Brother Rice takes to air with Rozell, Mueller
By Patrick Z. McGavin For Sun-Times Media November 22, 2012 10:30PM
Brother Rice has a new regime and a new style of football. Without the devastating two-back attack of Martez Walker and Andrew Walker, the Crusaders are using a vertical passing attack.
“I think we are a more balanced team than last year, and we are better able to attack and make the big play,” junior receiver Chris Rozell said.
Rozell and junior Luke Mueller form a dominant duo for Crusaders quarterback Matt Page and first-year coach Brian Badke, who replaced longtime coach Steve Nye.
Page threw for 273 yards as the Crusaders stormed back from a 16-point deficit to beat rival St. Rita 34-30 to advance to the Prep Bowl against Public League power Simeon at 11 a.m. Friday at Soldier Field.
At 6-foot-2, Mueller is a rugged and physical receiver with good hands. He has six touchdown catches, and he scored on a 2-yard run against St. Rita. He is a converted offensive guard.
“It was a bit tough at first making the adjustment to playing varsity receiver, but I think I am good at making catches,” Mueller said.
“Matt Page has a really strong arm, and he’s good at just throwing it up there. Chris is one of our fastest players, and he is able to outrun most defensive backs.”
The two receivers complement each other’s game, a thunder-and-lightning approach that makes for a difficult matchup. Rozell is the team’s speed demon. He has four touchdown catches and a kickoff return for a touchdown.
