Clermont Northeastern and Blanchester have worked their way to the top of the SBAAC National Division standings in different ways.
The Rockets (5-2 on the year) have done it with defense. The Wildcats (2-5 this season) with offense.
Friday night at CNE, the teams will meet with sole possession of first place in the division on the line. Both teams are 2-0 in the league. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m.
“CNE is a very athletic team,” BHS coach Brandon Sammons said. “Their offense is more diverse, their defense has speed and that is concerning. They returned a good number of players so that is always a good thing.”
Blanchester won last year’s game 42-0.
“They definitely have our attention and we know this is pretty much for the league title this week,” said Sammons. “They look like they could run through their remaining schedule, so whoever wins this one has the edge on taking the division. We expect our guys to be ready and understand the urgency and that this is not the same old CNE type of team. We will have our hands full Friday night.”
The Wildcats defeated Williamsburg 49-10 last week. With 10 penalties, Sammons found a chink in the armor but overall things went pretty well for BHS. Jasper Damewood was a perfect 7-for-7 on extra points for the ‘Cats.
This week, Sammons said it’s what’s up front that will be key for BHS. “If we control the line of scrimmage, I like our chances against anyone,” he said. “If we have time for our skill guys to get the ball delivered to them, we usually find some success. Defensively we have to eliminate the big plays.”
Sammons praised the efforts this season of Christian Stubbs, Adam Frump and Gage Huston who have moved into key positions due to injury.
