BUFORD — Two-point conversions have become Buford’s forte over the past two games. It has struck gold three times.
Friday night, in a 29-28 victory over Benedictine Military School, the Wolves needed every point to post a double-digit comeback and one-point victory over the Cadets at Tom Riden Stadium.
The final two-point conversion involved a quick snap to Kenyon Rivera as he plunged into the end zone after Buford lined up in a kick formation initially. Head coach Bryant Appling has seen too many overtimes in his day, and didn’t feel the need for another after a grueling battle.
The first, however, presented some razzle-dazzle and highlighted the game’s star — wide receiver Jordan Allen. They call it a swinging gate of sorts. Quarterback Dayton Raiola threw a lateral pass to Allen, who then threw a crisp, on-target pass to fellow receiver Sam Harkness.
It served as a testament to Buford’s star and how he willed it to the first victory of the season. Allen did it all from the opening play. Raiola, who has seemingly won the quarterback competition over TJ Wilcox but struggled with the deep ball, found Allen open streaking down the turf. They connected for a 56-yard gain. While Allen couldn’t stay on his feet, it set up Buford to score on the possession. It eventually scored the first 10 points in regulation before Benedictine went on its scoring run.
“He’s a different breed, man,” Appling said. “He’s the dog in the fight or whatever they say. He’s got the biggest heart on the team. The kids love him and he’s electric with the ball in his hands. He’s one of the fastest kids we’ve got and has some of the greatest ball skills.”
Allen completed a pass. He ran for 16 yards on a sweep. He stepped up on key downs. Allen recorded seven receptions for 127 yards and a touchdown.
Allen accounted for more than half of Raiola’s completions and passing yards. Appling added that Allen could be one of Buford’s better safeties if he allowed it, but he stands too vital as an offensive playmaker and kick returner.
“Jordan has had a good connection with any quarterback we’ve had, going back to (Dylan) Wittke or anybody,” Appling said. “He’s a guy they like to throw to, because they know he’s going to come down with the ball. He’s smart as a whip, too.”
Appling cherishes every opportunity he has with the senior. Allen has stepped up throughout his four years with the program. Allen committed to Louisville on April 16 as a three-star receiver prospect with other offers by Group of Five programs and HBCU Bethune-Cookman.
From conversions to deep balls, and a little rushing in between, Allen comes up when Buford needs him to.
Buford tries anyway it can to find the No. 4 in kelly green.
“We have a treasure right there,” Appling said.
FEATURED PHOTO: Courtesy of Christian Ryan Stahl
