BLAINE (2-1) AT SEHOME (1-2)
Time: 7 PM Friday
Site: Civic Stadium
When Blaine has the ball: The Borderites will try to establish a strong running game early. Junior running back Oscar Caridad has shown flashes this season, and has a great speed burst when he gets to the line of scrimmage. Senior Jacob Westfall had some big runs last week when he got his chance, he is usually the fullback for Caridad. Blaine can spread it out, too, and is dangerous when they go trips. Senior receivers Chase Abshere and Derek Machula make a great combination and tight end Hudson Reid has taken big strides this season to help along sophomore quarterback, William McKinney. The Mariner defense has talent all over the field, especially in the secondary. Dylan Roberts has been great at outside linebacker this season as well, and junior Dawson Smith can really bring it from his inside linebacker spot.
When Sehome has the ball: The Mariners have thrown the ball more than any other team in the county, but if you don’t put enough players in the box against them, they will run it with Dylan Roberts, one of the best backs in Whatcom County. Sophomore quarterback Jacob Kaepernick is having a great season, and he has a lot of weapons on the outside. Brett Meggyesy has been Sehome’s leading receiver, and he has tremendous hands. Austin Roberts has great agility, and can make incredible moves with the ball in his hands, and Michael McClin and Melloy Nelson can burn you with their speed. The Blaine defense can get after it, especially with Gavino Rodriguez coming off the edge. Westfall is strong at linebacker, and Machula is a great safety.
Special Teams are special: This game will highlight two of the best kickoff returners in Whatcom County. Sehome’s Austin Roberts returned two kickoffs for touchdowns last season, and is a threat to do the same this year. Blaine’s Derek Machula returned a kickoff for an 83-yard touchdown in week one, and is always looking to get extra yardage. Blaine kicker Bryce Kamrath has already connected on three field goals, and has been a good punter.
Mega match up: Blaine offensive tackle Wyatt Cole vs. Sehome defensive end Bryce Andrews.
