Walpole Rebel Football continued its winning ways as they defeated the Needham Rockets 20-7 at Memorial Field in Needham on September 18.  The much larger Rockets could have been trouble for the Walpole offensive and defensive lines, but the undersized Rebels controlled both lines through their speed. 

Senior Nick Campobasso and Junior David White had standout games as they each recorded two sacks. “Needham´s offensive line was huge, but Whitey and I were a lot faster than their big guys. Our speed was the reason we were able to consistently get in the backfield and make plays,¨ said Campobasso.

Another key part of the Rebels defense this year has been their ability to stop the run. The Rebels held both Needham and Marblehead to well under 50 yards rushing in both games. Outstanding play from the defensive line as well as the standout tackling from senior linebackers Curran, O´Leary, and Salvant have been to thank for the team’s success in stopping the run.

¨The D-line has been getting a good push up front for us, and Mike, Lovey, and I have been there to make the plays,” said O´Leary.

The Rebel´s offense clicked much better this week than they did against Marblehead, as they were able to punch in two red-zone scores which they struggled with last week. The offense was highlighted by an aerial attack led by the expert passing of senior Tyler Berkland. Berkland connected with senior receivers Caskie, Loftis, and Porack numerous times as the offense marched downfield on the Rocket’s defense. The offense’s success was highlighted by a deep touchdown pass hauled in by Nate Porack in the back of the endzone.

With both sides of the ball clicking, the Rebels roll into week three tonight against the Milton Wildcats on the road. The Rebel´s secondary will have its chance to shine this week going up against a Milton team that loves to air-out the ball over thirty times a game.