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Eaton QB takes control of game early

QB throws 3 TD passes, contributes in all phases as Eaton moves to 6-1.

Photos: Bellbrook vs. Eaton

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By Dave Long, Contributing Writer Updated 2:49 AM Saturday, October 8, 2011

BELLBROOK — As an Eaton fan said to quarterback Cole French after the Eagles’ 33-24 win over Bellbrook: Big players make big plays in big games.

How true.

French, a 6-foot-5, 200-pound senior, had a monster game as Eaton took control of the Southwestern Division in the Southwestern Buckeye League with a 4-0 record. The victory makes Eaton 6-1 and provides big computer points toward a trip to the Division III playoffs.

Bellbrook is 2-1 in the SWBL, 3-4 overall. It had won two straight with outstanding defensive performances.

That D played well at times Friday, but not consistently enough to contain French. He was 21-of 36 passing for 326 yards and three touchdowns.

French also rushed 20 times for 104 yards, including a 47-yard scamper with 2:42 left for the insurance TD. He also punted four times for a 45.4 average, including a 67-yarder, kicked three of five extra points, averaged 42 yards on six kickoffs, returned two punts and intercepted a pass.

“I do whatever it takes to help us win,” French said. “Our line gave me a lot of time tonight and our receivers made a lot of great catches.”

French is also an outstanding basketball player, but will play football in college. Most Mid-American Conference schools are showing heavy interest.

Eaton led 20-10 at halftime as French threw three TD passes.

Bellbrook found a soft spot in the Eaton defense in the third quarter. Quarterback P.J. Eckley (46 yards) and tailback Steve Rasso (41 yards) scored on back-to-back possessions with runs up the gut.

The Bellbrook defense held off Eaton twice, but French found his groove with 7:51 to go. With the drive starting at his own 19, French hit Jalen Taylor with three passes that took the Eagles to the Bellbrook 23. Andrew Holderman then scored on a 23-yard run for the go-ahead TD with 6:31 to go.

The Eaton defense held and French added the insurance TD.

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