Millville and Atlantic City are in the unusual position of having played last Friday, with Millville winning 26-7.
Atlantic City led 6-0 but could not build on that lead. The Vikings forced early turnovers but could not turn Millville's miscues into points. The Thunderbolts controlled the game with speed. Alquann Jones used his quickness to get to the outside. He rushed for 148 yards. Quarterback and defensive back Shaq Lee threw a touchdown pass and made a key interception.
"We're approaching the game as if we're going to see a very hungry Atlantic City football team," Millville coach Jason Durham said. "We're going to have to play better."
This is Millville's first playoff appearance since 1998. Atlantic City finished 1-9 last season. The Vikings started 6-0 this year but have dropped two straight. Millville averages 26.9 points - third best in the CAL. Atlantic City allows an average of 12.8 points per game - fourth lowest in the CAL.
Key players for Millville: Alquann Jones, RB, 96 carries for 643 yards; Tyson Still, RB, 59 carries for 410 yards; Shaq Lee, QB, 57-of-96 for 820 yards and nine touchdowns; Le'Roy Bell, WR, nine catches for 218 yards and four touchdowns; Darren Moore, RB/LB.
Key players for Atlantic City: Ben Allen, TE/LB; Radi Tolbert, RB, 54 carries for 370 yards; Jamal Anderson, QB, 50-of-135 for 880 yards and six touchdowns; Ismail Naji, WR, 21 catches for 357 yards and three touchdowns.
Keys to victory: Millville used its speed to beat Atlantic City. The Thunderbolts must do the same again. Atlantic City has to figure out a way to slow Millville down. The Vikings must also run effectively between the tackles and take advantage of early scoring opportunities.
GAME DETAILS
Who: Sixth-seeded Millville (5-3) vs. third-seeded Atlantic City (6-2)
What: South Jersey Group IV quarterfinal
When/where: 7 p.m. today at Atlantic City
Admission: $3 adults, $2 for seniors and students
Radio: 97.3 FM
What's next: Winner advances to the semifinals next weekend against the winner of tonight's quarterfinal between second-seeded Williamstown and seventh-seeded Oakcrest.
