Gridiron Blog
The Gridiron Blog brings you the scores, stats and stories from Fredericksburg-area high school football.
Live from Liberty University: James Monroe-Brookville pregame blog
You’re looking live at Williams Stadium on the campus of Liberty University in beautiful Lynchburg, Va. James Monroe and Brookville face off in 40 minutes in the Group AA, Division 3 state championship game.
I wanted to share a few pregame thoughts before kickoff and also give a score prediction. Please check back here on the Gridiron Blog for live scoring updates and follow us on Twitter @FLSgridiron for live updates and observations. The previous three games in this championship rivalry have been close, and I expect this one to be a nail-biter too.
MATCHUP TO WATCH
James Monroe senior linebacker Tony Scott vs. Brookville tailbacks Hilson Atkins, Anthony Calloway and Jamal Payne
In their no-huddle spread offense, the Bees use their tailbacks in the passing game a lot — Atkins has nine receiving TDs to go with 13 rushing scores — but they could find fewer opportunities to make plays against the Yellow Jackets’ lock down defense. Scott, who hits like a linebacker but covers like a cornerback, has been a nightmare for opposing tight ends, tailbacks and slot receivers this season. He has three interceptions this season, returning one for a touchdown. I expect him to be active in pass coverage today.
JAMES MONROE’S KEYS TO THE GAME
1. BALL CONTROL. Brookville’s best weapon is its offensive tempo, so the best way to temper that is to keep its offense off the field. James Monroe sophomore quarterback Jay Scroggins doesn’t have to put up monster numbers today. He simply has to play smart football and keep the chains moving.
2. STEADY PRESSURE. The Bees rely heavily on senior quarterback Kendall BeCraft to make their offense go, but he has struggled passing the ball in the playoffs with six interceptions and only two touchdowns in three games. He threw four interceptions in last week’s semifinal win over Tunstall. Forcing him to pass under steady pressure could lead to even more turnovers today.
3. STOP THE RUN. Brookville has still been able to win despite BeCraft’s struggles. That’s because the Bees run the football exceptionally well. James Monroe’s bread and butter on defense is stopping the run. The Yellow Jackets must find a way to slow down Brookville’s three-headed running back attack.
PREDICTION
James Monroe 28, Brookville 24
Brookville has a fast-paced offense, but James Monroe has the speed on defense to match. And the Yellow Jackets have enough offense to get the job done.
