks have already clinched a share of the South title and the winner of the Boro – Lebanon tilt will be crowned co-champions.  Game time is 7:30 and it is Senior Night at CareFlight Field.