The Masconomet Regional football team suffering a defeat at the hands of arch rival North Andover on Thanksgiving morning is a real possibility. But if such a loss happens, it won't be due to the Chieftains falling into a trap.
Under normal circumstances, the Chieftains' matchup with the visiting Scarlet Knights could be filed under that tricky "trap game" category — the favored team (Masco) overlooking a club (North Andover) perceived to be made up of lesser talent because a bigger goal (league title and a playoff berth) awaits.
That won't happen when the Scarlet Knights invade Roberts Field on the holiday (10 a.m.) — mainly because there isn't a bigger game on the horizon.
The senior-laden Chieftains are facing their biggest Cape Ann League Large foe with a title and postseason berth at stake, and it's that senior group — led by captains George Alexandrou, Evan Bunker and Chris Splinter — that will make sure their squad isn't looking past North Andover.
"They've had a great career and they're not looking for it to end right now," Pugh said of his 12th graders. "We're looking to keep playing. Neither team will surprise one another; they know our offense and we know theirs. It's a question of stopping them."
North Andover has been a bit of a surprise in the CAL this season. The Scarlet Knights are traditionally a factor in the title chase, but a loss to Newburyport in their league opener left them in a hole. But they've pulled their way back into the race with three wins over Triton, Wilmington and Pentucket.
Now, all North Andover has to do is beat Masco to claim the crown.
"This is great for Thanksgiving high school football, and obviously makes it that much more interesting," North Andover coach John Rafferty said. "The kids have worked very hard to find themselves in this position."
Much like Splinter and Bunker are for the Chieftains, North Andover has a dangerous QB-RB duo in sophomore signal caller Brandon Walsh and senior running back Zac Iovanella.
"You always know they like to run the ball — but you've got to stop them," Pugh said. "The X-factor is Brandon Walsh. He started last year but he came down with mononucleosis before Thanksgiving and we did not see him play. We've seen him on tape and through scouting, and he's legit. He's got a great arm and great poise."
Splinter and Bunker have been stat and scoring machines for the Chieftains, but the defense has been outstanding behind linebackers Kurt Hunziker and Alexandrou and defensive end John Daniels. Braden Kowalski and Jake Lawrence have also been good in the secondary. Collin Burke has also emerged as a pass-catching option for Masco on the offensive side of the ball.
"This is where we want to be. That's what we've been telling the kids," Pugh said.
"We've played before where we had to win on Thanksgiving, but it wasn't North Andover that was going to go (to the playoffs) if we lost. Since I've been coaching this is the first time the winner (of this game) goes. That's exciting."
