Gutierrez Shines on Offense and Defense
BERRYVILLE, VA – Strasburg (7-2, 3-1 Bull Run) cruised to a 29-0 district victory over Clarke County (4-4, 1-2 Bull Run), fueled by a stifling defense that limited the Eagles to just 129 total yards, including only 45 in the second half. The Rams capitalized on multiple Clarke County mistakes, including four turnovers.
Leading by a slim 3-0 margin at halftime, thanks to a career-long 37-yard field goal from Paul Ziacoma, the Rams struggled offensively. The second half began similarly, with Strasburg forced to punt after a three-and-out. However, the game quickly shifted.
Clarke County freshman Lee Liggins muffed the punt return, allowing Jason Gutierrez to recover the ball at the 25-yard line. The Rams subsequently drove 11 plays, culminating in a 5-yard touchdown pass to Gutierrez for his first score of the season.
Three minutes later, the Rams extended their lead to 10-0. After forcing a Clarke County punt, Strasburg capitalized again. On first down, quarterback Cody Miller’s pass was deflected, but he miraculously recovered the ball and threw a pass to a wide-open Matt Kupeski. The tight end made a leaping catch and sprinted 57 yards for a touchdown, evading one defender along the way.
The game remained relatively quiet for the next four minutes. Gutierrez continued to make his mark, returning a 26-yard punt early in the fourth quarter to set up another score. The Rams drove to the Eagles’ 10-yard line and eventually punched in a touchdown with senior running back Selvin Martinez. The extra point attempt was blocked, making the score 23-0 with 10:51 remaining in the game.
Following his offensive and special teams contributions, Gutierrez made a significant defensive play. He intercepted quarterback Stacey Poston, ending Clarke County’s drive. On the ensuing play, Ram running back Aaron Barnes gained 27 yards. He followed that up with a 16-yard touchdown run, securing the final score.
Barnes led the team in rushing with nine carries for 93 yards, a career high. Miller completed 10 of 14 passes (71.4%) for 151 yards and two touchdowns. He also intercepted two passes on defense. Robbie Starkey contributed two receptions for 32 yards, bringing his season total to 20 catches. Kupeski, the team’s leading receiver with 23 catches for 322 yards, recorded two receptions for 77 yards, including his third-quarter touchdown.