By Frank Vajcner
It’s now time to find a way (pun not intended) up to Chris Schultz’s alma mater. The Mighty Rams of Flat Rock are not only coming off of consecutive playoff seasons for the first time in school history, but also their first State Semifinal appearance since 1976. Will their schedule allow for the run to continue this season?
2024 Schedule:
Aug 29: Dundee
Sept 6: Grosse Ile
Sept 13: @ Airport
Sept 20: @ Jefferson
Sept 27: Riverview
Oct 4: Milan
Oct 11: @ SMCC
Oct 18: @ New Boston Huron
Oct 25: @ Livonia Clarenceville
Gut-Check Game: Without a shadow of a doubt, Buck Reaume should have Week 5 circled on the calendar. That is when Riverview comes to town, and the Rams will be looking to avenge a 36-34 defeat by the Pirates that knocked them from the top of the Huron League. This very well could be the game of the year in the Huron League. And don’t forget about a road trip to the friendly confines of Navarre Field in Week 7, as SMCC handed the Rams a 27-18 loss that ultimately knocked them out of contention for the Huron League crown. The Rams last defeated both teams in 2017.
Trap Game: A Week 4 road trip to Jefferson could be considered a look-ahead spot with Riverview the following week. Also, don’t overlook a Week 6 visit from Milan, which is sandwiched between Riverview and SMCC. It is also right before a tough three-game road stretch to end the season.
Snoozer: Nothing fits the criteria here.
Non-Conference Challenge: The Rams will open with Dundee at home and close with a trip to Livonia Clarenceville. The Vikings were 5-4 last season, and were defeated by the Rams 20-19. The Trojans were 4-4, but gave up a 60-burger to the Rams.
Facts and Fun: The Week 8 War for the Oar against Huron is becoming one to watch, as the last three meetings have been decided by a combined 10 points…Flat Rock also does not see any changes in terms of opposition from last season.
Thoughts from Frank: I definitely see Flat Rock jumping out to a 4-0 start (and no, there won’t be any turning over of a certain piece of currency needed as of now). The tell-tale stretch is Weeks 5-8, where if the Rams can get through and avenge at least two of those losses from last season, they will not only be in the catbird’s seat for the Huron League, but also a favorite for a deep postseason run.