WALHALLA — The Daniel Lions might have been in the midst of struggles this season, but a 49-0 shutout of Walhalla on the road Friday night clinched a playoff spot and gave a much needed boost of confidence coming down the home stretch.

The performance of Ben Batson at QB for Daniel (4-5, 2-3) has proven to be a shot in the arm for the Lions in the second half of the season and the region contest with the Razorbacks (1-8, 1-4) was no different.

Batson connected for five passing TD’s in the rout of Walhalla, including a 40-yard strike to C. J. Scott.

The Oct. 23 game was never in doubt as Daniel scored early and often, jumping to a 21-0 lead by the end of one quarter of play. The Lions offense would go on to post 14 points per quarter in the second and third before the scoring was ended, leading to the 49-0 blowout.

Having clinched a spot in the playoffs, Daniel will now be playing to jockey for even better positioning.

Daniel will celebrate Senior Night when the undefeated Seneca Bobcats come to town for a rivalry game between the two programs. Kick off is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. Friday.

By D. C. Moody

dmoody@civitasmedia.com

Reach D. C. Moody at 864-855-0355.