Those who attended Elon’s home opener on Saturday to merely get a glimpse of the newly installed PhoenixVision, the jumbotron now perched atop the scoreboard, were treated to much more of a thrill.

The video screen did serve an important purpose, however, as its replay capability allowed Phoenix fans to relive every play during the game, which at times seemed like the end of a season’s highlight reel.

Never mind freshman quarterback Scott Riddle’s 362-yard, three-touchdown performance. Never mind the 59 points scored by Elon, the most in ten seasons.

What was most impressive about the Phoenix’s victory was the performance in all facets of the game.

West Virginia Wesleyan found themselves unable to find a solution to the Phoenix offense, led by Riddle, whose performance Saturday earned him his second consecutive SoCon Freshman of the Week title.

Meanwhile, Elon’s defense found all the answers to stopping the Bobcat offense.

The defensive squad held Wesleyan to only 16 points, while providing constant pressure on the quarterback, holding the running game to a mere 1.8 yards-per-rush, and forcing one interception.

Not to be outdone, the Phoenix special teams played a solid game and provided some excitement. Bo Williamson seemed to break through the line on every Bobcat punt attempt, managing to block one and recover the ball for a touchdown.

The Phoenix special teams also did a good job of not allowing a big return.

Wesleyan’s All-American kick-returner Brian Overton is always a threat to break a big run, but Elon successfully shut down his returns and covered him well downfield on defense.

The Phoenix showed its ability to win on Saturday, but more importantly it showed its ability to play well as a team in all three phases of the game.

If Riddle continues his dominating pace and the rest of the Elon football team steps up as well, fans might not have to wait another ten years to see another score like Saturday’s.

Columnist: Kris Moody - 09/12/07