Football — Week 3

After a fun week of cougar hunting in week one, the Shawnee Mission East Football team had a much more ominous task facing them in week two.  Olathe East was coming off a loss against their district rival Olathe North and they were not planning on going 0-2.The Lancers had different ideas, after “a great week of practice” according to senior Offensive and Defensive Lineman Tyler Nelson the Lancers felt prepared to take on the Hawks.

“We have had five really good focused practices this week,”  Nelson said. “Not to mention we really want to send a message with the game this week.”

However, the game didn’t go as planned.  The Lancers got down early and were unable to stop the Hawks offense.  After the Hawks drove down the field repeatedly converting on third downs and taking it to the Lancers, at halftime the Hawk’s were on top 21-7.The Lancers did what they always do and went into the half ready to make adjustments.  Last season the Lancers scored on their first drive of the second half in every single game.

This streak came to an end on Friday as the Hawks forced the Lancers to punt on their first drive.  Head Coach Chip Sherman thought this was a turning point in the game.

“We usually do real well in those situations, ya know making adjustments but not tonight.”  Sherman said.  “It’s times like that in close games that make up all the difference and that’s why we lost.”

This week the Lancers have a new focus level and new motivation to get back on the winning track.  They play district rival Shawnee Mission North which means the Nut Cup is on the line this week.

Shawnee Mission North coming off a brutal 45-7 loss to Olathe North will be looking to regain its confidence against the Lancers but that won’t be an easy task according to senior defensive back Logan Rose.

“We really felt like we didn’t play to our potential last week”  Rose said.  “and what better way to get back on top then with a big win and bringing the Nut Cup home.”

Injury Report:
Dakota Collins, QB- Broken ankle, 4-6 weeks
Adam Lowe, RB- MCL tear, limited action this week
Sam Stewart, LB- Concussion, possible for this week, 1 week
Troy Wilkens, DB/KR- Stinger, Questionable 1 week