Does Size Matter?

For years the Raceland-Ashland game was the first game of the season. And, it was seen as a “give me” game for Ashland, and a “learning experience” for Raceland. That all changed in 1991 when Raceland shocked not only Ashland but the entire area. Then Raceland Coach Bill Tom Ross always scheduled larger schools and schools that were seen as much better then his Rams. Some ridiculed Coach Ross for that move, saying Raceland was getting nothing out of those games, and that he should stick with scheduling “small” schools. But, the 1991 victory over 4A Ashland, coming off of a 4A State Championship in 1990, would not only shut the detractor up, but would be looked back upon as a major milestone in the Raceland Football Program. See, that was not only a victory, that was a change of mindset: prior to that win, everyone thought Raceland would never beat Ashland, but after, everyone knew anything was possible. The Raceland players and coaches were the only people who knew a Raceland win was possible. Or, did they? As it turns out, a confession by Coach Ross years later during an interview would reveal the truth. When asked, about the Raceland victory over Ashland in 1991, he said, “I never thought it was possible, I only thought that game would make the Rams stronger”. Well, it seems that no one ever told the Raceland players that, they (we) thought (knew) it was possible. Goes to show you what the desire of a team can do.

Does that one win make a difference? Well, we know that Raceland never beat Ashland prior to that win. And, we know that the Rams have since enjoyed two separate three game winning streaks against the Tomcats. So, did it make a difference? We have to say, “yes”. The mindset was changed on that hot August night in 1991, now the Rams expect to not only compete, but, win against the much larger schools.

Fast forward to 2013, the Tomcats currently own a four game winning streak over the Rams. And, many may be questioning if Raceland should be playing those larger schools again. We can expect one thing, When Raceland and Ashland take the field this week, no one will be talking about the size difference in the schools. No one will be thinking this is a David versus Goliath situation. No one will be wondering if Raceland can compete with the Tomcats.

Former Ashland Head Coach Leon Hart was once asked what his goal for the upcoming season was, he responded with, “I want to beat a little school named Raceland”. See Coach Hart learned to respect the Rams, and possible even gauged his season upon the opening game with Raceland.

The 2013 matchup should be another epic battle. Ashland has some obstacles, with a new offense and many new faces in the lineup. One place there is no obstacle: running back. Sensational sophomore Quintin Baker has that covered for the Tomcats. Baker, who’s father was a high school star at Trigg County, and went on to be a star at the University of Kentucky, has proven as a freshman that he is an impact player. Baker’s line is new, as they gain experience, Baker will look even better.

Raceland, on the other hand, doesn’t have many new faces. The Rams return virtually everyone from a year ago, and have a great deal of three year starters who are very experienced. Not many question marks for the Rams, anyone who follows football knows what Raceland is going to do.

Some may say this match-up heavily favors Raceland with amount of returning starters from both teams, but, the games aren’t played on paper, they are played between the lines by the players. And, I doubt that anyone has told the Tomcats that Raceland will win just by showing up, just like no one told the 1991 Rams that they were supposed to lose to the much larger schools.

Can the Rams stop, or at least slow down Baker? That is probably the key to the game for both teams. Can Ashland’s line control the line-of-scrimmage versus a very large and dominate Raceland line? Rest assured, the team that controls the line, will win the game.

Should Raceland and Ashland be playing each other? I’m sure there are people who would answer “no”. But, I’m positive if you ask anyone at Raceland or Ashland, they will tell you this game is one they look forward to each season. This contest always has great attendance and is widely covered - a true playoff atmosphere.

Nice article Ram!

Nice article Ram!

Thanks, this goes back to my old tired argument: The size of the school does not matter in football, the big difference is does a team platoon, or does a team play players both ways.

I will be happy to come back on here Friday night late and provide a answer that I guarantee to be correct :laugh:

 

I better than most feel where you are coming from as my 1A Mayfield Cardinals are playing the roll David this week against the 6A Goliath in a mad McCracken County team

I doubled checked with Mrs Oldtime. She says it definitely matters