Record Night for Bruggeman at Maple Stadium

By DOUG DONNELLY

Overtime Editor

Luke Bruggeman has heard stories about what a great place Maple Stadium is to play during the high school football playoffs.

After Friday's record-breaking performance, Bruggeman has some of his own stories to tell.

Bruggeman rushed for 348 yards to help Adrian to a 35-14 first round Division 3 playoff win over Ypsilanti Lincoln.

He scored on touchdown runs of 49, 73, 49 and 69 yards while running for the third-highest single game total in Lenawee County history.

"I owe it all to my offensive line and coaches for believing in me," Bruggeman said. "That's where the credit goes. I was running through some big holes."

The Maples fell behind 7-0 but back-to-back touchdowns put Adrian in front 14-7 by the end of the first quarter. Lamont McKinney's interception return and another long run by Bruggeman put the Maples up 28-7 at halftime.

Bruggeman got free again in the fourth quarter with a 69-yard touchdown run for the Maples.

"Maple Stadium was loud and it was a great atmosphere for everyone," Bruggeman said. "I had heard about it from coaches, but now I got to experience it for myself."

Adrian beat Lincoln 3-0 earlier this season, but had a big offensive numbers Friday in the rematch. Bruggeman averaged 13.9 yards per carry on his 25 attempts. The Maples did not complete a pass.

Adrian coach Joel Przygodski called it one of the craziest games he's ever been involved in.

"It was a strange night, statistically speaking," he said. "Both teams had some big plays."

Adrian is home Friday vs. Fenton.