GMC Football Game of Week Old Bridge at South Brunswick

The South Brunswick High School football team, like the opponent it will host in the Home News Tribune Game of the Week on Saturday at noon, features a multitude of offensive weapons.

While defending Greater Middlesex Conference Red Division champion and fourth-ranked Old Bridge (2-0) has spread the offensive wealth among 14 players, the third-ranked Vikings (2-0) have relied primarily on running back Dontae Strickland, a Syracuse commit, and quarterback Amir Johnson this season.

The duo has had a hand in 70 percent (64 of 92) of South Brunswick’s plays from scrimmage, accounting for a total of 691 yards.

“Those are pretty telling stats,” South Brunswick coach Joe Goerge said. “It would seem that was the game plan. I’d be stupid not to get the ball to Dontae and Amir.”

Goerge credits Johnson’s ability to make reads out of the triple option, along with outstanding blocking up front and downfield, with setting up Strickland for much of his offensive production.

Strickland has six of the team’s 11 touchdowns, while Johnson has scored four times.

“You’ve got to know where Strickland is on the field, and Johnson is very good as well,” Old Bridge coach Anthony Lanzafama said. “But they’ve got some other kids there on the offensive side. They put up a lot of points (82) in the first two games.”

“Our biggest focus is not giving up big plays,” added Lanzafama, whose team also runs the triple option but has shown an ability to throw out of that formation with greater frequency.

Quarterback Mike Gargano has completed 14 of 25 passes for 185 yards and three scores, while Johnson has 5 of 11 passes for 105 yards and no touchdowns (Strickland has completed an option pass for 46 yards).

“Their quarterback has a nice arm and throws the ball well,” Goerge said, noting the Vikings must be weary of play action. “That’s a dimension we have to certainly be aware of.”

Both teams must play assignment football. Being familiar with the triple option puts each team’s defense at an advantage.

“It helps them and it helps us when you are seeing it every day,” Goerge said. “Nobody is going to fool anyone here. Everybody pretty much knows exactly what’s going on. It’s a matter of executing, who is going to stay on their blocks and who is going to make reads.”

Nose tackle T.J. Townsend, lineman Tru Stell and middle linebacker Chidera Udeh have led Old Bridge’s defense, which has allowed just one touchdown this season.

Townsend has done a fine job fending off blocks to get to the ball carrier or spring Old Bridge’s linebackers to make plays. Stell has recovered two fumbles and Udeh is the team’s leading tackler.

Johnson and Strickland, both three-year starters and team captains, are also featured in South Brunswick’s secondary, which is regarded among the state’s finest. The Vikings have depth in the trenches with a rotation of quality linemen up front.

“Obviously Dontae is one of the best players I’ve ever coached,” said Goerge, noting that Johnson is a special player, as well. “His whole leadership, his confidence level and his work ethic are tremendous.

“We are looking for big things from big players in big games.”

Staff Writer Greg Tufaro: 732-565-7289; gtufaro@mycentraljersey.com