4A Playoffs - Fairdale vs. Collins

[BulldogFever]

This could be one of the more exciting second round matchups in Class 4A if Fairdale decides to show up for an entire game. The Bulldogs are coming off a thrilling 20-17 victory of Marion County, the only team to beat Collins this season. Collins has won 8 straight since that loss and has won all eight by at least a three touchdown margin.

 

Fairdale finally has a reliable running back in freshman Richard Deloney who has rushed for 817 yards in just 9 games and is averaging 9.1 yards per carry. Deloney had a 188 yard rushing game against Marion County. The Bulldogs passing attack has been dangerous at times this season behind the arm of sophomore Boo Crabtree who has thrown for 1747 yards this season. The Bulldogs have a trio of dependable receivers in Brent Weston, Demond Small, and Richard Rudolph. The Fairdale defense that is holding opponents to an average of just 212 total yards per game will have to step up to the plate against the strong Collins offense.

 

Collins biggest rushing threat will be Darian Dugle who rushed for 590 yards in the first 10 games of the season. The pass-heavy Titans offense is led by quarterback Branden Cresap who has passed for 2862 yards and 38 touchdowns this season. The Collins receiving corp is led by the duo of Axline and Elzy who have combined for over 1800 yards this season. The Titans defense which is allowing over 190 rushing yards per game will certainly have their hands full with Deloney.

 

The key to this game may be who has the ball last with the offenses averaging a combined 79 points per game. The forecast is showing temperatures in the low 50's with a 30% chance of rain. A rainy game would have to benefit the Bulldogs who have begun to develop their running game and don't rely as heavily on the passing game.

 

The obvious favorite to win this game is Collins and according to the Massey ratings the score will be 49-19 Collins. Let's hear what you think!

[Commander 25]

I think that Collins will wins this game. 35 to 14