Fans of these two teams know what those seeing them for the first time will learn Saturday afternoon: these are two of the toughest, most disciplined teams Massachusetts has to offer.
Reading is no stranger to this stage, as the Rockets won the Division 2 title last year behind a bruising running game and stout defense. Different year, same story for the Rockets. They have given up just seven points per game this year, surrendering no more than 14 points in any of their contests. Jeff Covitz anchors a defense that has shut down every opponent, and the pressure will be squarely on him and his fellow defensive linemen in this one. For them to make it two straight titles, they'll need to limit the ability of the Mansfield offensive line to open holes for All ADFC Second Team running back Jamel Marshall.
On offense, Reading will look to quarterback Brian Bourque to lead them in the ame fashion he has all season. Bourque has made the switch from wide receiver to quarterback seamlessly, beating teams with both his arms and legs. His ability to control the tempo will go a long way in deciding the outcome.
When Mansfield has the ball, it all starts up front. They boast five well-coached, physical linemen who are just as good at opening holes as they are protecting the passer. Behind them are Marshall and quarterback George Busharis. Both players have seemingly switched off beating opponents, and each will need to put their best foot forward if they hope to beat a Reading team that has been able to slow down the likes of Dracut's Matt Silva and Burlington's Marcus Odiah.
The Mansfield defense has been quite the frugal bunch themselves. They've been especially stout in the first half, giving up just 23 points since week one. The most impressive thing about the Hornets is their discipline. They are rarely caught out of position, and almost never get fooled.
This may be the closest out of any game Saturday. Both teams don't have any glaring weaknesses, and both have the ability to dominate on either side of the ball. The team that has the ball last will prevail.
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