Otters host U-32 in homecoming

There are some similarities between the Otter Valley Union High School and Union-32 High School football teams, even beyond their common blue-and-white uniform colors. The two teams enter this afternoon's (1 p.m.) contest at Markowski Field in Brandon tied at 1-1 on the season. Each team's loss occurred as a shutout against league defensive powerhouse. (The Otters were shut out by Lyndon Institute last week, and the Raiders were shut out by Rice Memorial two weeks back. Neither Lyndon nor Rice have surrendered a single point yet this season.). The Otters and Raiders both racked up 40-plus points in their victories over winless, defensively challenged squads (the Otters beat Springfield 48-6, and the Raiders beat North Country Union 40-30.

But there are important differences between the teams, as well. And those appear likely to determine this week's outcome. 

• Otter Valley's defense has been an asset. The Otters have allowed an average of only 11 points per game this year. U-32's defense has been absent. The Raiders have permitted 70 points on the young season, an average of 35 per game.
• Otter Valley's victory over the lowly Springfield Cosmos was never in doubt. The Otters were clearly the better team from the opening kickoff. U-32's win against North Country Union was more of a contest. In a seesaw battle, the Raiders needed to come from behind twice to seal the victory.
• Finally, the Otters are playing at home today and should be fired up on Homecoming Weekend. Coach Hill reportedly fanned the flames with his remarks to the team late in the week. The Otters enter the game feeling that they have something to prove, and the Raiders are standing in their way.