DANVILLE, Ky. - The Hanover Panthers showed moments of promise but ultimately came up short in a competitive contest against Centre College, falling by a final score of 23-15. Despite the defeat, several Panthers delivered standout performances on both sides of the ball.
Key Offensive Performers
Eian Roudebush led the Panthers' passing attack, demonstrating both arm talent and mobility throughout the game. His most impressive play came late in the contest when he scrambled for a 17-yard gain to the Centre 31-yard line, showing his dual-threat capabilities. Though he faced pressure from Centre's defense, Roudebush attempted several deep passes, including shots to
Curbrian Shelby and
Jack Pennington.
Scotty Johnson made his presence felt in the passing game, connecting on a crucial attempt near Centre's goal line during a key red zone opportunity.
Clint Hearne contributed on special teams, successfully converting an extra point attempt with
Clark Rexroat holding and
Cannon Brunes serving as long snapper, helping Hanover build their early lead.
Defensive Highlights
The Panthers' defense showed resilience throughout the contest, with several standout performances:
Saadiq Pasha was a disruptive force in the secondary, breaking up a deep pass intended for Blake Busson. His aggressive coverage also drew a holding penalty that negated a Centre play, showcasing his impact beyond the stat sheet.
Aidan Jochem made a critical tackle, stopping Centre's Clint Sansbury for just a 1-yard gain on a middle rush attempt, forcing Centre into a difficult second-and-long situation.
Billy Blevins contributed to Hanover's defensive effort by containing Centre quarterback Jack Gohmann to just a 1-yard gain on a crucial third-down play, forcing Centre to punt.
Critical Turning Points
The game's momentum shifted several times, with key moments defining the outcome:
- Hanover's early touchdown and successful PAT put them ahead 7-0, giving them confidence and control early in the contest.
- A defensive pass interference penalty against Hanover's Will Dejarnett moved Centre to the Hanover 2-yard line, though a subsequent holding penalty against Centre negated what would have been a touchdown.
- Special teams played a crucial role, with Johnathan Tally executing a perfect 59-yard kickoff that pinned Centre deep in their territory, helping Hanover maintain field position advantage.
- The final minutes saw Hanover making a push with Roudebush's 17-yard scramble into Centre territory, but they couldn't complete the comeback as time expired with the Panthers on Centre's 31-yard line.
