While Bradly Matthews has spent the bulk of the past two seasons running through and around defenders, the Linganore High School senior running back has occasionally gotten banged up. During one game, it was his shoulder. During another, it was his ankle.

More Player of the Week • Player of the Week: DeMatha’s Tristan Sabb • Player of the Week: Churchill running back and linebacker Noah Zhang • Player of the Week: McDonough High’s Kosi Ukiwe dominates in Rams’ playoff win

Matthews, though, didn’t want to come out of a game or miss any playing time. Lancers coach Rick Conner, however, noticed that Matthews just wasn’t himself.

“What’s the one thing you haven’t done?” Conner said, somewhat rhetorically. “Win a state championship.”

The message was simple: Listen to your body and get

See Full Page