The Cass Colonels (0-2) opened the 2022 season against some tough opponents. On Friday night, the Colonels fell to 0-2 with a 30-21 loss to the Rockmart Yellow Jackets.

Rockmart’s Dennis Sims returned the opening kickoff 95 yards for an opening score. Cass was able to answer back on a touchdown run by Devin Henderson to even things at seven apiece. Rockmart then looked like Lucy holding the football for Charlie Brown. Once Cass would answer, Rockmart would instantly strike.

On the Yellow Jackets next possession, Cam Ferguson would score on a 2-yard run to regain the lead 13-7 after a missed PAT. On the Colonels next possession, they would score on Mac Nelson’s 11-yard run and take a 14-13 lead early in the second quarter. It would be the only lead Cass would enjoy in the game and it would be short lived. Cass’ offensive attack was similar to a slow, death march while Rockmart preferred a quick-strike attack.

Sims would score on the first play from scrimmage on a 62-yard pass from JD Davis to regain the lead 20-14. Rockmart recovered an onside kick at the Cass 38-yard line. Rockmart would score again in the first half and take a 27-14 lead into the half.

The Cass defense made some changes at the half. It no longer allowed Rockmart the big play ability. If Rockmart was to score, it would have to be on sustained drives. Cass was able to strike first when freshman quarterback Brodie McWhorter connected with Sacovie White to close the gap to within six.

Several times in the second half, Cass had the opportunity to put points on the board to take a lead or a field goal to cut into it. The Colonels were on the Rockmart side of the field plenty in the second half, but were unable to capitalize. It was a credit to the Yellow Jacket defense as it never allowed Cass to find the end zone for the rest of the evening.

Late in the fourth quarter, Rockmart kicked a field goal to effectively put the game out of reach for the Colonels.

While no team wants to be 0-2 to begin a season, not all 0-2 records are equal. Cass played two very solid opponents to begin the season. This will bode well for Cass as it continues its march for its second consecutive postseason appearance. Should the Colonels reach their goal, it would be a team that is battle tested with its non-region schedule and solid region foes that includes Cartersville and Calhoun.

Cass’ schedule softens up next week as it hosts Drew, a 5-A school from Region 3, at 7:30 PM.