LANGLEY AIR FORCE BASE, Va. –
After every scoring drive, Air Combat Command A8 quarterback Etienne Menard straddled the sideline, literally singing the praises of his team.
At the end of the game, they did the same for him.
Menard's fearless rushing ability and clutch passing ignited a spark in the A8 offense that steamrolled the 497th Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance Group team, clenching a 25-6 win here Oct. 8.
The 497th ISRG defense tried in vain to get to Menard throughout the game, sending two-man blitzes and driving the defensive line in to collapse the pocket around him; however, the imposing quarterback demonstrated outstanding patience and tact, as he managed to slide out of danger and pick up first downs on the ground.
"They put the heat on me and my receivers, but got spread too thin," said Menard. "When I saw the flats empty, I ran the ball myself."
The A8 team brought more than a powerhouse offense -- their defensive effort was stellar, allowing only one touchdown and blocking the subsequent point-after attempt.
Anchored by versatile linemen Sharad Mizell and Ken "Dog Slobber" Carmichael, the defense punished the 497th ISRG offense, forcing numerous turnovers and producing interceptions to thwart any hopes of a rally.
The duo combined for combination blitzes on an unsuspecting quarterback without sacrificing downfield coverage. Safeties were urged by the coach to watch the ball, and if possible, break out of coverage and attempt big picks.
"We just knew how to get in there and attack," said Carmichael. "We can shut them down on both sides of the game."
Mizell and Carmichael also played on the offensive line, providing key blocks for Menard, giving him the time he needed to manipulate plays based on the defensive schemes.
"I really want to thank my team," Menard said after the game. "I play this game for them, and they're as much a part of this win as I am."