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MARSHALL -- The Marshall Tigers gave their seniors a memorable sendoff Wednesday night, bouncing back from a frustrating loss to Orono the previous week with a dominant 48-0 shutout of Fergus Falls.
Marshall controlled the game from the opening whistle, racing out to a 27-0 lead after the first quarter before extending its advantage to 41-0 by halftime. The Tigers added another touchdown in a third quarter shortened to six minutes before a running clock in the fourth quarter helped bring the contest to a close.
The victory was an emphatic response for Marshall, which delivered a strong performance on both sides of the ball against a Fergus Falls team also that reached the state tournament last season.
"After last week we were disappointed, especially on offense with how many mistakes we made," head coach Terry Bahlmann said. "We wanted to come back and show what type of offense we were."
Sam Meier powered the Tigers’ rushing attack, carrying the ball eight times for 90 yards and four touchdowns. Ethan Weedman also found the end zone on a rushing touchdown as Marshall consistently turned its offensive opportunities into points.
Through the air, Cannon Craigmile was perfect, completing all three of his pass attempts for 99 yards. His efficiency complemented the Tigers’ productive ground game as Marshall built a commanding lead early and continued to add to it.
Marshall’s defense was equally impressive, forcing four turnovers while keeping the Otters off the scoreboard. The Tigers’ ability to create takeaways helped prevent Fergus Falls from gaining momentum and gave the offense favorable field position.
"Forcing two turnovers in the first four plays is huge," Bahlmann said. "It gives us a short field and momentum, and that’s when we know we can capitalize."
The Tigers’ lead grew quickly in the first half, with 27 points in the opening quarter followed by another 14 in the second. After reaching halftime with a 41-0 advantage, Marshall scored once more in the shortened third quarter to make it 48-0.
The fourth quarter was played with a running clock as Marshall completed the shutout, capping a convincing performance on Senior Night.
Bahlmann also praised the senior class for its leadership and accomplishments throughout its time in the program.
"This senior class has done a great job as a whole," Bahlmann said. "They have been to U.S. Bank Stadium for state twice, and we are 5-2 playing the schedule we play. They have been great leaders, and we expect nothing less."
The win moved Marshall to 5-2 and provided the Tigers with a strong response heading into the final week of the regular season.
Marshall returns to action next Wednesday, traveling to Benilde-St. Margaret’s for the regular-season finale.