Scouting Fenton at Riverside-Brookfield

Metro Suburban Conference

Fenton (4-2, 3-0) at Riverside-Brookfield (3-3, 2-1)

Game time: 7 p.m. today.

Last week Fenton 21, Elmwood Park 6; Riverside-Brookfield 15, Ridgewood 3.

Week 4 Fenton 33, Riverside-Brookfield 22.

Outlook: The Bison executed a terrific game plan in the first meeting, starting with a running game that churned out 288 yards. By controlling the ball for about 35 minutes, Fenton managed to keep Riverside-Brookfield's pass-happy offense off the field. Bulldogs quarterback Billy VandeMerkt has thrown for more than 7,000 career yards, much of it going to receiver Mark McDonagh, who set a state record by grabbing 25 catches in Week 5 against Elmwood Park. The Bulldogs run some funky sets with only three linemen protecting VandeMerkt and the other two split out to block for receivers on screens. Fenton defended well in the first meeting, relying on a bevy of linebackers, led by Nico Watt, and defensive backs like Allen Geneva. The Bulldogs' offensive sets play to Fenton's advantage because the Bison don't have to play as many linemen both ways. That helps keep players like Richie Rebmann and Mike Wojcik fresh on offense. The running tandem of Tyrell McGee and quarterback Eric Justiniano has combined for more than 900 yards and 10 touchdowns for Fenton, winners of four straight.

Next Ridgewood at Fenton; Elmwood Park at Riverside-Brookfield.