High School Football: Playoff Schedule Set

Friday, November 12
Washington 2B – Warden (5-4) at Colfax (9-0) – 7 p.m. (Martin Stadium)
> Early synopsis: Colfax has been the top-ranked team at the 2B level all season long and with good reason.  The Bulldogs have outscored their opponents 419-89, and their closest game was a 38-19 victory over playoff-bound DeSales in the season opener.  The results would be even more lopsided, but head coach Mike Morgan usually calls off his dogs early to prevent further embarrassment to their opponents.  It seems extreme, but if you have seen Colfax play this season, you know what I mean.

Saturday, November 13
Washington 1B Crossover – Colton (4-6) at Cusick (9-1) – 1 p.m. (Gonzaga Prep)
> Early synopsis: Don’t let Colton’s 4-6 mark fool you.  The Wildcats have lost three games by four points this season, as two of their three other defeats were to larger schools.  The chemistry quarterback Josh Straughan and wideout Steve Eacker have working right now will keep any opposing defensive coordinate up at night.  The two hooked up 15 times for 293 yards last week against Gar-Pal, as Eacker broke the 1B state record for receptions in a season with 107 in the process.
As for Cusick, after averaging nearly 60-points a game in the 1B Northeast League, the Panthers are coming off a 54-6 loss to Almira-Coulee-Hartline.

Washington 2A Playoffs – East Valley (5-5) at Clarkston (6-3) – 1 p.m. (Adams Field)
> Early synopsis: Coming off a bye, Clarkston figures to be heavily favored this Saturday.  Not only did East Valley play last Friday, but they had to suit up again Tuesday night against Ellensburg to decide who would get a shot at the Bantams.
Following back-to-back upset losses to West Valley and Pullman during the middle of the season, Clarkston seems to be back on track, looking to live up to the preseason hype when they were ranked number-two in the state.
With all this in mind, don’t sleep on the Knights.  Since losing their league-opener at Clarkston 21-6, East Valley has won four of five, including a 32-14 victory over Ellensburg in the first round of the playoffs earlier this week.

Idaho 1A State Semi-Final – Prairie (8-1) vs Troy (9-0) – 6 p.m. (Kibbie Dome)
> Early synopsis:  There won’t be a lack of bulletin board material for Prairie as they meet Troy for the second time this season.  Two weeks ago, the Trojans won the war of words before kickoff, then backed it up by ending the Pirates two-year reign atop the Whitepine League with a 72-26 pounding.
For the first time since 2007, Prairie will now be a significant underdog in a game, as Troy must deal with the expectations of winning.
Without question, both the Trojans head coach Rob Bafus and the Pirates head coach Travis Mader will have their teams ready to compete.  I’m looking forward to round two!!!

Teams Eliminated for Postseason:
Idaho
5A – Lewiston
4A – Moscow
2A – Grangville, Kamiah, Orofino
1A – Clearwater Valley, Deary, Genesee, Kendrick, Lapwai, Lewis County, Potlatch

Washington
2A – Pullman
2B – Asotin
1B – Pomeroy

High School Football: Winner Take All

Apparently the regular season wasn’t enough to decide who the best three teams in the Whitepine League were this season.

After Troy and Prairie clinched the 1 and 2 seeds respectively last Friday, tonight Genesee, Kendrick and Potlatch will battle it out in a Kansas City tiebreaker to determine who will garner the third and final berth to districts this Friday.

The reason for this is Genesee, Kendrick and Potlatch all finished league-play 5-3 and each hold a 1-1 record against common opponents (Genesee beat Potlatch, Potlatch beat Kendrick, and Kendrick beat Genesee).

Here is the schedule for tonight:

Bengal Field – Lewiston, 7:00 PM
Game 1 – Potlatch vs Kendrick
Game 2 – Genesee vs Potlatch
Game 3 – Kendrick vs Genesee

I will have highlights tomorrow night on KLEW-TV, plus I will post updates on my twitter account (@KLEWSportsGuys) live from Bengal Field this evening.

As for what the rest of the High School playoff picture looks like, here are the other games that will be taking place this week:

Friday, November 5
Washington 2B – Asotin (5-3) at Ritzville – 7 p.m.
Washington 2B – Winner of KC tiebreaker (Tri-Cities Prep/Dayton/T-O-R) at Colfax – 7 p.m.
Idaho 1A – Winner of KC tiebreaker at Troy (8-0) – 7 p.m.

Saturday, November 6
Idaho 1A – Prairie (7-1) at Wallace (8-0) – 1 p.m.
Idaho 2A – New Plymouth (8-1) at Kamiah (7-2) – 1 p.m.

Teams Eliminated for Postseason:
Idaho
5A – Lewiston
4A – Moscow
2A – Grangville, Orofino
1A – Clearwater Valley, Deary, Lapwai, Lewis County

Washington
2A – None
2B – None
1B – None

High School Football: Taking Care of Business

With the postseason quickly approaching, numerous teams remained in the playoff hunt with big performances on Friday night.
Check out what Quad-Cities kids came up clutch.

(High School Football Standings)

Top Performers

• Beau Kerns, Lewiston: 12-21, 302 yards, 3 touchdowns; 17 carries, 98 yards vs Boise
• Ridge Fuentes, Lewiston: 3 receptions, 163 yards, 2 touchdowns (65, 91 yards) vs Boise
• Hayden Kanikkeberg, Troy: 8-13, 244 yards, 2 touchdowns vs Genesee
• Justin Schmidt, Prairie: 3 receiving touchdowns vs Clearwater Valley
• Stephen Brent, Potlatch: 221 yards rushings, 4 touchdowns vs Lapwai
• Kody Heath, Kendrick: 250 yards rushing, 2 touchdowns vs Deary
  (Coaches Quotes: “We’re going to miss him next year.”)
• Josh Straughan, Colton: 29-47, 406 yards, 8 touchdowns vs Sunnyside Christian
• Steve Eacker, Colton: 14 catches, 229 yards, 4 touchdowns vs Sunnyside Christian

Idaho 5A – Inland Empire League
Boise 20 at Lewiston 33 – Final

Idaho 4A – Inland Empire League
Lakeland 14 at Moscow 35 – Final

Washington 2A – Great Northern League
Pullman 0 at Cheney 38 – Final
Deer Park 7 at Clarkston 14 – FInal

Washington 2B – Southeast/Northeast
Waitsburg-Prescott 28 at Asotin 8 – Final
Springdale 0 at Colfax 63 – Final

Idaho 2A – Central Idho League
Grangeville 14 at Orofino 16 – Final
Kamiah 54 at Kellogg 6 – Final

Washington 1B – Southeast
Colton 62 at Sunnyside Christian 32 – Final
Pomeroy at Liberty Christian –  No score reported

Idaho 1A – Whitepine League
Lapwai 30 at Potlatch 66 – Final
Troy 34 at Genesee 20 – Final
Deary 26 at Kendrick 38 – Final
Clearwater Valley 14 at Prairie 62 – Final

Trust In Tust’s Prep Picks

Week 7

Record
Last Week: 7-5  Overall: 23-11 (67.4%)

After choosing to bypass my picks two weeks ago, my return last Friday went about as well as Brett Favre’s decision to come back to the NFL this season.  While I went just 7-5, there is good news.  The national media isn’t chasing me down for sending inappropriate text messages to a co-worker and – last I check – my elbow is free of tendonitis.

Idaho 5A – Inland Empire League
#2 Coeur d’ Alene (5-1, 0-0) at Lewiston (4-2, 0-1) – 7 PM
A contest that was originally scheduled to take place tomorrow in Coeur d’ Alene, has instead turned into Lewiston’s homecoming game.
For Bengal fans, it’s a tough draw.  Coeur d’ Alene is stacked this season and has already knocked off two ranked teams.  Two weeks ago it was then #1 Mountain View 34-22, and last Friday it was now #5 Vallivue 37-20
If the Bengals thought they has their hands full with Lake City quarterback Mark Smyly last week, wait until you see Viking singal-caller Chad Chalich.  The junior is averaging 256.5 passing yards a game, with 18 touchdowns compared to just five interceptions.  Chalich also can make plays with his feet when things breakdown.
Offsetting him is possible the best running back in Idaho.  Senior tailback Zach Keiser is averaging a gaudy 8.1 yards a touch, and 130 a game.
One way Lewiston can slow down Coeur d’ Alene attack, it doing what Lake City did to the Bengals last week.  The Timberwolves used their ball-control offense to steadily put the purple haze to rest.  A steady does of Tyler Broemeling, Lucky Gaskill, Ryan Humphrey and Kyle Mai out of the backfield will help Lewiston move the chains and keep the ball.
unfortunately, I still don’t think that will be enough.

Prediction: Coeur d’ Alene 37 – Lewiston 21

Idaho 4A – Inland Empire League
Timberlake (2-4) at Moscow (4-2)
I’m starting to believe this is Moscow’s season to finally get back to the playoffs.  Even without starting quarterback Jake Helbling due to an injury, the Bears have posted two lopsided wins.  That won’t change this week, as head coach John Sheaff secures his third consecutive non-losing season.

Prediction: Timberlake 7 – Moscow 34

Washington 2A – Great Northern League
Clarkston (4-2) at Pullman (2-4) – 7 PM
The are two programs that are struggling, but in different ways.  Clarkston, who opened the season as the second-ranked team at the 2A classification, can’t score on offense.  While they Bantams have plenty of weapons, the line has been an issue, and a rash of injuries (and a player suspension) haven’t helped.
As for Pullman, they are a team that is clearly rebuilding.  A normal GNL powerhouse, lost 49-27 to lowly-Lakeland last week on the road.
As talking with both Colton Chase and Jordan Vaughan of Clarkston this week, they said the Bantams are starting to feel a sense of urgency.  I believe that will be enough to spark another league win. 

Prediction: Clarkston 21 – Pullman 7

Idaho 2A – Central Idaho League
Grangeville (5-1) at Kamiah (5-1)
Right here is the game of the week.  With the Central Idaho League title riding on the line, Grangeville needs a win in the worst way.  When these two teams met last month, the Kubs used an 84-yard touchdown pass from Jack Nygaard to secure a fourth quarter victory on the Bulldogs home field.
It’s going to take another effort like that to beat first head Grangeville head coach Jeff Lindsley twice in one season.  While I’m not one to bet against the former Boise State-standout, I’ve also learned not to bet against Nygaard.

Prediction: Grangeville 21 – Kamiah 28

Washington 2B
Asotin (4-1) at DeSales (3-2)
A classic Southeast League matchup, Asotin travels to Walla Walla to take on DeSales.  While a loss doesn’t necessarily hurt Asotin’s playoff chances (it would just make their game against Waitsburg-Prescott in two weeks a MUST! WIN!), the Irish would be all but eliminated.
I know that head coach Sal Lopez will diagram a strategy to keep his young-Panthers squad in the game, I just don’t think it will matchup DeSales sense of urgency.

Prediction: Asotin 20 – DeSales 28

Colfax (5-0) at Lind–Ritzville (4-1)
Number-one meets number-two in the Northeast League standings.  Get ready to see just how big the gap between number-one and number-two is.  Colfax will play nice.

Prediction: Colfax 41 – Lind–Ritzville 14

Idaho 1A – Whitepine League
Kendrick (3-2) at Potlatch (2-3)
I’ve been looking ahead to this game for three weeks now.  In my heart, I felt an 0-3 Potlatch team would get pass Deary and Clearwater Valley.  Although it took two fourth quarter comebacks, they did.
But Kendrick is just a scary team.  Sure they lack size, but they don’t lack speed and head coach Davey Steele calls a great game.
The winner of this game will all of a sudden have the inside track for the third and final playoff spot in the Whitepine League.
For the last two weeks, the Loggers have been playing like there is no tomorrow, mostly because if they lose, there isn’t.  They continue to ride that wave of emotion, but better plan on being physical against the Tigers.

Prediction: Kendrick 26 – Potlatch 38 (<— Probably my lease confident prediction)

Clearwater Valley (3-3, 3-2) at Troy (5-0)
Wow Troy has been tough this season.  Against a Deary team with twice as many players as the Trojans, head coach Rob Bafus’ crew beat up the Mustangs 62-12 last week.  Runningback Marshall Williams scored six touchdowns, upping his season 24 on the season (I’m pretty sure).
Clearwater Valley has had a great season for a program that hasn’t experienced a lot of success, but I believe the clock strikes mid-night on their season tonight.

Predriction: Clearwater Valley 12 – Troy 58

Genesee (3-2) at Deary (1-5)
After an upset on the road three weeks ago to Kendrick, Genesee bounced back following a bye with a win over Lewis County 34-12 last Friday.  While Deary’s playoff hopes are long gone, I still think the Mustangs are going to sneak up and ruin someones postseason hopes at some point this season.  Just not this week.
The Bulldogs needs this one more than anything with undefeated Troy looming on the schedule next Friday.

Prediction: Genesee 33 – Deary 21

Prairie (5-0) at Lewis County (2-4)
One thing you don’t want to do is give the Prairie football team any added motivation to be beat.  Lewis County made this mistake before the season even started, talking about how they were going to hand the Pirates their first league loss in three seasons.
You better believe Prairie head coach Travis Mader has put this up on the bulletin board.  And you better believe his boys are going to inflict some serious damage.  A team that will let up to prevent mercy-ruling teams (when it can), won’t this time.

Prediction: Prairie 52 – Lewis County 6

Washington 1B
Liberty Christian (5-0) at Colton (3-3)
After some early season struggles, Colton seemed to find themselves in last weeks 34-16 win over LaCrosse-Washtunca.
Now the Wildcats have to face unbeaten Liberty Christian, who have effortlessly transitioned to 8-man football.
Colton will give the private school out of Richland a contest, but in the end fall short.

Prediction: Liberty Christian 38 – Colton 27

Gar–Pal (2-3) at Pomeroy (3-3)
Pomeroy seems to be getting the hang of this 8-man football thing.  In the last two weeks combine, the Pirates have scored 140 points.  (No, that’s not a typo.)
But Gar-Pal’s schedule to date has been downright tough.  The Vikings go to Pomeroy and end the Pirates two-game win streak.

Prediction: Gar–Pal 34 – Pomeroy 22

League-al Problems

Here are results from tonight’s high school football games from around the area.
League playoff races are beginning to heat up, as numerous teams clashed tonight with postseason hopes riding on the line.

Top Performers

• Tory Knebel, Pomeroy: 423 total yards (296 rushing), 7 total touchdown vs LaCrosse-Washtucna
• Brendan Barrington, Pullman: 6 catches, 125 yards, 2 touchdowns vs Lakeland
• Marshall Williams, Troy: 12 carries, 248 yards, 6 total touchdowns vs Deary
• Josh Straughan, Colton: 22-29, 284 yard; 3 rushing touchdowns vs Touchet
• Devin Schimdt, Prairie: 8 carries, 167 yards, 3 touchdowns vs Lapwai

Idaho 5A
Lake City 24 at Lewiston 14 – Final

Washington 2A
Pullman 27 at Lakeland 49 – Final
Clarkston 7 at West Valley (Spokane) 10 – Final

Idaho 2A
Kamiah 28 at Orofino 0 – Final

Washington 2B
Tri–Cities Prep 14 at Asotin 28 – Final
Lakeside 0 at Colfax 27 – Final

Idaho 1A
Lapwai 6 at Prairie 52 – Final (Thursday Night)
Troy 62 at Deary 12 – Final
Genesee 32 at Lewis County 14 – Final
Potlatch 14 at Clearwater Valley 12 – Final

Washington 1B
Touchet 16 at Colton 32 – Final
LaCrosse-Washtunca 50 at Pomeroy 70 –  Final

Trust In Tust’s Prep Picks

Week 6

Record
Last Week: N/A  Overall: 16-6 (72.7%)

Three weeks ago, I started this whole Trust In Tust’s Prep Picks out it style.  I rocked a 9-1 record, and thought to myself ‘hey, this isn’t so tough.’
Then, reality struck.  The following Friday I correctly guess just seven out of 13 games, do nothing to ensure I have a career in doing this.
After taking last week off (more because I was moving than the hit my ego took), I’m back and ready to put it on the line again…

Idaho 5A – Inland Empire League
Lake City (3-2, 1-0) at #5 Lewiston (4-1, 0-0) – 7 PM
          As impressive as Lewiston has been in the preseason, all of it means nothing unless they can get it done against their 5A Inland Empire League-foes.  They will get their first chance to do that Friday night, as they welcome rival-Lake City to town.
         So far, the Timberwolves tested themselves with a daunting preseason.  Having played both Mountain View and #1 Capital, LC will be well prepared for whatever the Bengals throw at them this game.
          With that in mind, Lewiston’s offense seems to dynamic to stop right now, and their defense has been exceptional as well.
         This is going to be a good one, folks…
Prediction: Lake City 32 – Lewiston 37

Washington 2A – Great Northern League
Clarkston (4-1, 2-0) at West Valley, Spok. (1-3, 0-0) – 7 PM
         Clarkston has to figure out a way to get it’s offense going.  Coincidence or not, the only time they’ve really performed at a high level was back in week two on the road.  Playing at Sandpoint, the Bantams won 35-34, as senior RB Colby Hansen visited the endzone five times.
         While their defense has been stellar, maybe avoiding the distractions that come will playing a home (a big of a stretch, but oh well…) will help this talented unit kick it into gear.
         Either way, West Valley is nowhere near the team they were last year…
Prediction: Clarkston 24 – West Valley 12

Pullman (2-3) at Lakeland (1-5) – 7 PM
         Pullman is in the midst of doing something not many people thought probably thought possible – play ‘500’ ball.
         Granted their non-league schedule (with the exception of Lewiston) has been fairly weak, but this is a young team that seems to be getting the hang of it.
         The return of senior QB Ryan Langerveld has helped has helped, as the Hounds have averaged 28 points over their last two contests, after scoring just 33 in their first three games combined.
         Playing on the road against lowly-Lakeland, this will still be a nice win for Pullman, who is gaining momentum at the right time of the season.
Prediction: Pullman 27 – Lakeland 13

Idaho 2B – Northeast
Kamiah (4-1, 2-0) at Orofino (1-5, 0-2) – 7 PM
         This is a bigger game than it seems.  A Kamiah win, and the Kubs will be place firmly in the driver’s seat at the favorites to win the Central Idaho League.  An Orofino loss, and the Maniacs will officially be eliminated from the playoffs.
         Sadly for Orofino fans, I believe this is where their run of consecutive postseason berths come to an end.  The Maniacs did everything they could last week against Grangeville, but still came up short.  They scored a touchdown on offense, defense and special teams, but in the end the Bulldogs racked up for 500 yards on the ground (506 to be exact) and ran away with in 41-36.
         While I don’t think the score will be as bad as the first time Orofino and Kamiah met (48-0, Kubs), this one won’t be close.
Prediction: Kamiah 41 – Orofino 14

Idaho 2B – Northeast
Lakeside (3-2) at Colfax (4-0) – 7 PM
         Another week, another blow out win for Colfax.  Two weeks ago, senior RB Tyler McNannay ran all over Liberty.  Last week, senior TE/LB Kellen Morgan showed off his versatility with a touchdown on offense and defense.  Does senior QB Alex Teade take his turn this week?  Yup!  He scored at least four touchdowns.
Prediction: Lakeside 18 – Colfax 47

Idaho 2B – Southeast
Tri-Cities Prep (2-2, 0-1) at Asotin (3-1, 1-0) – 7 PM
         In their first season of 11-man football, Tri-Cities Prep has seen it’s been up-and-down.  The Jaguars have scored as many as 64 points in a win over 8-man opponent Pomeroy, and as little as three against 11-man league-foe Dayton.
         If head coach Dan Whitsett can get star-wideout Troy Redmann going (25 rec, 463yds, 6 td; 50 car, 473 yds, 5 td in 3 games) then Tri-Cities has a chance.
         With that in mind, he’s really the Jags only threat, and Asotin head coach Sal Lopez will have his boys prepared to deal with him.
Prediction: Tri-Cities Prep 18 – Asotin 32

Idaho 1A – Whitepine League
Lapwai (0-5, 0-5) at #3 Prairie (4-0, 4-0) – 7 PM (*Thursday Night*)
         I not going to get cute here.  Prairie looks like they might be better than they were last season.  No they aren’t mercy-ruling opponents on a regular basis, but equally impressive has been their ability to wear down teams with their superior ground game.  Their offensive line is by far the tops in the Whitepine, and Devin Schmidt has reaped the benefits (968 yards in 4 games).
Prediction: Lapwai 6 – Prairie 52

#4 Troy (4-0, 4-0) at Deary (1-4, 1-4) – 7 PM
         My head tells me Troy needs to be careful to avoid an upset.  My heart tells me the Trojans are to talented and focused to even fathom the thought.
         Deary is coming off back-to-back heartbreaking losses, all but eliminating them from the postseason after just five games.
         Expect the senior-laden Mustangs to treat this like a playoff game, but Troy head coach Rob Bafus will have his boy equally as fired up coming off a bye.
         Trojan senior runningback Marshall Williams will have to earn it against the Mustangs stout defensive line, but expect him to approach the 200-yard mark again on the ground.
Prediction: Troy 62 – Deary 27

Genesee (2-2, 2-2) at Lewis County (2-3, 2-3) – 4 PM
         I don’t know what to make of this matchup.  Two weeks ago, I thought the balance of Prairie offensive attack was going to make them a playoff team for sure.  However, a quick Kendrick team exposed a few of their weaknesses, as the Tigers upset them 36-16.
Prediction: Genesee 24 – Lewis County 32

Potlatch (1-3, 1-3) at Clearwater Valley (3-2, 3-1) – 7 PM
         Once again, Potlatch will be playing for their playoff-lives.  Head coach Pat Amos’ Loggers can ill-afford another slip up if they want to meet their expectations and get back to the playoffs for a second straight season.
         As for Clearwater Valley, the Rams are treading in uncharted waters for the program.  Looking to get back to the postseason for the first time since the mid-1990’s, CV currently has a lock of the third and final playoff berth in the Whitepine.  A win would be huge.  A loss and the Rams might be staring a Kansas City tiebreaker in the face at the end of the season.
.  Expect Keasal to leave the late-heroics behind, and get it done a little earlier this time.
Prediction: Potlatch 40 – Clearwater Valley 26

Washington 1B – Southeast
Touchet (3-1) at Colton (2-3) – 7 PM
         Surprisingly, Colton seems to be struggling to find it on offense right now.  Last week they only scored 14 points against LaCrosse-Washtucna, and the week only managed to put 30 on the board against Pomeroy (30 is not a lot in 8-man football, folks).
         I admire head coach Clark Vining’s Wildcat program, but they struggle again this week.
Prediction: Touchet 31 – Colton 24

LaCrosse-Washtucna (2-3) at Pomeroy (2-3)
         Last week, Pomeroy huge 70 on the board.  I think the Pirates are starting to figure out this 8-man football thing…
Prediction: LaCrosse-Washtucna 32 – Pomeroy 45

Idaho High School Football Rankings

This week’s power rankings are out.  Lewiston makes a return at the 5A level, while Prairie and Troy are holding strong at the 1A classification.
The biggest surprise, Kamiah is nowhere to be found amongst the 2A’s, even though Grangeville sits a number-4.  Two weeks ago, the Kubs knocked off the Bulldogs with a dramatic fourth-quarter touchdown to win 21-14.

IdahoSports.com Power Rankings – Week 6
5A Football
		Overall	League	Power Rk
1	Capital	5-0	4-0	63.17
2	Vallivue	5-0	4-0	62.33
3	Post Falls	4-1	0-1	45.83
4	Rocky Mountain	4-1	4-0	44
5	Lewiston	4-1	0-0	41.5
4A Football
		Overall	League	Power Rk
1	Bishop Kelly	3-0	5-0	59.33
2	Pocatello	1-0	5-0	54.33
3	Twin Falls	3-0	5-1	53.67
4	Shelley	2-0	4-1	45.33
5	Hillcrest	3-0	4-1	39.83
3A Football
		Overall	League	Power Rk
1	Fruitland	1-0	5-0	64.5
2	Homedale	1-1	5-1	46.17
3	South Fremont	0-0	4-1	42.17
4	Sugar-Salem	0-0	4-1	41
5	Weiser	2-0	4-2	40.83
2A Football
		Overall	League	Power Rk
1	Malad	0-0	5-0	69.67
2	Butte County	3-0	6-0	69.33
3	West Side	0-0	5-0	66.33
4	Grangeville	1-1	5-1	52.5
5	New Plymouth	2-0	4-1	47.67
1A-D1 Football
		Overall	League	Power Rk
1	Notus	2-0	5-0	64
2	Wallace	5-0	5-0	60.33
3	Prairie	4-0	4-0	54
4	Troy	4-0	4-0	52
5	Oakley	2-0	4-1	42.83

jtv: The Sports Buzz LIVE Debuts on KLEW

After four long years of not having a live Friday night high school football show on KLEW-TV, the wait is over.
The Sports Buzz LIVE debuted last Friday at 11:30 PM, and while there are a few kinks to workout, here’s a look…

Scoreboard Shockers

I’ll leave it up to you to call them upsets, but either way, there were some definite shockers on the scoreboard last night.  While the team on the winning end may not have been the biggest surprise, the margin of victory was.  One thing that’s for sure, teams seem to be hitting their stride of offense.

Top Performers

• Tyler McNannay, Colfax: 219 total yards, 2 TD vs Liberty
• Cody Charley, Clearwater Valley: 17 car, 214 yds, 4 td vs Lapwai
• Marshall Williams, Troy: 18 car, 174 yds, 5 td vs Potlatch
• Kendrick Defense: Limited Genesee to just 147 total yards and shut them out in the second half.
• Tyler Langerveld, Pullman: 13-29, 236 yds, 3 td vs Deer Park
• Justin Parkins, Moscow: 18 car, 203 yds, 2 td vs Priest River
• Brady Arnone, Clarkston: 22-32, 275 yds, 3 td vs Cheney
• Jack Nygaard, Kamiah: 21 car, 143 yds, 2 td (Gamewinning 84-yard TD pass) vs Grangeville

Idaho 5A
Hermiston 14 at Lewiston 34 – Final

Idaho 4A
Moscow 26 at Priest River 7 – Final

Washington 2A
Cheney 7 at Clarkston 21 – Final
Pullman 19 at Deer Park 21 – Final

Idaho 2A
Kamiah 14 at Grangeville 21 – Final
Orofino 14 at St. Maries 48 – Final

Washington 2B
Colfax 56 at Liberty 14 – Final
Asotin at White Swan – Saturday, 1 PM

Idaho 1A – Whitepine League
Lewis County 50 at Deary 42 – Final (2 OT)
Genesee 16 at Kendrick 36 – Final
Potlatch 22 at Troy 66 – Final
Lapwai 6 at Clearwater Valley 52 – Final

Washington 1B
Pomeroy 24 at Colton 30 – Final (OT)

Trust In Tust’s Prep Picks

Week 4

Record
Last Week: 9-1  Overall: 9-1

In the first every edition of “Trust In Tust’s Prep Picks,” I did well.  My overall record was 9-1, as the only game I missed was Kendrick-Clearwater Valley.  I said the Rams were going to defend their home turf with a 33-26 win.  The Tigers counter with a 32-16 victory.

Other than that, I gave Colton (58 prediction points/26 actually points), Clarkston (34/18), Moscow (28/7) and Lewis County’s (24/0) offenses to much credit, and Colfax (48/62) and Kamiah’s (34/48) not enough.

As for what I believe is in store this week…

5A IEL
Hermiston (2-1) at Lewiston (2-1, 0-0) – 7 PM
         For the fifth straight season, Lewiston and Hermiston will meet up in a non-league affair.  Two-years ago, the Bengals won a shootout 55-45, while last season the Bulldogs took a defensive battle 22-15.
         I expect this to be a little more like the 2008 edition.  Lewiston quarterback Beau Kerns – who’s only 5’9″ – has a big arm, and it appears head coach Emmett Dougherty has more than enough reliable guys to hand the ball off to.  Senior runningback Tyler Broemeling rushed for 154-yards last week against Pullman, while senior fullback Ryan Humphrey added two touchdowns on the ground as well.
         Hermiston signal-caller Tim Rude is dangerous (11 touchdowns in 3 games), but it seems like Lewiston’s defense is much improved from a year-ago, and is capable of containing a quality passing game (see Clarkston game).
Prediction: Hermiston 28 – Lewiston 35

4 IEL
Moscow (2-2, 0-0) at Priest River (1-2) – 7 PM
          Last week’s game against Clarkston was a tough one for Moscow.  After putting up 85 points in the previous two games (both wins), the Bears offense struggled mightly without senior quarterback Jake Helbling undercenter due to a hand injury.  Head coach John Sheaff’s new no-huddle offense became one dimensional.  Unable to pass the ball, the Bantams focused on senior runningback Justin Parkins and held him under 100-yards for the first time this season.
          The good news, this week they face a team that isn’t nearly as talented as Clarkston.  Expect Parkins to bounce back with over 200 yards rushing (that’s right!) as the Bears will assert their will on a smaller Priest River team.
          Also, Helbling – the reigning IEL Defensive Player of the Year – is still available on defensive, which has been a strong point of Moscow this Fall.  I’ll do the math for you:  Parkins + A Stout Defense = Blow Out
Prediction: Moscow 42 – Priest River 6

2A GNL
Pullman (1-2, 0-0) at Deer Park (3-0, 0-0) – 7 PM
          These two teams have seemingly swapped places in the Great Northern League.  Deer Park used to be a constant sellar dwellar, as Pullman dominanted the league over a majority of the last decade.
         While I wouldn’t bet on the Greyhounds staying down for long, they are clearly in rebuilding mode.  They’ve only scored two touchdowns in the last 10 quarters, and their defense isn’t what it once was.
        As for Deer Park, they’ve notched back-to-back 7-win seasons, and appear to be figuring it out again this Fall.  Even though their non-league schedule was somewhat weak, their defense has allowed an average of only 6 points a game.
        The Greyhounds will get better over the course of the season, I just don’t see them taking that big leap on the road this week.
Prediction:  Pullman 7 – Deer Park 28

Cheney (2-1, 0-0) at Clarkston (2-1, 0-0)– 7 PM
          Clarkston is (or should be) uber-talented on offense.  So far, it doesn’t seems like they’ve been able to really figure it out.  Quarterback Brady Arnone and runningback Colby Hansen (Yes.  He has 7 touchdowns in the last two games.  But this kid has done it himself and could be real special with any help from his line.) are both D-1 talents, but haven’t been able to live up to their full-potential due to an offensive line that has been suspect.  Arnone has had it a little more rough than Hansen, as he just hasn’t had the time to throw.
        If one thing is certain, Cheney always features one of the most athletics teams in the GNL.  Expect them to pressure Arnone constantly, but for him to make enough play to get the job done.
        Also, unlike last year, head coach Dave Curtis has a defense he can lean on while the Bantams get everything figured out on offense.  Sophomore Colby Ruark in starting to emerge as a standout safety, while first-year player Nathan Whittaker seems to be getting the hang of playing corner.  Linebacker Ethan Fox will anchor the middle of the defense, as ends Colton and Cody Chase should be able to pressure the Blackhawks quarterback.
        It won’t look as pretty as it could, but…
Prediction: Cheney 19 – Clarkston 26

2B Southeast
Asotin (2-1, 1-0) at White Swan (1-2) – 7 PM
        Two years ago, Asotin squared off with White Swan in the second round of the 2B playoffs.  Then-Panther senior runningback D.J. Darnall had a huge night, as head coach Sal Lopez directed his team to a 41-20 victory.  The Cougars were just a minor bump in the road as Asotin eventually ended up playing for the 2B state championship.
        However, the two teams we see go at it this Friday night will be mere skeletons of the ones from 2008.  White Swan has only scored two touchdowns in three games this season, and Asotin doesn’t seems to be as talented (or better yet, as deep) on either side of the ball as in years past.
        At the same time, the Panthers still have enough guys to get it done.  Sprinkling in a little of quarterback Ben Servatius’ strong arm to go with their traditional smash-mouth style of football, and…
Prediction: Asotin 33 – White Swan 19

2B Northeast
Colfax (2-0, 1-0) at Liberty (2-0, 1-0) – 7 PM
          This will be a common theme for my predictions.  Colfax is so talented this season, they don’t even need me to make a case as to why they will win on a weekly basis. 
Prediction: Colfax 58 – Liberty 14

2A CIL
Kamiah (2-1, 1-0) at Grangeville (4-0, 0-0) –7 PM
        Clearly, Kamiah and Grangeville are the priemere teams in the Central Idaho League this season.  Despite it being only week four, a Kamiah win would put them in the drivers seat in terms of winning a league title.  After blowing out Orofino 48-0 last week, they would make the turn of the league schedule as the only unbeaten team AND get to host the Bulldogs when the two meet up again (presumably for the league championship) next month.
        While Kub fans have to like the sound of that, the Bulldogs have been nothing short of dominant so far this Fall, outscoring the opposition 164-47.  Junior Justin Robie had a breakout performance with over 200-yards against Lewiston’s JV team last week, as Pomeroy-transfer Ryan Koberstein and senior running back Joe Anderson will just be too much.
        This classic rivalry will be a fun one, but Grangeville will get bragging rights.
Prediction: Kamiah 26 – Grangeville 38

Orofino (1-3, 0-1) at St. Maries (1-3) – 7 PM
             Orofino gets the winable game the sorely need.  A 48-0 loss to division-foe Kamiah probably did nothing to help the confidence of a young-Maniac squad.  Expect them to get a little pep in their step back this time around…
Prediction: Orofino 27 – St. Maries 21

1A Whitepine League
Lewis County (2-2, 2-2) at Deary (1-2, 1-2) – 7 PM
        Both these teams seem like absolute wildcards.  Lewis County opened their season with back-to-back wins over Clearwater Valley and Lapwai, only to be outscored 84-6 against Kendrick and Troy the last two weeks.
        Deary on the other hand started off with tough losses to the Rams and Prairie, before finally putting it all together last Friday by knocking off the Wildcats.  In that game, head coach Darrah Eggers went away from the Mustang tradition ground oriented attack, and aired it out for a change.  Senior quarterback Kevin Cannon threw for over 250-yards, while senior wideout Drew Eggers finished with 192-yards receiving.
        With that in mind, it sure seems like the Mustangs are headed in a better direction…
Prediction: Lewis County 22 – Deary 29

Lapwai (0-4, 0-4) at Clearwater Valley (2-1, 2-1) – 7 PM
        Lapwai is a club that is reeling.  Their defense has surrender 186 points in four games, and their offense can’t find any stablity with injuries causing some shuffling.
        Clearwater Valley is a club that plays with a lot of heart.  With senior runningback Cody Charley shouldering the load, I see this one going to the Rams.
Prediction: Lapwai 18 – Clearwater Valley 32

Genesee (2-1, 2-1) at Kendrick (2-1, 2-1) – 7 PM
        Genesee needs to be careful in this one.  Kendrick is coming off an big win over an undefeated Lewis County team, and a convince victory against Clearwater Valley on the road.  It’s still early, but a Tigers win would show the young-squad it a serious playoff contender.  In a league of experienced coaches, Kendrick’s Davey Steele is underated, and knows his X’s and O’s as well as anybody.
        But the one thing about the Bulldogs, they’ve shown they have the most balanced offensive attack in the Whitepine League.  Junior quarterback Sam Druffel and senior tight end Alan Berry are a leathal duo, and senior runningback Tyler Stout heads a rushing attack that you have to respect.
Prediction: Genesee 38 – Kendrick 24

Potlatch (0-2, 0-2) at Troy (3-0, 3-0) – 7 PM
          It’s officially do or die week for Potlatch.  A preseason favorite to get back to the playoffs – and even contend for a league title – the Loggers can ill afford an 0-3 start.  Head coach Pat Amos’ crew has had a daunting schedule to open up the season.  After receiving back-to-back byes to open up, Potlatch had to play Genesee and Prairie in the first two games, and now must face unbeaten Troy.
         So far this season, the Trojans have yet to allow a single point, as defensive coordinator Guy Wells has his boys playing at a high level.
         On offensive, senior runningback Marshall Williams is providing one heck of an encore after being named all-state at a junior.  Williams is coming off a season-high 22 carry, 221-yards performance against Lewis County, and has scored five touchdowns in each game the Trojans have played.
         With that in mind, Troy’s schedule hasn’t been that difficult, as this will serve as their toughest test to date.  It’s a test they will pass (as rumors are Williams is a near 4.0 student)…
Prediction: Potlatch 28 – Troy 41

1B Northeast
Pomeroy (1-2, 0-0) at Colton (1-2, 0-0) – 7 PM
         In their first season of eight-man football since 1980, Pomeroy has show the ability to put up some points.
         Colton, who’s no stranger to the game, just doesn’t seem to be clicking quite yet.  I’m taking the Pirates on the road.
Prediction: Pomeroy 42 – Colton 32