The Atlantic Trojans moved one-step closer to clinching a postseason berth with a dominant 46-7 win over the Greene County Rams Friday night. It was a near perfect performance for Atlantic. Outside of a single turnover and a few penalties, there was very little to critique. The run game continued to make explosive plays while the defense was not only shut down but was able to force turnovers. In a game many thoughts would be competitive, the Trojans made a statement and are now a win away from a potential postseason berth.

For all the points the Trojan offense put up, the offense was a little slow to start. The saving grace was that the Atlantic defense was able to stop the Rams. Over the Rams’ first two possessions, the Trojans turned it over on downs and forced a three and out as the first quarter ended in a scoreless tie.

Although Atlantic fumbled on their second possession, the Trojans took it right back by forcing a fumble of their own. After the fumble recovery it took just four plays for Atlantic to open the scoring on an Ethan McNeal 13-yard touchdown run, and the Trojans never looked back.

By the time the clock hit zero Atlantic had put together their best performance of the season. They accumulated 453 rushing yards led by McNeal who finished with 256 yards and 4 touchdowns including one from 71 yards out. Zander Killion also continued to establish himself in the run game with a pair of touchdowns in addition to his 100+ yards. On defense, the Trojans held Greene County scoreless into well into the third quarter. Two of their three turnovers led to scores including Jake Wailes interception at the end of the first half. Even the special teams got involved as Donovan Hedrington ran back an onside kick recovery for a touchdown after Greene County’s lone touchdown. It was a complete effort as the Trojans seem to be hitting their stride at the right time. Head coach Joe Brummer was very pleased with the way his team executed, especially on defense.

In addition to the linebacker core, the secondary was very good, especially Hunter Nelson.

The win marks four in a row for the Trojans and during that stretch the offense, in particular the run, game seems to be hitting its stride at the right time.

The win also brings Atlantic to within one game of reaching the post season and will have a chance to clinch at home against rival Harlan next week.

The game next Friday will be the biggest game of the year for the Trojans. Kickoff is scheduled for 7 pm at the Trojan Bowl.