Tonight’s highly anticipated game at showcases the Bears (2-0) against , a matchup of unbeaten teams both off to blazing starts.
The Bears (2-0) have dominated out of the gate, knocking off in week one and last week.
The Trojans (2-0) have been equally impressive, beating in week one, then last week–the same Carlson team that whipped Kennedy 49-0 on August 26.
During the Carlson game, however, Trenton’s best offensive player, senior Mike Czarnecki, and is out for tonight and possibly all of 2011.
Even without Czarnecki, the Trojans should still prove to be a very formidable foe for the Bears tonight.
In order for Roosevelt to stay undefeated, the team will need to build off the momentum from the first two weeks, as well as make some possible adjustments.
Here are five key factors that can lead Wyandotte to a victory tonight.
1. The Running Game
Led by seniors Tyler Dunn, Hunter Matt and junior Aaron Robinson, Roosevelt’s running game has accounted for 510 rushing yards and seven touchdowns so far. Sophomore Kyle Matejko and junior David Davis also have looked impressive when given the ball.
If the Bears maintain a solid ground game again tonight, with each back contributing, it should set the tempo, control the clock and ultimately wear down the Trojans' defense.
2. Quarterback Kevin Matejko
If Trenton does figure out how to stop the Wyandotte rushing attack, the Bears will rely on junior quarterback Kevin Matejko. Although passing attempts were limited in week one, he looked good last week, going 5-9 and throwing for two touchdowns and 133 yards.
A similar or slightly better performance from Matejko could be enough to balance out the Bears’ offensive attack and really complicate things for Trenton's defense.
3. The Secondary
Kennedy may have exposed a weakness last week when they landed a few complete passes against Wyandotte, one being an 82-yard bomb for a touchdown. If Roosevelt is to win tonight, pass coverage will be important.
With Czarnecki out, Trenton may rely heavily on 2010 All-Downriver senior receiver Jason Barbosa. Shutting him down, along with other Trojans’ receivers, could quickly get the Trenton offense off the field and get the ball back in the hands of the Bears.
4. Special Teams
Roosevelt has been outstanding this year on special teams. Dunn has returned a kickoff and punt for a touchdown and has 115 total return yards. Special teams also have accounted for a recovered onside kick, successful fake punt, a sack of Kennedy’s punter and excellent coverage when kicking the ball away.
Even if no touchdowns are scored on special teams, a continuation of the solid execution displayed so far should constantly give the Bears' offense good field position tonight.
5. The Rivalry
The Trenton-Wyandotte sports rivalry has a deep tradition Downriver. When the Bears and Trojans line up tonight, each side will be playing for area bragging rights, as well trying to maintain a perfect record.
Roosevelt has a four-game win streak in the series dating back to 2007 with no intention of letting the Trojans snap that on their home field.
Kickoff time is 7 p.m. at Wyandotte Roosevelt Stadium. A big crowd is expected, so fans may want to arrive a little early in order to get a seat in the bleachers.
