The high-intensity first half had indeed drained the players of their energy.
The physicality of football far exceeded that of basketball, soccer, and similar sports. Blair High School had run 89 plays over 27 possessions in the first half, already more than most high school teams managed in an entire game.
Lewis, who had done the most running in the first half, even tripped over his own feet while taking the field to get into position, landing in an awkward heap. The whole stadium erupted in laughter and jeers.
Quarterback Alton stood behind the center and weakly called for the snap. Then, as he backpedaled, "Door Opener" took him down with a vicious tackle.
Alton struggled to his feet, then used up the full 40 seconds of preparation time before calling for the snap again.
This time, he gambled everything on a running play. Unfortunately, with his legs trembling, he managed only two yards before "Butter" of the Wolves tackled him again.
When Alton once again used up the full 40 seconds to get the offensive line set and prepare for the snap, a cheer rang out from the field.
Even the Wolves' defensive powerhouses felt like they were picking on him...
But Steve, watching Lewis move slowly on the field, suddenly rushed to the sideline and shouted, "Watch out! It's a trick..."
Steve had shouted too late...
After calling for the snap, quarterback Alton held onto the football and struggled for two seconds inside the crumbling pocket.
This time, their left tackle finally brought "Door Opener" down...
As the second linebacker on the weak side, "Butter," went in for the tackle, Alton braced against him with his thick left arm.
Using "Butter's" momentum, he moved eight yards toward the strong side...
Even as his body wobbled, quarterback Alton swung