In a tough, hard-fought game, the East overcame a scrappy West squad to win a
defensive struggle 7-0. In stark contrast to the higher scoring affairs in
recent years, this game was a battle of turnovers and field position. Neither
team managed more than three first downs on a possession and the end result was
decided by one big play, a 65-yard pass from Kam Chancellor (Virginia Tech via
Maury HS) to Brent Vinson (Hargrave/Tennessee via Phoebus HS) which set up a
6-yard touchdown run by Brandon Minor (Michigan via Varina HS).
The East defense, led by an aggressive defensive line and a smothering pass
defense, held the West to only 194 yards of total offense. East Defensive MVP,
cornerback Jeremy Gardner (Towson via Courtland HS), had two key interceptions,
stopping drives in the first half. A second-half West drive was stopped by a
fumble recovery by middle linebacker Charlie Newman (James Madison via Turner
Ashby HS), who had an excellent game controlling the middle of the defense. In
addition, defensive end John Graves (Virginia Tech via Meadowbrook HS) blocked a
punt for the East after barreling over the up-back, and the East blocked a
51-yard field goal attempt before the half. Defensive end Arthur Moats (James
Madison via Churchland HS) led a fierce pass rush with 1.5 sacks and a deflected
pass.