The game against the Crocodiles last weekend was a hard-fought battle that went back and forth until the final seconds. Offensively, we had to prepare for a tough front with explosive edge rushers and high-motor linebackers in the Tapola brothers. We ran more 11 and 20 personnel sets to establish the run and get into a rhythm early. Greenfield finished the game with 100 yards and three touchdowns, leaving no doubt that he is one of the most valuable players in the Maple League.

I was very impressed by our receiving corps in both the run and pass game. We had players making plays all over the field. Nunnelly received recognition for his explosive plays, while Jauhiainen earned tough yards after the catch and also managed to score once. Rautiainen made a big play at crunch time, Tähkäpää had key blocks, and Pitkänen scored on our final drive. We didn't play a perfect game, but there are many positives we can build on, and what matters most is that we pulled off a win as a team.

This upcoming Thursday, we will face the Crusaders, and as an offense, we need to handle things right from the beginning. We also hope to evaluate some more players who have not seen as much playing time as they should. Great teams usually have great depth, and as seen last weekend, you never know when your number will be called.

Lastly, it was bittersweet to see Verneri “RV” Rainio on the other side of the field. Rainio, a former Rooster and a big playmaker in my first year as an OC, had some impactful plays.