This Friday the Knights go back on the road for a three game stretch starting in Zillah. The top-ranked Zillah Leopards have justified their ranking with their play; having crushed their first three opponents with little resistance. Most recently their built a 43-0 first quarter lead over Naches Valley to cruise to a 64-7 win. They seem to be firing on all cylinders and have great line play to enable a potent rushing attack led by Kurt Calhoun. Calhoun is averaging three touchdowns per game this season and had three against Naches Valley on just seven touches. The Leopards typically don't throw often, but are effective when they do.
This interdivisional battle between traditional SCAC powers is being touted as the Game of the Week by several media outlets throughout the state. Despite being ranked in the top 5 in most polls, Royal is replacing a dominant graduating class from last season with a number of very young faces. The Knights will likely start three sophomores and freshmen on offense and will look similar on defense. That youth is very talented but lacks the experience and seasoning that they will face across the line of scrimmage in Zillah. Last season Royal controlled Zillah without much issue in their early season matchup and then Zillah recovered for a very impressive showing throughout the rest of the season, including an upset of league favorite Cle Elum. The Leopards will be looking to avenge that loss and stay undefeated to keep their top ranking and their early season momentum. If Zillah gets past Royal, their schedule will likely afford them an undefeated run into the playoffs.
The biggest key for Zillah be getting off to a good start early and establishing their run game. Conversely, the Knights will have to hold the line of scrimmage defensively and not allow the Leopard backs to get to the linebacker level consistently. Getting the Leopards in "3rd and Long" scenarios will be key. Offensively, Royal will need to be patient and put together consistent drives to control the ball, the clock, and the pace of the game to keep themselves in a position to steal the game late from the favored Leopards.
If you can't make the trip to the game, join us and LISTEN LIVE. The broadcast will be a little different this week as we will be joining up with Zillah broadcaster Doug Davis and his video webcast. So for this Friday night you will find us at www.zillahsports.com Kickoff is at 7pm.
www.zillahsports.com
This interdivisional battle between traditional SCAC powers is being touted as the Game of the Week by several media outlets throughout the state. Despite being ranked in the top 5 in most polls, Royal is replacing a dominant graduating class from last season with a number of very young faces. The Knights will likely start three sophomores and freshmen on offense and will look similar on defense. That youth is very talented but lacks the experience and seasoning that they will face across the line of scrimmage in Zillah. Last season Royal controlled Zillah without much issue in their early season matchup and then Zillah recovered for a very impressive showing throughout the rest of the season, including an upset of league favorite Cle Elum. The Leopards will be looking to avenge that loss and stay undefeated to keep their top ranking and their early season momentum. If Zillah gets past Royal, their schedule will likely afford them an undefeated run into the playoffs.
The biggest key for Zillah be getting off to a good start early and establishing their run game. Conversely, the Knights will have to hold the line of scrimmage defensively and not allow the Leopard backs to get to the linebacker level consistently. Getting the Leopards in "3rd and Long" scenarios will be key. Offensively, Royal will need to be patient and put together consistent drives to control the ball, the clock, and the pace of the game to keep themselves in a position to steal the game late from the favored Leopards.
If you can't make the trip to the game, join us and LISTEN LIVE. The broadcast will be a little different this week as we will be joining up with Zillah broadcaster Doug Davis and his video webcast. So for this Friday night you will find us at www.zillahsports.com Kickoff is at 7pm.
www.zillahsports.com