PARK RIDGE – The Park Ridge football team once again is a serious contender in North 1, Group 1.
And it is getting ready to play arguably its biggest game since 2008 on Saturday against Saddle Brook.
There are plenty of reasons for the Owls’ impressive 3-0 start, which includes their first victory in 18 years over longtime rival Hasbrouck Heights.
Experience. Maturity. A new, exciting, wide-open offense.
But the biggest reason all the little things suddenly are working in Park Ridge’s favor has to be senior quarterback Evan Matthews. He’s emerged as one of the top all-around signal callers in North Jersey, sparking one of the best program revival stories this season.
“He’s done everything and then some,” said Park Ridge coach Tom Curry Jr.
The 5-foot-11, 175-pounder has always had a good arm, but he’s begun to do more on the ground this season. He’s completed 43 of 62 passes for 809 yards and five touchdowns, while rushing for 226 and four touchdowns.
