For the first time in eleven years, the Rams football team has advanced into postseason play, following a decisive playoff clinching 43-14 win against the Blake Bengals Nov. 9.

This blowout win was mainly due to the Rams’ much improved running game. The Rams’ offensive line overpowered the Bengals’ defense, allowing for the Rams to attain 342 yards rushing on 45 carries. Running back duo Tarik Paul and junior Malcolm Robinson led the way for the Rams’ offense, which has amassed a total of 83 points over the last two games.

With a 5-4 record, the Rams have achieved the fourth seed in the Maryland 2A West region, just ahead of the Northwood Gladiators who finished 5-5. The Gladiators’ loss to the Kennedy Cavaliers Nov. 9 promoted the Rams to the final playoff spot in the region. The Rams’ first round playoff game is against the first seeded Clarksburg Coyotes, who are undefeated on the season. Earlier in the year, however, the Rams provided the Coyotes with a scare, as the Rams lost only by a three point deficit, 18-15. This first round match up will be played this Friday, Nov. 16 at Clarksburg High School.

In the other 2A West semifinal pairing, the third seeded Middletown Knights of Frederick County are pitted against the second seeded Liberty Lions of Carroll County. The winners of the semifinals will then play each other in the region final Nov. 23.

While the Rams are the underdogs of this regional bracket, they are looking to take advantage of their first playoff appearance since 1996. Last season, the Rams finished just short of playoff contention despite a 7-3 season, the team’s first winning season since that 1996 season.