HANOVER, Ind. – The Hanover Panthers (8-2 overall, 6-0 HCAC) claimed the 95^th Victory Bell Game and the Heartland Collegiate Athletic Conference Title on Saturday, dominating rival Franklin 51-18. The win marks the fourth straight year the Panthers have won the Victory Bell.
 
INSIDE THE BOX SCORE
Curbrian Shelby had an impressive day, collecting 101 yards through the air on nine targets and two touchdowns. Josh Williams added 75 yards on the ground and two endzone visits.
 
Eian Roudebush dominated under center, throwing for 312 yards and three touchdowns.
 
Ashton Schuetter led the defensive effort, collecting five tackles with a tackle for loss. Kane Powell-Smith added four tackles and two pass breakups.
 
HOW IT HAPPENED
The opening drive saw Hanover methodically march down the field in 17-plays. Roudebush piloted the drive that culminated with senior Clint Hearne kicking a 47-yard field goal, 3-0.
 
The Hanover offense exploded in the second quarter with three touchdowns. The first score came at 12:42 as Roudebush found Blaik Nation for a touchdown reception, pushing HC on top 10-0.
 
Nation made his second endzone trip at the 5:23 mark, rushing in for four yards. The play capped an 11-play 72 yard drive.
 
Just before halftime, Hanover struck quickly with an 8-play, 78-yard drive. Roudebush connected with Shelby for an 18-yard catch and score. Hearne's kick was good, sending Hanover into the locker room with a commanding 30-0 advantage.
 
Hanover continued to pour it on in the third quarter. The Panthers began a drive at their own 16-yard line. The drive featured explosive plays, including a 36-yard run by Shelby to the Franklin 48, followed by a 5-yard run by Nation and a 6-yard gain by Nation to the Franklin 37. Josh Williams added runs of 7 and additional yards as Hanover maintained offensive control.
 
With the game well in hand, Hanover added one final touchdown I the fourth quarter to make it 51-6.