by The Lakewood Rangers defeat the Rhodes Rams by a score of 27-26 in Lakewoods home opener.
These two programs are no strangers from one another, as just last year the Rams defeated the Rangers by a score of 34-12. Before they could seek revenge in week 2, the Rangers would first win the opening game of the season, taking down John Marshall away last weekend by a score of 36-0. The Rams were not as lucky in their first game of the year, as they fell to Firelands by a score of 21-7
Lakewood’s week 2 home opener saw a high-scoring offensive showcase from both teams, each with their own distinct identity and brand of football.
Lakewood found success in their passing attack, as senior quarterback #4, Otto Wihmley, lit up the Lakewood night as he threw for an efficient 125 yards and two touchdowns. He routinely found his favorite targets senior wide receiver #8, Tye Taylor, and Lakewoods player of the game, sophomore wide receiver #1, Lukas Stoll
The sophomore dazzled his home crowd as he maneuvered through the Rhodes secondary with electrifying speed and elite route running. Stoll would finish the night with over 100 yards and a touchdown, along with multiple 35+ yard deep shots hauled in by the young receiver.
Rhodes’ offense was defined by a methodical running game powered by run pass options, draw plays and numerous end around routes in order to sew misdirection among the opposing defense. The strategy worked wonders for the Rams, as they gashed the Rangers for multiple chunk plays on the ground both from their running back room as well as from the Rhodes player of the game, the junior quarterback #3, Ty’ron Corpening.
Corpening put on an absolute show with his feet, establishing early on in the contest that he was the most athletic player on the field for either team. The athletic quarterback left it all out on the field, as he totaled for 100 rushing yards and three total touchdowns.
Rhodes methodical run game was successful in the first half, but began to pay dividends in the second half, where their schematics and phenomenal quarterback play was able to gradually grind the Lakewood defense down until there was little the home team could do but slow the Rams down.
The Rams would not see their first lead until the second half, when Corpening cashed in for six with his legs, putting the Rams on top 26-21 before going down with what appeared to be a lower body injury on a later drive.
Corpening would briefly exit the game in the third quarter, being replaced by #15, sophomore Christian Helmick, before Corpening would come back in to finish in the 4th quarter, and lead a potential game winning drive before being picked off for a game sealing interception by #3, senior linebacker Julian Griffin.
Griffin’s pivotal interception followed by Stoll’s speedy jet sweep carry were the cherries on top of a well executed and gutsy victory for the Rangers.
One major theme in this game was the offensive line imposing their will for both teams in vastly different ways. For Rhodes, their line allowed them to clear holes and open running routes in order to extenuate their quarterbacks athleticism and to allow him to make a play with his legs.
By contrast, Lakewood’s offensive line struggled to generate momentum for their running game. Instead, they held up under pressure in order to keep Whimley’s jersey free from grass stains, while allowing him the time he needed to really take the top off the defense. If I’m Otto Whimley, I’m treating the buffet boys to a steak dinner after this one.
Another bright spot for Lakewood was the performance from their special teams unit. Still was able to carve out a few big returns past the 40 yard line, one of which was called back, but that doesn’t negate the talent they put on display. Additionally, the Rangers kicking and punting teams were both able to deliver quality tackling as well as ball placement.
Despite their loss tonight, the Rams have plenty to be proud of and plenty more to study come time for film sessions.
I’m incredibly excited to see Ty’ron Corpening get more opportunities to attack the defense with his arm, whether it be simply outting routes to get into rhythm or by attacking over the middle. This was his only flaw on the night, but this really has more to do with scheming and game planning. I think under more intense circumstances or a more vaunted run defense, the Rams will need Coroening to really let loose and sling the rock.
Regardless, I have complete faith that this junior quarterback will be just fine, and that he can help lead Rhodes offense to some truly remarkable places. This type of athleticism is rare and very fun to watch, so Rhodes fans are going to have a fun next two years.
The main issue for the Rangers was their relative lack of a tanning game, but given how their line imposed their will to protect their quarterback all night long, only allowing one sack, this issue is more confusing rather than outright concerning.
Next weekend, the Lakewood Eagles look to continue their momentum as they’ll travel to Harvey to take on the Red Raiders, while the Rhodes Rams seek their first win this time against Lakeside. Both games kickoff next Friday at 7:00p.m.
Players of the game:
Rhodes Rams player of the game: Ty’ron Corpening
Lakewood Rangers player of the game: Lukas Stoll
