Wusstig Putting In The Work

By Jeremy McDonald

jeremymcdonald73@gmail.com

JEFFERSON, Ore.– Cue the Titanic Meme of ‘it’s been 84 years’ meme when it comes to the Titanic playoff drought the Lions were a part of until this past Friday. It was this past Friday in which Jefferson snapped their 56-year playoff drought with their 12-6 win over Knappa on the road.

Zach Wusstig scored the game-winner in the game, continuing the successful season the junior is having as he surpassed the 1,000-mark against the Loggers as he struck from four-yards in the fourth quarter.

“It feels good to come out here and win our first playoff game in 56 years, something like that. It feels like a great team effort, it feels great that we as a group were able to do that,” Wusstig said. “For our team to make goals and make history like we’ve been doing this year…just coming together as a group and getting a good team win and staying out here as long as possible.”

Wusstig has been the work-horse on both sides of the ball this season for Jefferson. 1,089 yards rushing on 147 carries with 14 touchdowns and 16 rushes for at least 20-plus yards.

Defensively, and just going into the game a few days ago Wusstig had 88.5 tackles, 22.5 of them for losses. Three-and-a-half sacks and three interceptions to set the pace for the Lions defense this season.

Wusstig busting out for a run during Monday night’s practice at Jefferson High School. The Lions travel to North Bend Friday to play Coquille (Picture By Jeremy McDonald)

“My goal every week is just to keep on winning and keep on getting better, staying healthy and preparing myself for the next level,” Wusstig said.

With weapons like Jace Aguilar, Elijah Stelly, Trevor Withee and others, contributing as much as they are. Aguilar has over 1,000-yards passing with 17 touchdowns and Stelly is closing in to 1,000-yards receiving himself, there’s opportunities to open everyone up to succeed as they turn their focus to a tough Coquille challenge this Friday at North Bend High School.

“It feels great. It feels amazing to rely on other teammates, to trust my other teammates and not to have all the weight on my shoulders. Eli’s having an amazing season, Jace is having an amazing season this year. It’s just been great and I can’t wait for this week,” Wusstig starts.

“Just come out here, focus every week and stay together as a team. Mentally do our part and come out on Friday and play with our hearts out. It’s been a goal ever since the beginning of August, I knew we had a chance for playoffs this year. We have a special group this year and I think we’re all excited to keep moving forward.”

Kickoff Friday is slated for 7pm.

Photos By Jeremy McDonald