Eddie Houghton ’09 led Andover to a convincing 28-0 win against Loomis this Saturday. Houghton rushed for 125 yards on just 16 carries in his Andover debut. Houghton also cashed in three touchdowns, one of which being an electrifying 20-yard score. Houghton will be a cornerstone to Andover’s offense all season, as he will certainly receive a bulk of carries this season. Q: What is the main difference between Canadian football and American football? What has been your hardest adjustment? A: In Canada, the game is 12 on 12, and the extra player is usually either used for an extra receiver for a passing play or an extra back or tight end for a running play. The game speed is a lot quicker here. Everyone is much more talented and overall the practices are much more competitive and serious. Q: How did your brother Charlie Houghton ’06 influence your decision to PG at Andover? A: Charlie was in the exact same situation as I’m currently facing, in terms of playing football at American universities. I’ve gotten some looks, but Charlie always advised me that I would get much more exposure to the top colleges that I want to attend, the schools that stress academics first and sports second Q: How do you and Sam Auffant ’09 compliment each other in the rushing game? A: Auffant is a slammer back with a lot of speed. I’m more of a balanced back with speed and power. We definitely keep the defense in check, as both of us are definitely capable of breaking off a big play. Q: What do you think about right before you take a handoff? A: I just try to keep my eyes open and read the defense. I try to see my blocks, read the linebackers, and pick up the defense’s blitzes. I try to process all of this before the ball is snapped, so I know exactly what holes to hit. Q: Who is your favorite NFL player? Do you try to emulate your game after this person? A: Marion Barber of the Dallas Cowboys. I really like how aggressive he is and how he brings the hit to the defenders instead of waiting for the hit to come from the tackler. His unprecedented aggressiveness is definitely why he’s known as Marion the Barbarian. Q: Do you have any superstitions before your games? A: Nothing too peculiar. I listen to Public Enemy before games, but in general I just try to get a good night’s sleep before the game.
