Banning Survives Season-Opening Loss

Things could have gone better for Banning High during last week’s season opening defeat.

But the 47-25 loss to Bloomington didn’t translate into complete doom for the Broncos, who played tough on their new football field.

“We have a ways to go,” Banning Football Coach Scott McRitchie said. “Offensively is where all the positives were. All we can do is get back to work and make some adjustments.”

McRitchie said the Broncos got better as the game progressed.

“We did improve as the game went on and that is a good thing,” McRitchie said. “I do think we played faster and harder as the game went on.”

Banning trailed 27-14 at the half, giving up touchdowns on a punt return and a kickoff return.

“We have a long ways to go, especially on defense and special teams,” McRitchie said. “But I think our kids showed they have a lot of heart and did adjust and learn as the game went on.”

Banning moved the ball well. The Broncos produced 300 yards of offense and got four touchdowns out of first-year quarterback James Madison.

“If we repeat what we did on offense, we will be fine,” McRitchie said. “But if we repeat what we did on defense, we will not be okay. We have to get out there and fix some things.”

Banning’s core of returning players play on the offensive line.

“Those guys did an adequate job,” McRitchie said.

Madison looked sharp at times, it being his debut at the QB position.

“He got to complete a few passes and he made some good choices,” McRitchie said. “I thought he had a good game.”