What a terrific Hope v Albion game on a beautiful fall day, with the game ending with the teams tied in first downs (23), and almost in the score 41-38. Although plays at the game's end may have felt decisive--a fumble after a fine catch, a third down sideline catch that was almost intercepted--those plays were no more determinative than the earlier fumbles, long passes, etc. A game that was exciting down to its final minutes, and so well played by both teams. (I may be mistaken, but I don't recall an offensive penalty by either team.)
Hope suffered a big loss when ace receiver Ian Rampersand was taken off the field with an injury. WR Terrell Harris was amazing, with 9 receptions and 111 yards, often aided by spin moves to elude would-be tacklers. Albion QB Jack Bush to Justin Thomas was unstoppable (17 catches, 182 yards).
Albion graduates a lot of starting seniors, while Hope is a junior-loaded team, which I expect may have the upper hand next year. For now, kudos to both teams.
