Shutler's Five Scores Lead Pirates

(MOUNT BLANCHARD)- Bluffton and Riverdale met in the first round of the expanded OHSAA Playoffs Saturday evening.  The Pirates jumped out to a 27-0 halftime lead and cruised to a 55-27 victory to advance to play Sherwood Fairview in second round playoff action. 

For the second straight week, senior Tyson Shutler was in the end zone..often.  Shutler carried the rock 21 times for 261 yards and three touchdowns.  He also picked off two Falcon passes and returned them both for touchdowns.  

The Pirates racked up 427 rushing yards in the win.  

Landon Shutler scored on a 68 yard run to push Bluffton's lead to 35-7.  After Riverdale closed the gap to 35-21, Bluffton responded with a pick six by Tyson Shutler and a 7 yard scoring run from Quarterback Nate Schaadt to re-establish a 49-21 cushion.  The final score of the night came from Schaadt on a 50 yard scamper. 

After losing their opening two games, Bluffton has won four straight contests.  The Pirates are averaging 48 points per contest during the winning streak.  The Pirates now face Fairview who is 6-0 on the season.  The Apaches average 54 points a game so the scoreboard operator could have a busy night on his hands.