Austin Downing mimics the Cougars mascot quite effectively, prowling the field before swiftly and strongly attacking the opposing team’s ball carrier.

The C-team linebacker’s efforts Sunday – a two-sack, 10-tackle performance – greatly aided the Cougars 19-0 victory over the Chops at Youth Sports Inc. fields.

When asked what his favorite moment of the game was, Downing jokingly said, “My 15 sacks.”

While he lacked accuracy on his quarterback stops, Downing was not lacking in confidence. He had good reason, too, leading his team to a shutout in their season-opener.

Not all the credit can go to the Cougars defense though; their offense controlled the pace of the game and kept the defense resting on the sidelines.

Cougar running back Dearion Cooper had multiple big gains, including two 50-yard touchdown runs. He got the scoring started with seven minutes left in the first quarter when he broke free from a pile of players and hurried down the sideline for the long run.

Cougar Xavien Wiseman-Wisdom carries the ball for a touchdown en route to a 19-0 victory over the Chops on Sunday at Youth Sports Inc.

But the Chops put up a strong defensive front of their own during the third quarter. Possession of the football bounced back and forth until the Cougars sustained one final drive in the fourth quarter.

Cougars linebacker Daulten Sharp and Downing stopped a Chops drive just as the third quarter expired, giving Cooper one more time to shine.

Cooper again showed his speed, blowing past the Chops defenders before sprinting for another half-the-field score.