Chapter 43

The game itself turned out to be a defensive struggle. Steve spent almost as much time on the ground as he did on his feet. His offensive line was badly overmatched by Windsor’s defense. He had to throw quick passes to the tight ends and the running backs before being hit by blitzing linebackers or the two big defensive ends. Still, he managed to lead Sparta downfield for a tying touchdown just before half time.

Every time Steve left the field, Coach Watkins was in his face, asking him how he felt and if he was experiencing any pain. For his part, Steve always shook his head and smiled back at his coach, telling him that he felt fine.

Halfway through the third quarter, Steve found Derek Johnson racing down the left sideline with a perfect pass from Sparta’s ten yard line. The TV announcers insisted that it traveled well over sixty yards in the air. The extra point was blocked, so Sparta led for the first time, 13-7.

The lead held up until Tyler Smith coughed up th