Great points @mbonape1. I think the interesting fact about all four of these teams is the offensive numbers they throw up each game. Each team boast a workhorse rb who can run the ball around you and over you. You have Whalen at Louisa, Holmes at EV, Bridey at Monacan and Sturdivant at Dinwiddie. To add to the rushing attacks there are the qb's Bell, Lowry, Fludd and Pope who all are great runners in their own right. Its harder to identify the top receivers in this group especially at Louisa as they throw a lot to the backs and tight end Smith. Maybe a Louisa faithful can shed some light on this for me. EV's D'ago Hunter is a well known playmaker while Josiah Williams at Dinwiddie and Reeves at Monaca are very capable receivers.
When you put these offenses against what appears to be shut down defenses something will have to give. Balance appears to be the key to success. Which team will be able to establish the run, but be able to mix it up with the passing game when necessary. With the experience of Fludd, his established corps of receivers and ability to stretch defenses out with the long ball Monacan appears to have the edge in this area.
November weather can be strange and if there is a wet surface then things change. If these matchups necessitate a ground and pound game Louisa will be favored closely by Dinwiddie.
In a shoot out I favor EV or Dinwiddie as they have phenomenal special teams units and are capable of taking a punt or kick return to the house at any time.
Please feel free to chime in. I know its early, but darn this is going to be good.
Actually that was a spot on assessment. I can't argue against anything you said here. I do think Monacan might be the most balanced. Agree that if this turns into the mud Bowl I favor Dinwiddie and Louisa. EV might be the most explosive. I just think Dinwiddie has the trump card with K pope starting to contribute on offense if they need him. Louisa has three 230lb+ runners and Job Whalen who is a MAN in his own right. Plus they can also hand the ball off o Smith on crucial downs as an added cherry on top.
I think Fludd is he best passer of the group. I think we might have the most well rounded rotation with the receiving core as well.
For Monacan it Boils down to this:
Monacan vs Louisa - Can we stop the run?
Monacan vs Dinwiddie - Can we stop the run? If so, can we slow the passing game enough to outpoint the Generals.
Monacan vs EV - there would be footballs flying all over the damn field. I don't even know what to say about this one!