BALDWIN, WI – The #4 seeded Baldwin-Woodville Blackhawks defeated the #5 seeded Ellsworth Panthers, 23-6, at home for level one of the 2023 Division 4 WIAA Football Tournament. Overcoming and adapting to personnel changes was key in Baldwin-Woodville’s win.
Baldwin-Woodville kicked off to Ellsworth to begin action. The Panthers offense advanced the ball on the ground, gaining a short distance, but soon reached fourth down and punted the ball away. Taking the field, Baldwin-Woodville’s offense was led by wide receiver Gavin Sell at quarterback. Sell shared quarterback duties with Graiden Monicken throughout the night. The Blackhawks struggled to gain momentum on their first drive of the game going four-and-out; turning the ball over on downs to the Panthers. Both teams punted on their next possession ending the first quarter scoreless.
Ellsworth started the second quarter on offense from their own 12-yardline. The Panthers moved across the field mainly on the ground, however a successful “hook-and-lateral” pass brought Ellsworth to near midfield. The Panthers pressed onward, soon after scoring on a 17-yard touchdown pass. Ellsworth attempted a two-point conversion but was unsuccessful, 6-0 Panther lead. Ellsworth’s kick off traveled out of bounds giving the Blackhawks field position at their own 35-yardline.
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