Rams Thunder-struck, Fall To Woodstock North, 25-0

"This was a classic trap game," said Central Football Coach Nick Goshe. "We told the kids all week. It was a short week, we were playing away, a good football team with nothing to lose, we’re riding high from a big win last weekend and our rival game next week. It’s a trap game."

The vaunted Rams defense could not stop the dual running threat of Adam Haimbaugh (12 rushes for 94 yards, 1 TD) and Ryan Wade (18 rushes for 84 yards, 2 TDs). The Thunder ran the ball down the Rams’ throat 37 times for 210 yards and 4 TDs.

While the Rams were flatter than a pancake with their intensity, all credit must be given to the Thunder. They dominated the Rams in every aspect of the game.

"We came out flat and we paid the price for it," said Goshe. "Woodstock North is a good team. Jeff (Schroeder) coaches them well, they execute and there is no doubt in my mind that they were the better team tonight."

Woodstock North is only in its third season of football and they have made huge strides in their football program. Coach Jeff Schroeder and his staff have taken a 2-7 team last year to a 5-2 record so far this year.

Joey Valdivia gained 96 yards on 18 carries (1 fumble) and Ray Beckman scrambled twice for 11 yards. Beckman had an off night passing with 3/10 for 24 yards, 0 TDs and 2 interceptions.

"To be honest, we had a lousy week of practice and we told the kids that," said Goshe. "They were drinking their own juice and it’s a wicked brew. We got outplayed in every facet of the game. We got what we deserved. Woodstock North runs good systems. Nothing here surprised my staff or me. Now we have to get back on the horse and get ready for rival week."

There is now a four-way tie for first place in the Fox Division between Grayslake Central, Grayslake North, Crystal Lake Central and Woodstock North. All four teams are 3-1 in conference.

Questions are now facing the Rams with two games left - against a much-improved Grayslake North this Friday and ending up with Valley Powerhouse Crystal Lake South.

• Will the Rams get up off the canvas like Muhammad Ali?
• Will they float like a butterfly and sting like a bee?
• Will they walk off the field victorious as they leave?
• Will they give their fans once more a reason to believe?

NEXT UP: The Rams (6-1, 3-1) will host town rival Grayslake North (4-3, 3-1) in The Battle For Grayslake on Oct. 14 at 7:15 p.m. This is going to be a big one. Come early because the stands will be packed! North is fighting for a first ever playoff spot and vying with the Rams for the Fox Division Conference Championship.