Auburn Battles Rival Shepherd Hill in the GoLocal Game of the Week
Friday, October 05, 2012
Auburn senior Zach Clifford
Friday night these two Central Mass powers renew acquaintances, and GoLocalWorcester will be there to provide you with full highlights of our Game of the Week.
Shepherd Hill at Auburn: 7 pm Friday
Why is it a must-see game?
When Shepherd Hill upset Auburn last year, they ended what was then the third-longest winning streak in the country. The Rockets did go on to capture another Division III Central Mass championship, but you know they will have revenge on their minds when they face a talented Rams squad.
Auburn Offense vs Shepherd Hill Defense
Coach Jeff Cormier isn't out to fool anyone with his offensive scheme: He is going to run the football right at you. And with one of the biggest and best offensive lines in the state, it's hard to argue with his strategy.
The Rockets lean on junior Will Greelish and senior Aaron Dyke to get a push up front, and senior Tyler Desjardins has benefitted from some exceptional blocking this year, rushing for nearly 11 yards per carry. To complement that, quarterback Drew Goodrich has been efficient this year, throwing for nearly 400 yards and five touchdowns.
They will have to match up with a Shepherd Hill defense that seems to be hitting its stride. After giving up 22 to Westborough in the opener, the Rams have responded, most recently with a shutout of Gardner last week. Senior linebacker Chris Dutting has been all over the field making plays for the Rams, and junior Gianluca Laudone has recorded four sacks already.
Shepherd Hill Offense vs Auburn Defense
So, I know we said Auburn likes to run the football, but Shepherd Hill REALLY likes to run the football.
Much like Auburn, Shepherd Hill loves to pound the rock, with Brad Picard and Jake Gelb both already over 200 yards rushing on the year. In fact, quarterback Drew Ravenelle has rushed 36 times for 192 yards, while only attempting four passes. That's one pass a game, for those of you keeping track at home.
But it will be rough sledding against an Auburn defense that has already posted a pair of shutouts this season, and held Shrewsbury to just six in the opener. Auburn also uses Aaron Dyke on defense, and the big 300 pounder plays the run about as well as anybody in the region. It will be a true battle of strength vs strength when the Rams look to run the ball.
Be sure to check back after the game for full highlights in the sports section.
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