By RYAN ARENA

L’Observateur

RESERVE – Fans could be in for some fireworks when Newman travels to Reserve to face Riverside in the regular season finale for both teams this Friday night.

The recent history between the two teams suggests nothing less. Last season was the latest example of a down-to-the-wire classic between the rivals. Newman held on for a 35-27 victory in which Riverside had a pair of chances to take the lead or tie late; RA stalled on the 20-yard line of Newman to end the game.

Then there’s just recent history, period. As in, 2010: the Rebels average 42.8 points per game while Newman averages 34.

The teams combined to score 92 points on Friday in convincing wins, Newman (7-2, 3-2) topping Fisher 49-21 and Riverside (7-2, 3-2) beating Lusher 43-21.

“It’s a good matchup, and we treat it like a playoff game,” said Riverside coach Mickey Roussel. “We feel like we’ll have a home game (in the playoffs) so that pressure is off. But playing at home, it’s a chance for us to see where we are. This district leaves us battle tested for the playoffs.”

The Rebels outgained Newman 462-292 in terms of total yardage last year. But turnovers did Riverside in: the Rebels had five giveaways, contributing to their late game deficit.

Turnovers may decide things again considering both teams bring a full war chest of weapons to the table. For Riverside, quarterback Darnell Rachal leads the way (four total touchdowns and 256 total yards against Lusher) along with Thomas Crouch (174 total yards and three scores on 22 touches) and Austin Vicknair (18-yard touchdown reception).

Newman brings an efficient offense captained by quarterback Ryan Brenner, who moves his team up and down the field behind a short passing attack.

“He’s not the biggest or most athletic guy, but he’s smart,” said Roussel. “They throw the football as well as anyone. They can run it when needed, but those short passes are kind of like runs, especially when you have a guy like (Odell) Beckham who can take a three yard pass and go 50 with it.”

Beckham is the Greenies’ top offensive weapon and one of the state’s top recruits, the son of former LSU standout Odell Beckham, Sr. He’s tallied almost 1,000 total yards and has accounted for 18 touchdowns as a receiver, return man, rusher and even passer.

“You have to know where he is. You’re not going to stop him,” said Roussel. “They’ve got more than just him. But we look to take away the big play. Make them go down the field and pay the price for their points.”