In one of the most intriguing games of the area round, the Smithson Valley Rangers will look to upset Westlake.
Westlake has gone through all 11 weeks of the season without a loss. Some are picking the Chaparrals as the state champions. But if the Rangers have anything to say about it, they’ll be the ones hoisting the trophy.
On its way to a district title, Smithson Valley took wins against Judson, Steele and others in the playoffs. Its one loss, a 16-10 heartbreaker against Clemens midway through the district race.
Other than that game, the Rangers have been in command. Winning games by an average score of 35-13, the defense is rolling on all cylinders. In the last two games, the unit has allowed a total of 16 points, its latest against Jay. The Mustangs were averaging nearly 33 points a game heading into the contest and came away with nine.
The Chaparrals are much better than the Mustangs, though. As both teams have their eyes set on the championship, they’ll have to first make it out of Friday.
Austin Westlake is averaging 47.54 points a game and has put up more than 50 in each of its last four games. Its scary offense has 68 touchdowns on the year, 32 of which come from quarterback Taylor Anderson.
The junior gunslinger has 2,012 passing yards, 789 rushing yards and 23 passing touchdowns. His impressive year would not be possible without sophomore receiver Mason Mangum (513 yards) and senior Jake Ramos (576 yards). Each of the two pass-catchers have more than 30 receptions on the year and 15 touchdowns between the two.
If Smithson Valley stops the pass, it’ll also have to worry bout the rush. Chaparral running back Nakia Watson has put up a total of 1,394 yards and 20 touchdowns himself this year. Holes open for him thanks to the running of Anderson. The two, along with nine other Chaparrals who have run this season, have gathered a total of 2,814 rushing yards on the year.
You don’t get to undefeated without having some sort of defense, though. Westlake has more than a few guys out there, as they’ve sacked opposing quarterbacks 34 times this year. Defensive linemen David Neal (11) and Braden Cassity (10) have put up a total of 21 of those sacks. Although the Rangers have a stellar offensive line, these two will account for a headache or two the following morning, regardless of final score.
Should the Smithson Valley Rangers find a way to keep their quarterback clean, defensive back Matthew Sams will be looking to keep receivers at bay. The 5-foot-9 senior has a team leading three interceptions and six pass deflections on the year.
Smithson Valley, though the underdog, should not be counted out. This team has the talent and ability to upset the Chaparrals. To do so, they’ll have to pressure Anderson and keep the offense off the field, limiting ‘home run’ plays.
Kickoff is at 1 p.m. Friday.
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