This column has become an annual tradition for me as much as my family diving into the Thanksgiving feast while I’m still writing at Lafayette.

This year, however, is the first time I’ve needed to justify a victory for the reigning District 11 Class 6A champion.

It’s, admittedly, easier.

Easton should win this week because it’s triumphed in 13 of the previous 14 weeks.

But perhaps it’s not that simple.

In 2010, the last time the Red Rovers won a district title, they entered their rivalry contest against Phillipsburg with an unblemished record. The Stateliners prevailed 3-0 in overtime. Easton lost to La Salle College the next week …

Hmm.

That’s historical context to underscore the fact that the Rovers (13-1) should take nothing for granted when they meet the Stateliners (10-2) for

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