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This week the Blue Devils will take on the Richland Rams hosting a record of 6-1. This is the second round of the District 6  2A playoffs. 

The Blue Devils come into this game off a close win over Bald Eagle Area in the first round of playoffs. Richland is coming off an absolute blowout over Central Cambria. Bellwood has an advantage of being at home because Richland has not played on a real grass field yet this season.

Undefeated at 7-0, Bellwood-Antis is the No. 1 seed in the District, with Richland close behind at No. 2.

For Richland, starting in week 3 their offense has been absolutely deadly, scoring over 40 points a game. Richland is the most balanced and explosive offense that Bellwood has faced rushing for 259 yards per game and 160 yards passing. Bellwood’s best attack on offense is the run game averaging 314 yards led by senior running back Zach Mallon(140.7 p/g) but Richland has only given up 90 yards per game on the season. Zach Pellegrine looks to have another standout game with his second start in playoffs for his career.

Richland is by far going to be the toughest opponent Bellwood has faced yet. 

The BluePrint had the opportunity to speak with Coach Lovrich about the game this coming Friday.

The BluePrint: How do you plan to attack Richland’s run defense?

Coach Lovrich: We plan to do the same thing we have been doing all year, we have a very athletic backfield and we have the line that can move people. The matchup is very similar.

The BluePrint: Do you plan to open up the passing game at all?

Coach Lovrich: In order to win any playoff game you have to be able to pass the ball at a high level. We have been practicing this all year and we plan to get a passing game going. 

The BluePrint: How do you attack a balanced team that can run the ball and pass it?

Coach Lovrich:  Everyone has to make sure they are doing their jobs. The line has to get pressure and get in the backfield and linebackers have to fill holes and flow to the football. The secondary has to play tough defense and keep doing what we have been doing all year.

This is going to be a tough one for the Blue Devils but as you can see Coach Lovrich believes that with the right game plan the boys can get a win.