KENNEBUNK (11-0) vs. BRUNSWICK (10-0)

WHERE: Alfond Stadium, University of Maine, Orono

KICKOFF: 7:06 p.m., Friday

When Kennebunk has the ball

The Rams want to chew up time with their triple-option game featuring fullback Patrick Saunders (951 yards, 10 TDs), big-play tailback Jake Littlefield (1,209 yards, 11 TDs) and shifty sophomore quarterback Tripp Bush (514 yards, 5 TDs). They’ll need Saunders to make headway inside against a Brunswick front led by 280-pound defensive tackle Sullivan Boyd to set up the option. Justin Wiggins (236 rushing, 126 receiving), Bryan Hickey (24 catches) and Zack Sullivan (13 catches) provide additional ways to stretch the field. Turnovers have been a problem at times and Brunswick can create them, particularly outside linebacker Jesse Devereaux (3 forced fumbles, 3 fumble recoveries, 2 interceptions). The Rams showed what they can do if they hold onto the ball, gaining 497 yards in their 42-21 win against Biddeford in the South final.

When Brunswick has the ball

The Dragons’ Wing-T is designed to stress a defense in multiple places and then hit big plays. Hunter Garrett (1,496 yards, 20 TDs) is faster than any back Kennebunk has seen. If he gets to the second level it usually results in six points. Fullback Jesse Devereaux (743 yards, 10 TDs) and Ben Palizay (482 yards, 9 TDs) keep defenses honest and are threats in their own right. Kennebunk’s stout, athletic defensive front of ends Alex Hussey and Cole Hoffman, tackles Andrew Bouchard and Christian Putnam, and inside linebackers Patrick Saunders and Dante DeLorenzo dominated run-heavy teams Marshwood and Biddeford. This could be a game where Dragons QB Christian Jensen needs to connect with tall targets Jackson Gordon and tight end Corban Teel for chunks of yardage.

OUTLOOK: Senior-dominated Brunswick crushed every opponent until its 14-12 North final win against Brewer. Kennebunk, a much younger team, has won five times by seven points or less. After losing two straight title games, Brunswick is the favorite, but the longer this game stays close, the more momentum could swing to Kennebunk.

Copy the Story Link

Only subscribers are eligible to post comments. Please subscribe or login first for digital access. Here’s why.

Use the form below to reset your password. When you've submitted your account email, we will send an email with a reset code.