The regular season for many high school football teams around the Midwest is nearing its end, but there is still plenty of good action left. Some teams have already solidified their place in the playoffs, while the fate of others hinges on this final regular season game. Here are a few games to watch around region:
THURSDAY GAMES:
#1 SF Roosevelt (8-0) vs. #3 SF Washington (6-2) (at Howard Wood Field)
Roosevelt coach, Kim Nelson coached Washington for 12 years before leaving for Edina (Minn.) in 2005. Since Nelson’s return, though, Washington has been coached by Brian Hermanson and dominated the series.
Washington peeled off perfect seasons in 2009 and 2010 and hasn’t lost to the Riders since the 2007 state title game at the DakotaDome.
Roosevelt is seeking to clinch the No. 1 playoff seed, as well as Greater Dakota Conference and city crowns. Washington wants to lock down a first-round playoff bye while keeping its edge over Roosevelt alive…needless to say, this is a BIG game!
Players to watch: Rossevelt Senior quarterback Scott Tyler has thrown for 1,252 yards and 15 TDs, with 609 of those yards coming on connections with senior Josh Angulo, who has 8 TDs. Washington junior skill players quarterback Jon Hander has thrown for 1,207 yards and 12 TDs and all-purpose threat Nate Gerry has led the Warriors on both sides of the ball.
#7 Brandon Valley (5-3) at #5 Yankton (6-2)
The ESD (Eastern South Dakota) title has come down to Yankton and Brandon Valley who square off Thursday night in Yankton. Both teams beat Mitchell and will also be pushing for a higher postseason seed in this one.
Player to watch: Brandon Valley’s Matt Vandeberg hauled in 10 catches for 138 yards and 3 touchdowns last week vs. Pierre, and will look to repeat his performance against Yankton.
