Air Raid vs. Ground Attack: Strasburg and Handley Set for Showdown
Just two years ago, Strasburg (1-1, 0-0 Bull Run) pulled off a stunning upset against perennial Division 3 powerhouse Handley (1-0). The 28-21 victory propelled the Rams through the regular season and into the playoffs, where they ultimately fell in the state semifinals. This victory fueled Handley’s desire for revenge, and they subsequently defeated Strasburg 28-14 last year. With the all-time series record now tied at one win apiece, the stakes are high as these two storied football programs face off this Saturday afternoon.
Both coaching staffs have implemented significant changes in their respective philosophies. Strasburg, known for its successful passing attack in recent years, has scaled back its aerial assault, averaging five fewer pass attempts per game this season. In contrast, Handley has abandoned the I-formation offense in favor of a four-wide receiver shotgun formation. This shift in offensive strategy could pose a significant challenge for the Rams.
Last year, Handley capitalized on its taller and faster receivers, racking up 228 passing yards on only 10 completions. This year, the Judges continue their pass-heavy approach, attempting 27 passes in their opening game against Harrisonburg. Their “West Coast” offense generated 338 total yards in that contest.
Leading the Handley offense is second-year starting quarterback Josh Verts, a senior with a strong arm and a knack for making plays with his feet. Standing at 6-3, Verts is a dual-threat quarterback who can effectively throw the ball downfield and also run the ball, as evidenced by his 51 rushing yards in their first game. He completed 16 passes to five different receivers.
Key receivers for Handley include seniors Chuck Potter (6-1, 190) and Patrick Wingfield (6-2, 190). Wingfield proved to be a formidable opponent for Strasburg last year, catching five passes for 104 yards and a touchdown. Speedy junior L.A. Anderson (6-2, 200) will likely start at the third receiver position, with several other players vying for the fourth spot.
Running back Mike Lee (5-11, 210) also presents a significant receiving threat. This three-year starting senior has consistently produced solid rushing numbers against Strasburg. In the past two games against the Rams, he has accumulated 134 rushing yards on 31 carries. Against Harrisonburg, he demonstrated his power, rushing for 93 yards on just 13 carries. Senior Jason Byrne (6-0, 215) provides reliable depth at the running back position.
Handley’s offensive line, tasked with paving the way for the ground game and protecting Verts, features three returning seniors. Lucas Wadsworth (6-0, 220) anchors the line at center, while J.R. Mondell (6-3, 250) and Ashton Wilds (6-0, 250) solidify the guard positions. Senior Dwayne Caton (6-3, 260), a former defensive lineman, and junior Jed Adams (6-1, 230) will start at offensive tackle.
For the second consecutive week, Strasburg will face a formidable 5-2 defense featuring numerous two-way starters. The Handley secondary is anchored by Potter and Wingfield at cornerback, with Anderson and senior Andrew Davidson (5-10, 170) patrolling the safety positions. Running back Mike Lee also contributes to the defense, lining up at inside linebacker. He led the Judges in tackles last season with 86. Senior T.J. Clarke (6-0, 160) partners with Lee at the other inside linebacker spot.
The interior tackle positions feature a rotation of offensive linemen, including Caton, Mondell, Wadsworth, and Wilds. This formidable group boasts an average weight of 245 pounds per player.
Head coach Tony Rayburn hopes this physicality will bolster a run defense that surrendered over 160 yards per game last season. At the defensive end positions, Adams, Byrne, and 6-1, 200-pound junior Andy Rennie rotate. This defensive unit demonstrated its effectiveness against Harrisonburg, limiting them to just 197 total yards.
The match-up will be featured on WAMM of Woodstock. Hear all the action on AM-1230 and AM-790 starting at 1:20 pm.
