Strasburg Unleashes Offensive Fury in Rout
WOODSTOCK, VA – Ah, victory at last. Strasburg (2-5, 0-1 Bull Run) finally broke through after a five-game losing streak, soundly defeating Massanutten Military Academy 47-0 on Saturday afternoon. The Rams, who had endured heartbreaking losses and three shutouts, showcased a strong all-around performance, fueled by the impressive running of junior Brandon Holbert.
Holbert, a diminutive yet powerful 5-foot-7, 140-pound back, ignited a dominant second quarter. He amassed 125 yards on just nine carries (a 13.9-yard average), scoring touchdowns on runs of 40 and 10 yards.
In addition to his offensive prowess, Holbert intercepted a pass and returned it 28 yards for another score, giving Strasburg a commanding 40-0 lead at halftime.
The Rams’ offensive surge began early. After forcing the Colonels to punt, sophomore quarterback Parker Neal led a 10-play, 80-yard drive, culminating in a three-yard touchdown run by Brian Blevins.
Neal then connected with his favorite target, Bobby Hendricks, for a 20-yard touchdown pass, extending the lead to 14-0. Neal completed five of seven passes for 93 yards.
The second quarter witnessed an explosion of offense. Holbert broke free for a 40-yard touchdown run on a quick pitch. Five minutes later, he added another score with a 10-yard touchdown run.
Neal subsequently found Caylin Valentine for a 44-yard touchdown pass, marking the final offensive score of the game as reserves entered for the majority of the second half.
Strasburg added two more defensive touchdowns. In addition to Holbert’s interception return, Josh Funk returned an interception 26 yards for a score in the third quarter.
The Rams’ defense stifled the Colonels, holding them to just 55 total yards on the ground. They intercepted five passes, recovered a fumble, and recorded 12 tackles for loss.
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