Crocker's versatility assists Brainerd

WILLMAR - Kyle Crocker's versatility was on display as it has been all season in Friday's 35-13 win over the Willmar Cardinals.

The senior's first contribution occurred on the Cardinals' third play when he stripped the ball from Willmar receiver Ryan Lawler after a 30-yard gain.

"It was a slant up the middle," Crocker said. "He had the first down and was running. I caught him from behind, went in there, punched it out and just grabbed it."

Four plays later Crocker scored on a 37-yard run. He added a 36-yard touchdown reception in the third quarter.

"One was a sweep, a run to the outside," Crocker said. "The other one I got behind the 'D' and Reid threw a good ball."

Crocker added 42 yards in kick returns and 86 yards rushing on six carries. He finished with three catches for 62 yards.

Nelson has career game

Senior Carsten Nelson, who had gained 62 yards in the season's first two games, erupted for a career-high 135 yards on 18 attempts (7.5 average) and a touchdown.

"They opened their holes, and that's all we needed," Nelson said of his offensive line. "We've been working on it all week, we got it, and it all worked out for us.

"We just pushed ourselves a lot more than last week and the coaches worked us."

Linebacker leads way

Inside linebacker Sam Pagel had a tackle for a loss, a quarterback sack and forced a fumble to lead the Warriors' defense.

"We stepped up our pass defense," Pagel said. "We just stopped them. We didn't let them get any big drives. We went in there and got three and outs right away."

MIKE BIALKA may be reached at mike.bialka@brainerddispatch.com or at 855-5861.