(Atlantic) Atlantic (5-3) faces a must-win situation Friday night when the Trojans host Carroll (7-1) in a Class 3A District 6 football matchup.
Carroll is 4-0 in district play, while Atlantic is 3-1. Atlantic Head Coach Joe Brummer says the Trojans need a victory to keep their playoff hopes alive.
Brummer says controlling the line of scrimmage, field position, and turnovers are three keys to putting Atlantic in position to win. The Trojans have recorded seven fumble recoveries and seven interceptions this season, while Carroll has five fumble recoveries and nine interceptions.
Brummer also points to improvement among younger players, including freshmen and junior varsity players, and the development of Atlantic’s offensive and defensive lines.
The Trojans face a significant challenge against the Tigers, but Brummer says the two teams have similar philosophies. Both teams rely on the running game, with Atlantic totaling 1,833 rushing yards and Carroll recording 2,212.
Brummer says the tone of Friday night’s game could be established early. Carroll has scored on its first play from scrimmage in four of its eight games this season.
Atlantic will also need to contain Carroll senior running back Adam Malik, an all-state selection. Malik has carried the ball 152 times for 1,433 yards and 21 touchdowns, averaging 9.4 yards per carry.
