NTL FOOTBALL: WYALUSING WELCOMES ATHENS FOR HOMECOMING TILT (2024-10-11)

BY CHRIS MANNING
Northern Tier Sports Report
Wyalusing (4-3) appeared to get their groove back with a big win over Canton last week while Athens (3-4) is coming off a tough loss to Towanda.

After a strong start it’s been a bit of an up-and-down season for the Wildcats, who are 1-3 over their last four games.

Still, they have a very good quarterback on Connor Davidson, and are also in a fight for a playoff spot, similar to the Rams.

“We respect Athens football and know that as a AAAA school they have more student athletes to form a competitive team,” said Wyalusing coach Rich Rogers. “We respect their QB in both his running ability and big arm. We will need to give a great defensive effort.”

It will also be homecoming for the Rams, and that presents it’s own challenges for the Wyalusing coaches.

“We are trying our best as a coaching staff to keep our kids focused on football with all the homecoming festivities going on in Wyalusing this week,” Rogers said.

KEYS TO THE GAME

Athens — Don’t get frustrated on defense. Wyalusing’s slow, methodical offense is like dripping water - over time it’ll start to wear away the surface under it, if it doesn’t drive nearby people insane first. The Wildcats have to stay focus, and work on tackling at the point of attack to keep the Rams off schedule.

Wyalusing — Be ready for plenty of read option. Canton was able to move the ball in the second quarter last week when they went option with Ben Fitch. Expect Athens to do the same with Davidson, who is also a load to bring down in the open field.

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Connor Davidson, Athens, QB - Davidson has nearly 1600 yards and 17 touchdowns between passing and rushing to his name this season. What they do on offense all starts with him.

Reuben Kinney, Wyalusing, WR - With injuries piling up Kinney has emerged as a versatile weapon for the Rams as they try and expand their offensive playbook. Look for them to use him more as they try to stay one step ahead of Athens.

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