Windham is resilient, opportunistic and, most importantly, tough. The Eagles will beat Thornton Academy for the Class A football state championship.
Windham may be a year ahead of schedule in reaching the state title game, but the Eagles are ready to make it two for two in state championship game appearances.
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That’s heady stuff for a football program only in its 15th year.
The Eagles are a junior-oriented team whose underclassmen have adapted quickly.
They have five senior starters who have proven to be strong players, leaders and role models for the underclassmen.
During August preseason practices, I asked Coach Matt Perkins if this team is as talented as the 2009 team that won the Class A state title. Perkins said yes, he thought the Eagles were that talented.
Early in the Eastern Maine final, Cheverus running back Joe Fitzpatrick was shredding the Windham defense for big gains. The Eagles adjusted and limited Fitzpatrick’s effectiveness the rest of the way. Trailing 14-3 entering the fourth quarter, Windham outscored the Stags 18-6 to claim a 21-20 win in overtime.
I like the way Perkins prepares his team for games and then makes adjustments if needed.
The Eagles have plenty of offensive threats – running backs Dylan Koza (887 yards), Kyle Houser (447 yards), Griffin Jacobson (223 yards) and Tanner Laberge, a jack of all trades who blocked a PAT in overtime to ensure the victory in the regional final.
Quarterback Desmond Leslie doesn’t play like a sophomore. He has completed 64 percent of his passes and has proven to be a strong runner.
Tight end/linebacker Zach Davis is a stalwart. Wide receiver Eric Webb is a deep threat.
The final: Windham 24, Thornton Academy 21
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