South Salem’s Gabe Matthews runs the ball as the Saxons defeat West Salem 50-43 in overtime during a game on Friday, Sept. 25, 2015, in Salem.
The margin of victory in No. 6-ranked South Salem’s 56-12 nonleague win against Class 5A Milwaukie was no surprise.
That senior quarterback Gabe Matthews was 15 of 19 passing for 263 yards and six touchdowns was as expected.
But some of the less-known Saxons (5-0 overall, 4-0 Greater Valley Conference) got a chance to get on the field and contribute significantly.
Senior running back Jerry Rivera rushed for 47 yards and a touchdown on nine carries in his first start.
“He got the start because we rested a couple of kids,” South Salem coach Scott DuFault said. “I thought he ran very well and was solid in pass protection.”
Senior running back Derek White rushed for a game-high 64 yards and a touchdown on four carries and junior receiver Conrad Thompson caught three passes for 50 yards and a touchdown.
Of course a more important game looms for the Saxons.
South Salem hosts Sprague (5-0 GVC) for first place in the conference at 7:15 p.m. Thursday.
“We are excited to have the opportunity to play in a game like this against a quality opponent,” DuFault said. “Games like this are fun to coach and play in.”