Christian's Cerebrations

My opinion of who the best football team in the Thumb usually changes week to week, but one thing has remained consistent, neither Ubly nor Brown City has been at the top of my list. Both teams are the only undefeated teams left in the the Thumb, so how can they not be at the top. Let me make my case.

Let me start with Brown City. The Green Devils are on a roll this season averaging the most points (235-47.0 avg) in the Thumb and allowing the fewest points (24-4.8 avg). Outscoring opponets by an average of 42.2 points per game and a 5-0 record , they should easily have a #1 ranking in the Thumb. Here is where I begin to question Brown City. They probably have the worst strength of schedule through five weeks. The Green Devils have played three winless teams, with the other two victories coming against Class D teams (Peck and Deckerville). Peck and Deckerville have a combined four victories. Brown City's opponets have a 4-21 record. They have not been tested yet, and until they are and come out with a victory will they start to creep up to my #1 ranking.

Here come the Bearcats of Ubly, the 2008 Division 7 runner-up. Fresh off their 19th consecutive regular season victory, Ubly has the 2nd best offense (219 points-43.8 avg) and 5th best defense (82 points-16.4 avg) in the Thumb. With history on their side it looks like the Bearcats have a legimate argument to be the top team in the Thumb. Looking at their schedule a little closer, I see a lot of Brown City. Ubly's opponet record to date is 6-19, including playing three winless team (USA, Mayville, Harbor Beach). Ubly is a little more deserving of a high ranking with wins over 3-2 Marlette and 3-2 Sandusky, but their first real test should come tonight versus Class B Vassar. If they get by the Vulcans, they they may very well be the best team in the Thumb. Also, look to the big Wee 7 showdown with Brown City as test #2.

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