High school football: Rams run past Titans in 34-0 romp

Total domination.

There really is no other way to describe Highland's 34-0 drubbing of Olympus in a Region 6 rout Wednesday night. The Rams dominated in yards gained, time of possession, first downs and, obviously, points.

"We came out strong and we played to the finish," said Highland fullback Toi Taufa.

That's putting it mildly.

The Rams built a 27-0 halftime lead after outgaining Olympus 311-46 in the first half. Those numbers are even a little skewed, as the Titans gained 28 yards on the final two plays of the second quarter. For the game, Highland had a 20-7 advantage in first downs and rushed for a whopping 296 yards.

Taufa led Highland's rushing attack with 142 yards on 15 carries. He got the blowout started with a 46-yard touchdown run in the first quarter.

"I've got to thank my O-line for that," Taufa said. "They were opening up big holes for me to get through to get yards. I love them."

The rest of the Highland team, coaches and fans felt the same way about the Rams' offensive line on Wednesday. Hea Tuifua, George Heimuli, Ono Tafisi, Peter Ferrin and Julio Hernandez controlled the trenches, opening huge openings for both Taufa and quarterback Mason Keller, who rushed for 126 yards on 18 carries.

"We've really picked up our intensity and attitude on the field, especially up front," said Highland coach Brody Benson. "The guys up front are really setting the tone. Right now, they're the heart and soul of this team."

The offensive line helped Keller play a complete game against the Titans. Keller made great reads in the option game to keep Olympus off balance, and he also threw two touchdown passes in the first half. Both went to receiver Nate Fakahafua.

"He did a great job," Benson said. "He's starting to read it really well. Having 3 (Taufa) in the backfield makes things a lot easier. Things started opening up for both of them. Teams have to prepare for them. When they put two on the quarterback or put two on the fullback, something is going to open up."

Highland's defense has steadily improved since the start of the 2009 season and had its best performance of the year against the Titans. Linebacker Alex Olsen, who dealt with a nagging hamstring injury earlier in the season, is back at full strength and was a sparkplug on Wednesday. Jonny Drage also contributed, recording a second-quarter interception.

The Rams' defense picked up where it left off after halftime, forcing three straight three-and-outs.

"The defense is really starting to gel and come together," Benson said. "They love to play physical."

Highland sophomore Hayes Hicken kicked field goals of 25 and 30 yards.

e-mail: aaragon@desnews.com