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Players of the Week
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Kevin Johnson, Boardman
Last week, the Spartans defeated North Canton Hoover, 16-7, and Johnson made 11 tackles and two interceptions. It was Boardman’s first victory over Hoover in football.
Quotable: “It was pretty exciting having the reigning Mr. Ohio come to [our] field. It was a big challenge for our defense. We got the job done. Those were [my] first two [interceptions]. It was pretty crazy. I had watched film all week and they ran five screen passes. The first one, I jumped on it and it was one of the most exciting moments for me in a football game so far. The second one didn’t even seem real. It was our biggest win by far — it gives us new life, our chances for the Federal League title are there, it gives us a chance for the playoffs. And not too many people in Boardman like Hoover.”
Carter Hill, Crestview
Against unbeaten East Palestine, Hill rushed for 278 yards and four touchdowns. He also threw a touchdown pass in the 35-14 victory.
Quotable: “It was a lot of fun. The atmosphere was great. We played great as a team.” Hill said he enjoys playing quarterback because he’s “involved in every single play. And when you go to hit that first person, there is always an adrenaline rush. The ITCL is a very good league.” He also plays basketball and baseball. His favorite? “It’s kind of a seasonal thing but probably football.” He called head coach Paul Cusick “a very good coach. He really focus on the team — there are no Is with him. We really focus on 11 and one. He brings us together really well as a team.