Strasburg’s Secures Third Consecutive Shutout
WOODSTOCK, VA – The old adage “defense wins championships” rang true for the Strasburg Rams (5-1) on Friday night. In a game where their offense struggled, the Rams’ defense shone, holding Central (0-6) to a mere 80 total yards and intercepting their quarterbacks four times. This 16-0 victory marked Strasburg’s third consecutive shutout, solidifying their position in the Bull Run District.
Both teams struggled to gain offensive momentum early in the game. Central threatened late in the first quarter, driving to the Rams’ 16-yard line. However, back-to-back penalties stalled their progress.
On the ensuing play, senior Cody Miller intercepted quarterback Brandon Foltz, ending the drive. This interception set the stage for the only score of the first half. Paul Ziacoma kicked a 27-yard field goal with 22 seconds remaining in the first quarter, giving Strasburg a 3-0 lead.
The second quarter mirrored the first, with both offenses struggling to find their rhythm. Strasburg managed 122 yards of total offense, while Central was held to a meager 35 yards. The third quarter followed a similar pattern, with neither team able to generate significant yardage.
Early in the fourth quarter, the game finally shifted. Selvin Martinez intercepted a pass and returned it 11 yards to the Central 32-yard line. The Rams capitalized on this excellent field position, with running back Sam Robinson scoring a one-yard touchdown. Ziacoma’s extra point extended the lead to 10-0 with 10:25 remaining in the game.
The teams exchanged possessions before a short 16-yard punt by the Falcons once again gave the Rams favorable field position. Miller capped a four-play, 43-yard drive with a 17-yard touchdown run. An unsportsmanlike penalty on the play moved the extra point attempt back 15 yards, resulting in a missed kick.
Central failed to mount any further threats, and the Rams secured the 16-0 victory.
Strasburg’s offense was led on the ground by sophomore Brandon Holbert, who rushed for 78 yards on 12 carries (6.5 yards per carry). Robinson contributed 17 rushes for 74 yards (4.35 yards per carry) and scored his seventh touchdown of the season.
Miller completed 3-of-12 passes for 42 yards, while also throwing two interceptions. The Rams’ total offense of 221 yards fell short of their season average of 304 yards per game.
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