CHESAPEAKE – The numbers are good.

Friday, November 02, 2001

CHESAPEAKE – The numbers are good. The results are even better.

The balance of the Crooksville Ceramics is what concerns Chesapeake Panthers head coach Phil Davis the most as the two teams meet at 7:30 p.m. Friday in the Division V Ohio High School Athletic Association playoffs.

Going into the Region 19 first round game, Crooksville (7-3) has 1,579 yards rushing and 1,169 more passing.

Crooksville quarterback Jeremy Watts is a 5-foot-11, 160-pound senior who has completed 55 of 107 attempts for 869 yards and eight touchdowns. He’s been intercepted three times.

He has also rushed 45 times for 82 yards and a touchdown.

"The quarterback makes plays. He’s a not what you would call a dominating player, but he’s awful good and he’s talented," said Davis.

The running game is led by Colt Lundell (5-9, 196) with 152 rushes for 712 yards and 12 touchdowns. Dustin Cox (5-6, 165) has 117 carries for 527 yards and six scores.

"They like to run the ball. They’re effective doing both, though," said Davis. "Other than a couple of people, they’re not that big, but overall they’re pretty quick."

Chesapeake, also 7-3, is hoping that the homefield advantage will be an advantage. Crooksville is facing nearly a four hour bus ride.

The Panthers are making their fourth playoff appearance. Two years ago they hosted Johnstown Northridge and posted their first-ever playoff win.

"It can be a factor. I know I much rather be at home than traveling, especially that far," said Davis.

The winner of the Chesapeake-Crooksville game will play the winner of the Summit Station Licking Heights (7-3) at Woodsfield Monroe Central (8-2) game next Friday at a neutral site.