Avon Hosts North Ridgeville in the Game of the Week
Avon hosts North Ridgeville Friday in the Cleveland Browns High School Game of the Week, Presented by PNC Bank.
North Ridgeville at Avon
Records: Avon 5-1; North Ridgeville 4-2
What: West Shore Conference Division game
Date of Game: Friday, October 10
Kickoff: 7:00 p.m.
Location: Avon Stadium, Avon Middle School, 3075 Stoney Ridge Rd, Avon, OH 44011
Pregame Notes:
Avon (5-1) is led by head coach Mike Elder. Elder, now in his eighth season at the helm, has a combined record of 70-15. With a playoff berth almost imminent, the Eagles have had five playoff appearances in the last seven seasons, which included a trip in 2011 to the Division-II State Finals.
North Ridgeville (4-2) is led by first year head coach Luke Durbin. Coming off a 1-9 season, the Rangers needed a head coach that knows how to win, they found that in Durbin. Durbin spent the past three seasons as the defensive coordinator for Massillon--historically one of the winningest high school football programs in the country.
Last week's loss to conference leading, Midview, snapped North Ridgeville's 4 game win streak. On offense, Demario McCall leads northeast Ohio in rushing attempts (136), rushing yards (1252) and total touchdowns 24 (21 rushing, 1 receiving, 1 INT for TD, 1 KOR for TD). The highly touted running back is considered by many national scouting publications to be one the best running backs in the country. Last week, Midview was able to 'contain' McCall, holding him to 'just' all-purpose 141 yards and one score. It's no secret; McCall is a playmaker, defenses will continue to game plan on slowing him down. The Rangers will need stay committed to running the ball. The offensive line will need to control the line of scrimmage and maintain their blocks, allowing McCall to get to the second level and do what he does best, find the endzone.
Avon bounced back after their first loss of the season to undefeated Midview (49-42) to defeat Elyria Catholic 33-12. Without star running back Garett Choat – out with a shoulder injury – junior running back Sonny Cooper filled in with 24 carries for 124 yards and 4 touchdowns in last week's win. Avon's balanced offensive attack is led junior quarterback Jake Sopko. The 6-3 205 pound Division-I prospect has great pocket presence, patience and footwork, allowing him to effectively go through his progressions and make big time throws. Sopko's favorite target is senior wide receiver Zack Torbert, who has 25 receptions for 635 yards and 9 touchdowns. Much of Avon's success is also attributed to the play of their offensive line and stingy defense.
Good luck to both teams and stay tuned for a post-game report.
Make sure to follow @BrownsYouthFB on Twitter for updates during the game.
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