Sports

The rivalry matchup between Jackson and Gallia Academy lived up to the hype last week. The game came down to a scoring drive by the Blue Devils in the final moments to take the league title.

 

Gone are the Ironmen and in fly the Rockets of Archbishop McNicholas. Coach Mike Orlando brings his men into this matchup with a 7-3 record and a lot of speed on their roster. Leading the way for the Rockets are a slew of skill players that include dual threat senior quarterback Austin Ernst.

 

Ernst has had a spectacular season through the air and on the ground. Joining Ernst are two other players, that like Ernst, are in their final playoffs. Thomas Vogele, a wide receiver, alongside the team's running back Kevin McHale, have been lethal all season.

 

Not only does Gallia Academy hold the home field advantage, but they also are a team much bigger than the Rockets. McNicholas lineman Sam Trautman believes the size factor won't be a problem. "We're a smaller team, and every team we've played has been bigger than us," he said. "We use our speed and strength against the other teams. Despite our size we have a strong offensive and defensive line."

 

Gallia Academy isn't worried though. With a playoff game  in front of the "G-Force," it will be tough to take the chip off their shoulder. Gallia Academy could lose that luxury if the storm keeps the grass field in poor condition.

 

Wade Jarrell leads an explosive Blue Devils offense, as weapons Cody Russell and Nick Clagg team up to make a fantastic three-headed monster. The question mark in this one will be the health status of Ty Warnimont. He was not suited for the Jackson game due to an ankle injury. If Warnimont is healthy, Gallia Academy will add another explosive piece.

 

Saturday night the Blue Devils will be tested, the Rockets come out the Greater Catholic League in Cincinnati, a league that boasts traditional football powers Moeller, St. Xavier, Elder, and Purcell Marian. The Rockets have seen their fare share of tough competition, and will be complemented with the experience they own as well.

 

Saturday night looks like it could be one explosive contest.