New Berlin/Franklin/Waverly is 1-7 against Athens since October of 2016 but they'll have a chance to close the gap a little bit on Friday. The Vipers will be playing at home against the Warriors at 7:00 p.m. New Berlin/Franklin/Waverly has given up an average of 25.6 points per game this season, but Friday's game will give them a chance to turn things around.
New Berlin/Franklin/Waverly is coming in off a wild two-game stretch: after soaring to 48 points last Friday, they were much more limited against Williamsville on Friday. They were dealt a 53-7 defeat at the hands of the Bullets. The Vipers were in a tough position after the first half, with the score already sitting at 32-7.
New Berlin/Franklin/Waverly's loss came about despite a quality game from Conner Stinson, who rushed for 80 yards and one TD. Stinson really tore up the turf during one magnificent 80-yard run.
Meanwhile, Athens was within striking distance but couldn't close the gap on Friday as they fell 22-18 to PORTA/Ashland-Chandlerville Central/Greenview.
New Berlin/Franklin/Waverly will have to contain Gage Honn as he made an impact in Athens' last game. He rushed for 168 yards and a pair of scores while picking up 7.3 yards per carry.
Even if they lost, Athens' defense still kept up the pressure with three sacks. In that department, Logan Schou was the leader with two.
Athens' defeat dropped their record down to 4-3. As for New Berlin/Franklin/Waverly, their loss dropped their record down to an identical 4-3.
Friday's game might be decided on the ground. New Berlin/Franklin/Waverly has been excellent on the ground this season, having averaged 178.6 rushing yards per game. However, it's not like Athens struggles in that department as they've been averaging an even more impressive 285.3 rushing yards. There's a good chance Friday's contest turns into a tough fight on the ground.
Everything came up roses for New Berlin/Franklin/Waverly against Athens when the teams last played back in October of 2024, as the squad secured a 34-7 victory. Do the Vipers have another victory up their sleeve, or will the Warriors turn the tables on them? We'll have the answer soon enough.
