Sometimes three weeks into a season teams begin to show certain trends. For Holbrook’s Roadrunners, the one trend they need to improve on is their second half scoring. Through their three games the Birds have scored just one touchdown in the second half even though they have a 2-1 record.
When they host Monument Valley tonight (Sept. 18), they may need to put some second half points on the board in order to secure their third win of the campaign. The Mustangs are unbeaten in three games, scoring an average of 32 points in wins over Window Rock Page and Ganado. Those aren’t traditionally state tournament tested teams, but still five touchdowns per game is something to take note of.
Holbrook struggled offensively last week in a 12-0 win over Chino Valley, but its defense has been stellar in two of those three wins. Tonight’s game could come down to which side of the ball plays better, Holbrook’s defense or Monument Valley’s offense. The winning unit should take the game.
Joseph City will host Mayer in a battle of Wildcats. The past two seasons these two clubs have combined to score 198 points, with Joseph City prevailing in both cases, although both teams have piled up the points. Joseph City won last year 50-42, and the previous year 56-50.
Mayer comes into this game on the heels of a 74-point performance in last week’s win. The Cats also scored well last week, so it appears the teams are headed for another shootout. Playing at home should give the local Wildcats the edge in what could be the most exciting game of the night.
Speaking of scoring points, Winslow put 50 on the board in last week’s win over Wickenburg. The Bulldogs needed 22 of those points in the fourth period to secure the come from behind win over the Wranglers. Rey Velez had an outstanding game, throwing for 300 yards with four touchdowns. That effort offset the Wranglers ground attack, which piled up 422 yards.
Winslow travels to Scottsdale to face the Coronado Dons tonight. Like the Bulldogs, Coronado is 2-1 on the season. The Dons have averaged 33 points per game and will put points on the board against Winslow’s defense. The Dawgs will need to clean up their rush defense, but if Velez and his receivers have another great night throwing the ball, Winslow will come home with a 3-1 record.
Teams playing Snowflake have done anything but score points. Through three games the Lobos are still pitching shutouts. Tonight’s opponent, Coolidge, was shut out last week by Payson. That combination doesn’t bode well for the Bears. Even though they will be facing a Lobo team coming off a long road trip, they should consider themselves lucky if they get points this week.
Snowflake won last year’s matchup 48-19 in the second round of the state tournament. Tonight’s score could be similar although the Bears may not get 19 total points.
