Dover, even aided by an intimidating onset of heavy rain, proved to be no match for the twice consecutive state champion Madison Dodgers. The Dodgers never disappoint their home fans, although those who drove thirty minutes from Dover might have been frustrated by the smashing 36-6 loss. Justin Goodwin appeared to have lost no momentum during the off-season, rushing for nearly three hundred yards on only sixteen carries, and scoring three rushing touchdowns. Quarterback Carson Lassiter also delivered an impressive performance, first when he connected with Joey Geyer for a nineteen yard touchdown pass and again when he carried the ball home himself.

A day before they played, the Dodgers held high expectations for the competition. Michael Ubertaccio, starting offensive tackle mentioned by Coach Kubik as a rising star, claimed that the Madison linemen had a simple mission: to play “fast and physical and dominate the line of scrimmage.” Will “Wilmo” Mottola, notorious lineman returning this year to play both sides of the ball, anticipated both a “good test” and a “real challenge” from Dover. Whether these expectations were met is for the players and coaches to decide.

Head coach Chris Kubik is optimistic as he looks forward to the remainder of the season. He advises fans to look out for new faces, including juniors Jaywon Brown and Michael Ubertaccio in addition to seniors Matt Fastiggi, Jarred Parrett, Layton Lassiter, and Brett Spelker. Kubik congratulates these players as “having done very well for us,” and wants everyone to know that they are “doing great.” With new roles successfully filled, an outstanding opening performance, and a return of familiar stars, the entire Madison fanbase can look forward to next week’s game away against Parsippany.