In a week where his team needed to end a three-game slide in the worst way, Matt Etheridge was nothing short of dazzling.

The underappreciated Marengo Academy speedster rushed for 164 yards on 17 carries and scored a pair of touchdowns in the Longhorns’ 28-12 Homecoming win over South Montgomery County Academy.

Etheridge, who is one half of a formidable tailback tandem, even continued his production when running buddy Rabe Hale sustained a concussion and became the latest in a long line of Longhorns at the Marengo Academy infirmary.

Etheridge has been steady since assuming running back duties with the Longhorns and that consistent production will be key for them as they continue to try to dig themselves out of the hole set during a 1-3 start.

The injuries may be many and the morale may be lower than normal, but if Matt Etheridge can touch the ball and find daylight, Marengo Academy will always have a chance to go the distance.