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Pentucket rushing game key to victory

Last season, Pentucket avenged its first Thanksgiving Day loss in seven years with a 28-0 win. Now, the Sachems hope to keep the new streak rolling when they host Triton.

After two seasons of Nate Bunnell dominating the stats, Pentucket (6-4) has returned to spreading out the carries in its run-heavy wing-T offense. Halfback Chris Modlish (101 carries, 797 yards, 13 touchdowns) is the home run threat while fullback Dan Johanson (105 carries, 624 yards, 7 touchdowns) has grinded out the tough yards. Both have battled injuries throughout the year.

After seeing few carries early on, running back Austin Perreault has rushed for 214 yards on 36 carries and scored three touchdowns in the last four weeks. Jordan Silva (431 passing yards) can make the key passes when needed.

Senior star Matt Fiore has shown outstanding versatility for the Sachems. The anchor of the offensive line at tackle, he has played tight end and fullback in the goal line “Peabody” formation. He also paces the defense, which notched four straight shutouts early in the year, while playing tackle and end. Silva also excels at safety along with Dylan Chase and C.J. Lataille.

The Vikings are much improved, sitting at 5-5 after going 1-10 in 2007. Sam Ferrara has passed for 594 yards and five touchdowns while rushing for six scores. Brendan O’Neil leads the rushing attack with over 500 yards and nine touchdowns.

Pentucket leads the overall and Thanksgiving Day series, 19-13-1.

Additional stories:

• Pentucket holds off gritty Vikings