In a commanding Week 13 regular-season performance, the Berlin Thunder took control early and never looked back, dispatching the Voodoo 22-3 on the road. Head Coach Carl Cottle’s game plan was a tactical blueprint of disciplined execution, leveraging a ground-and-pound approach combined with stifling defensive pressure that kept Voodoo’s offense reeling throughout the contest.

From the outset, the Thunder established field position and momentum through controlled special teams and defensive stands. Michael Barrett’s trio of field goals (from 49, 53, and 24 yards) in the first half set a steady scoring pace for the offense, underscoring the Thunder’s ability to consistently advance into scoring range even without reaching the end zone early on. The Voodoo’s kicker, Jimmy Brien, managed just one successful 51-yard field goal amid missed opportunities, highlighting their inability to capitalize in the red zone.

Cottle’s commitment to a run-heavy offensive scheme became clear with a dominant 53-carry, 208-yard performance by RB James Jimenez, who was crucial both in rushing and receiving. Jimenez’s one-yard touchdown run early in the fourth quarter was a defining moment, punctuating the Thunder’s physical control of the trenches and ending any hopes of a Voodoo comeback. The Thunder’s offensive balance was further reflected in the efficient aerial attack; QB Micheal Deangelo completed 14 of 17 passes for 111 yards and a touchdown, with WR Joseph Knupp showcasing excellent route running and yards after catch, culminating in a critical 4-yard touchdown reception at the goal line in the second quarter.

Defensively, the Thunder were relentless, registering six sacks and forcing a key fumble in the second quarter that shifted momentum decisively. Defensive tackles Ronald Merchant and Arthur Gioia combined for four sacks, a testament to the Thunder’s ability to exploit mismatches in the Voodoo offensive line and apply consistent pressure on QB Gilbert Pappalardo. Merchant’s forced fumble and subsequent recovery by the defense in Voodoo territory bolstered the Thunder’s field position and led directly to scoring opportunities.

The Voodoo offense struggled to gain any traction against Cottle’s aggressive front seven. Their 27 passing attempts yielded only 106 yards, with Pappalardo missing downfield opportunities and frequently forced into hurried decisions. The Voodoo defense, while forcing one forced fumble themselves, could not contain Jimenez’s powerful running or prevent critical third-down stops.

Special teams also played a pivotal role in the game’s tactical flow. The Thunder’s punter, Ralph Judd, consistently pinned the Voodoo inside their own 30-yard line, limiting their offensive chances and maintaining territorial advantage. The Voodoo's punting was less effective, and despite their efforts, the fair catches by the Thunder returners neutralized any explosive returns.

Berlin’s flawless discipline was further reflected in their clean game; zero penalties and perfect kicking execution from Barrett reinforced a well-rehearsed, mistake-free approach. Conversely, the Voodoo incurred penalties and missed field goals that stalled their drives and compounded their frustrations.

Looking ahead, this win solidifies the Thunder's lead in the division at 10-3, reinforcing Coach Cottle’s status as the architect of a methodically sound and physically dominant unit. Voodoo, meanwhile, falls to 6-7, facing tough questions on how to generate offense against top-tier defensive coordinators.

Overall, the Thunder’s combination of a power running game, timely passing, and aggressive defense showcased a mature, well-coached team executing a detailed tactical plan. Cottle’s scheme effectively neutralized Voodoo’s playmakers and maintained field position control—a textbook example of complementary football driving a decisive road win.