MERIDIAN (2-1) AT NOOKSACK VALLEY (3-0)
Time: 7 PM Friday
Site: Sid Lambert Field
When Meridian has the ball: You just never know what Meridian will do on offense. Zillions of formations… maybe start off with five wide? Maybe give the ball to offensive tackle Adam Kruzich from a fullback spot on the first play? I wouldn’t put anything past Coach Ames, you had to be ready for anything and everything. Junior wide receiver Kevin Galiano was out last week, and the Trojans are hopeful that he will be available for this game. Quarterback Dawson Logan is a dual threat, and Dylan Hickok is a weapon at any of the skill positions. Running back Cole Roberts had a big game last week, rushing for 150 yards, and tight end Cameron Webster got his first action last week, and could break out against the Pioneers. The Nooksack Valley defense has been stifling so far this season. Defensive end Landon Bruland possesses great size and speed, and inside linebacker Cooper Clawson is a tackling machine. The secondary will be tested by Meridian’s air attack.
When Nooksack Valley has the ball: Star wide receiver Baylor Galley has been lost for the season to a foot injury. Whatcom County’s leading receiver, Evan Neitling, injured his ankle last week. If Neitling can’t go, look for quarterback Austin O’Bryan to take matters into his own hands. He already leads the county in total offense (passing yards + rushing yards), and he’s dynamic with the ball. Junior Cole Eldgridge has proven to be as versatile as they come. He started the season at running back, but filled in at wide receiver last week when Neitling went down, and had some great grabs. Senior wide receiver Halston Boersema also provides a big target for O’Bryan at 6-foot-2. The Trojan defense has been tremendous all season, with linebacker Dylan Hickok all over the field. Defensive end Trevor Pagnossin can contain the edge, and Logan is one of the best free safeties in the county.
Special Teams are special: Junior kicker Taylor Snook has been money all season for Meridian, and hit on all seven of his extra points last week. Nooksack Valley has had it’s kicking woes the past few seasons, but Aiden Conner has put an end to that, and has been extremely consistent this season. Sophomore Scout Whittern hit a long field goal earlier in the season, and handles kickoffs, and also punts along with Eldridge.
Mega match up: Nooksack Valley QB Austin O’Bryan vs. Meridian LB Dylan Hickok. I would imagine that Hickok will shadow O’Bryan on most plays.
🖤💛🏈💛🖤 GO TROJANS! 🖤💛🏈💛🖤