The key statistic for the Ironton Fighting Tigers is to be 5-0. The other statistics support why Ironton enjoys the first stat.

The Fighting Tigers unbeaten record halfway through the season is reflected in its offensive and defensive numbers.

The offensive numbers are usually the fans' favorite, but defense is the first thing Ironton coach Bob Lutz prefers to glance over each week.

Ironton has racked up 2,121 total yards - 424 per game - with 1,827 coming on the ground and 294 through the air.

Conversely, opponents have managed just 678 total yards or 135 per game. Ironton's foes have 298 yards rushing and 380 passing.

Darius Lewis leads Ironton with 772 yards rushing on 80 carries for a 9.7 yards per carry average. Lewis' numbers have been bolstered by two 200-yard rushing games.

Marcus Williams is second on the team with 379 yards on 52 attempts for 7.3 yards per carry. He is second behind Lewis for individual scoring. Lewis has nine touchdowns and 58 points while Williams had six TDs and has scored 42 points.

Although Ironton hasn't thrown the ball much, quarterback Josh Adkins has been effective when asked to go to the air. Adkins is 13 of 25 (52 percent) for 294 yards and four touchdowns.

Opponents are 40 of 74 and one TD. Ironton's secondary has seven interceptions led by Chad Miller with three.

Shane Kerns is the top receiver with six catches for 203 yards and four scores.

Ironton has outscored opponents 198 to 20 or an average of 39-4.

A couple of other statistics point toward Ironton's tough defense. The Fighting Tigers have punted just seven times all season while opponents have kicked 24 times.