Spring Lake Park Looks To Upset The Andover Huskies

In back-to-back seasons the Spring Lake Park Panthers have had a promising regular season only to be devastated in game two of sections, losing close games both times. This year, they hope for a different outcome, filled with frustration and dedication from the previous seasons. With an almost fresh lineup, new players get to show their talent and help lead the Panthers to a strong playoff run. After starting the season 2-2 the Panthers find themselves traveling to Andover on homecoming night to take on the 3-1 Huskies.

The offense, led by quarterback Tyler Wilkinson and running backs Matthew Buren and Lamari Brown, have had an explosive run game, combining for 760 yards in just 4 games. The Panthers have never been a pass heavy offense, focusing mainly on their rush game. This year, 90% of plays have been rushing plays. Against an opponent who has allowed over 1,300 rushing yards this early into the season, the offense wants to use their strong rushing ability to tear through the Huskies defense.

Taking a look at the other side of the ball, the defense, led by linebackers Josh Lach and Teddy Wackman, have held their opponents to low scores, allowing an average of just 16.75 points per game.

However, they will be tested in this game as quarterback Hudson Maynard has been connecting with wide receiver Cameron Begalle, burning their opponents’ defense. Pass defense has been a struggle of the Panthers, but they hope they can turn that around and shut down the Huskies air game.

After a close game against the Rogers Royals, running back Matthew Buren said:

“It’s going to be a tough game, similar to tonight. Andover is a tough opponent so it's going to be a good battle. As we know they are a pass heavy team, so making sure that the pass defense is figured out and knowing their job, is going to be really important for holding them to a low score. Luckily the defense has been playing great so we just hope they can continue that and allow our offense to be on the field more. Speaking of offense, putting up points has been a big struggle of ours, against a team like Andover 14 points just won’t cut it. Turnovers have been a problem of ours, 11 turnovers in just 4 games is not making us happy, so limiting those mistakes and having a clean game offensively is going to allow us to put more points up on the board. Overall the defense really needs to have a strong game, I have trust that our offense can produce points.”

It is clear that the defense really needs to play strong in this game if they want to win.

As anticipation builds up for this Friday's game, the Panthers continue to work, in hopes that they will upset a strong Andover team and be the homecoming crashers.