Austin Fletcher sets Dayton single-season rushing record

Dayton’s Austin Fletcher broke the school record for single-season rushing yards in the Dust Devils’ 42-19 win at Sparks on Thursday.

Dayton had a 14-0 lead before Sparks scored 19 second half points. Dayton coach Rob Turner said the Dust Devils put it away with two late touchdowns.

“It was back and forth,” Turner said. “We pulled away in the fourth quarter. They came out strong like we knew they would.”

Dayton, 4-5 overall and 4-4 in league, hosts Fernley next Friday. Dayton needed Fernley to lose to Lowry on Thursday. Fernley was behind at halftime. A final score was unavailable.

Fletcher, who carried 16 times for 176 yards on the game, broke the record in the first quarter. He needed 35 yards for the record (1,349), but now has 1,490 on the year. He said the Dayton sideline was keeping track for him.

“It’s an honor,” the senior said. “ Eric (Hopper former record holder) is a great running back.

“It was a relief,” he said of breaking the record with one game to play. “Now, I can focus on setting in higher so hopefully it stays longer.”

Fletcher, who scored twice on the night, said the Dust Devils didn’t match Sparks intensity to start the game.

“We kept with the game plan and ran the ball well,” he said, adding four different running back scored Thursday.

Fletcher credited the Dust Devils’ offensive line for helping him break the record.

“They are great,” he said. “I love every one of them, especially my full back (Quinn Santana).”