MERRILLVILLE | Mike Skinner isn't one to procrastinate. The Andrean senior wide receiver simply wanted to make an impact right away.

Skinner grabbed the opening kickoff on a bounce and dashed 95 yards down the right sideline for a touchdown, effectively setting the pace of the game for the 59ers. With the way Andrean's special teams have been playing lately, the return was the shot in the arm they so desperately needed.

After the opening TD, the 59ers simply didn't let up, cruising to a 48-7 win over Culver Academy in the Class 3A, Sectional 17 championship game.

"That made me feel great because our special teams have been behind lately," Skinner said. "On that return I just saw great blocking, hit the hole and just finished it from there."

Skinner also made a significant impact in the 59ers' passing game, hauling in two touchdown receptions from quarterback Richard Schmidt, who finished with 218 yards and three TDs.

"I think Richard is the best quarterback in the Region," Andrean coach Phil Mason said. "He's a fighter and does great things."

Schmidt displayed pinpoint accuracy in the first half, completing 13-of-19 passes.

Andrean (9-3) was able to stay away from the home run ball and stick to short screen and slant passes to keep the Eagles on their toes.

"I'm shocked the way Culver guarded (the pass)," Schmidt said. "They left the flats open all game, and you just have to take what's given to you."

Culver's lone score came on a 1-yard Josh Wright sneak in the second quarter after a Schmidt fumble gave the Eagles (9-3) field position deep in Andrean's territory.

Perhaps the most telling tale of the 59ers' victory was their speedy, playmaking defense. Andrean held Culver to just 144 yards and five first downs, and effectively shut down standout receiver Juwan Brescacin and the Eagles' passing game. Brescacin did not have a catch in the second half, while the 59ers put pressure on Wright all game behind P.J. Mason's four sacks.

"We're a great defensive team," said Phil Mason, whose 59ers will face regional opponent Jimtown next week. "Give credit to our kids, they fought hard and they play hard all the time."

PREP FOOTBALL

Class 3A Sectional 17

Championship

Andrean 48, Culver Academy 7

The 59ers' Richard Schmidt threw for 218 yards and three touchdowns.