Ascension Episcopal Dominates Vermilion Catholic, Remains Undefeated

The Ascension Episcopal Blue Gators continued their undefeated streak this season by defeating the Vermilion Catholic Eagles 35-14 on October 27, 2023. The victory showcased the Blue Gators’ effective approach to football, characterized by a strong running game and disciplined defense.

Playing at home in Youngsville, the Blue Gators employed a physical style of play, accumulating over 250 rushing yards during the match. They also capitalized on a critical turnover, which led to a defensive touchdown. Coach Jay Domengeaux praised his team’s performance, emphasizing the importance of physicality and ball security. “We talked all week long about being physical and protecting the football, and we’ve really done that all year long,” he stated.

The game began with Ascension Episcopal striking first. At the 2:21 mark of the first quarter, quarterback Branon Mitchell scored on a 1-yard run, establishing an early 7-0 lead. The Blue Gators’ defense quickly followed suit. On the Eagles’ next possession, Sport Gros intercepted a pass and returned it 25 yards for a touchdown, extending the lead to 14-0.

Domengeaux noted the significance of scoring from defensive plays. “When you get a pick-six, or a turnover that you get points out of, that puts the other team on their heels,” he explained. “That play really gave us a big boost.”

The Blue Gators dominated the first half, scoring three unanswered touchdowns. At the 4:38 mark of the second quarter, Owen LeBlanc added to the score with a 5-yard touchdown run, making it 21-0. Vermilion Catholic managed to score just before halftime, with William Simon finding the end zone on a 1-yard run, resulting in a 21-7 score at the break.

The Eagles had an opportunity to narrow the gap early in the second half, driving deep into the Blue Gators’ territory. However, they turned the ball over on downs, a moment that Domengeaux highlighted as crucial. “Kudos to them for driving down the field on us, but I was really proud of our defense for stiffening up,” he said.

In the third quarter, Ascension Episcopal added to their lead. At the 2:42 mark, Mitchell scored again, this time on a 41-yard run, extending the score to 28-7. “Branon brings a little versatility,” Domengeaux noted, praising Mitchell’s ability to adapt during plays.

Vermilion Catholic refused to concede easily, with Simon scoring again on a 13-yard run early in the fourth quarter, reducing the deficit to 28-14. However, Ascension Episcopal sealed their victory with a 26-yard touchdown pass from Mitchell to Preston Peebles at the 6:05 mark, securing a 35-14 win.

“This is a real quality win for us,” Domengeaux remarked, acknowledging the strength of their opponent. “When we take care of the football, we execute pretty well. I was happy about that, I was happy about the run game, how we handled the line of scrimmage, and how we played defense.”

The Blue Gators’ performance against Vermilion Catholic demonstrates their strong position in District 5-1A as they look to maintain their undefeated record moving forward.