Malik Martin could have a break out performance if he can get a step on defenders Saturday.[/B]
On Saturday afternoon two strong programs will go head-to head at King William High School for the right to play for the 1A State Championship. One team is looking to make its third consecutive trip to the big game while the other is trying to get to the big game like they've seen schools in their vicinity do in recent years. This game promises to be a very physical match up.
The Essex Trojans (11-2) are much different than previous years as they care a strong group running the football. Running backs Leo Gaskin, Malik Martin, and Sterling Hammond have breakaway speed but run hard and easily break tackles for extra yardage. They will be asked to dig a lot deeper as they will have to endure a tough defense that is always in pursuit.
Their opponent Haysi (11-2) has a strong rushing attack as well. Ryan Turner is a strategic runner who sees crises in a defense and can exploit them for large gains. Turner also has great hands as the Tigers pass very well and dare a say more than Essex. The quarterback Jalen Sykes is a great distributor of the ball that can make all the passes. If there is an area that a defense is weak at then expect at some point for the Tigers advantage. Last week, the Tiger qb threw for nearly 300 yards to derail Galax.
"They really try to keep you on your toes with different formations," said Essex Coach John Fulks. They throw like we did in 2012."
In 2012 Essex quarterback Dominek Broaddus broke the VHSL passing record. He may show some of that magic Saturday.[/B]
Essex quarterback Dominek Broaddus hasn't had to air it out much this season. Instead of a fleet on speedsters at wideout the balance of the offense has titled to the running game. It doesn't mean Essex can go to the air but when they do the results of it being a score is quite high. Rasaun Monroe has emerged as a dynamic receiver at the right time. Can the Tigers match up with Monroe to prevent the deep ball? With plenty of attention going to Monroe, it will be crucial that players like Tesahn Nelson step up and make a difference.
KEYS TO VICTORY[/B]
Essex has went most of the season without being truly tested in the secondary. Not sense James Monroe whom was faster than the Trojans; will a team push the limit of their coverage. Haysi has a tremendously good offensive line which will be ready to test the speedy defensive from of the Trojans. Don't be surprised to see Deondre Harris (7ft, 380 pounds) in the game plan forcing the Sykes to roll out more to hit passes across the middle. Essex attacks the edges well and if they can force Sykes out the pocket then expect many mistakes to be generated from the pressure. The running game of Essex must get Martin to the edge as he can definitely be the difference maker in this one.
Haysi must have success passing the football to be in the contest. Essex speed may overwhelm their rushing attack but if they find a way to block the elusive linebackers then look for the Tigers to put major pressure on Essex defense. Tristan Yates will be the in short yardage downs as Haysi will have to maintain drives in order to keep the speed of the Trojans offense off the field. Making the game shorter and keeping longer possessions will be crucial if Coach James Colley's bunch plans to make this the kind of game that could come down to the final drive.
Essex Coach John Fulks is looking for his third trip to the state championship game.[/B]
THE DECISION[/B]
Essex speed should be too much of an obstacle for Haysi to overcome. Though the weather could neutralize things a bit. Fulks expressed, "I wish it wasn't calling for rain because they would definitely favor them." The National Weather Service is calling for rain at kick-off but even in the rain Essex having a healthy Hammond to bang with the great linebacker play for Haysi should keep things in favor of the Trojans. Haysi make capitalize on a defensive breakdown or two but it won't be enough.
PREDICTION:[/B] ESSEX 34 HONAKER 17[/I]
INFO: Tickets are $10 and the game is at King William High School.
This post was edited on 12/4 3:04 PM by TheSel2
