Rams Host Judges in Re-Match of Last Year’s Thriller
The grass will be freshly cut. Newly painted yard lines and a logo will adorn the field. Memories of past games linger in the air as the “Purple Faithful” prepare to fill the stands. Welcome to Ram Stadium, Strasburg’s stronghold. Since 1998, the team boasts an impressive 23-3 home record. Strasburg will aim to leverage this home-field advantage when they host the Handley Judges on Friday night.
After a surprising 28-21 loss to the Rams last year, Handley seeks redemption. They will attempt to achieve this with a group of speedy running backs and a formidable offensive line.
Senior Walker Grooms (5-8, 172) and junior Michael Lee (5-9, 195) return to lead the Judges’ rushing attack. In last year’s game, the duo combined for 168 yards on 30 carries and two touchdowns. However, a familiar face is missing from the backfield this year. Michael Campbell, who led the offense, has graduated.
Taking over the quarterback position is strong-armed junior, Josh Verts (6-2, 195). In his first start last week against Harrisonburg, the signal-caller displayed pinpoint accuracy, passing for 114 yards. Verts completed 7-of-12 passes, including a 5-yard touchdown. His primary receiving targets are senior Richard Myers (5-11, 160) and junior Patrick Wingfield (6-1, 185).
Due to low player turnout, with only 45 players on the varsity and junior varsity teams, a number of offensive starters play both ways. The defensive line rotates, with many spots filled by offensive linemen. Lee also plays linebacker, and Grooms, Myers, and Wingfield contribute to the secondary.
Against Harrisonburg, the defense performed well, dominating the Blue Streaks’ quarterback. In the second half alone, Handley pressured Nick Lincoln into three interceptions (four total) and limited Harrisonburg’s passing game to 36 yards.