Spencer – Despite backing into the Class AA playoffs as the No. 14 seed, Independence looked every bit like a champion defending its crown.
The Patriots forced five turnovers and came up with numerous fourth down stops, rolling to a 55-21 victory over No. 3 Roane County Friday night in Spencer.
Tyler Linksweiler scored three rushing touchdowns while Silas Nelson added two and a pair of touchdown passes in the win. Trey Bowers intercepted two passes on defense for Indy – the fifth and sixth playoff interceptions of his career – adding a 70-yard touchdown catch as well.
Dalton Williams added an interception and a strip sack while Landon Riddle returned an interception 56 yards for a score.
Defense led the way all evening for the Patriots who found their footing on that side early.
A fourth-down stop at the Roane 45 on the opening drive paid dividends for Indy which capped its ensuing drive with a 2-yard rushing score from Tyler Linksweiler. The senior running back struck again early in the second quarter, scampering 85 yards for a score that made it a 14-0 contest.
A fake punt attempt cashed for Indy later in the frame, setting up a 1-yard scoring plunge for Silas Nelson. Roane found its footing after a 5-yard rushing score from Jacob Greathouse, later forcing an Indy punt but Riddle’s pick six gave the Patriots a 28-7 cushion, one that was once again trimmed by Greathouse before the break.
The Raiders hopes dimmed from there after an onside kick recovery was squandered when Bowers nabbed his first INT of the contest.
It was all Indy from there with Christian Linksweiler, Nelson and Bowers scoring in the third quarter to put the game out of reach.
Independence advances to the quarterfinal round for the fourth consecutive season where it will face Winfield at Winfield at a time and date to be determined.
Scoring Plays
