On October 18, MV hosted Centralia for their annual Homecoming Game.
The Rams ultimately took the loss to the Orphans 42-16 and are looking to bounce back in their final game of the season.
With the defeat, the Rams fall to 3-5 with playoff hopes nearly out of reach.
“It obviously didn’t go the way we planned it, but we played our hearts out. It was a close game at halftime, and after that, we just couldn’t stop their run game,” described Jaden Morales, ‘25.
It was a close-knit contest coming out of the first, but as time passed, the Orphans began to run away with the lead.
“It went well in the first half. We came out throwing the ball and doing things good. Then the second half came around and coaches changed the plan. We started running the ball more than throwing. A lot of things that will be needs to be worked on still,” said Malakai Mays, ‘25.
With such issues stopping the run, heading into the final week of the season, it is a strong assumption that will be a focal point in their practices.
“Going into week 9 we are trying to improve our run defense and offense recognition,” stated Marlin Price, ‘25.
“For week nine we are going to focus on the defense. The offense is going well but we can score all we want but we need to get stops,” said Mays.
“We are definitely going to work on our defensive alignment and responsibilities better because Alton can throw and run. We are mainly just going to focus on Alton’s run game over their passing game,” stated Morales.
The Rams will finish their season on October 25 as they face off against the Alton Redbirds with playoff implications at stake.
“There is a chance we go to the playoffs. We must win this week’s game to have enough playoff points to be eligible,” said Morales.
Though this season hasn’t gone as some have hoped, players are still grateful for the opportunity.
“I just want to thank all of the fans that come to the games and support us anywhere we go. These past three years playing football for the high school has been a blessing. Thank you for all of your support,” exclaimed Morales.
Good luck to the Rams football team as they fight for the playoffs this coming Friday. Let’s hope for a bounce-back week!
