FRANKLIN, Ind. — Franklin College's offense today scored almost at will during a 38-point first-half assault to propel the Grizzlies (2-0) to a dominating 45-18 victory against visiting Blackburn College (0-3) at Franklin's newly renovated Stewart "Red" Faught Stadium.
Franklin senior quarterback Travis McMahen had another stellar outing, completing 21 of 35 passes for 370 yards – 289 in the first half. Four of his five touchdown passes were tossed in the first half.
Senior wide receiver Jim Larkin led Franklin's receivers with eight catches for 120 yards. Larkin caught McMahen's first touchdown pass, a 29-yard scoring strike in the first quarter. Larkin also had a 42-yard touchdown run in the first quarter that increased Franklin's lead to 17-0.
McMahen connected with senior wingback Mike Manford on two touchdowns, both of which came in the second quarter. Manford's first touchdown grab was from two yards out, and on the next drive he caught a 51-yard bomb to make the score 31-6. The Grizzlies were never threatened again, as Franklin's defense forced four turnovers, including three interceptions. Blackburn did not score again until the fourth quarter.
Franklin outgained the Beavers 571 to 340 in total offensive yards. Franklin gained 150 yards on the ground on 27 carries. Senior running back John Hinton, led Franklin in rushing with 66 yards on eight carries, including a 33-yard run in the first half.
Game Story
