Two programs looking to build momentum ahead of Week 1 squared off Friday night, as Plymouth and Maconaquah used the IHSAA official scrimmage to test starters and evaluate depth.
In the controlled format, Plymouth came away with a narrow 30–24 edge (5 scores to 4), with both sides flashing positives and showing plenty of areas that need attention before the games start to count.

Plymouth Rockies Recap

Varsity Offense (3 TD, 1 Turnover)

The Rockies’ first unit showed glimpses of what it can become — particularly in the run game — but overall lacked consistency.

  • QB Ben Shively had some nice moments but timing and miscommunication with receivers kept the passing game from finding rhythm.
  • Finn Holm looked sharp in the run game and provided early spark.
  • Missed throws and a few bad snaps disrupted momentum.
  • Plymouth did cap each of its three possessions with touchdowns, including a well-executed throw late in the third series.

JV Offense (2 TD)

After a sluggish first drive, the JV unit responded and put together a much more productive second possession:

  • QB play improved significantly and receivers created space.
  • Two TDs highlighted a group with noticeable upside if the execution continues to improve.

Overall Offensive Takeaway:
The Rockies have a productive run game and improving depth, but passing consistency and timing must improve, especially against better defenses.

Varsity Defense

  • The front seven played aggressive and created pressure.
  • Linebackers were active and disruptive.
  • However, the secondary struggled — surrendering multiple big plays and three passing TDs.
  • Tackling was inconsistent and communication breakdowns in coverage were costly.

JV Defense

  • Strong, disciplined showing.
  • No explosive plays allowed and strong pursuit to the football.
  • Solid tackling and positioning.

Overall Defensive Takeaway:
Run defense looks solid, but the first-team secondary must tighten coverage and improve communication heading into Week 1.

Maconaquah Braves Recap

Varsity Offense (4 TD, 1 Turnover)

A strong showing from the Braves’ first unit:

  • Balanced attack to open the scrimmage with efficient run/pass mix.
  • Passing game looked sharp, highlighted by precise routes and steady QB play.
  • The Rockies eventually slowed the run game, but Maconaquah continued to move the ball through the air.
  • Scored on each Varsity series and finished with four touchdowns.

JV Offense

  • Struggled to establish rhythm or sustain drives.
  • Blocking issues and lack of timing limited both the run and passing games.
  • Flash of improvement late, but no scores.

Overall Offensive Takeaway:
Varsity passing attack looks like a clear strength. Establishing a more consistent run game will bring balance. JV unit needs reps and confidence.

Varsity Defense

  • Opened the night with a statement interception.
  • Improved steadily, especially against the run.
  • Tackling and physicality were steady throughout, though early pursuit led to a few chunk runs.

JV Defense

  • Inconsistent outing, particularly in pass coverage and assignment discipline.
  • Flashes of pressure and effort but gave up explosive plays.

Overall Defensive Takeaway:
Varsity unit made noticeable progress and laid a solid foundation. JV group needs to improve communication and tighten up in the back end.

Summary

Both programs walk away with plenty to like — and plenty to work on.
Plymouth showed toughness in the front seven and a run game capable of carrying the offense but must find consistency in the passing game and shore up the secondary.
Maconaquah left encouraged by a sharp Varsity offensive unit and a defense that played a physical brand of football. Developing depth will be key moving forward.

Week 1 is now in sight — and both teams got exactly what a scrimmage is meant to provide: answers, teaching tape, and a clearer understanding of what needs to happen next.

Next Up

  • Plymouth opens the regular season Friday vs. LaVille
  • Maconaquah kicks off at home against Peru

Both will be worth keeping tabs on as they enter 2025 with promising potential and plenty of motivation.