Cretin 42, Stillwater 14

By Dean Spiros, Star Tribune

Last update: September 21, 2007 - 11:25 PM

Michael Floyd showcased his variety of talents on Friday in Cretin-Derham Hall's 42-14 victory over Stillwater at O'Shaughnessy Stadium at the University of St. Thomas.

Floyd, a 6-3, 210-pound receiver, rushed for 106 yards, caught three passes for 25 yards and scored a pair of touchdowns. The senior, who has yet announce his college choice, entertained the home crowd with his rare mix of speed, power and elusiveness.

To go along with his offensive production, Floyd returned punts and kickoffs and saw playing time at cornerback.

"Sometimes you have to remind yourself not to try to be too smart," Raiders coach Mike Scanlan said. "You have to remember we have one of the best players in the country to get the ball to."

The Raiders (4-0), who enjoyed one-sided victories in their first three games this season, led 21-7 at halftime. Their high-powered offense was slowed by three turnovers.

Cretin played without starting running back Shady Salamon, out because of shoulder and rib injuries. He was replaced by junior Marcus Binns, who had a big game, rushing for two TDs.

"I knew I was going to be called on a little more [carrying the ball]," Floyd said. "The line did a great job of opening holes for everybody."

Floyd carried the ball three times on the Raiders' opening drive, which resulted in a 9-yard touchdown run by Binns. Floyd ran for 17 yards on his first touch, 23 on the second and 22 on the third.

A Floyd fumble on the Raiders' next possession led to Stillwater's tying touchdown. Ponies quarterback Aaron Anderson connected on an 11-yard touchdown pass to Joe Mergens.

Floyd put Cretin back in front midway through the second quarter on an 11-yard touchdown run.

The Raiders scored again in the closing seconds of the first half when quarterback John Nance connected with Floyd on a 14-yard TD pass.

Dean Spiros • dspiros@startribune.com