Hoover vs. Green in a Quarterback Conundrum: OHSAA Playoffs Round 2
Playmakers and Plot Twists for Green and Hoover
Tonight (11/3), Hoover returns to Green Memorial Stadium; just three weeks since they last took on the Bulldogs. This time, they come reloaded with their weapons. After missing their Week nine game due to a hamstring injury, senior Hoover starting QB Carson Dyrlund has returned to play the last two games, the latest of which was a victory against the No. 6 seed Columbus DeSales. Realistically, the decision of who starts at QB for Green—the returning Manson or emerging Hunka—will stay under wraps until gametime.
Here’s what you need to know before the Federal League rematch.
Carson's Comeback Boosts Hoover Morale
Hoover starting quarterback Carson Dyrlund missed the Week 9 game against Green due to a hamstring injury. However, having the 6’1”, 195-pound senior back has its advantages. Dyrlund has passed for 1,657 yards, 16 TDs and six interceptions this season. He's also rushed for 297 yards and another six TDs. His presence on the field provides a sense of calm and experience that the team can rely on during crucial moments of the game.
For Hoover, getting Dyrlund back also frees up junior Zach Braucher to return to his original position as a wide receiver and cornerback. Braucher played quarterback in Dyrlund's absence against Green, which left a hole on both sides of the ball. Braucher has caught 54 passes for 765 yards and seven touchdowns this season, making him a vital part of the Vikings' offense. He joins senior Mason Ashby to form a dangerous receiving duo that can quickly turn the tide of a game. Braucher also has a team-high four interceptions, including three in the last two weeks.
Hoover’s Cole Rembielak, the junior, racked up ten tackles-for-loss in the regular season; and their defensive line just gets better every week. Junior lineman Bryce Roach lead the Vikings in sacks during the regular season (seven), and Hoover’s Drew Ziarko had six. Hoover’s defense looks good on paper, but how will they shape up tonight?
With their full complement of weapons, including senior running back Kyler Miraglia, the Vikings are stronger than the last time they faced Green. Having Dyrlund and Braucher back in their respective positions should provide a significant boost to the team's morale and confidence.
Offensive Resurgence for Green After Injury Returns
Injuries have forced both Green and Hoover to make changes in their quarterback positions. While sophomore Tyson Hunka has been starting at the QB position for Green for the past six games, senior Samino Manson returned to play for the first time in weeks in Green's recent win against Columbus St. Charles. Manson had been out due to a collarbone injury in Week 5. Green head coach Mark Geis is yet to reveal who will start this week, but he’s praised Manson's form and ability. He also mentioned that he is not against playing both quarterbacks if that's what's best for the team.
Manson, who was cleared by doctors last week has completed 63.7% of his passes for 1,096 yards, 11 touchdowns, and five interceptions.
Hunka has completed 62.2% of his passes for 572 yards, 11 TDs, and three interceptions.
Green's injury situation has improved as it also welcomed back Jarrett Taylor, a 6’5” senior receiver, who got some game reps against St. Charles. Senior Zach Baglia and versatile junior Antonio Martin will certainly flourish off of the lightened tension from another solid receiver; Baglia has been outstanding, with 58 receptions for 735 yards and 11 touchdowns. Martin contributed nine touchdowns through rushing and receiving in the regular season. Against Lake, senior RB Jorden "Beyldozer" Beyl delivered a remarkable performance, scoring two touchdowns and achieving 125 rushing yards on 30 carries.
Green's multiple QB options add a layer of complexity for opposing defenses to prepare for, but Hoover has mentioned in various interviews that they’re prepared for either outcome.
An aspect I’ve yet to mention this postseason is Green’s field goal unit. The middle child of football, Green’s special teams has been exceptional. This week, Ben Casper will be coming back from a recurring injury to be the new long snapper for the Bulldogs. Green has fielded four different varsity kickers this year.