Berks Sports Report Paul Roberts
Football fans in Birdsboro have gone through some rough times. The Blazers managed just three wins combined over the past three years. They were outscored 463-110 a season ago. Daniel Boone is looking to turn things around this fall. “We’re putting everything out here on the field day and night,” said Mason Ruffner. After spending the past four years at Fleetwood, Steve Pangburn has taken over as the Blazers’ head coach. “Coach P has done an awesome job. New morale, he’s raised everything,” replied Ruffner.
Daniel Boone rolled over Lebanon 55-0 last week. The Blazers handed the Cedars their 53rd consecutive loss. Ruffner ran for 180 yards and four touchdowns. What’s really amazing is that he only needed six carries to put up those numbers. “I gotta give it all to my line. They played a big part in blocking for me and getting me down the field,” noted Ruffner. That offensive line is comprised of four juniors and 290-pound sophomore Dylan Beto. Beto and Jabrae Pratt (6’2, 285) are the tackles with Colt Saudarg (5’11, 270) at center. Chace Jardin and Timmy Kretzman are the guards. They’re joined by senior Tiegan Rickard, a key blocker at tight end. Daniel Boone finished with 397 yards against Lebanon, including 345 on the ground.
Ruffner certainly isn’t the biggest running back in the Lancaster-Lebanon League. The 5’6, 155-pound junior gave some advice to younger players who may be undersized. “Don’t ever stop the grind and don’t get down on yourself. You always gotta keep pushing yourself to be better,” emphasized Ruffner. Quarterback Dominic Stoudt can also carry the rock for the Blazers. The 5’10, 190-pound senior ended up with 89 yards and 2 TD on 11 carries. Stoudt was 2-of-4 for 17 yards through the air in Week 1. Jardin, a 195-pound DE, led the defense with six tackles. “He laid the hammer last game. He was running through everybody like a train,” said Ruffner.
Daniel Boone hosts Pottstown this Thursday at 7pm. The Trojans hammered Harriton 53-0 last week. Harriton has decided to suspend its season due to low participation and player safety concerns. Ruffner is optimistic about getting to (2-0). “I think we have a good chance of having another successful game. We gotta have more good blocks,” he stated.