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Game of the Week: Middleton at Hillsborough

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The Tampa Tribune

Published: September 21, 2007

Kickoff: 7:30 p.m., Chelo Huerta Field, Tampa

WHAT MIDDLETON MUST DO TO WIN:

HOLD ON TO THE BALL: Middleton has had problems holding on to the ball in its last two games. Hillsborough's defense has recorded consecutive shutouts against two of the better offensive teams in Hillsborough County, and because the Terriers defense swarms to the ball, if the ball gets loose, they'll probably recover it.

CONTAIN LAMAR AND WYCHE: It'll be a long night for Middleton if Hillsborough can execute its running game with Lindsey Lamar and Iziah Wyche. Chamberlain did a good job of containing the run last week and forced Hillsborough to attack through the air. Although sophomore quarterback Tarean Austin threw his first two touchdown passes of the season, he still finished the game 4-for-12 with an interception.

DOUBLE TEAM MCCRAY: No one should know more about former Middleton lineman Moses McCray than Middleton's offensive line. Because they know what the 6-foot-3, 285-pound standout can do, they know McCray will have to be double-teamed at all times.

WHAT HILLSBOROUGH MUST DO TO WIN:

PLAY SOLID DEFENSE: Hillsborough defensive coordinator Dean Eychner said the players are executing everything they've learned in practice, something the squad lacked in some areas last year. The Terriers defense is the main reason the team is undefeated, and the squad will have to put on another stellar performance against Middleton.

KEEP AN EYE ON NO. 1: Senior receiver Jeremy Blount has emerged as a playmaker for the Tigers. His speed and agility make him a dangerous weapon on offense and special teams. Avoid kicking his way and play him close on defense to avoid giving up a deep pass.

CONTAIN PRESLEY: Middleton senior quarterback De'Andre Presley has proven he can beat teams with his arm as well as his legs. If the pass isn't there, expect Presley to take off running for the first down.

THE X-FACTOR: Keep your eye on the prize. This may be September, but this is a district game that can determine which of these teams makes it to the playoffs. In a district that includes Armwood, Tampa Bay Tech and Freedom, every game is a must-win.

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