In a season defined by “not quite enough,” the Rockets fell hard to the Churchill Bulldogs in a 41-12 playoff loss in the first round. Another underwhelming start cost the Rockets, who never quite found their footing in the matchup, and extended their curse against Churchill. The Bulldogs pounced on RM’s mistakes and defended their home turf with ease. It was the Rockets’ second loss to Churchill this season and their fourth consecutive loss in two years.
“Last year losing to them as a player in football sucked, so this year as a fan seeing them end our football season again absolutely sucks because I know how hard the players work,” senior Jesse Boone said. “The games were such fun experiences that I will remember forever.”
RM finished the year with a 3-7 record, but their record should not define the season. With multiple games decided in the fourth quarter, the Rockets simply did not shine in the bright light of key moments. The inability to stop the run game was detrimental to the defense and the Rockets gave up numerous big run plays during the season. The defensive line had too few quarterback pressures and opposing quarterbacks sliced through them comfortably. It did not help that the Rockets had below-average tackling in the open field. With the senior class leaving, the new players need to be aware of these weaknesses because offenses will continue to target their line until modifications are made.
Changes on offense are also necessary with senior stars like quarterback Anthony Dixon Jr. and Teshaun “Tay” Ryals-Wilson graduating. For the Rockets faithful, jersey numbers 10 and 14 will carry high expectations for future players. Dixon was dominant this season and he was one of the best run-threat quarterbacks in the county. His arm was dexterous with receivers downfield. He was second overall in passing yards in MCPS this year with 2697 yards. He also entered the top 25 in all-time MCPS passing yards, an astounding accomplishment. Dixon and Tay combined for one of the most electrifying long-ball threats in the county. Indeed, defenses simply “could not guard” Tay.
“It’s extremely important how AJ can improvise in the pocket,” senior Devin Day said. “He gives us a big advantage in the offense as defenses have to respect his strong arm while also keeping in mind he can scramble for a big gain as well.”
Unfortunately, the loss of Dixon could pose real problems for the next year’s offense. His backup, senior Sam Caulfied, is also graduating. This makes the quarterback position, arguably one of the most important in football, a top concern for the Rockets next year. The coach will likely turn to a player who hasn’t played a varsity minute.
Similarly, replacing Tay won’t be easy, and the Rockets will need another skill position player to step up in clutch moments. Junior Khalil Wilson will likely receive the nod to take on a larger role. Every year seniors must be replaced by young talent, but it will be difficult to restore the 2024 senior class.
Overall, one word can describe the Rockets season: almost. Just a step behind, it seemed. Almost beating Seneca Valley in a shootout thriller, almost beating Northwest before giving in, almost beating Churchill on homecoming, and almost breaking a curse that reigns over this football program. While it could be beneficial for team morale to be optimistic about up-and-coming talent, there could be darker days ahead for Rocket football.
