Rock Hill, Portsmouth West to match running games
Published 12:00 am Friday, September 17, 2004
PEDRO - If you're planning to do something Friday night after the Rock Hill at Portsmouth West game, you might have a little extra time.
With both teams relying on their running game, Rock Hill coach Todd Knipp doesn't expect a long night.
"The way both teams run the ball, it should be a pretty quick game. We might be home before everybody else even finishes their games," Knipp said.
Rock Hill utilizes a one-two tandem of T.J. Blagg and K.C. Christian to trigger its offense. Christian ran 12 times for 189 yards and Blagg 16 times for 146 in a 41-19 win over Oak Hill.
West tailback Jerrod Pendleton ran 33 times for 283 yards last week in a 49-34 loss to Washington Court House.
Quarterback Levi Morgan completed 11 of 27 passes for 310 yards. Johnny Rawlins had five catches for 176 yards.
"Their offense can put some numbers up in a hurry. They remind me a little of Vinton County because of their big play capability," Knipp said.
"Their tailback is a big strong kid who can break tackles. They get on people and he finds a hole and hits it," Knipp said.
Scott Summers and Austin Seevers head the defense from their linebackers spots. Knipp said the Senators can cause problems on the defensive side.
"They like to blitz a lot and move people around a lot," Knipp said. "It's going to come down to whoever can execute the best."
Although Rock Hill is just 1-2, Knipp said the Redmen can set the tone for the rest of the season with a win over West. However, Knipp said it will be even more difficult because this is his team's first road game.
"This is a big game for us. This is the first time we've been on the road. We hope we can go out and play well. This is the first of a four-game stretch on the road," Knipp said.
Rock Hill follows with games at Wellston, South Point and River Valley.