Game preview: Bethany at John Marshall

Bethany (2-1) at John Marshall (2-1)
When: 7:30 p.m. Thursday
Where: Taft Stadium

Last week: Bethany routed Washington 37-0, the Bronchos’ second straight shutout. John Marshall edged Crooked Oak 15-6.

Why Bethany could win: Reagan Roof’s offense has typically been throw, throw, throw and run when you have to, but with Devin Campbell, Roof has let his talented running back go to work. The 5-foot-8 senior has 489 yards and eight touchdowns on 49 carries. And QB Ryley Claborn has thrown for 464 yards and five scores, giving the Bronchos a good amount of balance.

Why John Marshall could win: Defense has been the foundation of everything the Bears are built on, and that will keep them in most games. Denzelle Johnson anchors that defense at linebacker, with Dejon Brison up front and Alandis Bell on the back end. If they can hold up against Campbell and Claborn, the Bears will be in the game at the end.

Key matchup: Bethany’s Ryley Claborn vs. John Marshall secondary. Claborn is still a young QB, and the Bears are solid on the back end. If they can force Claborn into some bad throws or bad decisions, John Marshall could come away with some picks. If Claborn takes care of the ball, the Bronchos should be able to put some pressure on the John Marshall defense.

The pick: Bethany 21, John Marshall 18. The Bears should be able to keep it close with good defense, but the offense is still a work in progress with so many young players and new starters. Bethany’s experience and offensive weapons should give it enough of an edge to pull it out.

– Scott Wright, swright@opubco.com