Sports
GOTW: Southern Challenges Trimble In Clash Of Hocking Titans
By: Lucas Widman
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After a week 2 victory over longtime conference force Wahama, the Trimble Tomcats became the favorites to win the TVC-Hocking in 2013. Now in week 9, an 8-0 record with six shutouts has the Tomcats two wins away from a conference title.
Standing in Trimble’s way are the Southern Tornadoes.
Last season, this matchup would favor the Tomcats, as they cruised to a 21-0 victory on Southern’s home turf – but that was then. The much-improved 2013 Tornadoes are more equipped to get payback and spoil Trimble’s bid for a perfect season.
Friday’s matchup is equally important to both teams, as Southern could force a three-way tie at the top of the conference with a win. If the Tornadoes prevail Friday night, they will share first place with Trimble and Wahama. The week 2 victory over the White Falcons put Trimble at the top of the pack with Southern, but Wahama retaliated and handed the Tornadoes their first loss of the season in week 5 to maintain second place in the conference.
Both teams will look to their offensive leaders Friday night, as Southern running back and Gridiron Glory Player of the Year semifinalist Tyler Barton and Trimble quarterback Konner Standly will put their talents on full display. Barton will have to go head-to-head with Trimble’s defensive unit, which is also receiving Player of the Year consideration.
Barton has 1,146 yards and 15 touchdowns on the ground this season, while the Tomcat defense has surrendered only 19 points all season – an average of 2.4 points per game. Trimble’s defense might be receiving a lot of recognition, but Southern’s defense is right behind, allowing just 6.5 points a game with four shutouts in 2013.
Standley, a dual-threat signal caller, has led the Tomcats on offense with 27 touchdowns and has a chance to add a TVC-Hocking crown to his list of senior year accomplishments if he plays well against what could end up being the toughest defense he will face all season.
The Tornadoes and Tomcats will take the field at Glouster Memorial Stadium Friday, October 25 at 7 p.m.